Belvedere On The Potomac

Historic riverfront estate built circa 1790 overlooking the Potomac River with sweeping 180° water views. The Belvedere sits beside historic Dam No. 5 and features beautiful lawns, towering trees, dramatic rock formations, and abundant wildlife. Relax on decks and patios, enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, or simply take in the peaceful river scenery. Inside, the home blends historic charm with modern comforts, including the East Wing Saloon with wet bar and ice maker. The space Rooms & Layout The Belvedere is a historic multi-level home with a unique layout typical of 18th-century river estates. Because of the hillside setting and historic construction, the home contains many stairways and changes in elevation, both outside and inside. Important: Guests should be comfortable climbing stairs. Some staircases are steep, particularly the stairs leading to the attic loft. The property is not suitable for guests with mobility limitations. Entry & Parlor Guests typically arrive by driving up the driveway to the front of the home, where an old sculpture marks the main entrance area. From there, a staircase leads up to the front balcony and the main entry door. When you enter the home, you step into the parlor room, which serves as the central hub of the main floor. East Wing Saloon To the left of the parlor is the East Wing Saloon, featuring a bar area with a wet bar, refrigerator, and ice maker — a great gathering space for relaxing and socializing. Half Bath To the right of the parlor is a convenient half bathroom. Living Room Continuing straight through the parlor leads to the living room, which features a gas fireplace controlled by a thermostat. A staircase in this area provides access to the upper floor. Kitchen & Gathering Space From the living room you can continue to the large kitchen, which is designed for gathering and cooking. The kitchen includes two ovens, generous counter space, and a gas fireplace. A second staircase in the kitchen connects to the upstairs hallway. Second Floor The second floor can be accessed by two staircases — one from the living room and one from the kitchen. Master Suite The primary bedroom is a spacious suite with its own private balcony, a large cedar closet, and a private full bathroom. Laundry Area The hallway also contains a washer and dryer available for guest use. Second Bedroom Further down the hall is the second bedroom, which includes its own large private balcony and a private bathroom with a stand-up shower, toilet, and sink. Third Bedroom The third bedroom can be accessed either through the second bedroom or from the staircase coming up from the living room. This room also includes a private full bathroom with a bathtub and shower. Attic Loft From the third bedroom, a staircase leads to the attic loft, a vaulted-ceiling space that provides additional sleeping accommodations. The loft includes two single sleeper futons and a queen self-inflating air mattress stored in the closet. Basement (Utility Area) The home includes a basement level that houses the property’s mechanical and utility systems. This area is not part of the guest living space and guests are asked not to access the basement unless instructed by the host in the rare event that assistance with a house system is needed. Because of the historic architecture and hillside setting, the Belvedere has many stairways and elevation changes throughout the home. Guests should plan accordingly when booking. Guest access Guest Access Guests have access to the main house and most of the surrounding Belvedere property during their stay. We simply ask that guests respect property boundaries and neighboring properties. House Access Guests may use all living spaces inside the home, including bedrooms, living areas, kitchen, balconies, patios, and the East Wing Saloon. The basement is a utility area and is not part of the guest space unless access is specifically needed for a house-related issue. Parking Guests may park anywhere within the Belvedere driveway loop near the house or in the gravel parking lot located in front of the black pavilion. There is ample parking available between these two areas. Please do not park on neighboring properties or block the access road. Front Lawn & River Area The large lawn in front of the house slopes down toward the Potomac River and is available for guests to enjoy. A row of arborvitae trees marks the boundary between the Belvedere property and the neighboring property closer to the dam. Guests must remain on the Belvedere side of this boundary. Pergolas, Dock & River Access At the river’s edge are two white pergolas. The smaller pergola provides access to the stairs leading down to the walkway ramp connected to the floating dock (during boating season). Guests may enjoy the dock and riverfront area. Swimming and water activities are at your own risk, as there is a dam located a short distance downriver. Boat Launch The Belvedere has a small launch area suitable for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other non-motorized watercraft. Powerboats or trailered boats should not be launched from this area. Guests bringing larger boats will receive instructions for using our private boat launch and dock located a short distance up the river, which also includes parking for a truck and trailer. Colonnade & Pavilion Area Guests are welcome to enjoy the colonnade of large trees with string lights, as well as the black metal pavilion with picnic tables. The gravel lot in front of the pavilion may also be used for additional parking. Yellow Storage House The small yellow house near the gravel lot is used for storage and is not part of the guest space. Neighboring Properties Please respect our neighbors by staying within the Belvedere property boundaries and avoiding nearby private lawns, docks, and boat launches that belong to neighboring properties. Other things to note Historic Home The Belvedere was built around 1790, and while it has been updated with modern comforts, it retains many characteristics of a historic home. Floors, stairs, and layouts reflect the charm and character of a centuries-old river estate. Temperature & Climate Control Because of the home’s historic construction and original materials, temperatures throughout the house may vary from room to room. The home is serviced by two heat pump systems and thermostats that manage different sides of the house. During very cold weather, heat pumps can sometimes struggle to keep up with outside temperatures. Two gas fireplaces are available to help supplement heating when needed. As with many historic homes, guests may notice that temperatures can fluctuate slightly between floors and rooms. Stairs & Elevation Changes Due to the hillside setting and historic design, the property includes numerous staircases and elevation changes, both inside and outside. Guests should be comfortable navigating stairs. The home is not suitable for guests with mobility limitations. Nature & Wildlife The Belvedere sits in a natural riverfront setting. It is common to see wildlife such as deer, eagles, geese, and other animals on the property. Insects and seasonal wildlife are part of the outdoor environment along the Potomac River. River Safety Guests are welcome to enjoy the riverfront area, but all water activities and swimming are at your own risk. A dam is located a short distance downriver, and river conditions can change depending on weather and water levels. Respect for Neighbors The Belvedere is a peaceful property located within a small riverside community. We ask guests to respect neighboring properties and keep noise levels reasonable, especially during late evening hours. Events & Gatherings Large parties or events are not permitted without prior approval from the host. Our goal is for guests to enjoy the property, the river, and the surrounding nature while helping preserve the peaceful atmosphere that makes the Belvedere special.