Bucolic & Historic | Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville is one of America’s most historic cities. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers a lovely blend of history, architecture, and country living. Known for its historical significance and bucolic scenery, the Charlottesville area is one of the most desirable locations in the US. In fact, Charlottesville has been ranked among the top 10 in “America’s Favorite Mountain Towns” in 2014 by Travel + Leisure.

Besides the architecture and landscape, Charlottesville also offers a haven for wine lovers, foodies, and those who love activities. In 2014, it landed on the “America’s 5 New Foodie Cities” list by Wine Enthusiast. The city has become a popular destination for out-of-town chefs to open restaurants, featuring themes of Southern fusion, farm-to-table, gourmet, and Asian cuisine. One very popular restaurant in town was opened by renowned chef Peter Chang. China Grill in opened in 2011 and has been a city staple ever since. The city is a big supporter of local businesses and Start-ups, making the food scene here diverse and eclectic.

Thomas Jefferson called Charlottesville his home, and in doing so, he created the birthplace of American wine. Besides his Monticello home, his influence can be found on the Monticello Wine Trail. It consists of 30 miles and 32 wineries, making the wine business in Charlottesville a booming one. Popular vineyards include Veritas, Stinson, and Jefferson Vineyards. They provide fun activities during the summer, such as Vertias’ Starry Nights, where wine lovers can drink wine, picnic, and listen to live music. Wine production is not the only business to gain popularity in the region. Over recent years, local breweries and cideries have set up shop along the Route 151 corridor in Nelson County and in other parts of Albemarle County. Spending a day experiencing the variety the area has to offer amidst the backdrop of a serene country setting has become a popular must do for locals and visitors to the Charlottesville area.

The natural beauty of the city and its surrounding areas add to Charlottesville’s plethora of exceptional homes. A community known for conservation of land and restoration of historical properties makes the marketplace truly unique. With an abundance of traditional and historic estates, the number of contemporary properties and architecturally designed green homes is growing. There are even a few environmentally sustainable neighborhoods both in and outside of city limits. Charlottesville is a city that offers the best in country and urban living.

 $10,900,000 USD | Keswick, Virginia | Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty

Keswick, Virginia — only six miles from Charlottesville—offers a country lifestyle that is unparalleled. It is a farmland oasis known for its historic architecture, equestrian enthusiasts, and fox hunting. Many of the estates in Keswick were plantations in the 18th century; property exteriors are brick and of the Federal style. This Keswick estate has been restored, has historic barns onsite, as well as streams and a scenic backdrop of the Southwest Mountains. It sits on 477 acres of beautiful land and has formal gardens, two guest houses, and a five-bay garage.

 $4,895,000 USD | Charlottesville, Virginia | Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty

Proximity to the historic University of Virginia is ideal for those who desire city living while enjoying the privacy of an estate home. On a quiet street in the upscale and desired Farmington neighborhood, this unique residence located on Covey Hill Road offers updated, modern living and elegance. Boxwood Hill is an elegant brick Georgian manor. Built in the1990s, its interior includes high ceilings, intricate custom millwork, and gorgeous crystal chandeliers. The main living area consists of numerous fireplaces, formal living room, library, and gourmet kitchen

 $2,425,000 USD | Madison, Virginia | Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty

Located 45 minutes outside of the city, Madison, Virginia is a true country escape. It is made up of large acreages of farmland, with some of the most dramatic mountain views in the area. This country property, located at 3374 Graves Mill Road, offers a working cattle farm, breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and close proximity to the Shenandoah National Forest. The Rapidan River traverses through this picturesque farmland and offers a plethora of trout fishing. The interior consists of 5000 square feet and four bedrooms. Overall, this home provides a perfect balance of wooded mountain area and sprawling farmland.

 $1,980,000 USD | Charlottesville, Virginia | Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty

Just outside the city limits, in one of the city’s most desirable locations, is this beautiful home at 2550 Hunt Country Lane. It is a one-of-a-kind, contemporary property with features that include carved wood railings, arched entryways, and vaulted ceilings. Picture windows adorn every room, while stone and marble fireplaces provide beauty and warmth. This architecturally eye-catching brick home sits on 21 acres of green hillside with water frontage on a lake.

Many thanks to Ann Hay Hardy, Associate Broker at Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, for providing this market spotlight on Charlottesville, Virginia. Click here to view all of our exclusive homes for sale in Charlottesville, Virginia.