What Our Guests Say About Fairhill Farm Rentals
"FANTASTIC"
Our 5 day stay at Carrie's Cottage was peaceful and relaxing. The cottage was a perfect retreat with everything you need for a great stay. The farm has great walking trails with breathtaking views of nearby mountains and is located close to Skyline Drive and other areas of interest. Our stay was perfect in every way and we will definitely visit again.
- Judith, April 25 2017
"RELAXING AND SPECIAL GETAWAY"
Boyfriend and I came to get out of the city for New Years. Had a lovely time simply hanging out at the Cottage. We cooked all of our meals and had everything we needed in the kitchen. We enjoyed a walk on the property and a drive down Skyline Drive which was very close. The views from the bed were amazing and we enjoyed the porch even in the dead of winter. Alton was super attentive and helpful. Thank you!
- Rebecca C, Jan 3rd 2017
"PERFECT FOR A RELAXING PEACEFGUL GETAWAY"
Our family of 4 plus 2 grandparents stayed at the farm in late October and were beyond pleased with every aspect of our stay. The kids loved the miniature horses, ringing the big farm bell, the fire pit, fishing and hammock. Grown ups enjoyed the view from front porch rocking chairs, screened porch, evenings by the fire pit and hikes on the property. The peace and serenity there is such a welcome contrast to normal hectic life. We made a few trips to Shenandoah National Park and also visited Luray caverns. The home is lovely, we had plenty of room to spread out and had everything we needed. The owner is very kind and a pleasure to work with. We enjoyed it so much that my husband booked the house for late November for a pastor's retreat and they all enjoyed the home and property as well! We will definitely be back, probably next summer so we can enjoy the pool!
- Embcalsoncav, Dec 11 2016
"DONT FEEL GUILTY"
This is the third time we have stayed at Fairhill Farm, and we have been fortunate to experience every season except summer..I was "born and bred a country girl" in the Shenadoah Valley and have stayed at many farm/B&B rentals across the mid-Atlantic. It is quaint, in a bucolic setting, and offers fun things to do for adults and children...hiking, fishing in the pond, feeding the ponies (don't forget to bring apples and carrots), visiting vineyards, antiquing, etc. But, don't feel guilty is all you want to do is sit on the front porch and drink wine and enjoy your morning coffee!!
- Jane M, Nov 7th 2016
"WOW"
Just can't say enough about incredible Fairhill Farm! It was truly beyond our expectations! From the accommodations, location, farm grounds and darling animal friends...everything was absolutely wonderful!! Thank you Alton for your kind attention to detail and informing us about the local area. John, you were the first friendly face we saw and you made us feel so welcome during our entire stay. We plan to come back with more of our family members.
- Mkambrose, Oct 27 2016
"PEACEFUL COUNTRY OASIS"
All of our expectations were exceeded at this beautiful, peaceful property. Stayed at the High Field Farms home with our daughter, son-in-law and 2 year old grandson. Alton, our host, accommodated all of our needs. The house and property were perfectly setup and suited for our grandson who enjoyed visiting the ponies that visited every morning. Views from most any vantage point were exceptional as the home sits on a knoll. Our only regret was that we didn't have a few more days to stay! We have stayed at many fine hotels and properties and Alton's Fair Hill Farms deserves the highest rating.
- Rick W, Sept 14 2016
"BEAUTIFUL FARM AND COTTAGE"
This exceeded more than we imagined. When we arrived and saw how beautiful the farm and Carriage House Studio was, we wished we could stay longer. It's located privately facing the mountains and perfect for a couple that wishes to take a romantic getaway. The Carriage House Studio is very clean, has everything you need and is obviously well taken care of. Bonus is the beautiful pool that is a short walk away. We will definitely be back.
- Missy0729, Sept 13 2016
"PEACEFUL AND TRANQUILITY LIKE NO OTHER"
My family stayed at Carrie's Cottage and had the most wonderful time! I absolutely did not want to leave! It was like a whole other world tucked away in the mountains. I haven't felt that relaxed and stress-free in a very very long time. We hiked on the private trails, swam in the pool while enjoying the views of the mountains and flowers, fished in the pond, fed the miniature ponies every morning and evening, enjoyed the tree swing, and even saw a baby fox when we first arrived! I cannot wait to go back! My family will cherish these very special memories! I highly recommend Fairhill Farm!
