The Inn at Forest Oaks

Tom Hartnett

2024-04

My husband and I agree that this place is the epitome of what a bed and breakfast should be! Delicious breakfasts (different each day), hospitable hosts, magnificent views, extremely clean room and bathroom, and many areas to visit and chat with other guests! Our favorite place was sitting on the rocking chairs on the back porch gazing on their pasture, pond, and beautiful flowers and trees with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the far background. We ordered cinnamon rolls ahead of time for our journey home, and they were the best we have ever had! Thank you so much, Cliff and Chris for taking such good care of us!!

Maren Morgan

2024-04

The Vine Cottage was a wonderful place for a reunion long weekend for my college friends and me. The kitchen, breakfast nook, and all the common areas were welcoming and totally comfortable- we had many laughs playing games at the dining room table. We ordered two of Chris’s pies and his cinnamon rolls. They are to die for! The cottage is close to attractions and has glorious views of the mountains. Cliff and Chris are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. I highly recommend this reasonably priced destination for any occasion.

Alison Keating

2024-04

My husband and I spent two nights at this fabulous, historic bed & breakfast and couldn't stop talking about it to our friends and family. It was everything a B&B should be: clean accommodations with lots of attention to detail, plenty of history, and friendly, accessible hosts! The restoration of this plantation is a testament to the heart and soul that Cliff and Chris have put into it. This was a restoration done right … it felt like we had stepped into a realm between Gone With The Wind and Downton Abbey! They are more than happy to tell you the story of this mansion, answer any questions you may have, and of their future plans with it. The delicious gourmet breakfasts that are served around the formal dining room table are worth waking up for! We will most certainly be making return trips to visit here, if only to enjoy the views of the beautiful Virginia hills and Shenandoah Valley.Rooms: The parlors and sunroom offer a peaceful place to curl up with a book or work quietly on your laptop. The billiards room offers a chance for a friendly game with fellow guests. At sunrise or sunset, the back porch, with its towering pillars and rocking chairs, offers a beautiful view of the Virginia hills. The dining room is a nice place to enjoy scrumptious breakfasts. The ensuite bedrooms are elegantly decorated in period décor with updated modern bathrooms.Noteworthy details: The decor of this bed and breakfast with its meticulously detailed woodwork, antiques, and ancient tapestries is breathtaking .

Camilla Lekman-Hansen

2024-05

Not enough stars to rate this place.It’s absolutely beautiful. The owners are so nice and breakfast was amazing.I am also so happy they do not accept children in the main house, it would have stressed me out if children were running around these beautiful antiques. it’s a time travel experience for adults. Absolutely amazing!Thank you for letting us stay in your beautiful home!

Joseph Offidani

2024-04

Chris and Cliff took an traditional Bed & Breakfast to a far higher standard. My wife and I have been to many Bed & Breakfast Inns but this is far above any we stayed in. The meticulous amount of detail to every aspect from the furnishing, decorating and service they provide is nothing more than fantastic. Each morning we had a different and delicious breakfast. If you want the best you can get this is the place to go. If we ever have the opportunity to visit this area again we will go back.

Chelsea Reyes

2023-12

Had a wonderful stay with my husband for a weekend getaway at the Inn at Forest Oaks. Cliff and Christ went above and beyond with ensuring our stay was comfortable in every aspect. The manor is absolutely gorgeous and incredibly well decorated - we had the luxury of visiting right after the Christmas decorations went up and were able to enjoy the beautiful Christmas trees throughout the mansion. We also thoroughly enjoyed sitting down and chatting with Cliff about the history of the home and how they came to be innkeepers and acquire the lovely estate. Chris’ homemade breakfasts were absolutely delicious and one of the highlights of our stay! They were very accommodating of my gluten sensitivity and ensured that I was given a gluten free option of their cubed blueberry French toast - which was amazing. Overall, we totally recommend this Bed and Breakfast if you’re looking for a luxurious stay and fantastic experience!

