The Old Homestead Vacation Rental is situated in a quiet wooded hollow looking toward Sleepy Creek Mountain just 1.6 miles from Berkeley Springs, WV.

This charming farmhouse has been restored to its 1800's roots, while including modern conveniences for vacationing guests. Displayed deeds date back to the 1800 land grant signed by the 5th President of the United States, James Monroe. The original four-room cabin was built at about this time. A two-room addition was added around 1850. Furnishings include some c.1800 antiques which fortify the historic identity and 19th Century atmosphere.

A large shaded porch runs along the front of the house. Relax on the porch rockers and imagine the Civil War soldiers marching down Route 9 to Martinsburg. Civil War stories have been handed down through the original homesteader's descendants.

The first floor includes a modern kitchen which still retains the flavor of yesterday, evident in the large kitchen chimney rocks that contain fossils from ancient times. The original rafters are exposed and the half-wainscot walls have been restored. The back door opens onto a patio with a propane BBQ grill, table and chairs. Meadow and mountain views are enhanced by deer and other wildlife drinking at the ponds and birds flocking to the feeder. A hammock hangs between two large trees in the back yard for the perfect place to read a book, take in nature, or nap.

The focal point of the living rooms is a large fireplace which in earlier days accommodated hanging kettles and cooking pots. A wood-burning stove has been installed, bringing in warmth and enjoyment. Cable TV, DVD, and VCR players are available. A dining area overlooks the front porch. Enjoy a game of chess or board game set up in the hall area or choose a book from the shelf. A full bath is located on the first floor as well as a convenient laundry room at the other end of the hall.

The house is heated by electric baseboard units and cooled with window air conditioners. All linens are included.

Spring feed ponds offer lovely resting and picnic settings, but are unsuitable for swimming, fishing or boating.

Today was a gorgeous day at the Old Homestead. We went for a wonderful bike ride along the C&O Canal. We sat outside on the upstairs deck and watched the birds. Saw lots of deer, a fox, a cat, and a pileated woodpecker - very beautiful. So close to the birds we could hear the wings flap. It was very restful. ... We will come again soon. Penny, Hanna & Carol

This peaceful vacation retreat is only 100 miles from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD, and 210 miles from Pittsburgh, PA.

The historic village of Berkeley Springs, the country's first spa, is now one of "America's Top 7 Art Destinations." Explore the antique malls, art studios, galleries and craft shops. The local museum and the historic, but operational Roman baths are located in the Berkeley Springs State Park. Fed by the 'healing' water of Warm Springs Run, the bathhouse provides natural mineral baths and massages. Numerous private spas are also located in town. A full-sized swimming pool is part of the State Park for summertime fun. Summer concerts sponsored by the Morgan Arts Council are presented in the park on Saturday evenings. In the fall, the Apple Butter Arts and Crafts Festival takes place here.

The surrounding area provides a wealth of activities. Cacapon State Park is 20 minutes away for horseback riding, boating, swimming, fishing, tennis, nature walks and golf. The nearby Cacapon River offers swimming, float trips, fishing, and boating. Bike on the C&O Canal Towpath Rails to Trails path on the banks of the Potomac River in nearby Hancock, MD. Winter skiing is available at White Trail Resort about 45 minutes away.