- Kelli V, July 16 2016
"HEAVEN ON EARTH & MEMORIES FOREVER"
It has been a year now since my husband and I stayed at the wonderful 'Carrie's Cottage' on the grounds of Fairhill Farm. We have been thinking back so many times to this place blessed with tranquility, beauty and lightning bugs. Carrie's Cottage will hold precious memories for us forever and I wish that many more people can be taken in by the magic one can find there. Totally quiet, beautiful surroundings, immaculate pool, lovely kitchen, powerful shower, nice bathroom, bouncy beds, beautifully decorated, covered American style veranda, gorgeous views you name it - it's there. Stanardsville village has a couple of supermarkets, an Italian/Greek take away or sit in restaurant which is lovely, petrol station and a few miles down the road a typical American diner. America is a lovely and vast country and we really ought to see other places over there BUT somehow I have the feeling that we will be coming back to Alton Keel's lovely Fairhill Farm ! Becky & Tony from Devon/UK
- Becky J, May 23 2016
"TRANQUILITY AT ITS BEST"
My experience at Fairhill Farm was amazing this winter. I thought the house was so cute and nicely decorated, nice bathroom, I slept comfortably thanks to the bed, pillow, and how dark it was because of the shades. I love cooking and the kitchen was perfect for it; I was able to cook soup, chili and eggs for breakfast (using the cast iron). I had stopped at the Whole Foods in Charlottesville, town about 30 mins away, and it was an easy drive to the farm from it. Along the way there was target, walmart, and I found a cute Amish store that had great cole slaw and shredded pork. I loved being in nature, surrounded by the mountains, and the adorable mini horses. The farm even had it's own mountain to hike. We drove to skyline drive and that was picturesque! I brought my binoculars and saw so many pretty birds. My 1 year old adjusted fine and loved running around. I was able to meet Ambassador Keel and he was so sweet and interesting to talk to. I can't wait to go back to this beautiful property.
- Marsbars29, Feb 20 2016
"A MAGICAL PLACE"
I have stayed at Fairhill/Highfields Farm on 4 previous occasions, in both the Carriage House at Fairhill Farm and in the 3-BR house at the adjacent property, Highfields. I am never disappointed! This panoramic farm property at the base of the Blue Ridge along the South River is a special place! Both the Carriage House and Highfields are beautifully decorated, so comfortable, and just make you want to settle in for days! The Carriage House is great if you want a solo or couples' getaway with your own private deck with beautiful view out over the valley to the mountains. You are a stone's throw from the owner's home, but the way it is situated, have complete privacy. The 3-BR house at adjacent Highfields sits atop a knoll with an incredible view and a big porch, complete with rockers, from which to enjoy it. The kitchen at Highfields is so well equipped, with even a food processor, for those who might actually want to cook while on vacation! Beds/pillows/linens are super-comfortable and the gas fireplace open to both living and dining area was a plus in the cold temps. I was there most recently with 2 friends and we never moved our car for 3 days! We enjoyed the on-property hiking, visiting with the ponies, sitting by the river, and the firepit and stargazing at night. It was a perfect place for the quiet, contemplative getaway we had in mind. This will continue to be a "go-to" place for me when I want the peace, quiet, and beauty of Virginia's rural mountain landscape, with accessibility to so many outdoor opportunities. This is one of Virginia's treasures!
- RockyMountainDreamer, Jan 10 2016
"A LITTLE SLICE OF HEAVEN"
We had booked last minute, and were getting frustrated at our lack of options, till we came across The Fairhill Farm Cottages. We automatically emailed Alton and crossed our fingers that they would be available, and he got back to us right away with good news. We booked the Cottage House for the weekend, as we were planning some activities in Charlottesville and Monticello. The drive from Stanardsville to Charlottesville was about 40 minutes, and we loved having the perfect blend of the downtown Charlottesville and the scenic farm of Fairhill. The cottage is set overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, with a family of ponies and cows as our companions. Coming from New York, it was a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle. We took advantage of being so close to the mountain, that took the scenic route home along Skyline Drive through the Shenandoah Park . We already told our family that we need to come back over the summer and book the High Fields Farm! Thank you Alton - now Stanardsville and Charlottesville hold a special place in our hearts!
