If you’re looking for the charm of a vintage Southern inn without traveling down the coast into the heart of Dixie, you don’t have to venture any farther than the Shenandoah Valley and the Luray, Va., area. There you will find the newly renovated Mimslyn Inn, standing atop a high knoll, beckoning urban visitors to check their stress at the door and taking you away in luxury and charm. It is only a 90-minute drive from Washington, D.C.

The Mimslyn Inn’s historic setting features expansive lawns peppered with gardens, oversized patios, landscaped terraces and tasteful stonework. Sandwiched between the famous Luray Caverns and scenic Shenandoah National Park, the Mimslyn Inn is within walking distance of historic downtown Luray. 

The inn was originally built in 1930 by Henry and Elizabeth Mims on a piece of ground used as an Army encampment and hospital during the Civil War. It has recently undergone a multimillion dollar restoration by new owners, Mr. and Mrs. Erwin Asam and sons Christian and David, who also own and operate the Bavarian Inn (www.bavarianinnwv.com) in Shepherdstown, W. Va. As evidenced by the quality and elegance of the Bavarian Inn, the Asams are responsible for bringing the Mimslyn Inn back to life. 

The restoration was complete in April 2008. Brickwork, interior finishes, paint, windows and floors have all been retouched, repaired and modernized. The full basement is now home to a restaurant and bar, spa and fitness room. The imposing brick building remains very much like a grand Virginia estate, with its huge Doric columns and beautiful setting. It sits back from the road surrounded by acres of lawn and formal gardens.

The Mimslyn Inn features 45 newly renovated rooms and suites, each with its own unique charm. All the rooms offer cozy sitting areas, flat-screen televisions, gas fireplaces, wheelchair-accessible showers, marble-top vanities and wireless Internet. Each room is decorated with photos of the room or suite before and after the renovation. Special packages make the luxurious stay affordable.

Located in the lobby is the Circa ’31 Restaurant, a pleasant taste for your eyes and your mouth. Circa ’31 Restaurant serves a wide variety of twists on classic foods and specializes in upscale Southern cuisine. Also enjoy a complimentary buffet-style breakfast in Circa ’31 with every night’s stay.

Visitors will enjoy winding down the evening in the Speakeasy Bar and Restaurant with a nightcap. As you look around, relive the prohibition era through the ‘30s- and ‘40s-inspired decor and drink menu. Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra tracks playing in the background add charm to the Speakeasy. Also on the menu are chicken pie, meatloaf, homemade soups and salads, along with other delectable nighttime snacks. 

Get away and relax while you receive personal treatment at the Seasons Spa. Experienced therapists locate tension or stress points, using essential oils and lotions. The new fitness center, located in the renovated basement next to the Seasons Spa, provides guests with a chance to continue personal health routines while on their getaway. 

The Mimslyn Inn also specializes in banquets, retreats, meetings and weddings. Envision yourself walking down the floating staircase to your groom before you say, “I do.” Then move into the beautifully decorated reception hall to make memories with your friends and family. The Inn offers all-inclusive wedding packages that can be customized to fit your tastes and needs. 

Wander out of the hotel to get some fresh air, down the hill and into historic downtown Luray. There are miles of shopping to be done just down the street from the inn, with antique treasures on every block. As you’re shopping, follow the mural tour, paintings on the brick walls that give the town character. Some of these eye-catching murals around Luray are painted by the local youth and have become the focal point of the town.

Be sure to visit the Shenandoah National Park, featuring Skyline Drive, which has 75 overlooks and more than 500 miles of hiking trails. The time-honored and famous Luray Caverns is also a must-see when you visit. 

For information, visit www.mimslynninn.com or call 800-296-5105 or 540-743-5105. The Mimslyn Inn is located at 401 West Main Street, Luray, VA 22835. 

For information about area attractions, visit www.luraypage.com.