Swannanoa
A Magical Landmark Estate
Lovingly called the Jewel of the Blue Ridge, this 1912 Italian Renaissance Revival villa hosts photoshoots, private tours, intimate elopements and micro weddings of up to 50 guests. The elaborate marble palace was built by the Dooley's of Maymont as a scenic summer home and is now privately owned by Skyline Swannanoa Inc.
Millionaire and philanthropist James H. Dooley built this magnificent architectural masterpiece for his wife, Sallie May Dooley. The estate is surrounded by lush, natural grounds and mountain views and sits above Rockfish Gap on the border of northern Nelson County and Augusta County. Based on Rome's Villa Medici, the exquisite mansion exterior is made of white Georgian marble while the interior dazzles in Italian imported marble. A Tiffany stained glass window at the top of a grand staircase is the largest Tiffany found in any private home in America.
Couples swoon for the property's timeless romance and intricate design detail. The fully restored venue is rich with period furnishings and stately touches. Explore photo opportunities among gorgeous mantles, parlor rooms, grand entryways and staircases, a domed ceiling and sprawling estate grounds. Gather your closest friends and family for an intimate and special celebration at this one-of-a-kind venue.
Photo Gallery
The Location
Setting
This 23,000-square-foot marble mansion sits on Afton Mountain above Rockfish Gap on the border of northern Nelson County and Augusta County.
Things To Do
Charlottesville is home to thriving orchards, farms, and more than 40 wineries that inspire unforgettable restaurant experiences. Hiking in Shenandoah National Park, renowned river kayaking, and championship golf offer thrills while a celebrated theater and local live music scene entertain. Our stages are well stocked with highly coveted acts. In fact, Charlottesville is where Dave Matthews Band and Coran Capshaw's Red Light Management — the largest independent music management company in the world — got their start. For a taste of history, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, James Madison’s Montpelier, and James Monroe’s Highland offer guided glimpses into the Founding Fathers’ legacies.
Proximity
31 mi to Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport
26 mi to Downtown Mall
26 mi to Monticello
21 mi to UVA
1.5 mi to Shenandoah National Park
The Details
Amenities & Services
- Ceremony pergola
- Grand staircase
- Intricate stained glass and woodwork
- Beautiful mountain views
By the Numbers
- 50 seated guest capacity for ceremony
- 50 seated guest capacity for reception
Make it Yours
- Plan a breathtaking photo shoot descending the grand staircase in front of a stunning Tiffany stained glass window
- Gather for cocktails among the rich mahogany and softly lit chandelier lighting of the parlor
- Share private vows beneath the early 1900's bell tower
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