This Luxury Bed & Breakfast Hidden in West Virginia Has it all... Including Puppies
The Sundogs Bed and Breakfast, located just a few miles outside of charming downtown Shepherdstown is what I am certain to be the best kept secret in West Virginia. This eco-friendly farm retreat is a unique sanctuary for foster puppies, the surrounding wildlife and of course- humans & their dogs too. Not only can you visit with the adorable foster pups being housed on property, You can also bring your own dog along for the adventure. All suites at the Inn are dog friendly- (they even provide water bowls, dog beds and crates upon request) Pups are also allowed on leash in the dining room, sitting room and all outdoor spaces. The value here is undeniably good, suites range in price from $229-239 on weekdays, and $249-259 on weekends!
In the essence of meadows and wildflowers, this secluded countryside retreat awaits you in the Potomac River Valley. The unsuspecting B&B can be reached by venturing down its private gravel entry road and you will certainly not be disappointed upon arrival. The newly built craftsman style home is perched on the property’s meadow and surrounded by a vast and colorful garden.
The owners- Peggy and David, greeted us upon arrival showing us around the house and providing information about the property’s amenities and hiking trails. They even have a directory of all the dog friendly eateries in Shepherdstown so that guests can enjoy a night on the town with their pup. These two are very warm and welcoming hosts, they very much reflect the calm and relaxing nature of the experience at Sundogs and will make you feel right at home. During our stay we booked the ‘Acorn’ suite which was beautifully decorated and immaculately clean, we even had a claw foot tub overlooking the garden in our bathroom. The inn has a total of 5 different rooms available to book all with luxury in-suite bathrooms. No matter which room you choose to book, the fine details are sure to wow you. Fresh flowers by the bedside, claw foot tubs with bath salts, and heated bathroom floors, the list goes on and on.
After settling into our room, we set out to explore the 2 miles of freshly cut trails around the property. The quiet and secluded paths venture through the meadow’s hayfield, forest, and even down to a private creek that runs through the property. Also onsite is a non-profit extension of the B&B called Bailey’s Barn whose mission is ‘to rescue farm animals and allow them to live out their lives in peace, comfort, and serenity.’
Whether you bring along a four-legged friend or not, you are sure to enjoy unwinding at this countryside retreat. The covered wraparound porch has plenty of cozy spots for enjoying a glass of wine or reading a book. In the backyard there is a beautiful stone terrace with additional seating and umbrellas – so plenty of room for social distancing with other guests.
Fresh,
Farm to table –
Plant Based Goodness
Behind the house is a lush vegetable garden which provides produce for the incredible plant-based dishes offered at Sundogs. Whether you are a vegetarian or not you will end your stay with a newfound love for vegan cuisine. Fresh snacks and refreshments are served in the afternoons in addition to a generous breakfast spread – and WOW, the breakfast was one of the best I have ever had. To put it simply, the food here will absolutely blow you away.
Just as we finished breakfast, the litter of foster puppies Sundogs was currently hosting came outside for a meet and greet and OH MY CUTENESS! I cannot imagine a better end to our stay than a play date with these little guys. Click here to learn about Sun Dogs current foster pups and adoption opportunities.
Book your stay at Sundogs Bed and Breakfast here, and be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instragram!
Shepherdstown, West va-
Small Town, Big Culture
Shepherdstown is one of my favorite hidden gems in West Virginia, Located just 20 minutes from the Harpers Ferry area and 1.5 hours from Washington DC. The vibrant, free spirited downtown neighbors the campus of Shepherd University– it is an artistic, cultured and colorful little slice of WV heaven. My girlfriend and I especially appreciated how LGBT friendly the area is, German street is lined with a ton of shops and restaurants, many of which had pride flags in their store windows! The spirit here is undoubtedly youthful and welcoming of all people, from all walks of life.
Eats and Drinks
The Press Room– Fantastic choice for a fine dining experience, chef owned restaurant known for its fresh local ingredients & ever changing menu selection ‘The restaurant has a comfortable 50 seats with full bar service and an international wine list. Menu offers regional fare, changing seasonally with Mediterranean accents.’
Blue Moon Café– The coolest outdoor dining space in town, this spot is buzzing with energy & local charm – ‘an eclectic cafe/restaurant located in historic Shepherdstown, WV. Diverse & delicious menu, great beers on tap, a unique, eclectic atmosphere’
The Green Pineapple– A local cult favorite- if you haven’t tried bubble tea before, trust me- you must visit this spot! ‘Along with bubble tea The Green Pineapple offers snow cream and a variety of other Asian fusion fare.’
Mountaineer Popcorn Company – This stuff is to die for, offering popcorn in every flavor imaginable – Buffalo, chesapeake, birthday cake, the list goes on and on. This is a local, family owned business- Definitely hits all the marks for small town charm. (You can also purchase from them online!)
What To See & Do
Explore Downtown Sheperdstown– Check out the local cafes, shops and eateries on German Street. Take a walk through Shepherd Universities campus while you’re there- the school features impressive historical buildings and a creek that runs through the campus. (Tons of beautiful picnic spots here!)
Get Outdoors- Spend the day tubing on the Potomac River, biking the C&O Canal towpath or hiking at Antietam Battlefield. Check out Shepherdstown Pedal & Paddle for easy to rent bikes, kayaks, float tubes and canoes!