Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Perched in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the tiny, slightly-too-charming town of Highlands, Old Edwards Inn is a Forbes Four Star hotel where every room arrives with antiques, fine Italian linens, and complimentary champagne, which sets a tone the rest of the stay works hard to maintain. A 25,000-square-foot spa draws on its own herb garden, and a heated outdoor mineral pool handles the altitude nicely. Cottages are available for guests who prefer their elegance with a front porch.

One honor, in evidence: