Fort Lewis Lodge

Experience our plantation heritage, the comfort of country inn pleasures and scenic vistas, rich in texture and color. Contemporary American style meals served in Lewis Mill are a vibrant mix of fresh tastes and interesting menus. Come see for yourself!Open April through early November!

The richness and sheer beauty of the land led Colonel Charles Lewis to settle here more than two centuries ago. Today the 3,200-acre mountain farm once known as Fort Lewis Plantation has remained relatively unchanged over its 200 year history. Our accommodations, all with modern amenities, are reminiscent of the charm of those simpler times.

Raving Reviews

"Chin deep and a stone's throw wide, the big swimming hole on the clear Cowpasture River may be the most picturesque natural pool in the East."
~ Dream Weekends ~ The Washingtonian

"Fort Lewis Lodge is one of those rare and wonderful places
that celebrates life's simple pleasures."
~ Cassandra VanHooser ~ Southern Living

"It's almost sundown in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, and in the dappled sunlight various chirps, clucks and peeps harmonize to create nature's sunset symphony."~
Nina Elder ~ Better Homes and Gardens

"A country inn for guests seeking the outdoors and an opportunity for some 'natural' relaxation, hiking, fishing , mountain biking and swimming."
~ Matt Sampson ~ Virginia Wildlife

Whether you want to relax or challenge yourself, the choice of activities can make your stay invigorating or restful. While hiking, biking, antiquing, taking a dip in the swimming hole in the Cowpasture River, or touring local attractions such as the Homestead, you will become renewed amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For the serious fisherman or weekend angler, the Lodge offers miles of clean river teeming with fish. The Cowpasture holds a large population of smallmouth bass, and there are rock bass just right for kids to catch. Rainbow trout are stocked in the early spring.

On Site:

• Hiking
• Swimming Hole (River)
• Mountain Biking
• Fishing
• Tether Ball
• Volleyball
• Billiards
• Ping Pong
• Foosball
• Horseshoes

Within easy driving distance:

• Garth Newel Chamber Concerts
• The Homestead
• Mineral Baths
• Limestone Caves
• Cass Railroad

A few steps from the lodge is the magnificently restored 19th century Lewis Grist Mill where a most delightful surprise awaits you: a cuisine that rivals the finest restaurants in the largest cities. "There are no bounderies. I'm doing what I want to do with influences from all over," says Caryl Cowden of her contemporary American style cooking. This vibrant mix of fresh tastes and interesting menus is enhanced by numerous side dishes comprised of vegetables just plucked from the farm's own gardens, fresh breads and sumptuous desserts that have developed a reputation of their own among inn-goers.

The lush setting is like a first page description of what a gentle country inn should be in a first rate novel... a gathering place, a refuge, the perfect setting in which to laugh, do a little business, or just catch up and spend quality time with your favorite people.

Inside the Lewis Mill, the spacious dining room and upstairs game room are delightful and practical spaces for any event. Business and retreat planners are finding Fort Lewis Lodge the perfect change-of-pace location for mid-week conferences up to 30.

At Lewis Mill, anticipation begins during the twilight social hour at Buck's Bar on the porch overlooking a colorfully landscaped fish pond. Guest enjoy ice cold beer and wine while comparing notes on their day afield. John tends marinated beef, chicken, ribs, or fresh seafood sizzling on the grills while heavenly aromas waft from the kitchen.

Yes, we're in the "wilds" but isn't that what it's all about? We challenge you to find a more natural setting as a backdrop to your wedding ceremony and reception. The mountains, forests, fields and streams of this historic plantation set the stage for a one-of-a-kind wedding venue.

Just imagine your special day filled with scenes of families uniting, love and commitment, music flowing across the meadow, followed by inspired cuisine, toasting and dancing. The storybook architecture of the Pavilion is at center stage with sweeping church-like beams overhead and stunning mountain vistas in all directions. The beauty of the Pavilion can only be matched by the talent in the kitchen, where it is our belief that there is a strong connection between food and the heart.

The Lodge's Pavilion and inventory of catering equipment cover all your rental needs. Traditional or unconventional... we're ready to go with lodging accommodations for up to 50 and receptions up to 100.

Wedding Particulars

Fort Lewis plays host to a limited number of weddings each year. Below is a listing of the primary expenses and services provided by the innkeeper. Perhaps the biggest issue is whether your selected venue "just feels right." We encourage you to visit, walk the grounds, see the Pavilion in person, and meet the innkeepers. Please do! But first, please ask about available dates.

Primary expenses

• A $3,000 site fee
• Weddings require a two-night booking of the Lodge's 20 guest rooms. This will accommodate 40-50 overnight guests.
• Reception costs can range between $70-110 pp depending on the number of guests, plated or heavy hor d'oevres, alcoholic beverages, etc.
• Rehearsal dinners for up to 50 in Lewis Mill Restaurant.
• An 18% service fee on food and beverages plus applicable state and local taxes.
• All food and beverage (excluding the wedding cake) must be provided by the Lodge.
• All alcoholic beverages will be provided by the Lodge and will be served in accordance with ABC regulations.
• Private functions at the Lodge and/or Pavilion must conclude no later than midnight.
• All service providers must present a certificate of insurance.
• No rice/ potpourri is to be thrown. Only birdseed will be allowed in outside areas.
• Rental of the premise is not an entitlement of ownership. Respect of the integrity of the facilities is required.

Innkeeper's Services

• The basic facility fee includes 8 hours of consultation time. Additional time required above the 8 hour alloted time will be billed at a rate of $50 an hour.
• The Lodge's inventory of catering equipment eliminates the need for renting tents, tent lighting, dance floors, tables, chairs, linens and place settings.
• Can assist in making an initial contact with a local church or wedding celebrant in the area.
• Will recommend professionals for music, floral, photography, and officiating.
• Manages guest room reservations at the Lodge.
• Will create an estimate of charges outlining your financial commitment and deposit schedule.
• Oversees ceremony and reception set-up.