Maria Seager

2024-03

This was our first bed and breakfast experience Cliff & Chris have set the bar so high. We didn’t know what to expect but we’re blown away with the attention to detail in Chris’s 5 star homemade breakfast, delicious everflowing coffee, beautiful comfortable cozy bedrooms, sweet Molly, impeccable views, and of course our hosts who told us stories and were just the best! Not to mention the antique shop that had insane vintage pieces priced so well. We booked again before we left and can’t wait to return this Christmas. Chris & Cliff thank you so much for everything!

Frederick Remelius

2024-04

It’s like staying overnight in the Smithsonian Museum or a miniature Downton Abbey. ALL Of the furnishings are museum quality, including the 1920s radios and phonographs which are in working order. We decided to stay there just on a whim, now it’s on my bucket list to return for an extended stay.Nearby activities: Natural Bridge State Park.

Phyllis Maclay

2023-12

What a fabulous place to stay! We spent three nights in the delightful cottage nestled behind the inn. We feasted on Chris' sinfully delectable cinnamon buns and enjoyed the perfect hospitality of Cliff. This is a beautiful inn with a spectacular view, despite the smoky fire at Matt's Creek. The Inn at Forest Oaks is a travel destination you will want to enjoy again and again.

Phillip Bazzani

2024-01

My wife and I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Forest Oaks Inn in Lexington, and I cannot express enough how exceptional our experience was. From the moment we stepped through the doors, I was captivated by the charm and elegance of this magnificent mansion.The first aspect that truly stood out was the outstanding service provided by Cliff and Chris, the innkeepers at Forest Oaks. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail created an atmosphere that felt like a home away from home. They went above and beyond to ensure that every guest felt welcome and cared for throughout their stay.The breakfast culinary experience at Forest Oaks Inn was nothing short of extraordinary. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented, showcasing a perfect blend of flavors and culinary expertise. It's evident that the Inn takes great pride in offering a top-notch dining experience, making each meal a delightful journey for the taste buds.The mansion itself is a true gem, exuding historical charm and grandeur. The attention to preserving the authenticity of the architecture while providing modern comforts is commendable. The rooms are tastefully decorated, offering a luxurious and comfortable retreat for guests. Wandering through the halls, one can't help but appreciate the rich history and the meticulous care that has gone into maintaining the Inn's unique character.We wholeheartedly recommend Forest Oaks Inn to anyone visiting Lexington. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or a solo adventure, this Inn has something special to offer. The combination of outstanding service, exquisite cuisine, and the breathtaking ambiance of the mansion creates an unforgettable experience that sets Forest Oaks apart.In conclusion, our stay at Forest Oaks Inn was nothing short of magical. Cliff and Chris, with their warm hospitality, contributed significantly to making our time at the Inn truly memorable. If you're looking for a place that combines elegance, history, and exceptional service, look no further than Forest Oaks Inn – it's an absolute gem waiting to be discovered.Phillip & Susie BazzaniGloucester Virginia

Shannon Ledford

2024-04

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Murray Leibowitz

2023-10

From the moment we drove up to the majestic looking Bed and Breakfast, we knew that this was going to be a wonderful experience! The hosts, Cliff and Chris were very gracious and excellent hosts. The mansion was absolutely gorgeous, and rooms were exceptionally well appointed! Chris prepared exquisite breakfasts for everyone! Cliff enlightened us with the history and details of the Inn. We purchased a beautiful five pound apple pie and six cinnamon rolls which were freshly baked for us.Prior to leaving, we made reservations for May 2024. We look forward to our return visit! Thank you Cliff and Chris for everything!

Sheila Cobb

2023-11

I was looking for a nice one night stay for my husband and I as we travelled from Alexandria, VA to Pigeon Forge, TN. We found a gem at the Inn at Forest Oaks! It is a beautiful mansion filled with beautiful furnishings, welcoming innkeeper Cliff, comfortable rooms with amazing views, and a hearty tasty breakfast! I had also ordered cinnamon rolls ahead to take with us, and they were so delicious and a hit with my cousins in the mountains! If we would have had more time, we would have stayed longer! We will definitely plan to stay there next year as we travel nearby, if not before!!

Nancy Cox

2023-10

The In has been expertly restored and lovingly decorated providing guests with a mix of comfort and luxury. There are so many great pieces of period furniture, and beautiful lamps, service where, antique books-we enjoyed looking at it all and being surrounded by pretty things. Chris and Cliff are wonderful hosts and we just loved hearing about the history of the home and area. Breakfast was fantastic especially given the magnificent dining room with gorgeous view of the mountains out the large bay window. The outdoor seating in rockers made for a great lunch spot. Our room was divine, the bed comfy and the a/c unit is appreciated. We have to come back to use the oversized claw foot tub! The final treat was a guests only visit to Cliff’s antique store-his taste in jewelry, glass (Viking, Fostoria) and other must haves gave us plenty to consider. We are so happy to have found the Inn and will definitely be back.

David Hinnant

2023-10

The nicest hosts ever! The breakfasts were really amazing and they catered to any and all dietary concerns. The rooms were immaculate. The rooms were also quiet despite the proximity to I-81 and the age of the buildings' wood floors. The B&B itself has an amazing history with period furnishings, each with a story. Just ask! The property is amazing and easily walkable. It rained 2-3 hours every day we were there but there is plenty to do both on-property (walkways) and nearby. There's a local restaurant (read: watering hole) close-by that's quite good too, as an alternative to driving into Lexington. The locals seem to gather there; for good reason. The drive into Lexington is short though and the restaurants plentiful. Devil's Backbone Brewery is based here, and the brewpub is a great way to spend a couple of hours relaxing on the patio.

Joe Minkowski

2023-09

We had a wonderful stay and highly recommend the Inn to anyone taveling through this part of Virginia. Cliff and Chris have done a ton of impressive work to the estate, and the Inn is furnished entirely with ornate antiques. Cliff is a very welcoming host and can tell the history behind every piece of furniture in the Inn. Our stay was like sleeping in a museum. Chris is a great chef, and we enjoyed having breakfast with the other guests each morning. We spent our days at the Natural Bridge and Virginia Safari, both well-worth the time. The view from the back porch of the estate is amazing. We spent evenings watching deer pass through the field as the sun went down, chatting with other guests about their day.Overall, this was a truly wonderful experience we will never forget. If we make it back to this part of Virginia, we look forward to staying at the Inn again.

Diane DiPalma

2023-10

Just spent one of the most beautiful weekends of my life at the Inn with the genuinely welcoming hosts, Chris & Cliff. Our family took over the property for a wedding weekend, and every detail from start to finish was addressed almost before we could ask. The property is beautiful, the houses perfectly restored with an eye for details not often seen in today's hurried world. The rooms are luxurious, the antiques amazing, and the breakfasts incredible! Thank you, thank you, for making this special weekend one we will always remember! We look forward to another visit!

Haley Purcell

2023-10

We had the loveliest of weekends staying at The Inn at Forest Oaks! I cannot say (or write) enough good things about our experience. The attention to detail was unmatched. Our room was extremely comfy, complete with a clawfoot tub/shower in the private bathroom! Breakfast each morning was so special. All guests are served at 8:30 AM at a large dining table. We enjoyed conversation over coffee and delicious creations including the best blueberry french toast! There is plenty to do in the area, but I really recommend spending extra time enjoying the property. Visit the horses, walk around the fields, sit on the porch, and visit the antique shop in the basement. I came home with a stunning amethyst necklace that I will treasure for many years to come as a reminder of our perfect weekend visit! Thank you, Cliff and Chris, for a wonderful experience!

Airlia Martz

2023-09

I cannot say enough how much my mother and I enjoyed our stay at Forest Oaks. We were on a road trip to North Carolina, so we only got to stay one night here, but wish we could have stayed even longer. The owners are extremely kind and spent time explaining every inch of the home and how it was built, as well as how they restored it. They sincerely care about the experience of their guests and keeping care of their beautiful estate. If you stay here, breakfast is a non-negotiable. You can meet a variety of different people and the hosts have many stories to share! Not only that, but their breakfast is impeccable. Ask Cliff about visiting the secret antique store for guests, my mom and I spent so much time looking at the variety of items he offered and were in awe of his knowledge of antiques. Lastly, the view is something to soak up. We spent the majority of our evening when we arrived just sitting on the back porch looking at the mountains. It is seriously something amazing. We will be back soon - hopefully to see all of the changing leaves!

