Shenandoah Valley and Beyond - Spring 2021

Spring 2021

FREE

Inside...

• History: Battle of New Market • Conservation at the Virginia Safari Park • Virginia Mountains Region

Visit us online at: shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Your Guide to the Mountains & Foothills of the Virginias

Be honest … it’s what you’re thinking while you’re drinking!

Visit: GourmetGiftsOnline.com

2

Cottages at Montfair Resort Farm Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Montfair Resort Farm is a picturesque and relaxed destination for staycations, small weddings and events. The wooded property offers nine eco-friendly cedar vacation cottages overlooking a small lake stocked with all the amenities of home including self- catering kitchens, cookware, organic coffee and teas as well as Wi-Fi. Onsite outdoor activities include hiking, canoeing, bikes, fishing, birdwatching, and stargazing. Stay in place for a few days of relaxation or enjoy a weeklong vacation with plenty of space to physical distance, fresh air and room for kids to run. Make Montfair your home base to explore stunning day hikes in the Shenandoah National Park, cook your own meals in your cottage kitchen or enjoy great take out from local restaurants. Local wineries, breweries, cider works, distilleries all offer curbside pickup and you can pre- order produce or drive thru local farmers markets. Attractions and restaurants are open with 50% occupancy. Access into the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive is a short 25 minute drive. Montfair’s lakeside Events Lodge and deck are a beautiful setting for weddings, family reunions and retreats. Montfair is celebrating 56 years of eco- friendly recreation in the community

and is located 30 minutes from Charlottesville and 15 minutes from Crozet, Virginia. Excellent TripAdvisor Rating and 2020 “Wedding Wire” Couples Choice Award. Open year ‘round. See Montfair website for COVID Safety Precautions.

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

3

In this Issue...

3 Cottages at Montfair Resort Farm 4 Table of Contents 6 Martinsburg-Berkeley County, WV 9 Town of New Market 10 History: Battle of New Market 12 Rockingham County 15 Fishburne Military School 16 Centerfold Map 18 Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at

Natural Bridge 20 On the Trail in Virginia State Parks 21 Conservation at the Virginia Safari Park 22 Winding Down the Wine Trails

of Virginia Virginia Mountains Region (See the blue pages starting on p. 23.)

24 Bath County 26 Salem 28 Bedford 30 Smith Mountain Lake

ON OUR COVER: Sailing on Beautiful Smith Mountain Lake.

See pp. 30 & 31 for story.

Spring 2021 Allen Publishing 30 Overlook Circle Palmyra, Virginia 22963 Phone: 434-960-9115 Publisher Edward P. Allen, Jr Art Director Adam McBryde Editor and Account Executive Michelle Scott scott@shenandoahvalleyguide.com 540-817-9075 Contributing Writers Gregory Starbuck, Joshua Gooden, David Mikula, Mike Stevens, Nicole Johnson, Christopher Finley www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com Shenandoah Valley and Beyond is published four times a year and is available free of charge, at over 300 locations in Virginia and West Virginia. All creative material and text in this publication are the property of Allen Publishing, and are intended for reference use only. Reproduction without written permission of the publisher is forbidden.

Fly Fishing in Bath County See pp. 24 & 25 for story.

4

©2021, Allen Publishing, LLC

Adventures Await You in Wild and Wonderful

West Virginia

Hiking the Tuscarora Trail, photo courtesy of the Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

5

Martinsburg-Berkeley County, WV If bird watching or natural preserves are your interest, take advantage of a walk through the 46-acre marsh preserve, Stauffer’s Marsh, or explore the 104-acre Yankauer Nature Preserve, which has spectacular overlooks of Here, you can shop in eclectic stores, browse the Potomac River and is also known as the vibrant farmer’s markets, visit the galleries of best location for Spring wildflower walks. amazing artists, and savor delicious delights.