- Nicole R, April 20 2015
"Christmas Getaway"
We loved it , the cottage was everything and more ! We spent a wonderful week there! Beautiful views of the mountains .We walked in and it was so cozy and warm ,we felt like we were home ! We loved the cows,miniature horses,and surrounding grounds,so peaceful .We can't wait to go back!
- Bonnie C, December 29, 2014
"Gorgeous Location"
Love the quiet beauty and the gorgeous views. This place is absolutely fantastic like a step back in time. Easy access to the lovely town of Charlottesville with history and shopping. The place was well maintained and clean. Even better than anticipated. Highly recommended by all of us.
- Dot M, Novemebr 4, 2014
"So Peaceful"
The Carriage House had everything we needed. We just brought some food so we were not eating out three times a day. It was so wonderful to open up the blinds in the morning and look at the surrounding mountains while laying in bed and then having coffee on the deck. We enjoyed the pond on the farm and I caught the "Grand Daddy" of fish there. A 4.5lb 24 inch bass! Much to the dismay of my husband. We enjoyed the beautiful property by walking the trail to one of the mountains on the property. Funny thing about mountains, they don't look that big until you are hiking up them. It was a perfect couple days and both my husband and I wanted to stay an extra day but reluctantly we had to get back.
- Susan P, Octyober 21, 2013
"Pefect Escape from City Life!"
This was our third year spending a fall weekend at Fairhill Farm. We love coming out here because the scenery is beautiful, the cottage is so cozy, clean and well-equipped (including reliable wi-fi), the proximity to wineries and Monticello, and the friendly animals to name a few. Mr. Keel and his family have always been very kind, welcoming, and flexible with our check-ins and check-outs. Perfect place for a couple to retreat, relax, and drink wine! You'll love it too!
- TCO Barbados, September 24, 2012
"Wonderful Getaway"
We stayed in 'Carrie's Cottage' for 2 nights. It's a very sweet place, cozy, nicely appointed, fully stocked kitchen, very clean and tidy, beautiful modern bathroom, overall very nice. Bucolic setting. Stars are amazing on a clear night. Transaction with owner was very smooth. Location offers a not bad drive to Charlottesville and Skyline Drive. Value much better than many Charlottesville - area hotels.
- Su and Waldo, Novemebr 14, 2011
"We have greatly enjoyed the cottage and its beautiful surroundings. We would love to return to Carrie’s Cottage!"
- Andy and Alex, January 2010
"We had a very special weekend in the Carriage House. Thank you for the wonderful experience of exploring your farms and property. We also appreciated the care and detail with which you have appointed the Carriage House.”
- Ray and Kristi, January 2010
“We shared a wonderful and memorable Thanksgiving…This was the perfect place…We loved the views, walks around the two farms…and time by the fires. “ High Fields Farm
- Sarah and Andy, November 2009
"We have just finished our fourth summer (and fifth visit) at Carrie’s Cottage and had a predictably wonderful time. In addition to the old favorites---swimming in the pool, feeding the horses, and hiking the trails on the farm---we also managed a new trail into Shenandoah National Park at Graves Mill. Thanks again for a great summer break and letting us make the farm our second home!
