Standing on the side of Bald Knob Mountain, Tommy Thompson saw the crest of the Blue Ridge in the distance and acres of farm land spill out below him. This retiree, who spent a lifetime behind a desk in the mortgage and real estate business, immediately knew that he had found the piece of real estate he had been seeking.
“I’ll take it,” he said to the real estate agent. Caught off guard by the quick sale, the agent scrambled for something on which to record a sales agreement. They penned it on the back of an empty carton of cigarettes and Red Roof Farm was born.
Some 16 years later, the over 200 acres that form Red Roof Farm show the careful, nurturing hand of this spry octogenarian. From the meticulously restored 100-year-old farm home (where your hosts reside) and barns, to the eight ponds and various cottages and homes — new and restored — this is a pastoral wonderland that can be your weekend, week or longer retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
From cozy residences best described as cottages to larger houses that rival most homes, choose one of the fully furnished 2- or 3-bedroom vacation rentals for your stay. Hike up and down the farm’s hills and valleys. Sit and watch the ducks and geese that make their home here. Feed the horses and donkeys. Fish one of the ponds.
Close by, is the country’s premier scenic byway, the Blue Ridge Parkway, with it’s natural and historic wonders; and the New River — reputed to be world’s second oldest river. It is a popular canoeing and tubing venue as well as a challenge for fishermen (and women) eager to accept the challenge of the musky and small-mouth bass that inhabit its waters. Located just south of the Virginia border, there are a number of North Carolina and Virginia state parks within easy driving distance.
Things To Do at Red Roof Farm
Hike the 200 acre farm
Fish one of the ponds.
Watch the livestock (horses, including miniature horses, and donkeys)
Feed the ducks and geese
Sit on the porch and do absolutely nothing
Nearby Attractions
Blue Ridge Parkway
Stone Mountain State Park
Grayson Highland State Park
White Top Mountain
Canoe the New River
Bike the New River Trail
Shop antique and outlet stores
Enjoy traditional music, square dancing
Ammenities: All Rentals Have
Living Room with Fireplace
Dining Area
Completely Equipped Kitchen
Washer/Dryer
Cable Television
Telephone
Gas Grill
Linens (towels, sheets, blankets, etc.)
Cooking Staples
The fixings for one Complimentary Breakfast per visit for you to cook
2- and 3-bedroom Rentals Available
Rates and Requirements
$80 - $120 per night plus tax, depending upon rental unit
Rates are for double occupancy. Maximum six people; $5/night for each additional person
Two-night minimum stay
One night’s deposit required to hold reservation
No smoking indoors
Rates are subject to change
(Click to see more photos.)
Red Roof Farm
Betty and Tommy Thompson
200 Red Roof Lane
Sparta, NC 28675
For availability information
or to make a reservation
Call 336-372-1899
or email sassycats@skybest.com
© 2004 Red Roof Farm