Step into The Woods for the perfect getaway As the refreshing breath of Spring arrives, for golfing and spa activities, a world apart opportunities to spend time outdoors abound from everyday hassles. Renowned for in Martinsburg and the greater Berkeley spectacular mountain views, The Woods County area. offers an 18-hole championship Mountain View course and a mid-length course to You will find plenty of hiking trails here, quench your golfing thirst. perfect for folks looking to head off the beaten path. Try out the Tuscarora Trail, which is a The Spring season means a plethora of fresh long spur off of the Appalachian Trail. A large fruit and vegetables, and there are plenty of portion of the trail’s 33 miles winds through farm-fresh markets in the area. Stop by Orr’s the 23,000-acre Sleepy Creek Wildlife Farm Market for an extensive selection of Management Area, where you’ll also encounter fresh produce and the option to pick-yourSleepy Creek Lake—a 205-acre impoundment own berries, cherries, and grapes depending that is nestled among the rolling hills and is on the month. Also, stop in at Spring Valley the perfect destination for a day on the water. Farm Market for freshly picked produce, jams, Paddle around in a canoe or kayak, or do a bit jellies, and fresh-baked pies. Try several of fishing by the lake shores—you may be different West Virginia wines at Taylor’s Farm greeted by one of the local beavers, otters, or Market, or visit a WV Conservation Farm of soaring bald eagles; you won’t be disappointed the year honoree—Kitchens Farm Market— with the incredible views. You may also want for fresh produce and local beef. to venture to one of the local county parks, Poor House Farm Park, to try your luck at Berkeley County is also known as a geocaching frisbee golf and hike or bike the many trails destination. With more than 57 active caches that have earned nearly 15,000 favorite points, located within its boundary.

Leave behind your everyday worries and “Get to the Heart” of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, Martinsburg-Berkeley County, WV, where small-town meets big adventure.

Sleepy Creek Lake

6

Berkeley County is an unforgettable adventure that offers challenging caches for all experience levels. Challenge yourself on the newest geocaching trail, Berkeley Gadgets, which features 18 gadget caches.

unwind in Berkeley County’s beautiful piece of “Almost Heaven.”

Change your view from the office window to the beautiful Spring scenery of MartinsburgBerkeley County, WV. Plan your custom Cap off your outdoor adventure in Berkeley vacation and outdoor adventures today at County with a well-earned victory of a TravelWV.com. delicious meal in Martinsburg’s eclectic Visitor Center in Martinsburg downtown food scene. Indulge in a spa treatment while you are in town. Visit one of the most famous distilleries to come out of the area—Black Draft Distillery. And before you leave, enjoy the diverse shopping throughout the downtown corridor.

So many ways to play: World-class Golf, Paintball, Hunting, Geocaching, Birdwatching, Shooting, Camping, and so much more. It is your turn to get away, relax, and

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

7

Enjoy All the Outdoors Has to Offer This

Spring in Beautiful Virginia

Photo courtesy of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp & Resort

8

Town of New Market

A Warm Valley Welcome to the Town of New Market, a Historic Virginia Landmark.

of golf at the 27-hole PGA Shenvalee Golf Resort or plan a picnic in the Community Park. At the end of the day, spend a restful night at one of our fine hotels. Visit the historic Town of New Market and Make Our Established in 1796, New Market is nestled History Your Adventure! at the foot of the Massanutten Mountain of the Shenandoah Valley. New Market features preserved historic architecture, Civil War artifacts, popular museums and reenactments that display exciting Civil War stories that take place on their original battlegrounds. Stroll the streets and visit unique, family owned stores featuring clothing boutiques, antiques, furniture, local arts and crafts, music and much more!

Take a tour at Endless, Shenandoah, and Luray Caverns and experience fascinating underground treasures. Satisfy your adventure needs and visit nearby hiking trails, camping destinations, and the Shenandoah River, a natural playground for all ages. Dine in New Market’s diverse selection of restaurants or experience award-winning Southern Cuisine for an overall heart-warming experience. Golfers enjoy a relaxing round

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Photo by Caroline Myers

9

Battle of New Market In the spring of 1864, Union General Ulysses S. Grant began a grand strategy designed to force the Confederacy into submission and end the war. Key to this was control of the agriculturally rich Shenandoah Valley, so he ordered General Franz Sigel and his army of 10,000 to capture the Valley.

Upon receiving word that Sigel had entered the Valley, Confederate General John C. Breckinridge pulled together all available forces to repulse the threat. The cadets of the Virginia Military Institute were called up from Lexington, marching 80 miles in four days, to join Breckinridge’s army of 4,500 veterans.

In a pouring rain the two armies met in battle at New Market on May 15, 1864. The Confederates advanced first, after brushing aside Union skirmishers located west of town. The rebel infantry line came within rifle range of a Union line positioned along a ridge at a farm owned by Jacob and Sara Bushong. The Confederate line reached a split rail fence on Bushong’s farm but was pinned there.

