Highlight • Rest Area
Cycling
3.3
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The Peaks of Otter Lodge is a historic and scenic retreat nestled at Milepost 86 on the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway in Bedford, Virginia, United States. Situated at an elevation of 784 meters, this unique facility is the only overnight lodging directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. It offers a tranquil mountain oasis, perfectly positioned between the majestic Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill, and overlooking the picturesque Abbott Lake within the expansive Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Blue Ridge Parkway
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July 19, 2019
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Peaks of Otter Lodge
6
riders
75.0km
05:26
1,560m
1,560m
20.5km
01:29
450m
450m
34.3km
02:51
920m
920m
Details
Informations
Elevation 780 m
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The Peaks of Otter Lodge offers 63 guest rooms. Yes, some of these rooms are designated as pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for an additional fee. It's always best to confirm availability and any specific pet policies when booking.
The lodge features the full-service Lake View Dining Room, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu often highlights local cuisine. Additionally, there is a bar and lounge where guests can relax and enjoy a selection of local craft beer and wine.
Yes, the Peaks of Otter Lodge is equipped to host various events. It provides facilities suitable for both meetings and weddings, offering a scenic backdrop for special occasions.
The area offers a range of trails. The Abbott Lake Loop Trail is an easy, paved one-mile loop perfect for families. For more challenging hikes, you can ascend Sharp Top Mountain or Harkening Hill. There's also the historic Johnson Farm Trail, which offers a moderate walk through a restored 1800s farmstead.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Abbott Lake. However, visitors must possess a valid Virginia or North Carolina fishing license to do so. The lake is stocked and offers a peaceful spot for anglers.
Beyond the natural beauty, the area is rich in history. You can visit the restored Johnson Farm, an 1800s farmstead offering a glimpse into early settler life. Another notable site is Polly Wood's Ordinary, which served as one of the area's first lodging establishments in 1834.
Yes, the lodge is equipped with modern conveniences, including an electric car charging station, making it convenient for guests traveling with electric vehicles.
The lodge typically operates seasonally, from spring through late fall. They also open for selected winter weekends, allowing visitors to experience the changing beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains throughout the year. It's advisable to check their official website for specific opening and closing dates.
For those seeking a more budget-conscious stay, there is a campground nearby. While the campground offers basic facilities like running water toilets and no showers, campers can still utilize many of the lodge's amenities, such as the dining room and gift shop.
The lodge is uniquely situated overlooking Abbott Lake, with stunning views of Sharp Top Mountain directly across the water. The surrounding landscape is dominated by three prominent mountains: Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill, all offering distinct natural beauty and panoramic viewpoints from their summits.
While specific details on full handicap accessibility for all areas are best confirmed directly with the lodge, the one-mile paved loop trail around Abbott Lake is generally considered accessible. For lodge facilities, it's recommended to inquire about specific room types and common area accessibility when booking.