The Stone House - A Pet Friendly Historical Stay

Stay in a true piece of American history at the Heiston-Strickler “Old Stone House,” a riverfront home on the Shenandoah River near Luray. This 1700s stone fort-turned-retreat features exposed chestnut beams, massive stone fireplaces, steam shower, modern kitchen, WiFi, satellite TV, and private river access. Minutes to Luray Caverns, Shenandoah National Park, and Skyline Drive—where history meets unforgettable mountain escape. The space Welcome to the Heiston-Strickler House — also known as The Old Stone House — a National Registry of Historic Places property where 1700s American history meets modern mountain comfort. 🇺🇸🏔️ Originally built as an underground stone fort with tunnel access to the Shenandoah River in the early-to-mid 1700s, this extraordinary home later became a two-story stone residence in 1790. Over centuries, additions came and went, farmland was divided, fortunes were made (and rumored to be gambled away 😉), but the stone structure itself has remained in the family of Colonel Daniel Strickler to this day. Today, you have the rare opportunity to stay in this historic treasure — thoughtfully renovated while preserving its remarkable character. Where History Meets Comfort In 2006, the home underwent one of its most extensive restorations ever. The interior was taken down to bare stone and dirt floors, the original fort cellar was rebuilt and reinforced with steel and concrete, and the stunning chestnut beams were exposed and refinished — now proudly showcased throughout the home. ✨ Modern upgrades were seamlessly integrated, including central heating and air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen with electric range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, toaster oven, blender, coffee maker, and garbage disposer. The downstairs living area features a massive stone fireplace that instantly transports you back in time (while still enjoying satellite TV and WiFi). 🔥📺 A half bath and high-efficiency washer/dryer add convenience, while upstairs you’ll find two spacious bedrooms, each with queen beds and luxury bedding. Decorative stone fireplaces in both bedrooms maintain the historic ambiance, and the full bath upstairs includes a unique steam shower unit — complete with jets, rain shower, handheld option, and built-in radio. 🛁✨ (An instruction booklet is provided — and trust us, you’ll want to read it.) The home comfortably sleeps 2–6 guests, with an additional queen air mattress available for flexibility. Linens are provided. Riverfront Setting & Outdoor Space The Shenandoah River runs approximately 100 yards from the house, with river views especially visible during winter months. While the immediate bank behind the home is steep, following the western property line leads you to approximately ¾ mile of manicured riverfront access — perfect for fishing 🎣, relaxing, or simply taking in the peaceful setting. The 5-acre property is in the early stages of exterior revitalization, adding to its authentic charm. You’ll find: Covered front porch with seating Patio area with table and chairs Campfire area for evenings under the stars 🔥 Propane gas grill for cookouts Hiking and nature trails from the property A water purification system services the home, and WiFi is available throughout. There is no landline phone. Inside, you’ll also find satellite TV, DVD players (including one in the master bedroom), a PlayStation 2, assorted movies, and board/card games for downtime entertainment. 🎮🎲 A Living Piece of History Immediately south of the property sits a 100-acre working beef and poultry farm operated by descendants of the original family. You may even receive a friendly wave — or an invitation to a riverside barbecue. Just beyond the neighboring home is a small family cemetery dating back to the 1700s, where Colonel Strickler himself rests. Guests are welcome to respectfully explore the grounds. Certain historic spaces, including the unfinished fort cellar and attic, remain closed to guests as restoration continues. (You may find the hidden cellar door — but no peeking inside just yet 😉.) Prime Shenandoah Valley Location This one-of-a-kind riverfront home is perfectly located for adventure: 4 miles to Luray Caverns 12 miles to Thornton Gap (Shenandoah National Park) 12 miles to George Washington National Forest Storybook Trail 28 miles to Massanutten Resort Close to Skyline Drive and the Shenandoah River Whether you’re hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, floating the river, or simply soaking in 250+ years of history, this property delivers an experience few homes can match. This is not your typical weekend rental. This is sleeping inside American history… with WiFi. 😉 If you’re looking for something ordinary, keep scrolling. If you want stone walls that have stood since before the Revolution, river air drifting through old beams, and a stay that feels like stepping into a living story… The Old Stone House is ready to welcome you. 🏞️✨ Book your historic Shenandoah River escape today. Other things to note ✅ This property has special local compliance requirements which include a signed rental agreement, ID verification, and a security hold of $2500 (which is not a traditional security deposit, just a pending transaction). As an optional alternative to the security hold, you may opt in to purchase a non-refundable damage waiver provided by a third-party insurance company. The optional damage waiver is $59 for stays up to 10 nights, with an additional $2 per day for stays longer than 10 nights. Damage waiver purchases are optional. To make this process easy for you, we use a secure and very simple, app-free platform called Happy Guest. It is not an app, and you do not have to sign up for an account - it’s a safe and secure website. It also gives you a guest portal with all the info about the home and all of my favorite local spots. Your guest portal includes advertisements with third-party upgrades that you may want to enhance your stay. These upgrades are optional and include: Early Check-In - $20/hr if available If you have any questions, just message us anytime! Happy to help!