Travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway this winter will have a place to stop, warmup, and linger.

The Peaks of Otter Lodge, whose management was taken over earlier this year by DNC Parks and Resorts, will be open on weekends through April.

“The Peaks of Otter Lodge has a committed following of loyal guests who continue to be supportive to the property,” said Robert Peters, general manager of the lodge. “Our staff is excited to extend operations through 2014 on weekends allowing visitors to continue enjoying culinary offerings prepared by our kitchen staff, and lodging discounts into 2014.”

The Peaks of Otter Lodge, located near Bedford, Virginia, at Milepost 85.6 on the Parkway, has accommodations available Friday and Saturday nights through mid-April of 2014. The dining room offers a full service menu that will continue to feature the beloved Prime Rib and Seafood buffet on Fridays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday Brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can make reservations by calling 888-454-7711.

The lodge and restaurant also are busy planning for the holidays and are preparing New Year’s Eve celebrations and New Year's Day operations. Valentine’s Day will also be included in the new seasonal hours of operation, providing a romantic setting for celebrating couples.