- Erica and Andrew, August 2009
“I loved it! This was my first visit and I pray not my last! Every window had a picture perfect view.” High Fields Farm
- Lisa and Clint, August 2009
“What a beautiful farm and cottage! I had a very enjoyable and productive two weeks here--wrote lots….enjoyed hiking the Summit and Goodall Mt. trails, swimming in pool and fraternizing with pets..” Carriage House
- Aaron, August 2009
“Thank you for another unbelievable vacation. We all think that this year was even better than last—and we didn’t think that could be possible!” High Fields Farm
- Michael and Kelly, July 2009
“From the moment we drove down the drive we knew this was a special place. Opening the door to the Carriage House…we thought, ‘Yes! The perfect place to celebrate our fourth anniversary!’ “
- Kenny and Divone, May 2009
“Carrie’s Cottage is a beautiful place. The early spring morning with the sun and birds was perfect…”
- Colleen and Bob, April 2009
“We had a fantastic spring break here—enjoyed birding, hiking and star gazing. The kids really ‘bonded’ with the ponies.” High fields Farm
- Jim and Marisa, April 2009
“Your cottage is perfect! Clean and well equipped with lovely views. We are definitely coming back!” Carriage House
- Juliana and Massonel April 2009
“Carrie’s Cottage is a beautiful place. The early spring morning with the sun and birds was perfect…”
- Colleen and Bob, April 2009
“Well, I admit that I am girl with high expectations and boy does High Fields deliver. This place is breathtaking, and our family had a marvelous time here.”
- Jennifer and Doug, December 2008
“Third time is a charm—we once again had a great stay.” Carriage House
- Carroll and Lori, November 2008
“What a wonderful vacation! We returned to Carrie’s Cottage, this time with our three month old son. We enjoyed swimming in the pool, hiking along the Old Road and fishing in the pond….and feeding the ponies.”
- Rod and Krissy, September 2008
“Thank you for sharing this fabulous place with those of us in need of nature and her peace. We are grateful not only for your hospitality, but also especially for your love of the land and corresponding work to conserve it.” Carriage House
- Eric and Ophelia, July 2008
“We had such an amazing time here…it was a unanimous vote. The view, beautiful mountains, cows and especially the pool have made this week both relaxing and fun.” High Fields Farm
- Moshe and Shoshena, June 2008
“What a wonderful week! …this pace was absolutely perfect! The cozy cottage, the mountain views and the colorful sunsets provided a great romantic getaway..” Carrie’s Cottage
- Denior and Lindsey, May 2008
“Wonderful accommodations. Private, comfortable, beautiful property, stunning views. Easy access to great hikes in the Park followed by a return to the cottage where we watched the mountains gradually swallow the sun.” Carriage House
- Kathleen and Chip, May 2008
“Your home and the surroundings are awesome! We had a wonderful time and loved ‘coming home’ to High Fields Farm after our days of sight seeing. Thanks!’
- Salli and Bruce, April 2008
“Our stay here was absolutely perfect! Perfect weather, perfect views and perfect accommodations (Carriage House Studio). We will most definitely be returning for more romantic getaways…..and much needed relaxation.:
- Danielle and Jason, October 2007
“We thought that the place would be nice from the description on the web but it far exceeded our expectations!” Carrie’s Cottage
- George and Joni, September 2007
“What a wonderful relaxing stay in a charming (Carriage House) cottage with panoramic vista! We enjoyed a bejeweled sky on the deck our first night, with a few Perseid meteors….”
- Lanny and Cindy, August 2007
“Thank you so much for a vacation unlike any we have previously taken! The house was absolutely wonderful, you have thought of everything we needed and more!” High Fields Farm
- David and Shelli, July 2007
“Your farm is absolutely beautiful and the views are amazing. We loved staying in the (Carrie’s) cottage. It’s charming and very comfortable. It truly is a home away from home”
- Christy and Sebastiano, June 2007
“Wow! What a beautiful farm…this is like heaven on earth! We all had a wonderful time and are sorry to leave. Everything was perfect!” High Fields Farm
- Paula and Chris, May 2007
“We can never thank you enough for this beautiful Carriage House. We needed a place to rest, re-coupe and re-energize…and your place was absolutely perfect”
- Daren and Claudette, April 2007
“This is one of the nicest places we have ever stayed. We were actually able to de-stress and enjoy the beautiful and stunning views.” Carrie’s Cottage
- Cathe and Steve, March 2007
“The Carriage House was the perfect winter weekend getaway for us!”
