Mountain Lake Lodge at 175: Celebrating a Legacy of History, Hospitality, and Hollywood

By Ingrid Lemme-Chalut

Reaching 175 years is an achievement few American hotels can claim. Experiencing that milestone at Mountain Lake Lodge made our latest visit especially memorable. Marcus and I have visited this historic Virginia mountain retreat several times, usually staying in cottages scattered across the property. This visit was different. We came for the lodge's 175th Anniversary Celebration and, for the first time, spent the night in the historic main lodge itself.

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Nestled in Virginia's Appalachian Mountains near Pembroke, Mountain Lake Lodge has welcomed guests since 1851. Today, the property is preserved by the Mary Moody Northen Endowment, whose stewardship has protected both the historic lodge and its spectacular surroundings.

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While many travelers know Mountain Lake Lodge as the filming location for Dirty Dancing, its story began long before Hollywood arrived. The 1987 classic, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2027, continues to attract fans from around the world. Yet beyond its cinematic fame lies nearly two centuries of hospitality history.

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The anniversary celebration brought together local dignitaries, community leaders, resort staff, representatives from Historic Hotels of America, members of the ownership organization, and guests from near and far. --- A highlight was a proclamation recognizing the lodge's 175-year contribution to hospitality, tourism, and historic preservation. Gathered around a beautifully decorated anniversary cake, attendees reflected on the remarkable achievement of a property that has welcomed travelers since before the Civil War.

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Leading the celebration was Spencer Priest, Consulting General Manager, whose enthusiasm for the property was evident throughout the weekend. Alongside him was Lyndsi Hale, Assistant Hotel Manager, a familiar and beloved presence at Mountain Lake Lodge. Long regarded as one of the property's greatest ambassadors, Hale has a gift for making guests feel at home from the moment they arrive.

Representing Historic Hotels of America was Stephanie Calhoun, Senior Vice President of Operations, while Board members of the Mary Moody Northen Endowment were also on hand to mark the occasion. The event was formal enough to honor the milestone, yet warm enough to feel like a family gathering—a quality that has long been part of Mountain Lake Lodge's charm.

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From check-in onward, staff members consistently demonstrated genuine hospitality.

A particularly entertaining moment came during the champagne reception when the house sommelier opened bottles saber-style, sending corks flying to enthusiastic applause.

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Outside, the mountain scenery provided its own reminder of why travelers have been coming here for generations. Surrounded by forests and sweeping views, it is easy to understand the lodge's enduring appeal. What makes Mountain Lake Lodge special is its ability to honor its past while embracing the future. Guests can appreciate its history while enjoying the comforts and amenities expected by today's travelers.

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The culinary team also played an important role in the anniversary weekend. We enjoyed excellent meals throughout our stay, including dinner at Harvest Restaurant, where regional flavors were presented with both quality and creativity. A highlight was meeting the resort's Head Chef, whose enthusiasm for his craft and dedication to locally inspired cuisine added an extra dimension to the experience. Our dinner at Harvest was among the culinary highlights of the weekend.

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As cake and champagne were served and photographs were taken, there was a sense that everyone present was celebrating more than a hotel anniversary. They were honoring a living piece of American hospitality history.

Very few hotels survive for 175 years. Fewer still remain vibrant and beloved by generations of guests. Mountain Lake Lodge has accomplished exactly that.

Under the leadership of Spencer Priest, Lyndsi Hale, and their dedicated team, the lodge appears well positioned for its next chapter.

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The following morning, we enjoyed breakfast on the outdoor patio before beginning our journey home. As we looked across the mountains one final time, we carried with us not only memories of a wonderful celebration but also a deeper appreciation for a place that continues to bring people together—from local Virginians to international travelers, from history enthusiasts to devoted Dirty Dancing fans.

One hundred and seventy-five years after welcoming its first guests, Mountain Lake Lodge remains what it has always been: a place where history, hospitality, and human connection come together in the mountains of Virginia. --- Ingrid