Bus Stop
For a cool place to stay in one of West Virginia’s coolest historic towns, book a night at Shepherdstown’s Cozy School Bus Conversion. Host Will Sutherland purchased this 1997 decommissioned Bluebird school bus for $1,000— then retrofitted it with a sofa, rocking chair, table, wood stove, and full-size bed. There’s wood flooring, wood-wall siding, and plenty of pillows and quilts to make you feel right at home. Sutherland also left some of the original seats up front, if you feel like playing school. The bus is parked in Sutherland’s yard, but in a secluded spot so guests have privacy. In warmer months, he attaches a deck to the outside so guests can spend evenings outdoors. Sutherland is an accommodating host—he’s had dinner with guests, taken them on tours of town, picked them up at the train station, and, if they preferred, left them completely alone. W airbnb.com/rooms/4678535
Get Artsy in Lewisburg
Stepping into the Downtown Artist Cottage with Sauna is like stepping into a private art studio. Stunning tile mosaics cover the walls and floors. Fanciful lighting fixtures and fresh plants throughout the small house provide unique touches. A two-person infrared sauna means guests can cleanse and relax anytime they desire. Still not warm enough? Turn up the gasburning fireplace in the living area. The main bedroom includes a queen bed, but a futon in the sauna room also folds out for sleeping. The kitchen comes prepared for all cooking needs, including a gas range stove and coffee maker. The hosts provide plenty of towels and bottled water from local springs. Furry friends are welcomed, especially in the fenced-in backyard. The cottage has Wi-Fi but no television, which makes it perfect for artists seeking a creative respite. Historic downtown Lewisburg’s locally owned shops and restaurants are just a few minutes’ walk away. For a short drive, Greenbrier River Trail and The Greenbrier are also worth a visit. W airbnb.com/rooms/4185660 106 wvl • summer 2019