If you need a Virginia getaway and love farm animals, these properties have what you need. They are in peaceful locations and allow you to watch and get up close with cows, donkeys, and other animals you wouldn’t normally encounter in Northern Virginia.
Luna, a Modern and Cozy Container Home
Distance from Dulles: 2 hours
This container ship-turned-tiny-house in the Shenandoah Valley is great for cow-watching, specifically Scottish Highland cows. And you’ll find yourself watching chickens, geese, turkeys look for food. The farm where it’s located also has a self-serve farm store that runs on a honor system. The hosts, Cozy in Canvas, also have glamping and cottage rentals. Singers Glen
Private Animal Sanctuary and Tiny Cottage
Distance from Dulles: 2 hours, 30 minutes
This little Scottsville gem was voted one of the coolest Airbnbs in Virginia by the website Trips to Discover and one of the top 12 tiny houses in Virginia by the site Trip101. Guests have said they feel the animals that live at the farm are watching over them. The farm’s focus is to promote ecotourism and support its sister nonprofit, Gentle Moon Conservancy. Gentle Moon provides lifetime care and shelter for animals in need. Scottsville
The Cozy Cottage at Grateful Meadows
Distance from Dulles: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Guests who want to get away from chaotic city or suburban life can book a stay at this nonprofit animal sanctuary. There are rescued pigs, donkeys, cats, and rabbits to meet and a saltwater pool open June 1 through August 31. For the safety of rescued animals, pets are not allowed. West Point
Animals, Mountains, and More in the Shenandoah Valley
Distance from Dulles: 2 hours
Horse lovers will be pleased with this getaway placed on top of a modern monitor horse barn. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, or tea while they take in the property’s three horses — Dawn, Lane, and Gabe. There are also alpacas to see, as well as pot-bellied pigs, goats, ducks, and Holland lops, a type of miniature rabbit. Broadway
Unique Oasis Silo Barn
Distance from Dulles: 2 hours
Stay in a converted barn and silo with a private natural swim pond and waterfall as you enjoy connecting with sheep, miniature silky fainting goats, chickens, ducks, rabbits, turkeys, and more. The barn and silo are separate from other listings on the property and are the closest to the sheep, goats, and animal fencing. Additional listings include a tugboat, airstream, and log cabin. Louisa
Feature image courtesy Airbnb
For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Travel newsletter.
