St. Paul is one of the best kept secrets in southwest Virginia. To say it’s a small town would be an understatement. In a world where people constantly overuse the phrase “hidden gem” – the term actually does apply to a place like this. Located about 45 minutes north of Abingdon and just beyond Virginia’s Clinch River State Park – St. Paul is a great home base for exploring the great outdoors.
A focal point in St. Paul’s tiny downtown is the Western Front Hotel. Here you’ll find 30 guest rooms and a cozy atmosphere that almost seems out of place in such a rural setting. After a day of fishing or riding an ATV, the hotel is a big step above traditional motels or other lodging you might normally find in a place like this. For those of us that enjoy the benefits of escaping to nature but still want creature comforts of home at the end of the day – the Western Front Hotel checks all of those boxes.
During a recent “Small Town Tour” of Virginia I stayed at the Western Front Hotel for several days. The room was spacious and modern. I happened to be there leading up to Halloween and the entire hotel was decked out with props and decorations. Each room has a comfortable bed with reclaimed wood headboards; a retro fridge; and a separate sitting room with a comfy couch. The bathroom was above expectations.
Though I was traveling solo, the Western Front Hotel would make a great spot for group travel or a family getaway. There are plenty of spaces around the property to hang out – like a backyard area complete with a stage and fire pits. Next door, Puerto Nuevo – an incredible Mexican restaurant directly attached to the building will definitely be your go-to for meals during your stay.
The hotel can even help you book an ATV if you’re inclined to check out the local trails and be adventurous. If riding ATVs isn’t your thing – you’ll find other forms of outdoor recreation that may better suit your style. Hop on a kayak or canoe; go fishing in the Clinch River; hike along miles of mountain trails; or go for a scenic ride on your mountain bike.
For a list of other unique spots to discover around Virginia – check out this piece I put together called 36 Unique Places To See in Virginia.