Can’t-miss places to unwind

from DayTripper 2023 - Summer Edition

FiberFest

In the 1970s, artists flocked to Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, because it met three important requirements: It was conveniently located near large population centers; the mineral springs brought tourists willing to buy mementos; and it had relatively cheap housing. Fifty years later, Berkeley Springs is still home to a vibrant arts community. The town provides recreation for all ages, including unique shops and outdoor activities.

Healingwaters

The Renaissance Spa

No downtown walking tour is complete without a little shopping. Many stores sell one-of-a-kind work by local and regional artisans, as well as wares from around the world.

“The arts community in Berkeley Springs is vital,” said Darren O’Neill, executive director of the Morgan Arts Council. “It’s so rich and so diverse.” n The Ice House, a former apple warehouse, is a four-story landmark and the cornerstone of Berkeley Springs’ arts community. The co-op of 34 local artisans –from hobbyists to internationally-recognized professionals – sells everything from photography and painting to aluminum and textile arts. n Mountain Laurel Artisans offers exquisite American-made treasures, including painted scarves, jewelry, sculptures, knives, baskets and wooden kitchenware. n Himalayan Handicrafts sells authentic Asian religious items and jewelry, courtesy of owner Kishor Shrestha, who first heard of Berkeley Springs as a tour guide in Nepal. I n Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop is a taste of Europe with its international cheeses and wines. Owner Terri Hardin has traveled the world for the best varieties and is glad to provide recommendations.

Outdoor Activities

With West Virginia’s breathtaking mountain views, taking some time to explore the great outdoors is a must.

n Cacapon State Park is a one-stop shop for outdoor adventure. Try its 18-hole golf course, fishing, mountain bike trails, 23 miles of hiking, a beach and more.

n Good Luck Stable, with its experienced guides and gentle horses, offers mountain trail rides on their family-owned farm year-round. You’ll also meet a barnyard of friendly animals.

n Hiking opportunities abound! The Tuscarora Trail, a branch of the Appalachian Trail, runs through Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area.

— By Elizabeth Stinnette

Didyouknow

Berkeley Springs is home to a famous landmark known as “George Washington’s Bathtub.” Legend has it that Washington, while visiting the area, made use of a bathtub carved into a large limestone rock near the springs.

Step behind the 1933 Country Inn and ride an elevator to the Renaissance Spa, housed in a blackand-white timbered tower. The spa’s private whirlpools overlook the town, so you can enjoy the view while sipping from a refreshing cup of mineral water. As it has high concentrations of magnesium carbonate, bathing in and drinking the water is said to ease muscle strain and gastrointestinal issues.

Atasia Spa

The third spa to use the town’s mineral water, Atasia is an acclaimed establishment run by Frankie Tan, who has provided more than 30,000 massages in the course of his career. Housed in a quaint 19th-century house, the spa is a surprisingly spacious 6,000 square feet of relaxation, with room after room of private treatment spaces, soaking and steam rooms, as well as changing areas.

Other Health Offerings

If you’re looking for a particular health treatment, chances are Berkeley Springs has it. Here are a few of the offerings:

• Berkeley Springs Salt Cave – Breathe microscopic salt particles in a genuine Himalayan salt cave to ease various skin and respiratory conditions.

Visit

• Beehive Lifestyle Center – Take health classes in a variety of subjects, and try the hydrotherapy and herbal compress remedies. Across the street, the seasonally open Beehive Café offers a delicious, plant-based menu.

Friday, September 8th

Hours: 10am-4pm

Saturday, September 9th

Hours: 10am-4pm

Sunday, September 10th

Hours: 12pm-4pm

Join us for the Valley’s most unique Fall and Halloween decor. Garlands, wreaths, florals, and more to get your home ready for the holidays.

Winchester LittLe theatre

The Winchester Little Theatre is a non-profit, all-volunteer community theater organization housed in the old Pennsylvania Railroad freight station in downtown Winchester, Virginia. Along with the five main theatrical productions we put on each year, we offer a children’s program each summer, frequent Readers’ Theater events, and other events. We invite you to see what we have to offer as a patron, sponsor, or volunteer!

For more information visit us at

Check with us for maps, books and information about local places, area hiking and events.

The museum at the1848 Edinburg Mill is a treasure-trove of Route 11 memorabilia, antiques, old equipment and tools, as well as exhibits featuring Civil War history, the nation’s first CCC camp, the farming community and so much more! Exhibits are constantly updated so there’s always something new to discover.

Learn the fascinating story of how the Mill survived Sheridan’s fires during the Civil War and be sure to keep an eye out for our resident ghost, the mischevious Frankie. First floor Visitor Center/shop is open to the public. Admission to floors 2 & 3 museum displays, donation $3. Includes a showing of the film “The Burning.” Elevator available.