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About Us

Our Story

Just around the bend from Virginia’s tallest waterfall, our lovingly restored property invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and experience the Blue Ridge the way our family always has — with warmth, care, and a genuine welcome.
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mountain view

A Letter from the Owners

I’m Beth-Anne Norman Driskill, the general manager and the daughter of the folks who built this place. I grew up wandering these woods and listening to stories on the porch swing and by the campfire under the night stars. These slow, simple moments taught me what real hospitality feels like: generous, genuine and never rushed.

After several years in D.C. and abroad, I returned home in 2016 to care for The Retreat —to honor its roots while gently elevating the experience for today’s guests. Not long after returning, I met my husband, Paul, right here in Nelson County (proof this place has a little magic in it!).

Today, our focus is on quiet luxury: spaces with soul, modern comfort without clutter, and service that feels warm and personal rather than performative.

We would be delighted to host you — whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend escape or a beautiful gathering place that feels like home.

Warmly,

Beth-Anne Driskill (General Manager)
A couple toasting
About Us

Our Journey Through the Years

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Our roots run deep. Beth-Anne’s grandmother, Barbara Otto, welcomed guests to the original cabins decades ago. The Norman family purchased them and began a careful renewal, preserving hand-hewn character while introducing the comforts discerning travelers expect.
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1800s

The oldest structures date to this era; original details are now preserved in modernized spaces.
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Mid–Late 1900s

Barbara Otto hosts travelers in the family cabins; a tradition of understated hospitality begins.
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2000

The Norman family purchases the cabins; a long-term restoration and upgrade plan is set into motion.
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2010s

Significant enhancements: updated kitchens and baths, reliable heating/air, improved outdoor living, and dependable Wi-Fi—while maintaining an unplugged feel.
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2016

Beth-Anne returns to Tyro to manage the Retreat full-time, setting a standard of elevated, detail-forward stays.
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2018

Beth-Anne & Paul marry at Pharsalia and continue shaping the Retreat’s refined, family-run direction.
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Today

A curated mix of cabins, glamping tents, and a lodge—each offering privacy, design-minded comfort, and a sense of place.

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    Stay small or book it all. Choose from our glamping tents, historic cabins, and lodge, or make the whole retreat yours.
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    Pinnacle Ridge Lodge

    A five-bedroom gathering place with stunning views.

    Perfect for reunions.

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    Glamping Sites

    Adults-only luxury, cantilevered over the creek.

    Perfect for couples.

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    Historic Cabins

    Dog-friendly, historic charm with modern comforts.

    Perfect for families or groups of friends.

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    Hear What Our Guests have to Say

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    Ok. Hate to admit it, but I’m a bit of a travel snob. I have the highest elite status Marriott offers (for life) so I love to be comfortable. Over the years I’ve enjoyed the cabins here but this new “glamping” is on a whole new level. The tents are furnished like a Ritz Carlton hotel room and the bath house (each tent has a private one) are a step above even the Ritz complete with heated floors for those cold winter mornings. They are fully equipped with an amazing fire pit/cooking grill and the environment is beautiful and relaxing. Hiking the falls is always a fun adventure. I highly recommend this place. We will be back for sure.
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    Michael Morisi
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    We enjoyed a very comfortable “glamping” stay at The Priest! Lovely waterfall feature and babbling brook next to a fire pit area and porch. The bed and bedding were incredibly comfortable, with a nice sitting area and gas log fireplace. We got all kinds of temperatures, down to just above freezing, and stayed nice and cozy warm while in our tent, and no issues even when we had a severe thunderstorm and torrential downpour the next day. We like it colder at night and the thermostat control worked well for us. The luxury private bathrooms were very well done, with heated floors and fluffy towels. Many creature comforts and lots of attention to detail! Will stay again and highly recommend.
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    Jennifer Fitzgerald

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