Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam
Welcome to our home on the C&O Canal and the Potomac river, an original 1790 log house expanded in 1857, retaining its historic charm while featuring many modern amenities. The perfect place to be physically active or mellow, staying inside or enjoying multiple areas outdoors, day or night (lit with festive night lights).
Reconnect with nature! The expansive grounds have old tall mature trees, native flowers and garden-favorites, bushes, and a fire pit. Bird lovers, bring your binoculars or just watch the bird feeder below the pergola! Many species of birds visit our feeders and baths. Star gazing, far from the city lights, is another Guest favorite.
We are striving to reduce our environmental impact by restoring an American meadow and increasing the number of native plants that can be admired on our grounds. This obviates the need for using chemicals, reducing Potomac pollution, and attracting pollinators and other wild life. You are likely to see and hear numerous types of birds, insects, frogs, and perhaps even some animals and reptiles indigenous to the Potomac area. They are harmless unless attacked.
The maximum capacity of our historic house is 4 guests, the maximum capacity of each bedroom is 2 guests. The use of one of the bedrooms is included in the base price listed, the use of the second bedroom requires an additional charge. The guests need to be able to climb stairs to the entrance door, to upstairs bedrooms, and into the antique clawfoot bath tub. Tall people need to bend a bit when taking a shower.
Secluded, yet not remote, our home is the perfect base for exploring nature on foot, by bike, or by boat. The property is on the C&O Canal and offers seasonal views of the Potomac (when trees on its banks lose their leaves!) across the towpath.
The house is also a great base to explore the many close-by sites important in American history, and quaint historic little towns with good restaurants. Premium Outlet shopping and dining is also within miles.
(Property on the canal but has limited water views)
Local Attractions and distances:
C&O Canal and Towpath, border the property
Potomac River, borders the Towpath
Antietam National Battlefield, 2 miles
Antietam Creek Vineyards, 2 miles
Dam 4 on the Potomac, 3.5 miles
Shepherdstown, WV, 7.5 miles
Hagerstown, MD, 9 mi
Hagerstown Premium Outlet Mall, 9 mi
Harpers Ferry, WV, 21 miles
Appalachian Trial Head Quarters, 11 miles
Charles Town Hollywood Casino and Horse Races, 19 miles
Washington Monument State Park (includes Appalachian Trail access), 12 miles
We are located within one hour of Washington DC and Baltimore, about 60 miles from three international airports: Dulles (IAD), Reagan (DCA), Baltimore-Washington (BWI), and within 15 miles of interstates 70 and 81.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Sharpsburg Retreat--Civil War Home Near Antietam Battlefield, C&O Canal Towpath
Sharpsburg
Sharpsburg Retreat--Civil War Home Near Antietam Battlefield, C&O Canal Towpath
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please help us preserve the original flooring by removing your shoes in the house. Also, pls. do not open the windows, many still have antique panes.
The maximum capacity of the house is 4 guests. No unregistered visitors (people and cars) are allowed on the property at any time.
No candles are allowed. Open gas flame (stove, fireplace, grill) have to be attended at all times.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Pls, no extra guests or parties - historic house.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Sharpsburg
Located in Sharpsburg, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Antietam Creek Vineyards and Cress Creek Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Hagerstown Model Railroad Museum at Antietam Station and Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Ram Stadium or Hagerstown Field House. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
Antietam National Battlefield - 5 min drive - 4.2 km
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park - 28 min drive - 29.6 km
Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters - 28 min drive - 30.6 km
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races - 29 min drive - 38.3 km
Getting around
Martinsburg Station - 29 min drive
Martinsburg, WV (MRB-Eastern West Virginia Regional) - 36 min drive
Restaurants
Ac&T - 9 min drive
Ac&T - 17 min drive
McDonald's - 16 min drive
Branded Chophouse - 17 min drive
Blue Moon Cafe - 15 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam?