Receiving massed fire from the Federal muskets and artillery, the center of the Confederate line gave way. Noting the opportunity, Union troops attacked, hoping to take the field and win the day.

10

Breckenridge knew he must quickly fill the large gap in the center of his line or abandon the field. “Send the cadets in,” Breckinridge ordered, “and may God forgive me…” The 257 VMI cadets stepped into the gap along the fence just as Union troops started their attack. They met the Union charge and turned it back as the entire Confederate line pushed forward over the rainsoaked wheat field. This field would be dubbed the “Field of Lost Shoes” because of the many shoes that were lost that day in its mud.

Suddenly the Federal line broke and Confederates swept through the routed Union line insuring victory. General Sigel and his army began a rapid retreat north from the field and the Valley, to the delight of General Breckinridge’s army and the exuberant VMI cadets.

The battle was not without its cost to the VMI Cadet Corps. Ten cadets were killed outright or died later of wounds. Another 45 cadets were wounded in the fight.

However, on the Bushong farm, they won immortality.

by Gregory Starbuck

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

11

Rockingham County Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, bounded by two magnificent mountain ranges and the impressive Shenandoah River, Rockingham County is a must see destination that boasts diverse outdoor recreation, thriving cultural attractions, vibrant and inviting small towns, numerous historical attractions, and farm-to-table dining opportunities.

Situated just two hours from D.C. and minutes from the George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah National Park, its central location makes it an easy destination for a day, weekend, or weeklong trip.

Tastes for Every Appetite Not only is the area home to bustling farm stands featuring local produce, but it also houses a community of restaurants that bring farm-fresh to life in their unique dishes. Restaurants offer an array of flavors to satisfy everyone’s palate with eateries like The Dayton Tavern, Ciro’s Italian Eatery, The Cracked Pillar, Thomas

House, Log Cabin Barbecue, Hanks Grille, Thunderbird Café as well as sweet treats from Smiley’s Ice Cream and the Mt. Crawford Creamery.

You will not want to miss the opportunity to visit some of the award winning wineries, cidery, or breweries within Rockingham County. CrossKeys Vineyard, Bluestone Vineyards, Marceline Vineyards, The Purple Wolf Vineyard, and Brix and Columns Vineyards are sure to have something for every palate. Relax with a glass of Cider at Showalter’s Orchard and Greenhouses, home of Old Hill Hard Cider. For the beer lovers, check out Cave Hill Farms Brewery or Elkton Brewing Company.

Adventure for any age This vibrant destination boasts a diverse mix of county trails, bike-friendly streets, and challenging mountain bike courses and is designated as a “Bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community” by the League of American Bicyclists. Canoeing, kayaking

Rockingham County is home to Cave Hill Farms Brewery and Elkton Brewing Co. This spring, a third craft brewery, BrewHaHa Brewing Company, is anticipated to open.

Photo by Joshua Gooden.

12

Photo Courtesy of Montfair Resort Farm – see p. 3.

Photo Courtesy of Massanutten Resort

and tubing with friends or local river outfitters are popular among locals and visitors. Head underground to visit the wonders of nature at Grand Caverns or Endless Caverns. Whether your preference ranges from tame to extreme, Rockingham County has attractions to get your heart pumping, your mind expanding or to let you relax with friends.

Places to Stay

After exploring and discovering, rest your head at one of our historic bed and breakfasts, quaint inns or Massanutten Resort. Wherever you choose to stay you will find friendly folks to make sure your visit is pleasant.

Gardens at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

13

Rockingham County

Photo of Silver Lake by Joshua Gooden

With over 177,000 acres of National Park and National Forest land, you are sure to find something new every day of the year. Discover your next adventure in Rockingham County!

By Joshua Gooden Silver Lake B & B

Enjoy camping at Endless Caverns. Photo by Jackie Hensley

14

Lexington After Appomattox & Rockbridge FishburneCounty Military School

Founded in 1879 by Waynesboro Native and Washington College Graduate, Professor James A. Fishburne, Fishburne Military School is woven into the very fabric of Waynesboro and Shenandoah Valley History. For 138 years, FMS has been preparing young men for lives of leadership and service.

