Rapidan River Farm

Farm Description

The Rapidan River twists and turns through forests and fertile valleys as it flows east from its source in the Blue Ridge Mountains to join the Rappahannock. At one particular bend, where the river turns briefly to the north, it passes the rolling fields of Rapidan River Farm. Situated in the northeastern portion of Greene County, Rapidan River Farm combines the features of a comfortable and convenient country property with the potential for a modern farm-to-table business operation. With its remodeled farmhouse, spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, extensive river frontage and farm infrastructure, it provides a wealth of options for the most discriminating buyer.

The original 1830s classic two-over-two farmhouse has been tastefully remodeled and expanded into a 3,900+/- SF three bedroom home. The original structure was taken back to the studs during the renovation, while leaving the original door and window surrounds. All new Lincoln windows from Gaston & Wyatt were installed throughout both the renovated and newly constructed sections. Wainscoting from an original cabin was preserved and used in the parlor. The two original chimneys were relined. Earlier additions to the main structure were replaced, resulting in the current “H” shaped structure.

On the main level, the new section starts with a family room that flows into the well-equipped kitchen with cherry cabinets and granite counters. A Rumford fireplace in the family room gives it a cozy atmosphere. A hallway from the family room contains a half bath and the entrance to the side porch and dining room. The large dining room, with its bay window flanked by Gaston & Wyatt corner cupboards, runs most of the length of the back of the house, providing plenty of room for entertaining. From the dining room, a hallway opens to a casual sunroom on the east side of the house and stairs down to the terrace level with its walk-out family room, as well as a rear stairway leading up to the master bedroom. The spacious second floor master suite has excellent views of the gardens, fields, and orchards around the house. It includes a separate office area and a brightly tiled master bath with double sinks, shower and Jacuzzi. The two other bedrooms, each with a working fireplace, are in the original 1830s section of the house and share a bathroom off the upstairs hallway. An additional full bath is off the basement level family room.

In addition to the living space in the main house there are two studio apartments on the property, both built by Shelter Associates of Charlottesville. The garage apartment is a well-appointed living space with wood floors, built-in cabinets and a tiled bathroom. There is plenty of room for a bed, sitting and dining areas, making this an excellent guest cottage or in-law suite. The shop apartment is more modest in design, but a comfortable accommodation for guests or a farm assistant.

The farm infrastructure already in place provides the potential for renewed operation. It is divided between orchards, pastures, fields, and various support structures including greenhouses, chicken coops, barns, run-in sheds and storage sheds. The greenhouses, two poly High Tunnels by Atlas and a Janco glass greenhouse, can provide growing space year-round, yielding hothouse items the market may demand. Fields are in place to grow other crops during the warmer seasons, allowing the possibility for Rapidan River Farm to become a key supplier to the best farm-to-table restaurants in the area. The chicken coops were designed for the production of cage-free eggs, providing the potential for yet another valuable commodity for the growing farm-to-table community. The farm can easily be adapted for horses or cattle according to a buyer’s wishes. (Livestock is not included in the real estate sale.)

Besides the comfortable living and practical aspects of Rapidan River Farm, there is a wealth of beauty to experience. The Blue Ridge Mountains stretch out across the horizon, creating a breathtaking backdrop to brilliant sunsets throughout the year. The exceptional landscaping complements the property, with peaceful gardens yielding explosions of color in spring, summer and fall. The white four-board fences crisscross the fields, framing this bucolic setting. A bold stream cascading over rocks creates lovely waterfalls as it makes its way to the Rapidan River that meanders along the northern boundary. You can relax and find peace while picnicking on the banks, or perhaps find a thrill as you launch a canoe or kayak for a trip downstream.

Whatever your desire, be it a comfortable estate or a sustainable farm, Rapidan River Farm has everything you will need to make your fondest wishes come true.