Vibrant Virginia

The fog topped Blue Ridge Mountains, the salty sea air, and the bustle of metropolitan life – these are just some of the backdrops found in the vibrant state of Virginia. Offering the best of everything, Virginia is the hidden treasure of the mid-Atlantic. A naturist’s retreat into the deep woods of the Appalachian Mountains, a cozy beachside fire, or a romantic night out to enjoy acclaimed arts and cultural events – Virginia has it all. 

Outside D.C. 

Just outside of Washington, D.C. lie the suburbs and commuter cities of Virginia. While these cities are conveniently located for daily trips to and from the city, they are also home to a variety of special attractions, resorts, and dining. 

To the northwest of D.C. in Loudon County, enjoy a glass of bubbly Blanc de Blanc from the 3rd generation of the Huber family at the 300-acre Stone Tower Winery estate. Grab a refreshing nap at the Lansdowne Resort before enjoying the Resort’s numerous amenities like luxurious rooms designed to promote serenity and positivity, indoor lap pool to get the heart rate up even in the cold winter months, and opulent spa treatments at Spa Minèrale. 

In Middlesburg, the National Sporting Library and Museum offers artistic, cultural, and historic insight to the world of equestrian, angling, and field sports. With exquisite portraits and impressive sculpture, the sporting life is beautifully on display. The pet-friendly Salamander resort will provide at perfect place for full filled day of zip-lining and horseback riding, followed by a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s rest. 

Luray Caverns – the largest caverns in the Eastern US are now conveniently step free and with paved walkways. Gaze into the mirrored pools of Dream Lake while listening to the Great Stalacpipe Organ - a one of a kind organ using the stalactites to create the sound. Aside from enjoying expansive cathedral style caves – access to the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, home to over 75 historic vehicles on display – is included with admission. The Shenandoah Heritage Village – a seven-acre historic recreation of a small 19th century town featuring the Hamburg Regular School, the area’s first school for African American children, and actual signatures of Union and Confederate soldiers scrawled into the walls of the Elk Run Dunkard Church. 

Recover from the underground excursion with a delicious multicourse tasting meal at Three Blacksmiths in nearby Sperryville. Then tuck in for the night at the historic and charmingly restored 1827 farmhouse, Inn at Mount Vernon Farm. With vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, that morning cup of coffee never looked so good. 
visitloudoun.org 
visitmiddlesburgva.com 
visitluraypage.org 
visitshenandoah.org 
rappahannock.com 

Coastal Capes 

Along the coast of Virginia, the cold salty air of the Atlantic sets the mood for a heartwarming time in this Virginian winter wonderland. Picturesque Victorian-era buildings enchant holiday visitors and bright airy interiors bring in the warmth of summer indoors all year round.   

A visit to the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is a must for any trip to the Virginian coast. Although some exhibits may be closed due to the weather, the Zoo is home to a state of the art Animal Wellness Campus, featuring an 8,000 square foot veterinary hospital where veterinary staff describe live animal medical procedures to visitors in real time. A few miles down the coast in Virginia Beach is the Virginia Aquarium and Marina Science Center. Offering whale and dolphin watching boat trips, hands-on exhibits and over 800,000 gallons of aquatic fun, the Virginia Aquarium and Marina Science Center will educate and entertain the whole family.  

Walking distance to several local attractions, the Page House Inn, located in the historic Ghent neighborhood of Norfolk is a glamorous retreat in a vibrant community full of character and charm.  At the Page House Inn, guests enjoy the amenities of technology including keyless Front Door entry and high speed Wi-fi, along with the beauty of a historic home, which includes a guest parlor with a fireplace to unwind with a glass of wine after a long day exploring the charming city of Norfolk. 

For a convenient, all-in-one, family friendly vacation, look no further than the Oceanaire Resort. Providing everything necessary for a fantastic time, the Oceanaire’s prime spot on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk makes it easy to create the perfect island paradise in every season. Whether whale watching in the wintertime, tucking into a decadent dinner, or cuddling up in front of a seaside firepit, Oceanaire Resort proves that the good times never end in Virginia.  
visitnorfolk.com 
visitvirginiabeach.com 

Inland Adventures 

Along the Southern border of Virginia and back towards the Blue Ridge Mountains, several charming communities dot the hills and valleys – each providing history, adventure, and refinement. Antique farmhouses, miles of rail lines, old tobacco farms, and quaint cities and towns stretch across the land. 

In South Boston, The Berry Hill Resort and Conference Center is the ultimate getaway for the busy professional in need of a convenient escape. An hour and a half drive from the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina, Berryhill is a truly special stay in Central Southern Virginia. The immaculate grounds are artfully decorated for every season and guests feast on the decadent Southern-inspired dinner served in the sophisticated atmosphere of the Resort’s Mansion Restaurant.  

Sitting majestically over the Dan River, Danville, in the heart of Southern Virginia, is home to historical landmarks, beautiful rolling hills and small-town charm. Danville’s American Armoured Foundation’s Tank and Ordnance War Memorial Museum showcases collections of restored tank and cavalry artifacts – including VIP indoor tank rides. And in the neighboring town of Gretna rail enthusiasts will enjoy a stroll through the Franklin Junction Historic Railroad Park.  

Further west in Martinsville, be enthralled by the larger than life dinosaur fossils on display in the Hall of Ancient Life at the Virginia Museum of Natural History. With additional exhibits like the hands-on interactive Discovery Reef, parents and children enjoy learning about biodiversity, in ecological history of Virginia, and the importance of skeletons.  

Spend the night in Primland and choose between the luxurious accommodations at the Blue Ridge resort’s main Lodge or more secluded stays in a stylish chalet, a cozy treehouse, or a pristine bungalow just off the Resort’s 18-hole Fairway.  Savor a hand-crafted cocktail and delight in a lavish dining experience while surrounded by Primland’s genuine, natural, and breath-taking beauty. Embrace the great outdoors and relax in the luxurious accommodations of this opulent mountain getaway.  
gohalifaxva.com 
experiencedpc.com 
visitmartinsville.com 
visitpatrickcounty.org 

A trip to the Commonwealth of Virginia is a serene sojourn any time of year. Whether it is experiencing indulgent cuisine, sightseeing beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain towns, exploring cavernous wonders, or enjoying a glass of wine in a luxurious private suite, Virginia will capture your heart. 

After all, Virginia is for lovers.