George G

2023-09

The Inn and all of its surroundings are breathtaking. But that was just the beginning of our wonderful experience. Both Cliff and Chris made us feel right at home (Though much more elegant) and the breakfast Food And Service were fantastic. We already have another visit booked for the fall. I must say that with the work Chris and Cliff have done to restore this Inn and the adventure in store for you there (and with more great things to come) my hopes for them are 100% Occupancy and only the greatest success. There is no doubt you too will find it a 5 Star Experience.Rooms: Totally restored rooms including the bathrooms furnished and decorated with beautiful antiques of the period.Nearby activities: Hiking, Sightseeing, Caves, Shopping, State and National Parks, The Blue Ridge Parkway and much more. But the grounds and serinity of the Inn may be all you want for a relaxing getaway.Safety: This is an area where you will feel safe, like the old days when you could leave your doors unlocked, although the Inn is well secured during your stay.Walkability: Huge and well kept grounds suitable for a leisurely stroll with lots of trails and other experiences nearby for the more adventurous.Food & drinks: You will enjoy a wonderful breakfast at 8:30 each morning, prepared by Chris and Served by Cliff, in the company of the limited number of other guests staying at the Inn when you are there.Noteworthy details: The Antiques here will blow you away, and the way in which everything is in its place is fantastic. My wife commented that you could not even find a spec of dust on anything. The main Inn is for Adults Only but they do have a seperate house on the property that can accomodate up to 10 and is Child and Pet Friendly.

Aileen Rife

2023-09

We had a wonderful stay at the Inn at Forest Oaks! Cliff & Chris are amazing hosts and go above and beyond. Chris’ breakfasts were the perfect way to start each morning. You can easily spend a few hours in each room taking in all the fine details and the back porch is the perfect spot to end your day. We highly recommend staying here for a truly once in a lifetime experience.

roger segeleon

2023-11

What a beautiful place to visit. Our stay was extremely delightful with Cliff being the historian of the house which is very interesting and Chris being a fabulous cook and baker. Both couldn’t have been nicer. We felt so warmly welcomed that we booked again for Spring. The house and the view are breathtaking! You must visit! Claudia and RogerRooms: Beautifully decoratedNearby activities: Lots to doFood & drinks: Fabulous

Janice Conner

2023-07

Forest Oaks Inn has been our favorite Bed & Breakfast since 2017. It is such a beautiful and spacious Historic Manor House. Cliff and Chris' magnificent restoration and maintenance of the Historic Home is astonishing. The bedrooms are no exception. Each one has its own charm and comfort.Cliff and Chris' warmth and hospitality is Outstanding!! Both know how to make you feel right at home, as well as, providing First Class Service!!Cliff is very knowledgeable about the house history and all the antiques that fill each room.Chris' skills and devotion as a chef is apparent in each breakfast meal, as well as, his baked goods-cinnamon rolls, pies and cheesecakes. Delectable, succulent, and mouthwatering are good descriptors of his food creations.We have become good friends over the years and it all started with such wonderful impressions and warmth back in 2017!! We are still in such awe today with 27 visits behind us. Thanks Cliff and Chris for another amazing stay this month of June 2023!! Looking forward to more at what is Truly our Happy Place!!!

A&M Stille

2023-06

What a treat!! Our friends brought us to Forest Oaks on a mystery outing and we could not have been more pleased with our stay. Cliff was very generous with his time in showing us around and providing us the history of the mansion. The antiques and furnishings were astonishingly beautiful. The rooms were light, spacious and inviting. The grounds and vista's were breathtaking. The breakfast prepared by Chris was absolutely first class. Forest Oaks should be at the top of everyone's list of places to stay and enjoy.

