Nestled against the Blue Ridge Mountains is Nelson County, a hub for outdoor adventure, craft beverages, and more. The Blue Ridge Parkway marks the northern boundary while the James River holds down the southern. Between? That’s your playground. Your reprieve from the fast pace of life and where you’ll discover a new appreciation for nature’s beauty.
What We Love
- The Outdoors
- The Blue Ridge Tunnel is an 1850s train tunnel beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains connecting Nelson County to Augusta County. It’s a multi-use rail trail void of lighting, so headlamps are suggested.
- Crabtree Falls is the highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.
- Fortune’s Cove Preserve is a five-mile mountain hike owned by the Nature Conservancy.
- Wintergreen Resort is an all-season getaway suitable for golfers as well as snow sports enthusiasts.
- Montebello Resort has a trout farm perfect for teaching littles ones to fish. The one caveat is that you must keep your catch and it’s sold by the pound.
- MUCH more to do
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- The Flavors
- Nelson 151 is a sip-along trail complete with five wineries, four breweries, three cideries, two distilleries, and one meadery. Call it a one-stop shop for all your adult beverage needs. DO designate a driver.
- Basic Necessities in Nellysford is an intimate dining affair with limited seating where you’re allowed to take your time.
- Nelson Scoops in Lovingston is one tasty stop with incredible homemade ice cream and sweet treats. Don’t sleep on the coffee espresso ice cream.
- The Blue Ridge Pig in Nellysford has been slinging smoked meat since 1988. The longevity proves the power of the flavors.
- Trager Brothers Coffee has locations in Lovingston and Afton. They are a certified organic coffee roaster specializing in small batches of high quality joe.
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- More to See
- A visit to Schuyler Historic District is a must. Visit the Walton’s Mountain Museum where you’ll learn about the booming company town. The Walton Hamner House tells of the real family behind the iconic 1970s television show The Waltons. The Quarry Gardens at Schuyler, the soapstone quarries-turned botanical center.
- Montebello Country Store and Café is a stop for summer eats or year ‘round souvenir shopping. They also offer outdoor necessities for fishermen and campers.
- Check the Calendar of Events for More Ideas
Where to Stay
There are MANY places to stay in Nelson County. To start, there are two resorts to consider – condos and homes at Wintergreen or cabins and camping at Montebello. Stay where you are likely to play, but don’t forget to venture out to see what else you’re missing.
Bed and breakfasts like The Farmhouse at Veritas in Afton or Everette Estate in Nellysford are so decadent you may not want to leave.
Basecamp151 is a boutique motel and cottage along the Nelson 151, making it a central location from which to explore all the flavors of acclaimed Route 151.
An unforgettable stay is Fenton Inn in Roseland. Styled as a European village of accommodations, a bakery, spa, gift store, gym, theater, and more, you’ll marvel at this storybook destination.
Plan your Nelson County getaway at NelsonCounty.com.