weekend getaway part 3: ash lawn-highland

Before heading back to Culpeper, we decided to stop at Ash Lawn-Highland so we could complete the triumvirate of 19th century(ish) presidential homes (having previously toured Monticello and Montpelier). Ash Lawn-Highland was the home of James Monroe. The house was much more modest than others we've toured but the gardens and surrounding countryside were stunning. House tours are much better without kids (and always remind me how little I know about history) and this was the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful weather.