Virginia’s Most Romantic Mountain Getaway Is Closer Than You Think
Looking for a romantic getaway close to home? Rappahannock County will provide you with the respite you both deserve. A picturesque region, nestled against the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area boasts a booming wine scene with eclectic boutiques, beautiful accommodations, and world famous eateries. Its bucolic setting in the foothills and close proximity to DC make it the ideal weekend getaway. In just 36 hours you can visit nationally acclaimed restaurants, sip award-winning wines, and bask in the glow of a mountain sunset. Let’s go!
Friday
1. BREATHE IT ALL IN, 4 P.M.
Upon your arrival, embrace the beauty of this Shenandoah National Park gateway community. Make your first stop at Rappahannock Cellars for a premium wine tasting. You will be greeted by one of their fabulous wine attendants and walked through your many options for tasting award-winning wines. They also have a light fare menu available should you need a snack to hold you over to dinner. Dida’s Distillery is also located on the same stunning foothills property. The winery and distillery share a breathtaking view of the Blue Ridge Mountains where these former California winemakers now offer groundbreaking vodka, gin, and brandy, all made from their own grapes. Relax with an aperitif and breathe in the beauty.
2. “EXCEPTIONAL CUISINE WORTH A SPECIAL JOURNEY”, 7 P.M.
Located in the historic village of Washington, Virginia, The Inn at Little Washington is the only Michelin-rated restaurant in Virginia. Here, the dining rooms are pure fantasy – a wondrous cocoon of whimsical luxury and romance. Chef/Proprietor Patrick O’Connell’s creations arrive as if served by invisible hands, each course more dazzling than the last. Their 14,000 bottle wine cellar includes the finest offerings from Bordeaux, Burgundy, California, and Virginia. After dinner, consider a stroll around the charming town of Washington. It is one of the few unspoiled villages left in America and it hasn’t changed much since 1749 when George Washington first surveyed and named the streets.
In addition to world famous dining, The Inn offers a range of beautifully appointed accommodations. All guest room reservations include a welcome cocktail, afternoon tea, house breakfast, complimentary valet parking, and a guaranteed dining reservation.
Saturday
3. RISE AND SHINE, 8:30 A.M.
Start your morning with a visit to Patty O’s Bakery, a charming sidewalk spot in the heart of Little Washington. This European-style patisserie offers an inviting selection of freshly baked croissants, seasonal tarts and sweet treats, and artisanal breads that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Fuel up with a perfectly pulled espresso and enjoy a touch of Little Washington’s world-class culinary magic before your next adventure begins. Experience a taste of the area’s renowned culinary scene before heading off to explore the rest of the county.
4. PEACE, LOVE, AND ART, 10 A.M.
The 60’s and 70’s saw many young people looking for a place to escape and get off the grid. It was then that Rappahannock County became a haven for artists of all kinds. Now, decades later, they still call it home and no visit would be complete without a tour of some of the many studios and galleries.
5. HOOKED ON A FEELING, 1:30 P.M.
A short seven mile drive and you’ll find yourself in downtown Sperryville, a charming and welcoming village. You can’t miss Haley Fine Art on Main Street. The building is as warm and welcoming as gallery owner Andrew Haley who is always ready and available to answer questions. As Haley so eloquently wrote, “Rappahannock slows people down. It’s an expansive place where people can breathe and see. People don’t come here for reason — they come for the feeling.” Next stop, Thornton River Art, is just a few doors down in a delightful old storefront. The gallery features an eclectic collection of local art including fine art, stained glass, mosaics, pottery, weaving, jewelry, metal art, and more. From thoughtful and creative gifts to heirloom quality art, Thornton River Art showcases the innovative and inventive energy of Rappahannock County.
6. DINNER IS CALLING, 7:00 P.M.
Serving as a Wells Fargo stagecoach stop in the 1860s, Glen Gordon Manor is now home to the beautifully appointed bed and breakfast, spa, and award-winning Houndstooth restaurant. Situated on 45-acres with spectacular views of the Blue Ridge, Houndstooth’s prix fixe menu delightfully blends new culinary ideas along with classic styles. Chef/owner Dayn Smith helms Houndstooth, a restaurant that received Wine Spectator’s 2018 Award of Excellence and where Smith focuses on the bounty of the Shenandoah.
Sunday
7. SUNDAY TIMES, 11:30 A.M.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before heading out to The Black Twig for lunch. Located in a former Rappahannock schoolhouse, this upscale diner features local food and friendly staff.
8. RAPPAHANNOCK ROAD SHOW, 1 P.M.
Around the corner in the River District, next stop is Copper Fox Antiques. Located in a former apple packing plant, Copper Fox is 27,000 square feet of antiques, architectural salvage and collectibles, all under one roof. Hope you brought your walking shoes!
9. THIS IS NOT GOOD-BYE, IT’S SO LONG, 3 P.M.
Before departing the Sperryville River District, take a private tour of the original Copper Fox Distillery. Yes, it all started here! The only distillery on the planet to mature their whisky with toasted Applewood, the tour takes you through the entire process, from floor malting to bottling. Of course, a whiskey tasting is the best way to help you select your favorite adult beverage to take home.
As your weekend winds down, make one last stop at Hopkins Ordinary Ale Works where they brew small batch craft beer in the cellar of their bed and breakfast by the same name. They make their brews using local barley, malted at Copper Fox Distillery. Hopkins features seasonal ingredients whenever possible, such as hops, honey, fruit, and herbs. Some local favorite brews are Little Devil Blonde, Second Breakfast Stout, and Innkeeper’s IPA. Can’t decide? Grab a flight, have a seat in the biergarten beneath a mighty hardwood, and savor your last few minutes.
Lodging
Foster Harris House (Washington, VA)
At Foster Harris House bed and breakfast, guests indulge in the luxurious feel of a five diamond resort surrounded. Enjoy a luxurious B&B experience in this charming, historic home where no detail is too small. With panoramic views of the Virginia countryside, their five luxury guest rooms are just steps from The Inn at Little Washington and a short drive from Shenandoah National Park. =
Glen Gordon Manor (Huntly, VA)
This captivating retreat, situated on 45 acres of pastures, lawns, and gardens, offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and neighboring farms and vineyards. Romantic guest rooms and suites exude a warm radiance with their thoughtful appointments. Hand-selected luxury fabrics, antique furnishings, and beautifully curated art in combination with modern conveniences as well as onsite spa and seasonal pool offer more opportunities for your relaxation. A full gourmet breakfast is included, starting at $199.