- Jessica and Mitch, February 2007
“Thank you so much for a wonderful place to stay….The kitchen is incredible and the great room was a wonderful area…to mingle. You’ve made us feel so welcome and we appreciate how carefully you have created a home away from home.” High Fields Farm
- Michelle and Nikola, January 2007
“This was the perfect place to celebrate our 1st Anniversary. The views are spectacular. We enjoyed waking to changing colors and falling asleep while gazing at the stars. The cats, dogs and horses were a special treat for me and the view from the ridgeline was stunning! (Thanks for the suggestion Alton). Plans to return are already brewing. Thanks for everything."
- Carol & Alec Shekhar, The Carriage House Studio, October 2006
There is more to poetry than just words. It is starry nights, green pastures, friendly hosts and cozy studios. It is coffee on the deck as the sun rises, watching the cows in their morning graze over the hills. It is a bottle of wine for two as the sun sets behind the mountain tops--a romantic journey away from yesterday's troubles and into tomorow's promises. Lynn & Alton, our gracious hosts, thank you so much for sharing your farm with us and this lovely studio. We leave today with lasting memories and dreams of a place so pure and real, so full of life. We hope our first home together has the same country charm the Carriage House has and that our neighbors have the same peace about them as you do.
- Andre Lopez and Heather Meirkowski , The Carriage House Studio, August 2006
Dear Lynn and Al, we had a great time at High Fields Farm! We went horseback riding, that was a BLAST! It makes me feel like I am home. It is so cozy and comfortable! We have been walking on the farm ( a lot of cow patties!) We have been climbing hills and that sorta stuff! We have taking pictures like crazy! We have 4 camera's full! It is so beautiful! It is like a wonderland! I hope you have a Great Day!
- Andria, Daniel, Alexander and our mom, Alex! High Fields Farm, February 2006
Well, we cannot exactly call this our "home away from home". Fairhill Farm is totally different! At home, we do not have a perfect black night sky with more stars than I have ever seen. We do not have cool and crisp mountain air! So, today we return to Hampton, Virginia where we live near the Newport News shipbuilding that lights up the night sky, Langley AFB and their jets that fly above, and not to mention the Fire Station a half mile from our house! We had a great time here. On Thursday morning on our way out, we saw a cow in labor. We watched for sometime, however, we did not see the actual birth. We hope that mom and baby are doing fine! (They are and baby is now about 500 pounds!) We enjoyed a visitg from one of the cats. We have two dogs, so I miss the purring of a happy cat. I Think that we enjoyed petting her more than she did!
We also visited several local wineries. To get to some of them, we drive on narrow country roads with no traffic and awesome mountain views. Everyone here is so friendly. Thank you Lynn, for meeting us on our way in on our first nigh. You and Al have helped to renew and refresh many guests at your lovely farms. We will return again this summer. We cannot wait to hear the symphony of grasshoppers and frogs!
- Andrea & Jason Elliott, Carrie's Cottage, March 2006
We had such a wonderful time here at High Fields! We are celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary with this trip. It could not have been better. Our kids though we were crazy driving 1500 miles to stay on a farm when we live on a beautiful farm, but we are so glad we did. We relaxed at this farm instead of working! We needed this vacation even more so after being in th path of hurrican Rita. We still have a mess to go home to but we are rested and refreshed. We had never been to Virginia and drove an extra 8 hours one way just to stay at High Fields! We didn't even explore the 130 acres. We strickly came here to enjoy this place and wow--did we love it! Thank you for sharing such a wonderful place with us. Everything was perfect and the trees were breathtaking. We will be back and hope to bring our family so they can enjoy this place. Y'all are so lucky and blessed to live in such a beautiful place. Thanks again & God bless.
- Robert & Debbie Watson, High Fields Farm, October 2005
"True seclusion and privacy are difficult to find. When we were able to do so here, it was unbelievable! Our family comes together once a year and it is time we cherish. The views make you sit and ponder for hours, the cows bring a smile to your face, the rabbits make you want to run after them like a little kid! I've decided to take down a wall in our house--The floor plan really brings everyone together! Thank you for sharing this piece of heaven with all of us and we'll see you soon, this I know!"
