FOR THE LUXURIOUS TRAVELER
Charlottesville, VA
Say cheers to a great time and toast to the art of winemaking when you visit Charlottesville, Virginia. The Blue Ridge Mountains is the site of some of the nation’s finest wineries, and it all started with Thomas Jefferson. The Monticello Wine Trail features 33 wineries in the area, each with captivating selections. Whether you plan your trip around one of the annual wine festivals or come to explore at your leisure, a weekend perusing Charlottesville’s wealth of wineries will be an extraordinary getaway.
Harrisonburg, VA
Nestled between the Monongahela National Forest and Shenandoah National Park, Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a sweet escape from the bustle of city life. The White Oak Lavender Farm is a gorgeous piece of land devoted to fields of lavender. The interactive gardens have a petting zoo, duck bond, and twisting labyrinth that is entertainment for the whole family. But if you’re craving an escape for two, stop by the iconic Purple WOLF wine tasting room. The vineyard creates 12 signature wines, both whites and reds, as well as refreshing lavender wines.
Middleburg, VA
An hour outside of D.C., Middleburg, Virginia, is home to Greenhill Vineyards . This luxurious vineyard and its accompanying winery is a favorite for anyone craving rolling green hills, authenticity, and a variety of decadent wines. Members can relax at the Greenhill Club House on weekends year-round, and complimentary tastings are available for up to four guests with a reservation. The onsite tasting room is open daily, so savor one of their finely curated charcuterie boards and raise a glass.
Leesburg, VA
If you prefer cider to wine, consider heading to Leesburg, Virginia. The town’s historic streets lined with mature trees are alluring enough for a weekend trip, and the wealth of topnotch cideries simply adds to the appeal. Loudoun County’s cider trail is a hit each fall when cideries make the most of their apple crops and churn out delicious fermented drinks. Cideries are becoming increasingly popular in Virginia. From Waterford to Bluemont and back to Leesburg, you’ll have plenty of options to explore on a weekend excursion.
FOR THE WATER LOVER
Harpers Ferry, WV
Harpers Ferry , a historic town situated at The Point where the Potomac River and the Shenandoah River intersect, is just 66 miles from Washington, D.C. This quaint waterfront village will become your new go-to destination for rafting, tubing, and even ziplining! Whether you want the heart-racing adventure of white-water rafting or easygoing flat-water tubing, Harpers Ferry has a water activity that will satisfy everyone. Once you’re done splashing in the rivers, head back into town to meander the aged streets of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park . Follow a ghost tour, explore battlefields, and hike the lush forest trails.
Annapolis, MD
Set on the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis, Maryland, is a paradise for water lovers. Perhaps you’ll spend the night on a charming “boat and breakfast” yacht, take in a sunset sail on the bay, or try your hand at kitesurfing. Spa Creek and Back Creek are popular canoeing and kayaking destinations. If your style is geared more toward experiencing the water from a distance, take a seat at any of Annapolis’s marvelous waterfront restaurants for dinner alfresco. Afterward, you can explore the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park to learn more about these aquatic ecosystems, as well as the history and art of this Chesapeake Bay community.
St. Michaels, MD
St. Michaels, Maryland, is on the eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay. This quiet town is a favorite for anyone who loves sailing. Take a walk at the Waterfront Park on Miles River, study history at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum , or catch a bite to eat at St. Michaels Crab & Steak House . Gray Wolf Craft Distilling is the place to sample carefully created spirits in this waterfront village.
FOR THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURER
Shenandoah National Park, VA
National Parks are a haven for outdoor lovers, and Shenandoah National Park is 200,000 acres of stunning natural preserves. Only 75 miles from downtown Washington, D.C., escaping to the mountains is a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re hoping to hike mountain trails looking for the area’s famous cascading waterfalls or to picnic near a blooming meadow, Shenandoah has something for you. Keep an eye out for black bears, go birdwatching, and enjoy this retreat into nature for the weekend. Skyland’s lodge is located at Skyland Drive’s highest elevation, so you’ll feel on top of the world at 3,680 feet. Shenandoah National Park offers several lodging options. Big Meadows Lodge is situated a mile off Skyline Drive, and a seat out on their terrace on a sunny day provides endless views. For a more secluded approach, book a stay at the Lewis Mountain Cabins . The cabins don’t have in-room phones or internet access, so it’s the perfect place to disconnect and unwind. Alternatively, pack a tent and camp out under the stars for an unforgettable experience.
Monkton, MD
Monkton, Maryland, is a tiny unincorporated area in northern Baltimore County, spanning just 35 square miles. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in sheer beauty. The meticulously kept Ladew Topiary Gardens combine art and nature on the grounds of the historic Harvey S. Ladew manor. The homestead, a polished white farmhouse, is as breathtaking as the sculpted trees and hedges in the garden. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat from the Ladew Cafe, take a tour of the mansion and each of its remarkable nooks, and behold the marvelous sight of the Ladew Topiary Gardens. At only an hour and a half away from D.C., a trip to Monkton is an excellent way to spend a Saturday.
Wheaton, MD
Make a trip to Wheaton to visit the Brookside Gardens . Only eleven miles north of the heart of Washington, D.C., this quick thirty-minute drive takes you to seemingly another world. Fifty acres of pristine gardens sit on the north side of Wheaton Regional Park. The park has several dedicated theme gardens. The Butterfly Garden, Aquatic Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Style Garden are a few favorites, but that’s only the beginning. Brookside Gardens also hosts many events throughout the year, both during the week and on weekends.
Potomac, MD
To the west, Potomac, Maryland, is the Glenstone Museum , a tranquil ode to art and nature. This gallery incorporates contemporary art and beautiful architecture into its mesmerizing landscape. The sculpture garden is one of the museum’s finest assets. Art displayed at Glenstone has no accompanying descriptive text, which promotes personal interpretations of each artwork. This peaceful escape is only 17 miles away from downtown Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is surrounded by beauty in every direction. When you’re ready to learn more about Washington, D.C. real estate, contact us for more information