Every Adventure Awaits at Idlewild River Farm—unmatched in its 1.7 miles of river frontage, expansive 224-acreage, diverse land, prime location, and stately estate home. This remarkable property has the rare ability to satisfy a wide range of passions—whether equestrian pursuits, hiking, fishing, hunting, boating, hobby farming, or simply savoring days along the river. Here, framed by the Shenandoah River and Blue Ridge Mountains—and just 90 minutes west of Washington, D.C.—you can craft the life you’ve imagined.
Idlewild’s land stands apart in beauty, scale and diversity. From the Shenandoah River, 120 acres stretch along 1.7 miles of private frontage, inviting riverside walks and trail rides. Cleared paths lead to swimming holes, shaded picnic sites, and quiet banks where the sound of water over the shoals restores calm.
Rich pastures unfold between the river and main house. Functional as they are scenic and recently grazed by cattle, the fields are ready for horses with four-board fencing and auto-waterers in place. Across Howellsville Road, 100 wooded acres in 3 parcels rise toward the ridgeline to nearly 800 feet in elevation, offering extensive trails for hunting, hiking, riding, or ATV adventures.
Idlewild’s residence has been beautifully built anew. Reconstructed in 2009 on the original site, the stately Federal-style brick home maintained the exterior style of the original historic Idlewild, circa 1853. With more than 4,000 square feet, 4 bedrooms, and 4.5 baths, it is perfectly sited between river and mountains, overlooking a large pond with a Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop.
Wide porches span the front and rear elevations, easily connecting the home to the surrounding countryside. Inside, rich hardwood floors anchor an open plan where the living room flows into the dining area and kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Oversized windows frame views of the pond, pastures, and mountains. The main-level primary suite—added in 2012—offers both convenience and privacy, with a large walk-in closet and a spa-like bath featuring a clawfoot tub, glass-enclosed shower, premium finishes, and hidden laundry.
Upstairs, three additional bedrooms include a generous ensuite with sweeping vistas. From this level, step onto the roof deck—an inspired space for lounging or soaking in a hot tub while overlooking the river and fields. The lower-level blends utility and design with high ceilings, slate floors, a full bath, kitchenette, and stone fireplace. This casual living space can flex to a gym, studio or home office—completed with Starlink connectivity.
Elements of Idlewild’s history have been carefully preserved and reimagined. Bricks from the original 1850s home—kiln-fired on the farm—were repurposed in the Carriage House, now a detached garage with a farm office. The original corn crib stands as a restored antique, while the former estate kitchen has been transformed into a charming one-bedroom, one-bath guest house. The covered breezeway that once linked the kitchen to the main house has been repurposed as an inviting space for al fresco dining. At the river near the current bridge, remnants of the 1920s Byrd Bridge still stand, reminders of the travelers and commerce that have passed through Berry’s Ferry since the early 1800s.
Idlewild River Farm is rare in character and scale, a place to enjoy the best of Virginia’s countryside, near historic estates like Long Branch, The Tuleyries, and Carter Hall. Enjoy local restaurants, wineries, breweries, and golf courses with immediate access to Rt 50 and quick access to Rt 350, Rt 7 and I-81. Located 20 minutes from Winchester, 35 minutes from Middleburg, and just 90 minutes from Washington DC.