- The Mason, Powers and Seitz families, High Fields Farm, August, 2005
Thank you for a wonderful family vacation & the opportunity to reconnect with old friends. We've been to so many places--but none matched the charm of High Fields Farm. Our children loved the cows, we all loved the birds and views. Truly a delight--you thought of so many things when you prepared for your guests. I was delighted to find champagne flutes and bubble bath (the former for us, the latter for our 3 year old!!)
Thank you, thank you, thank you--it was marvelous!
- The Plumbs, High Fields Farm, Christmas 2005
Thank you so much for your hospitality and your beautiful land!!! We loved the views, the pool, the hiking, the dogs (especially Bella-my swim partner) and your company. We will be in touch soon to plan our next trip in the fall of 2006. Thanks again for everything--Lori adds she loved the kitty cats also!
- Captain and Mrs.Carroll Connelley USMC, The Carriage House, August 2005
We enjoyed our stay here. We saw a bullfrog. Thank you for the pleasure of staying here. We enjoyed the pool, animals and house(s). It's a peaceful and beautiful place. We look forward to coming back!
- The Harleys, David, Susan, Andrew & Caroline, Carrie's Cottage, June 2005
Thank you so much for sharing your place with me and so many others! God has truly blessed you with this property and all the skills you two have together! It was exactly what I needed and so peaceful. I will definitely be spreading the word to other moms in Charlottesville.
- Joanna MacDonald, The Carriage House, April 2005
Our Anniversary was all the more special because of our stay here. The beauty of the surroundings and of the cottage were a delight and made us very comfortable. The sunset ont he hillside was wonderful. We saw a red fox and deer. Thanks for everything!
- Deborah & Steve Gideon, Spartanburg, South Carolina, October 2004
This Cottage is so sweet! I love the beautiful bathroomand the wonderful setting. Such beautiful views! I took a long run that I enjoyed-R on South River, R on Teel mountain, R on 230 (busy though), R on South River. Thanks so much for the suggestion!
- Carolyn-Minneapolis, Minnesota
Perfect for our Quilter's Retreat! Thanks!
- Kathy-Seattle, Washington
We loved it & we'll be back!
- El-Charlottesville, Virginia
(A wonderful group of friends and quilters who stayed at both Carrie's Cottage and High Fields Farm)
Our second visit to High Fields Farm has been heavenly! Literally! I believe I saw more stars in the sky than I've ever seen in my life. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful farm with me and my family.
- Lisa Dawes, Tacoma Park, Maryland, October 2004
Our trip has been amazing! The view from every window was truly breathtaking! The cleanliness of this warm and inviting house exceeded our expectations. The beautiful sunsets rolling hills and awesome mountains were exceptional. This morning as we sadly packed to leave we saw a fox in the fields-what a treat and quite a surprise! We truly enjoyed our stay. We hope to see you all again.
- The Wilsons, Roland, Lynne, Chaya, Arlington Virginia, December 2004
This vacation has exceeded all expectations! It's the kind of thing you wish for, but can't believe can actually happen. When we first arrived on the property, we thought "This is what it looked like on the website." Then, we got into the house itself and literally said, "This is even better than the website!" My kids LOVE this place: the pool, the bedrooms, the porch, the open space for entertaining (and playing!) and , of course, the gigantic TV (which, I am happy to say, they didn't watch much because there was so much for us to do together as a family. We've had great vacations in the past (and bad ones, too)--this stay definitely tops our list. We can't wait to come back. You are both so welcoming and friendly--we felt totally "at home." Your taste is exquisite, and we didn't need to ask twice about a thing. Your desire to please your guests is deeply appreciated, I assure you! One final note: this is the first time that my husband and I didn't have to bring our own champagne bucket and flutes on vacation. You do think of everything! Next time we'll use the cordial glasses, too!
- Christine Boucher & Family of Gaithersburg, Maryland, High Fields Farm, August 2004
Peaceful, quiet, comfortable and relaxing. I have really enjoyed my time here. The special touches that Lynn & Al have provided have made all the difference. Thank you so much!
- Erika Evan of Leesburg, Virginia, Carrie's Cottage, July 2004
