Vacationing in the Picturesque Shenandoah Valley
The Shenandoah Valley is a beautiful landscape in the Northwestern part of Virginia that is bordered by the Blue Ridge Mountains on the East and the Alleghenies on the West. Those visiting the area have several options for lodging but one of the most popular is the private secluded home, many of which feature beautiful views, hot tubs and proximity to walking trails, rivers and local parks. The area has many natural features that draw visitors throughout the year, plus there are great dining options and entertainment for the children.
Wineries
The Shenandoah area is home to many of Virginia's best wineries. The wine industry in Virginia has taken off and many locals have taken advantage of the beautiful Virginia weather and fertile land to grow grapes and make their own wine. Some of the favorites are Barren Ridge Vineyards, Peaks of Otter Winery and Wisteria Farms and Vineyard. Visitors to Barren Ridge Vineyards in Fishersville can taste the wine and tour the winery daily. At Peaks of Otter Winery in Bedford, you can try wine made from apples, blackberries, blueberries or even chili peppers, all grown at the winery and orchard. Wisteria Farm and Vineyard in Stanley has wine crafted from 100% Virginia grown grapes and offers a chance for visitors to experience a true working farm along with tasting some wine.
Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is a unique experience for all ages. Located beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains, the caverns feature some amazing underground structures including Dream Lake, the largest body of water in the caverns. The lake isn't deep but the reflections if offers of the surrounding cavern walls are breathtaking. Inside the caverns you can also see The Great Stalacpipe Organ which literally makes music underground by making the stalactites sing by gently tapping them throughout the entire underground area. The caverns also has some great attractions above ground including a garden maze, a place for the kids to mine gems, a ropes course and a museum that takes you back to the history of the area.
Scenic Drives
Driving on some of the local scenic highways allows visitors to see much of the landscape the area is known for. One of the most popular drives is Skyline Drive, which covers 105 miles of scenic roads and allows for a stop at 75 overlooks to see the mountain ranges. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a very well-known road that takes visitors along the Eastern border of the Shenandoah Valley. The drive takes you through 469 miles of meadows, mountains and vistas. There are signs of the old times with farms, some of which are still operational, and historic structures that have been around for many years. Pull off at one of the many recreational areas for a picnic and hike. There are many locally owned restaurants on the way as well as visitor's centers where you can get more information on the area. Lodging can be found on some of the scenic byways.
Weather
The weather in the Shenandoah Valley is fairly mild but the area does have four distinct seasons. Spring and summer are a great time to visit for warm weather. Visiting in the fall allows for beautiful views of the changing leaves. Winter can be an off-season time and there may be snow in the area.
How to Get There
Many people visit the area by private or rental car. Taking the Greyhound bus into Roanoke is also an option for those who don't want to drive. Roanoke also has an airport.
