The Commonwealth of Virginia has a rich history. It is the birthplace of eight presidents, and one of the earliest places settled by Europeans. If that's not enough reason for a visit, you'll find some wonderful and varied scenery. It is little wonder that travelers flock to this historic Mecca. When planning a Virginia itinerary, consider these historic sites, villages and especially, a romantic Virginia inn.

The Holladay House is a perfect spot from which to enjoy the myriad of historic attractions. Located in the village of Orange, this Virginia inn is located in the town's historic commercial district. The inn is named for the Holladay family who lived in the home for a century. During the Civil War, skirmishes took place just outside the front door. The home boasts many original architectural features, as well as a selection of antiques that once belonged to the Holladay family.

There are six rooms and suites, each decorated in a romantic style with furnishings such as four-poster or canopy beds. Several rooms have a fireplace or a double whirlpool tub. Rooms are stocked with plenty of modern amenities, such as cable TV, DVD players, CD players, wireless internet and much more. Guests are pampered with home-baked treats, an "always-open" coffee and tea station and a two-course gourmet breakfast.

Orange offers plenty of historic opportunities. The downtown area is a designated national historic area and listed in the National Register. Buildings range in age from antebellum days to the 1940s, displaying a variety of architectural styles. During the Civil War, Confederate and Union soldiers skirmished around the area, as well as on Main Street. St. Thomas Episcopal Church also served as hospital for wounded Confederates.

A four-mile drive from Orange will take you to Montpelier, James Madison's home. A slightly longer drive will take you to Charlottesville, where you'll encounter Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello, as well as James Monroe's home. The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park commemorates the Battle of Wilderness, part of which took place in Orange County.

Fredericksburg is another noteworthy town of historic significance. The town offers a variety of interesting attractions. Kenmore Plantation offers tours of the home and grounds, and was the home of George Washington's sister. Washington's boyhood home, Ferry Farm, is another interesting tour. The United States National Slavery Museum is another important historic site travelers will find in Fredericksburg. All of these Virginia towns showcase American history, both good and bad, and while you could learn about much of this history by reading a book, a trip to Virginia brings all of this to life.