Lou Reasor

2023-07

From the moment we turned on to Houston Tavern Lane we felt right at home. Though we were a bit late with our arrival Cliff and Molly the (dog) greeted us a big smile and bark.Our room along with rest of the house was immaculate. Cliff and Chris was always willing to answer any questions we had about the house itself and the furnishings.We can’t say enough about Chris’s breakfast. We had the privilege to experience 4 scrumptious breakfasts, he even made all my morning meals gluten free (would have never known) so very yummy.So beautiful and relaxing you bet we willing be returning every chance we get.Thanks for memories

Jamie Lane

2023-12

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautiful, historic inn! The Inn was decorated for Christmas and all the common spaces looked amazing. It was fun to look around at all the wonderful antiques and furnishings. The views outside were also spectacular. This was a wonderful place to stay!Rooms: Beautifully furnished rooms, luxurious bedding and towelsFood & drinks: Excellent breakfast in the morning

SUSAN LAWSON

2023-06

We cannot say enough about the amazing experience we had at The Inn at Forest Oaks. Every room has the most exquisite detail and is designed carefully ensuring the true period is represented. Cliff has a talented ability as a designer and is the most kind human who cares about his guests experiences ensuring comfort and safety. The breakfast is hand-crafted by Chris, an amazing chef, and the quality is perfect! Fresh sliced fruit is served to begin each breakfast while dining with the guests each morning. We had a four-day stay and each day was offered a unique meal. The views are spectacular and the horses add an enjoyable touch to the experience.Rooms: The beds are strong and comfortable and the amenities are luxurious.Nearby activities: The Natural Bridge state park offers trails and a substantial gift shop. A local deli is nearby that has great homemade sandwiches and grocery items, including local crafts.Safety: The secluded location ensures safety and comfort.Food & drinks: All meals can be modified for dietary restrictions.Noteworthy details: There is an antique room where guests can purchase items upon request.

Talitha Di Palma

2023-10

We were extremely fortunate be allowed to hold our wedding here at The Inn at Forest Oaks. The owners went above and beyond to ensure that every detail of our stay was in place. They provided an amazing breakfast each morning and coffee was always ready well before then for those that needed it. Our friends and family loved the beauty of the grounds and surroundings here as well as the beautiful views available. Severally of them occupied the guest cottage and several stayed at the Inn with us. Overall we had wonderful experience and look forward to visiting again in the future!!Rooms: All the rooms were really well put together and extremely clean! We absolutely loved that each room had it's own design!Nearby activities: The location is between the town of Buchanan and Downtown Lexington. There are many good choices for shopping, hiking and restaurants within a reasonably distance.Safety: They take safety very seriously!Walkability: Each building is so close to each other and it felt nice walking.Food & drinks: Each morning our breakfast was so beautiful and delicious! The food was made with care, love and thoughtfulness!

Ben Durral

2023-10

Cliff and Chris are amazing! They were so welcoming to their house and property. The history there goes way back and you can tell they restored this amazing place with love. The house will amaze you, rooms and beds were clean, and Chris really knows how to make a yummy breakfast. Don't miss it. We'll be going back to visit for sure!Rooms: Very clean and neat. Cliff has a great attention to detail!Nearby activities: Many near by.Walkability: Huge property to roam around on.

Eudora Giamporcaro

2023-10

This beautiful mansion is a true gem, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains a short drive from Natural Bridge State Park. Meticulously refurbished and furnished by a charming couple, the Inn is an antiquer's paradise. It offers lovely views, peaceful nights, and a gourmet breakfast every morning. The few nearby restaurants offer much simpler fare for lunch and dinner; expect to drive 30-45 minutes for more upscale cuisine.We stayed here early this summer, to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary, and we can't say enough good things about our gracious hosts and their warm hospitality. They demonstrate the same attention to detail in caring for their guests as they did to restoring their home to its present, gorgeous condition. We departed after four days, feeling like old friends, and we hope to visit again soon!