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For a recent exploration of northern Virginia’s wineries, I needed a place to stay. A quick online check indicated that the Lansdowne Resort is in the heart of wine country, and it is a property brimming with amenities.

They agreed to host me, and boy, did I hit the jackpot.

The resort provided ideal respite from a full day’s traipsing from vineyard to vineyard in Loudoun County. Evenings were spent at the resort in quiet, easy luxury that reflected elements of Mother Nature’s diverse and natural beauty in its décor and furnishing. There was plenty to do, if one chose to, however following some exceptional meals at the resort’s signature restaurant I simply enjoyed taking in the art, décor and landscaping.

Located in Lansdowne, Va., just outside of Leesburg, the Lansdowne Resort is a 296-room hotel and conference center with lavish amenities such as a five-pool aquatic complex, 45 holes of golf, tennis courts, spa, two restaurants, a tavern and a pub.

After walking the grounds, hallways and restaurants, I kicked back in my guestroom and was surprised to learn that the property is 28 years old. The upkeep is meticulous and with its contemporary décor it appears to be a much newer facility.

The entire property as well as the hallways and guestrooms are ensconced in autumnal shades of brown, red, green and orange highlighted with decorative leaf and twig patterns, giving the entire resort a warm and comforting effect. A nice touch in the room was the chaise lounge that I quickly claimed as my preferred seat. Downstairs sitting areas on the main floor are inviting with contemporary oversize chairs that practically whisper to sit a spell to chat, play board games or enjoy cocktails.

Dining

I can’t say enough about On the Potomac. It’s the resort’s fine dining restaurant with tiered levels and panoramic views of the golf course and mountains in the distance. I had the opportunity to enjoy an unrushed steak dinner one evening and Sunday buffet brunch at this restaurant that specializes in regional American cuisine. From service to presentation to flavor, both meals were the kind that left me sated but sorry to see then come to an end. Late-afternoon drinks and bar fare at Stonewalls Tavern also gave my husband and me a chance to play billiards although we could have chosen shuffleboard, one of the two Nintendo Wii stations or watched TV on one of several screens while we sat by the fieldstone fireplace.

Guests at the resort also have access to The Crooked Billet and Pub 46, private restaurants at The Golf Club at Lansdowne, located next door.

Golf

I’m not one to hit the links, but I could still appreciate that the resort offers 45 holes of golf—an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Greg Norman with a “least-disturbance approach to the environment” and a nine-hole executive-style course. While I can’t provide personal insight about the courses, I can tell you the clubhouse with its golf shop and restaurant and pub were handsome and, naturally, had a breathtaking view of the course’s rolling terrain.

Recreation

The resort features a wealth of places to while away one’s time, such as in the 12,000-square-foot Spa Minérale, where one can receive services such as an Antioxidant Facial for $120 or a Salt Glo body treatment for $125. At the Health Center, fitness equipment awaits as do courts for racquetball, basketball and tennis. Families and couples can find just the right pool spot since the property is home to a waterslide and five pools (one indoors) with food and beverage service.

Don’t get the impression that this country escape is far from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C. In fact, it is a mere eight miles from Dulles International Airport and 25 miles from the District of Columbia.

The resort is currently featuring its Fall Rendezvous: Hit the Road Jack promotion, which includes dinner and dancing and an overnight stay.

Room rates average $200 a night. For more information on the Lansdowne Resort, visit www.lansdowneresort.com.

Everything about my stay at the Lansdowne Resort made it one of the places I’m already searching for an excuse to return to the next time I’m in striking distance of northern Virginia.