The Peaks of Otter have long been a Blue Ridge Mountains destination with its solitude and high summits. When you add water, your mood only gets better. Sleeping and dining with a view of Lake Abbott is just what the busy soul needs. And when it’s time for an adrenaline rush, there are mountains to climb. Toast the moment at nearby Peaks of Otter Winery (one of nine stops on the Bottled in Bedford Craft Beverage Trail), then head down the mountain into Bedford where more awaits.
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Impactful Historical Sites
June 6, 1944 was the day that allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy as part of Operation Overlord. On that day, Bedford, Virginia lost the most soldiers per capita. They are known as The Bedford Boys. Learn more about them and commemorate the 4,414 lives lost on that one single day when you visit the National D-Day Memorial.
After taking in 20th century history, go back a bit farther and see where Thomas Jefferson chose to spend his vacations and retirement. Poplar Forest was an inheritance from his father-in-law John Wayles in 1773. Jefferson’s wife, Martha, enjoyed Poplar Forest only a short while before her early passing at the age of 34, but Jefferson appreciated the refuge until he was about 80 years old. Poplar Forest is a National Historic Landmark, nominated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a valued treasure for all.
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Cool Off in SML
When the clock passes noon, it’s time to hit the water. Smith Mountain Lake is Virginia’s second largest lake and spreads into three counties, including Bedford. With 500 miles of shoreline, there are many coves to explore. Bridgewater Plaza features shopping, dining, carp for the kids to feed, live entertainment, and of course, boat rentals. Be sure to have your boater’s license and follow all the rules of the water to have the best experience.
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If boating on your own isn’t quite your thing, step aboard the Virginia Dare Cruises. Choose your pleasure: Taco Tuesday cruises, Wildlife Wednesday cruises, or evening sightseeing cruises. All are two hours in length.
If boating really isn’t your thing, like, at all, you can get in the water from the beach at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Camping and cabins are also available, if you’d like to make that your home base. It’s an easy place to spend the day with picnic pavilions, trails to hike, and paddleboards, kayaks, and other vessels to rent. Also consider Mariner’s Landing Resort & Conference Center or Halesford Harbour Inn for other waterside accommodations.
Enjoy a summer getaway in Bedford, Virginia.