At the school’s inception, Fishburne wrote: “It is my purpose to have here an institution which shall rank as first class in everything that constitutes true worth, and from which shall go forth loyal, earnest, industrious boys and young men, well-equipped for the duties and responsibilities of life, and above all else, to maintain a high standard of honor and integrity in the Corps of Cadets.”

Today, Fishburne Military School is a leader in the United States Army JROTC Cadet Command’s Fourth Brigade and, as an Honor Unit with Distinction, holds the privilege of nominating qualified cadets to any of the United States Service Academies.

mission statement is to provide each cadet with a sound academic foundation, a healthy mental and physical environment, and leadership training for a better understanding of the obligations of honor, citizenship, and self-discipline.

Famous Alumni of Fishburne Military As an all-male college preparatory School include former Virginia Governor school and leadership training program, Gerald Baliles and Pulitzer Prize winner Fishburne Military School’s modern Eugene Payne.

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

15

T

P

Elki

RA

Seneca State Forest

Cass Scenic Railr

Droop Mountain Battlefield Watoga State Park Beartown State Park

Douth State P

Greenbrier State Forest Bluestone State Park

Pipestem Resort State Park

Moncove Lake State Park

N

18 Paint Bank

New Castle

600

Boones Mill

40

To Tennessee Ferrum Fairy Stone State Park Philpott Lake

To Greens

16

Berkeley Springs State Park

MORGAN

Cacapon Resort State Park

GRANT

TUCKER

Parsons

Davis

Blackwater Falls State Park

Canaan Valley State Park

ins

Sky Meadows State Park

Lost River State Park

ANDOLPH

Shenandoah River State Park Seven Bends State Park

road

18

hat Park

Natural Bridge State Park James River State Park

Holiday Lake State Park

Open to Traffic “H” Corridor

Smith Mountain Lake State Park

WVA State Parks Shenandoah Valley Virginia Mountains Region

sboro, NC

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

17

Yogi Bear ’s Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge is the perfect campground for families looking for a place to reconnect. With great amenities and fun planned activities, your family can enjoy sharing all of this in a beautiful outdoor environment.

Access to the James River offers opportunities to kayak, canoe, or float on tubes using the campground’s shuttle service… or just play in the river from the shoreline. Since it borders the Jefferson National Forest, there are awesome hiking trails nearby, too.

With so much to do nearby and all the fun awaiting you at Jellystone Park, your family is sure to have a great time together. So plan your stay soon: all information including availability, specials, and themed weekends can be found at www.campNBR.com.

Lake View at the Campground

Visit the Bears’ Den in Natural Bridge Treat the whole family to a stay at our Virginia resort and enjoy primitive tent camping, spacious full hookup RV sites and a variety of vacation rentals. You’ll also experience amazing amenities to keep the whole family entertained.

Dual Water Slides • Jumping Pillows • Spray Playground • Swim Lake With Beach • Fishing

CampNBR.com | (888) 991-5336 YOGI BEAR and all related characters and elements © & ™ Hanna-Barbera. (s21)

18

Aerial View of the Campground at Natural Bridge

Mini-Golf at the Campground

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

19

& State Rockbridge On the TrailLexington in Virginia Parks County Come and relax at one of Virginia’s State pollution. Get off the highway and visit a Parks. You’ll find plenty of programs, nearby state park to pedal your way to fun events and activities, with seven of the 38 and adventure. parks right here in the Shenandoah Valley.

Learn about a specific park’s trails by Each park provides unique experiences, visiting the Virginia State Park website and some of the most popular activities http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/statehappen on the park trails, with some of the parks/. Whether you’re after a relaxing best hiking and biking trails in the state. picnic or a two-week vacation, leave life’s From the experienced hiker to the novice, daily pressures behind and reconnect with you are sure to find your path at one of nature and your family at a nearby state Virginia’s gorgeous parks. It’s no wonder park. hiking is among the most popular activities Natural Bridge State Park in the parks. It’s low impact, inexpensive, keeps you fit, strengthens bones and keeps the pounds off. Escape the crowds, breathe fresh air, enjoy wildlife, and take in the stunning scenery that only Virginia can offer.

Park trails accommodate other activities including biking, mountain biking and horseback riding, and many parks have universally accessible trails. At Shenandoah River State Park you can even zipline. Douthat State Park offers 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails. Several state parks also offer connector trails to other trail destinations.

