Looking to escape the city and wander some stunning country roads? We took care of the itinerary, you take care of the therapeutic getaway. We were NOT sponsored by any of these destinations, they are just incredible Virginia spots we wholeheartedly recommend. Whether escaping from Richmond, VA or Northern Virginia/Washington DC, may we suggest:

‍ESCAPE RICHMOND

To start your getaway from Richmond, VA, we recommend starting with a nice drive up to Barbeque Exchange in Gordonsville for takeout lunch. Barbeque Exchange’s unique charcoal and hickory-smoked BBQ combined with Southern sides and baked sweets make for a guaranteed delicious change of pace. This quaint, porch-fronted house eatery makes you feel at home away from home. Make sure you order in advance to avoid a long wait.

Once your belly is full and happy, we suggest heading about 15 minutes north to The Market at Grelen for a unique shopping experience and relaxing connection with nature. This European-style garden shop set on a 1000 acre tree nursery will make you feel like you’ve driven across the ocean. It features a casual farm-to-table cafe, hiking trails, a pick-your-own farm, adorable gift shop, and Virginia beverages, so you can customize your visit however you’d like.

After you’ve explored The Market at Grelen and are ready to sit and unwind, luckily Early Mountain is only 20 minutes away. With a reservation in either our tasting room, patio, or picnic tables, you can relax with a glass of Virginia wine and a bite from a fresh, local food menu created by an alum of The Inn at Little Washington, Chef Tim Moore. (OR Stock up on wine for the week)

If this sounds like the change of scenery you need, you can navigate it on Google Maps here.

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‍ESCAPE NOVA/DC

If you’re from the Northern Virginia and DC area, we recommend you start your getaway with a beautiful drive to Sperryville. Once you arrive, we suggest picking up takeout at The Corner Store. Known as the heart of Sperryville, you’ll find local, seasonal foods that taste nostalgic, fresh, and delicious.

After your appetite is sated, another great stop in Sperryville is to pick up some local craft whisky at Copper Fox Distillery. Copper Fox is dedicated to the combination of innovation and tradition in the world of American craft spirits. Their whisky is hand-crafted with locally-sourced ingredients and each barrel starts from scratch with their own hand-malted barley. They flavor the grain with fruitwood smoke and age the spirit with a progressive series of new and used fruitwood chips in used bourbon barrels. It will truly feel like a treat.

Once you’re stocked up on Copper Fox whisky, Early Mountain is a mere 30 minutes away. For your last stop, you can spend a nice afternoon with us, or pick up your wines for the week.

If you need an escape from the Northern Virginia and DC area, you can navigate this getaway here.

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EXTEND YOUR STAY

If you’re having lots of fun, or maybe just want to stay on your getaway a little bit longer, we also have recommendations for very special lodging options to book for the night of your trip. May we suggest:

Getaway Shenandoah- Nestled in complete seclusion in the forest, these Getaway Houses are pod-like houses with a campfire, kitchen, bathroom, and bed with a view. The peace, quiet, and complete immersion in nature makes this the perfect pick if you want to unplug and escape the madness of urban life. You can find more information and book one here.

Monte Ventoso- This famous Airbnb is the closest thing to a villa in Tuscany you will get in Virginia, which makes it a perfect spot to park in after your visit to Early Mountain. You can cook in the gourmet kitchen, unwind in the tranquil gardens, bundle up by the wood stove in the living room, pick organic produce from the gardens, get a workout in from the home studio, and gaze at the stars from the outdoor fireplace. Then, you can get some peaceful rest in the stately appointed bedrooms. You can find more information and book here.

The Inn at Meander- Perfectly capturing Virginia wine country, this romantic bed and breakfast’s historic rooms and cottages are decorated with unique furnishings to evoke warmth, character, and panache. There are many different options you can pick from to find the best experience for you, but if you stay in the grand Manor house or one of the historic cottages, you can enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning. Read more and check availability here.

The Inn at Willow Grove- Combining warm, Southern charm with luxurious stays in Virginia wine country, Willow Grove’s peaceful garden stay offers a completely unique experience. In keeping with their historic heritage, no two rooms are the same, as all are decorated with one-of-a-kind antique touches, locally inspired design pieces, and a dash of luxury. You can learn more and check availability here.

Whether you’re escaping from Richmond or Northern Virginia, staying the night or enjoying a day trip, we hope you go on the therapeutic getaway trip among Virginia wine country you need.