As of 18 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam on 6 Aug 2026 start from £129, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Charmingly renovated historic Canal House on C&O along Potomac close to Antietam located?
Situated on a river, this holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and Potomac River. Antietam National Battlefield is 2.5 mi (4.1 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A beautiful, charming home that was perfect for a quiet weekend getaway from the city. The perfect blend of historic charm and modern updates, with a lovely garden and easy access to the C&O Canal Towpath for beautiful rambles along the Potomac River. The host could not have been more prompt or attentive. A real gem!
The garden and grounds were absolutely beautiful. Very easy to get to the cabin. Location could not be better for everything we wanted to show our friends who came all the way from the Netherlands for their first visit to the USA. Communication with owner was great and everything was exactly as we were told. The history of the house was great to learn about.
The house and surrounding area are absolutely amazing. The combination of history and beauty is hard to match. So many little touches inside the house and on the property really made it feel like a home away from home. Vern is wonderful and very accommodating. We hope to come back in the fall. Amazing, relaxing stay...would recommend to anyone!
This is an amazing property for those that would like to step back in time and enjoy a unique stay. Vern does a great job of communicating throughout the process, and there are instructions to be found through the property for do's and don'ts given the historic nature of the property.It feels like there are little things to discover in every nook and cranny. Overall it's a wonderful place to relax and enjoy peace and quiet. The gardens are beautiful, and the porch is a great place to relax with a glass of wine or cup of coffee.
This historic house is lovely and is the perfect marriage between old and modern convenience…the idyllic setting with beautiful gardens overlooking the B&O Canal is right out of a children’s fairytale.
My husband and I stayed here for a quick anniversary getaway and had a wonderful time in this home. The host provided great information about the check in process and made sure we had all we needed. We had a amazing day checking out the surrounding area including Harper's Ferry. Thank you for sharing your lovely home with us.
Charming, clean, well-stocked with thoughtful touches throughout the property. Fireplace in the kitchen was cozy and the host was very helpful with suggestions about kayaking in the winter. Able to bike, birdwatch, and wander the area from this wonderful historic home just above the Potomac River. Look forward to returning to see the garden in bloom!
The Canal House is a wonderful home! The house itself is meticulously kept with its history intact while offering a modern kitchen and air conditioning. The grounds are filled with beautiful flowers and a small garden pond. The location was perfect to enjoy biking on the C&O towpath, plus a short drive to Antietam battlefield, tubing, rafting and hiking.
We really enjoyed our visit. The house is immaculately maintained for it's age. The outdoor areas seem endless and are welcoming as you stroll the walkways to the home. The home is a cozy retreat from everyday life. As a huge plus, the kitchen is stocked with everything we were looking for, making cooking dinner a simple process. We look forward to coming back in the winter.
Came here for a 3 night getaway, We loved the way the home owners have seamlessly blended the historic with touches of modern farmhouse. We loved sitting on the patio just reading. It rained each day but we were still able to enjoy some time outside. The inside had everything we needed. We had planned to go out for a few meals but enjoyed it so much at the house, the only time we left was for a short walk on the C&O.
Joyce M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Joyce, thank you for your thoughtful review. We would love to have you come back!
You and Greg were wonderful guests
My wife really wanted a getaway that wasn’t too far from home. This house fit the bill and then some. The historic features are all beautiful and the home is well appointed and maintained. Our only regret was not being able to see the beautiful grounds in full bloom because it was winter! That said, the lack of foliage provided an even better view of the river from the porch.For those interested in the area for historical reasons it would make a great home base for exploring Antietam, but those who don’t care will also find a lot to like! The area is beautiful and full of things to do and see.
Enjoyed our stay over a long weekend. A really nice historic property with character. The gardens create a tranquil setting. It was great to sit on the porch in the morning with a cup of coffee and watch the hummingbirds (bring bug spray for mosquitoes). Enjoyed an 8 mile kayak ride from Taylor's Landing to Shepherdstown (Pedal and Paddle shop). Checked out Betty's restaurant for breakfast and Blue Moon for supper (both good). New Visitor Center at the Antietam Battlefield.
