Shenandoah National Park, Photo Credit: iStock/tonda
With the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop, you know you’re in for breathtaking scenery and opportunities for some outdoor fun with any visit to Southern Virginia. Read on for a few tips to help you make the most of your time in one of the prettiest corners of the country.
The best time to visit Southern Virginia
As much as we feel that it’s a copout to say that there isn’t a bad time to visit a particular city, we fully understand those words when you’re talking about consistently pleasant Southern Virginia.
In Roanoke, for example, the March highs are so close to the October ones that we wouldn’t know the difference if it weren’t for the blatant changes in tree colors. But all four seasons here tell a story that travelers should be happy to hear.
The best souvenirs from Southern Virginia
Besides snapped photos and great memories, Southern Virginia offers some local goods that are worth bringing home, starting with some drinks — after all, the region is home to Dr. Charles T. Pepper, the man from which Dr. Pepper gets its name. The area produces tasty root beers; buy some Old Dominion and Mount Vernon Five Farms.
Or pick up a bottle or two of vino from Southern Virginia’s many wineries. We enjoyed selections from Château Morrisette Winery and Villa Appalaccia Winery.
Be on the lookout for local jams and jellies, too, by heading to farmers markets in Danville or Martinsville. The markets are seasonal — typically May through October — and sell various regional products in addition to jam, such as produce, baked goods and artisan crafts.
Elements at Primland, Photo Credit: Primland
Southern Virginia highlights
No trip to Southern Virginia would be complete without immersing yourself in its picturesque surroundings. After all, the region is home to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Start with breakfast before you head out for a hike on it. There, you’ll find numerous trails with varying degrees of difficulty.
Post-hike, grab lunch in nearby Floyd, where you can fill up in eateries like Oddf3llow’s Restaurant & Bar. Afterward take a walk around Floyd — the town is known for its artisan culture and live music.
When the sun begins to set, head to dinner at Elements at Primland. The Forbes Travel Guide Recommended restaurant is located at an altitude of 2,800 feet, giving you unforgettable views to go along with your meal.
After dinner, stay on property for an evening of stargazing — you can sign up for the nightly star walk in the resort’s observatory dome or you can book the Tour of the Universe, which lasts between 90 minutes and two hours.