For instance, Sky Meadows State Park not only offers 10.5 miles of bridle trails, 22 miles of hiking trails and 9 miles of bike trails, it also provides Appalachian Trail access. The park also offers a small loop trail in the new outside Children’s Discovery Area that allows children and their families to ease their way into the outdoors and learn to use trails.

Biking is as fun as it is good for you. It’s a great stress reliever, especially in the great outdoors while you’re breathing clean, fresh, country air. You can get to places on a bike, especially a mountain bike, where cars can’t go. Biking also helps the environment: it’s efficient and causes no The Gift Shoppe at the AMA Museum

20

Conservation atatthe the Virginia Safari Park Conservation Conservationat theVirginia VirginiaSafari SafariPark Park

Soars To New Heights Soars SoarsTo ToNew NewHeights Heights

Critically endangered Critically Critically endangered endangered Vulture thrive inin the Vulture Vulture thrive thrive in the the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Blue Blue Ridge Ridge Mountains.

Mountains.

There is no shortage in animal The Virginia There There is no is no shortage shortage in in animal animal The The Virginia Virginia diversity when guests visit Virginia’s Safari Park houses diversity diversity when when guests guests visit visit Virginia’s Virginia’s Safari Safari Park Park houses houses only drive-thru Park; some of the the most successful only only drive-thru drive-thru Park; Park; some some of of thethe the the most most successful successful most iconic species in the animal breeding program in the most most iconic iconic species species in in thethe animal animal breeding program program in in thethe kingdom can be found there, including breeding country for the rare vulture species! kingdom kingdom can can bebe found found there, there, including including country country forfor thethe rare rare vulture vulture species! species!

Guests can visit the parents and new Guests Guests can can visit visit the the parents parents and and new new and more.

The Park collaborates with chick inin the walk-thru portion ofof and and more. more.

The The Park Park collaborates collaborates with with chick chick in the the walk-thru walk-thru portion portion of the Park. the the Park.

Park. the world’s continually changing thethe world’s world’s continually continually changing changing wildlife concerns, including poaching, The 180-acre drive-thru portion ofof the wildlife wildlife concerns, concerns, including including poaching, poaching, The The 180-acre 180-acre drive-thru drive-thru portion portion of the the pollution, and habitat loss.

ToTo date, Virginia Safari Park allows guests to pollution, pollution, and and habitat habitat loss. loss.

To date, date, Virginia Virginia Safari Safari Park Park allows allows guests guests to to the facility has provided aidaid toto wildlife take wild ride through the expansive thethe facility facility has has provided provided aid to wildlife wildlife take take aawild a wild ride ride through through the the expansive expansive in over 135135 countries. natural exhibit, providing a unique in in over over 135 countries. countries. natural natural exhibit, exhibit, providing providing a unique a unique and up-close animal experience. and and up-close up-close animal animal experience. experience.

One of of thethe Park’s most successful Guests can feed Elk, Zebra, Bison, One One of the Park’s Park’s most most successful successful Guests Guests can can feed feed Elk, Elk, Zebra, Zebra, Bison, Bison, conservation programs is the the critically Ostrich, Deer, Antelope, and more asas conservation conservation programs programs is is the critically critically Ostrich, Ostrich, Deer, Deer, Antelope, Antelope, and and more more as they wander freely.

With so much to they they wander wander freely. freely.

With With so so much much to to 77 of thethe 11 species species ofof African Vultures dodo and see, isobvious obvious why the Virof 7 of the 11 11 species of African African Vultures Vultures do and and see, see, ititis it is obvious why why the the VirVirhave decreased byby more than 80% in in ginia Safari Park is recognized as one have have decreased decreased by more more than than 80% 80% in ginia ginia Safari Safari Park Park is recognized is recognized as as one one ofof the country’s top ten safari parks. of the the country’s country’s top top ten ten safari safari parks. parks. guardians of of thethe skysky provide guardians guardians of the sky provide provide aa a crucial role in cleaning up the The Virginia Safari Park crucial crucial role role in in cleaning cleaning upup thethe The The Virginia Virginia Safari Safari Park Park isisis environment; without them, the privately owned and receives zero environment; environment; without without them, them, the the privately privately owned owned and and receives receives zero zero spread of of life-threatening diseases tax dollars.

Funding for conservation spread spread of life-threatening life-threatening diseases diseases taxtax dollars. dollars.

Funding Funding forfor conservation conservation programs made possible through programs programs isismade is made possible possible through through the continued support ofof zoo guests. the the continued continued support support of zoo zoo guests. guests.

