Modern Minimalism
Getaway, Stanardsville, Va.
Tiny houses are all the rage, as is getting off the grid. Getaway taps into both. Founder Jon Staff was a burned-out twenty-something living in a 26-foot Airstream when he had his big idea: Build collections of tiny cabins-on-wheels that encourage stressed-out urbanites to disconnect from work and connect with nature. The first outpost opened near Boston in 2016, followed by New York City, and now Getaway operates near 15 cities across the country.
The D.C. outpost, in Stanardsville, Va., has just 40 cabins on 80 acres of private land. A week before check-in, they’ll send you a reminder confirmation; then, day of, you’ll get a text with the name of your cabin and a key code for the door. Then just drive, park, let yourself in, and enjoy. Cabins range in size from 140 to 200 feet, but they have all you need: kitchenette with mini fridge and two-burner stove, a bathroom with shower, even A/C. The platform-style queen bed is placed next to a big picture window so you can enjoy your surroundings without moving, be it leafy foliage by day or starry skies at night. Outside are a picnic table, firepit with grilling gate, and two Adirondack chairs. My favorite elements are the ones that reinforce their message: a bookshelf with titles like Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance; a stocked campfire box with wood, for easy purchase; and the cell phone box, where you’re encouraged to stow your phone and just be where you are. (There’s a landline in each cabin in case of emergency.) Hiking trails abound nearby, Shenandoah National Park is just 10 miles away, and you’re in the heart of Virginia wine country.
In a nice touch, the company plants a tree for each Getaway booked, which has resulted in over 22,000 new trees. They also have a loyalty program, encouraging repeat visits by offering a free night for every 7 stays. I’m working on it.
Getaway.house. Cabins from $125/night.Â