Brian G.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Sept 2023
Brian, Thank you so much for the nice review! We are happy you had a good time at the Canal House at Taylors Landing. Thank you for inspiring us to add a comment in our set-up messages about summer mosquitoes. We use (and will recommend going forward that our Guests use) the ceiling fans in the porch and on the pergola, when sitting outside in mosquito weather. Quite effective: mosquitoes do not like moving the air! :-) All the best, Vern
My daughter and I had a very special two-night getaway at this incredibly charming property. We were in awe of the amazing beauty of the gardens and were delighted by the nooks and crannies of this historic home. The house is extremely clean (and I am picky about this!) with pretty bedroom linens, and lovely furniture. Communication with Vern, the accommodating and kind owner, was excellent. Nearby Shephardstown and Antietam Battlefield provided us with activities and restaurants. We were sad to leave - book your stay immediately!
This historic home has been painstakingly restored. The modern amenities enhance the stay but in no way detract from the beauty of the structure. The grounds are amazing. We felt privileged to stay in this home as it allowed us to actually feel the history of Western Maryland and the enormity of the Civil War. Our host personalized our stay with facts that allowed us to enjoy every aspect of the Canal House and the canal itself.
The historic home is very quaint and charming. The gardens were magical. We felt we were in our own magical cottage. This was our time to rest and rejuvenate and the have time to get grounded and reconnect with nature and each other. Thank you for letting us stay in your home.
Much Love and Light
C & J
Charlie and Joette M.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Marie
12 Jul 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
What a special place! We so enjoyed the chance to stay in such a beautifully restored and impeccably decorated home. We especially enjoyed the porch—a place where our little family gathered for coffee and conversation in the morning and again in the evening.
We loved the books on the garden and the antiques and beautiful vintage wood throughout.
We are even thinking about how try to replicate some of the lovely gardens at home.
Our main purpose here was to visit the Antietam Batlefield. That too was a memorable and meaningful experience!
Wonderful hospitality!
My husband and I enjoyed our five day stay at the Canal House. We were surrounded by early American décor and felt like we stepped back in time with modern conveniences added. We were cool and comfortable in the midst of a heat wave, the mattress in the master bedroom was extremely comfortable and the kitchen was well stocked.The rocking chairs on the porch were great for morning coffee and conversations. The nearness of the C&O Canal Towpath at Taylor’s Landing provided wonderful opportunities for quiet walks together.Having Antietam Battlefield in such close proximity allowed us to take our time with the driving tour, view the artifacts and movie in the Visitor Center and visit the Antietam Cemetery.Dining in Shepherdstown, WV was fabulous! We ate at Alma Bea’s, Blue Moon Café, and had a very special anniversary dinner at The Press Room.Vern’s tips were especially helpful with all of our planning. We would highly recommend this charming rental.
This is our third trip to Canal house in a delight, as always, despite the rainy cold weather,
“Friday was in the 70s and the 2.5-hours paddle on the river we had the whole river to ourselves, not a single other boat. Water clear as glass down to the bottom, wow! Swimming turtles, cormorants, herons on the bank. Met a few enthused cyclists at the ramp enjoying the day.
“Bike ride was great, with really nice towpath condition. Loved this part of the river, and views from Dam #4.
“Cozy, reading, nook in the kitchen and living room, visited Sunny Meadows nursery, Antietam, and Planck’s and Bonnie’s barbecue were all great.
“Garden is stupendous, just amazing with perennials, annuals, and native trees and bushes.
“Thank you, Vern.
P.S. Love, LOVED back entry lock.”