Conservation fundamental inin the Conservation Conservation isisfundamental is fundamental in the the Park’s daily operations.

Learn more Park’s Park’s daily daily operations. operations.

Learn Learn more more atat www.virginiasafaripark.com. at www.virginiasafaripark.com. www.virginiasafaripark.com.

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

21

Winding Down the Wine Trails of Virginia Thomas Jefferson’s dream is alive and well in Virginia. In 1772, soon after completing building Monticello, Jefferson planted native grapes and spent more than 30 years attempting to produce wine equal to that of Europe. While it has taken more than a few years to realize Jefferson’s dream, it is safe to say that Virginia is now one of the top tier wine regions in the U.S. Travel & Leisure magazine stated that “Virginia is one of the five newest wine regions around the world.”

Winding Down the Wine Trails of Virginia

In 2004 Virginia had 80 wineries. Today there are nearly 300 and counting. Most Virginia wineries produce the same wines that are produced in Europe: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc.

One white grape, Viognier, because of its thick skin and its adaptability to warm weather, is especially suited to Virginia. The quality of a Virginia Viognier can rival firstclass Viogniers from around the world. One native grape, Norton, produces intense red wines comparable to many European reds.

Some of Virginia’s finest and most popular wines are Viognier, Meritage, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

Many of the wineries are located in some of the most beautiful areas of Virginia.

Make it a day or a week-end and combine it with wonderful scenery, culinary delights, historical inns and bed and breakfasts, and a chance to explore Virginia’s history.

If you are a novice you will find that the tasting rooms at the wineries are staffed by knowledgeable people who will help you to learn about and appreciate Virginia wines.

They offer a warm welcome and a chance to sample the best that Virginia has to offer.

22

Abbott Trail at the Peaks of Otter Photo by Micah Pick

Welcome to the Virginia Mountains Region…

· Outdoor recreation of every description · Amazing cultural experiences · Astounding natural beauty

Just turn the pages to find out more!

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

23

Virginia Mountains Region

Relax Amid Unspoiled Mountain Scenery Bath County is a magical place. It’s a place where you can explore and feel right at home at the same time. Scenic drives are a popular activity because of the peaceful back roads and lack of traffic. There is not a single stoplight in the entire county. The winding roads appeal equally to motorcyclists, sports car enthusiasts and minivan drivers as well.

All are welcome to enjoy the unspoiled mountain scenery. A number of popular driving loops begin and end in either Warm Springs or Hot Springs. A free brochure is available at discoverbath.com.

A perfect getaway requires great overnight accommodations.

Bath County is famous for its hospitality and unique places to stay. The Omni Homestead Resort, which opened its doors in 1766 a full decade before the Revolutionary War, is a grand resort that has hosted presidents, celebrities and royalty. There are numerous award-winning Bed & Breakfast Inns, each with its own history and personality. You’ll want to return many times to experience all of them.

There are also private cabins and homes for rent, some with breathtaking views of the mountains.

Visitors are beginning to recognize Bath County as a destination for foodies. The culinary scene is as varied as it is sophisticated.

For breakfast or a mid-day snack, sip an espresso paired with homemade pastries.

Dinner options range from pizza and sandwiches to gourmet delights. Creative chefs are winning over food lover’s hearts with European-inspired dishes and

24

exceptional farm-to-table experiences thanks to the region’s many family farms.

A great complement to the local culinary community is a growing and thriving beverage scene. Bath County is home to a winery, cidery and craft brewery. Rock Roadhouse Winery is housed in a historic building constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933. Overlooking the mountains, it may be the most scenic vineyard in Virginia. Troddenvale at Oakley Farms in Warm Springs is revitalizing fruit growing for cider production in Bath County.

Both Rock Roadhouse and Troddenvale are available for tours and tastings by appointment. Bacova Beer in Hot Springs has become a favorite gathering place for visitors and residents.

One of Virginia’s greatest cultural gems is tucked away on a beautiful campus in Warm Springs, Virginia. Garth Newel Music Center is a chamber music venue that presents over 50 concerts throughout the year.

Performances include the Garth Newel Piano Quartet, as well as renowned guest musicians, and are often paired with gourmet meals prepared by their resident chef. During the pandemic, the music continued online with virtual performances. Visit garthnewel.org to stay informed about the return of live performances.

The fresh air and wide-open spaces of the county offer plenty of outdoor recreation options. Hiking and biking trails range from easy to challenging. The rivers and streams offer world-class fishing. If you’re ready to experience fly fishing at a new level, consider spending a day with a professional guide.

Douthat State Park and Lake Moomaw

Bath County feature paddling, camping and impeccable stargazing under dark skies.

For more than 250 years visitors have been making the journey to Bath County just west of the Shenandoah Valley. One thing that has not changed is the breathtaking beauty. The views are endless and unspoiled. One can easily imagine it is exactly the same as what George Washington and Thomas Jefferson saw centuries ago. There are still no interstates, mega-malls or even a stoplight in Bath County. Visitors seeking a relaxing vacation experience certainly hope it stays that way.

Bath County is located in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia along the border with West Virginia. More information can be found at discoverbath.com

By David Mikula

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Vista at Fort Lewis Lodge

25

Virginia Mountains Region

Welcome to Salem

- where we completely understand.

The ongoing pandemic has provided a great deal of uncertainty for all of us, but the opportunities to safely shop, play and eat throughout our city are still as abundant as ever!

Professional pickers and those who are simply in search of a treasure will be able to enjoy the thrill of the hunt in every corner of the city. Our collectible shops feature a wide variety of antiques and primitives. So, whether it is vintage vinyl or retro furniture, Yes, our ways of interacting and participating our vendors have you covered. may have changed, but our Historic Main Street corridor is still a busy place. A visit to Salem’s seven establishments are as unique the city’s Farmers Market, Lake Spring Park as the heirlooms and reproductions they or the Salem Museum is the perfect offer. Whether you are looking for a quiet complement to the variety of unique dining stroll through a quaint shop or a marathon and shopping options throughout the city. outing in a 15,000 square foot multi-vendor We trust you will find an array of good eats facility, we have you covered. A quick scan of along with some unique antiques during the QR Code in our adjacent ad will take you your visit. straight to “Pickers Paradise” with information on each of these establishments.

Lake Spring Park

26

Salem Be sure to recharge after a day of shopping with a special concoction from one of our award-winning craft breweries and distinctive restaurants. You may also want to plan to stay for a few days. Our outstanding civic facilities managed to safely host over 50,000 visitors in 2020.

Whether you are enjoying one of our entertaining offerings or simply taking in the history of Virginia’s Blue Ridge region we trust you will discover that there is plenty to sample in Salem from Main Street to the Mountains.

If you would like additional information on shopping, dining, sightseeing, or lodging, please contact the Salem Visitors Center at (540) 375-4044 or check us out on the web at www.visitsalemva.com.

by Mike Stevens

, p o h S y l Safe Eat Play & In Salem

#SampleSalem Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Contact or visit the Salem Visitors Center at the Salem Civic Center (540) 375-4044

visitsalemva.com 27

Virginia Mountains Region

Where Ordinary Ends…

Bedford Begins!

From the magnificent Peaks of Otter along the Blue Ridge Parkway, to the quaint streets of historic downtown, to the shores of Smith Mountain Lake - Bedford offers outdoor adventure and historical treasures, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or your next vacation destination!

Readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors named Bedford the Top Small Adventure Town for 2020!

Bedford County has more mileage along the Blue Ridge Parkway than any county in Virginia. With multiple exits from the Parkway into Bedford, it is easy to explore local wineries, apple and peach orchards, local artisan studios, as well as 25+ trails for hiking, biking, wildlife, and horseback riding. In 2021, the area’s fifth disc golf course will open, bringing the total to 90+ holes of disc golf, in addition to the more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails.

Memorial overlooks the community that suffered the greatest loss per capita of any in the United States. It was dedicated on June 6, 2001 by President George W. Bush, and will commemorate its 20th anniversary this year.

The Memorial is an outdoor facility and open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.dday.org. After your tour, be sure to drive the short distance to historic downtown Bedford and visit the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. This museum opened in 2019 and features items from the personal collections of the Bedford Boys, who went in on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

Historic downtown Bedford also offers a variety of art galleries, shops, antiques, and restaurants that are within easy walking distance from each other in a charming atmosphere of 19th Century buildings. The Bedford Museum, located beside the County Courthouse, showcases Bedford’s rich history. Beale’s, a craft brewery and full-service restaurant, is also located downtown and features indoor/outdoor seating, and special limited beer releases throughout the year.

Bedford is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the Two hundred years ago, Thomas Jefferson American and Allied forces that fought in the retired from public life and began to spend largest amphibious invasion of all time. The time at his private retreat, Poplar Forest, “Sharp Top” at the Peaks of Otter in Bedford

28

Bedford located in the eastern part of Bedford County.

Named as one of Virginia’s top 10 attractions by readers of USA Today, Poplar Forest was built in a grove of poplar trees, and the octagonal house offers great insight into the private side of this Founding Father. Guided tours are available, and advance tickets are required. Please visit www.poplarforest.org for more information.

You will need more than a day to experience it all! Check out the many different lodging options that Bedford has to offer by visiting www.destinationbedfordva.com and clicking Accommodations.

Start your visit at the Bedford Area Welcome Center. From the Shenandoah Valley, take exit 150A from I-81 to Route 460 east. The Welcome Center is located at 816 Burks Hill Road (Rt. 460 at Rt. 122). You can also call

Photo by BedCo Photo

(540) 587-5681 and request for information to be mailed or emailed prior to your visit.

The Welcome Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed some holidays) and offers free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, firefighter exhibit, RV parking, picnic tables, electric car charging station, and information about exploring the area. Be sure to snap a photo with our LOVE sign for a photo souvenir of your trip! Share your experiences in Bedford on social media using #LOVEBedfordVA!

By Nicole Johnson

Bedford has left its mark on American and world history. From a band of brothers to a founding father.

National D-Day Memorial

———— Where Ordinary Ends... ————

Bedford Begins.

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

DestinationBedfordVA.com 877-447-3257 | #DestinationBedfordVA

Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

29

Smith Mountain Lake Smith Mountain Lake is among the most popular residential, vacation and recreational spots on the East Coast. Set amid the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake is a breathtakingly scenic destination with 22,000 acres of crystal-clear water.

Smith Mountain Lake is thriving, with outstanding restaurants and retailers, topnotch health care and wellness facilities, countless recreational opportunities and a close-knit community of residents. The lake itself and the community of people and businesses around it make the Smith Vacationers from across the globe come to Mountain Lake region an exceptional Smith Mountain Lake during all four seasons experience for day trips, weekend getaways to fish, enjoy numerous water sports and play and family vacations. on more than 500 miles of shoreline. And, they usually end up discovering a variety of Sound too good to be true? Just wait until you unexpected delights. Friendly people and see the beautiful sunsets! Once you visit, genuine hospitality make everyone feel you’ll want to make Smith Mountain Lake welcome, and with world-class historical sites your home. In fact, this little community of such as the Booker T. Washington National over 20,000 has grown in large part to the Monument and the National D-Day many vacationers who have decided to Memorial nearby, unique shopping relocate here permanently. The temperate opportunities, fantastic dining and weather, central location and small-town entertainment options, there’s always atmosphere make Smith Mountain Lake an excellent place to raise your family, start a something new to do.

30

Smith Mountain Lake business, or just kick back and relax.

Visit the Lake online at VisitSmithMountainLake.com to request a visitor guide to help plan your trip! Better yet, stop by the Moneta, Virginia, office located at 16430 Booker T. Washington Highway inside the SML Visitors Center at Bridgewater Plaza or call 540.721.1203.

By Christopher Finley

WIN A TRIP TO Smith Mountain Lake Virginia

Enter to win an incredible getaway. One lucky winner will be selected for a trip for two to experience the best of Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia! TOTAL VALUE: $2,500 Bridgewater Marina & Boat Rentals – Full-day tritoon boat rental Mariners Landing Hospitality – 2-night stay at Mariners Landing Resort Serafina Spa – 60-minute couples massage Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House – Breakfast gift certificate Old Oak Café – Breakfast gift certificate Jake’s Place – Lunch gift certificate Mango’s Bar & Grill – Lunch gift certificate

Blackwater Café – Dinner gift certificate Mariners Landing – Dinner gift certificate The Mariners Club – Recreation Package: Round of golf for two and use of pools and fitness center National D-Day Memorial – Admission for two Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina – Admission for two Gifts Ahoy – Souvenirs gift certificate JollyJen Photography Studio – 45-minute couples photo shoot

DETAILS & ENTER TO WIN AT: VisitSmithMountainLake.com Spring 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

31