If you enjoy history then this is the place you want to be. First of all it, in itself, is historic. The interior of the cottage was immaculate and filled with antique treasures. The bathrooms were spotless and unique in that the wide hardwood floors were polished and squeaky. As they were in the rest of the house. The beds were quite comfortable. The stairs were manageable but if you are wearing just socks on your feet be careful because the floors can be slippery. We didn't use the stove but it looked to be Viking quality. The refrigerator worked great as did its ice maker. The grounds are gorgeous and well tended. But the pièce de résistance was its location. There are so many historical towns and sights close by that are easily reachable in a short time. Our stay was a happy one.
Bob B.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Mary B.
14 Jul 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, location
Relaxation or Irritation?
Hi despite the overall amazing property we stayed at, the owner had some odd overcontrol of the lights and the property itself. I was told to check my email several times (why? when I am supposed to be on vacation) so that I could see his request to feed his fish in his pond. I was completely uncomfortable being asked to do that since it was not part of the contract I signed. Anyways, it made my stay uncomfortable even though the property and the grounds were amazing.
Mary B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Mary, we are glad you really enjoyed our property!
I wish we knew that you preferred not to receive messages from Hosts. The great majority of our Guests appreciate receiving directions and other practical details and we like to make sure Guests get in find everything OK.
We ventured for the first—I guess last?—time to ask a Guest to sprinkle some fish food in our little pond because we did not know if they would survive during your extended stay. Somehow we thought you actually might have fun doing this. We appreciate that you did it anyway—our little fish thank you, too! :-)
We recently did a short-notice getaway at this property - our first time here (but not likely the last). The house is wonderful - a genuine bit of history, beautifully restored restored overall, and with a modern kitchen. Every room is interesting and beautiful, and lots of great books in the living room. Even in winter, the grounds are really nice.
We chose this house for the location. On day one, we did a multi-hour bike ride on the C&O Canal. Shepherdstown is an easy 9 or so miles south, which has one of our favorite lunch spots. Harper's Ferry is 20 or so miles south, and Hancock is about the same distance north. For us, this covers some our our favorite bike rides. Day two was for hiking - parking spots for the Appalachian Trail are a short drive away, with hikes to Annapolis Rock, Black Rock, etc. And there is plenty of shopping, dining, etc all within an easy 30 minute drive.
Bottom line: we loved it here, the price was very reasonable, the hosts were super nice, and flexible on our arrival time. We hope to come back soon!
Tony S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020
About the host
Hosted by Vern Clifford Falby
Vern is a retired Conservatory Professor, who taught Music Theory for over 30 years. He is very excited to become the new steward of this historic house and be able to host and share this piece of Americana with you. Vern has been fascinated with the importance of the C&O Canal in American history, and has been biking on the C&O towpath for many years now. Imagine seeing the C&O canal not only from the bike but from your house! Vern is a Premier host for for Vrbo and an AirBnB SuperHost.
Why they chose this property
Where do we begin? The house is truly charming, preserving historic details including the log cabin at its core and offering a glimpse of simpler times and C&O Canal history, yet updated with all the conveniences of the 21st century. Then, there are its grounds and the location! The expansive grounds offer beautiful views and multiple private spaces. Are you looking for a place where you can completely relax in the middle of nature, listen to birds with a good book and your cup of coffee? Or maybe you would like to do yoga on the porch? Do some amazing star gazing far from city lights? Make S'mores at the fire pit?
The Canal House is adjacent to the C&O Canal and steps from Taylor's Landing: you can jump on your bike and ride on the towpath or take your kayak to the bottom of the hill and float away on the Potomac. And you sense American history everywhere, from the marvel of the C&O canal engineering to the close-by Civil War sites: field hospitals and Union troops headquarters, or the battlefield of Antietam. Or, if you are into visiting old towns, dining, shopping, great options for sight seeing are also close-by. There is so much to experience, learn, and enjoy!
What makes this property unique
The house is beautifully furnished and maintained, preserving its historic look and feel, including some real Americana, yet offers a range of modern amenities. The grounds are extensive and offer multiple options for exploring and relaxing. The location is a perfect base camp for wider explorations, be they of nature, history, dining, or shopping.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests