America's Wine Country
Virginia's Piedmont, known as "America's Wine Country," is a captivating wine region nestled in Central Virginia, spanning across 11 picturesque counties. This enchanting region is home to some of Virginia's most esteemed wineries, boasting an impressive count of over 114 wineries, all within a convenient two-hour drive.
Stretching from the suburbs of Washington, D.C. in the north to the cherished city of Charlottesville, a place dear to Thomas Jefferson's heart, in the south, the Virginia Piedmont offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and of course, exceptional wines.
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Virginia, where legendary figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe once savored wines from this very land. The Virginia Piedmont also served as the residence of prominent figures such as Robert E. Lee and John S. Mosby, shaping the course of American history and witnessing pivotal Civil War battles. It's these historical roots that make the Virginia Piedmont truly "America's Wine Country."
The wines produced in this region have earned well-deserved recognition in statewide and national competitions. They grace the tables of some of the nation's most exquisite restaurants and inns. Now, these exceptional wineries have come together, united in their commitment to become a premier destination for tourists not only from the surrounding region but also from across the nation and around the globe.
Counties partnering in this initiative include Loudoun, Prince William, Culpeper, Fauquier, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania, Madison, Orange, Fluvanna, Greene, and Louisa. Together, they invite you to explore the beauty, history, and exquisite wines of Virginia's Piedmont, where each sip tells a story of the land and its remarkable heritage.
Wineries to visit Fauquier County
Winedering.com: here you have a list of the best wineries to visit in Fauquier County. You can book online your winery visit in Fauquier County on Winedering.com.
Fauquierwine.com: Fauquier Wineries - Providing the Best Wines and Experiences in the Region.
Chestergapcellars.com: Chester Gap Cellars is a small Virginia estate winery with scenic tasting room near Front Royal, VA. We look forward to welcoming you to taste our small production, high-quality red and white wines, while taking in our breathtaking view of the mountains and valley below.
Shenandoah National Park’s North District
Spanning from the Front Royal entrance at milepost 0.6 to the Thornton Gap entrance at milepost 31.5, Shenandoah National Park's North District offers a distinct and somewhat quieter experience compared to the bustling Central District. While the Central District often steals the spotlight with iconic hikes like Old Rag and South River Falls, the North District has its own treasure trove of crowd-pleasing trails and attractions waiting to be discovered.
One such gem is the Little Devils Stairs-Small Waterfall trail, promising an enchanting journey through nature's wonders. Whether you're eager to delve into the rich history of the park, bask in the awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains, or find solace in the crystal-clear waters of a dreamy swimming hole, the North District has something special for every nature enthusiast and adventurer.
10 Hikes Near Front Royal in Shenandoah National Park’s North District
Shenandoah National Park’s North District runs from the Front Royal entrance (milepost 0.6) to the Thornton Gap entrance (milepost 31.5).
This section is not nearly as popular as the Central District, which wows with hikes like Old Rag and South River Falls, but it’s got its own crowd-pleasing hikes.
Additionally, you might be interested in:
Enjoy trails, wildlife and exploration in Shenandoah National Park https://www.nps.gov/shen/index.htm
River trips and other outdoor activities https://frontroyaloutdoors.com/
Located in Front Royal, Virginia, Skyline Caverns is the closest natural wonder to the Nation’s Capital. https://skylinecaverns.com
Dining
You can find some delightful restaurants and dining experiences. Here are a few dining options around Hume:
The Ashby Inn & Restaurant (Paris): A renowned fine dining establishment located in a historic inn. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and a carefully curated wine list.
Hunter's Head Tavern (Upperville): A traditional English-style pub and restaurant known for its hearty British and American cuisine. The pub has a cozy ambiance and a selection of British ales.
Red Fox Inn & Tavern (Middleburg): A historic inn and tavern with a menu that showcases Virginia's culinary traditions. It's a cozy spot with an extensive wine list.
Girasole (The Plains): An Italian restaurant offering a range of Italian dishes, including homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Gold Cup Wine Bar (The Plains): Located at the Salamander Resort & Spa, this wine bar offers a selection of wines, cocktails, and small plates in a chic and stylish setting.
The Front Porch Market & Grill (Marshall): A local favorite known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere. They serve a variety of American comfort food, including burgers and barbecue.
Three Fox Vineyards (Delaplane): While not a traditional restaurant, Three Fox Vineyards offers wine tastings and picnic opportunities with stunning vineyard views. You can bring your own picnic or purchase snacks on-site.
Horseback Riding
Indulge in world-class horseback riding experiences that rival the best in the country. Additionally, mark your calendar for the highly-anticipated International Gold Cup event.
The International Gold Cup, also known as the Virginia Gold Cup, is one of the most prestigious steeplechase horse racing events in the United States. It takes place annually in Virginia, attracting thousands of spectators, horse racing enthusiasts, and socialites.
Surrounding Towns
Hume, Virginia, is located in Fauquier County, which is known for its scenic beauty and historic charm. Here are some towns near Hume.
Marshall is a quaint and historic town with a picturesque main street. It's known for its charming shops, local art galleries, and cozy cafes.
Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County and offers a blend of history and modern amenities. It features historic architecture, parks, and a vibrant downtown area.
The Plains is a lovely equestrian community surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside. It's known for its horse farms and elegant estates.
Upperville is another equestrian-focused town known for its horse shows and fox-hunting traditions. It features charming stone buildings and beautiful landscapes.
Middleburg is a renowned destination for horse enthusiasts and history buffs. It offers boutique shopping, fine dining, and historic inns.
Delaplane is a small town with a focus on winemaking. It's home to several wineries and vineyards, making it a great destination for wine lovers.
Paris is a charming village nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and a scenic overlook.
Local Wedding Venues
Congratulations on embarking on the beautiful journey of planning your wedding! Nestled in the heart of Hume, Virginia, our collection of exquisite wedding venues is designed to transform your special day into an unforgettable celebration of love. From charming rustic barns to elegant vineyards and everything in between, local wedding venues offer the perfect backdrop for your unique love story.
Historic Attractions
Fauquier County boasts a rich history, and there are several historical attractions worth visiting. Here are some notable ones:
Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail: Located in Warrenton, this museum is housed in the historic Old Jail building. It features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history and heritage of Fauquier County, including its role in the Civil War.
The Winery at La Grange: Situated in Prince William County, this winery is known for its Civil War history. The property includes the ruins of the pre-Civil War Winery at La Grange, which adds a historical touch to your wine tasting experience.
The Marshall House: Marshall, Virginia, is home to The Marshall House, a beautifully restored historic building that houses a museum and visitor center. It provides insight into the town's history and local heritage.
Cedar Run-First and Second Manassas Battles: Fauquier County played a significant role in the Civil War. You can visit the Cedar Run and Second Manassas (Bull Run) battlefields to learn about the history and see preserved sites and monuments.
The Plains Historic District: The Plains is a charming town known for its historic district, featuring well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Strolling through the town's streets offers a glimpse into its rich past.
The John Marshall Birthplace Park: This park, located in Germantown, marks the birthplace of John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the United States. It includes a reconstructed cabin and informative exhibits about Marshall's life.
Sky Meadows State Park: This state park in Delaplane includes the historic Mount Bleak House, which provides a look into 19th-century rural life. The park also offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and beautiful scenery.
Ben Venue Farm: Located in Flint Hill, Ben Venue Farm is a historic estate with a picturesque setting. It's known for its 19th-century manor house and beautiful gardens, making it a popular wedding and event venue.
Little Washington Historic District: Washington, Virginia, often referred to as "Little Washington," is a historic town known for its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings. It's a charming place to explore with antique shops and galleries.
Oak Hill: Oak Hill is a historic plantation located in Aldie, Virginia, known for its Federal-style architecture. It was once the home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States.
Local Breweries
Death Ridge Brewery: If there is one thing that brings people together past and present, its a good beer. As Thomas Jefferson once said, "Beer, if drunk in moderation, softens the temper, cheers the spirit and promotes health." Cheers!.
Barrel Oak Winery and Brewery welcomes our members and guests! Check out our menu offerings, vendors, and food & beverage.
Vibrissa: We began our journey when a few brave souls got the wild-assed idea that Historic Front Royal, with its vibrant outdoor culture, real people, and appreciation of everything unpretentious, was a natural beer town. Over a few brews, our founders decided to invest their time and resources to make great beer and food a reality.
Old Bust Head Brewing Company is an independent, solar-powered microbrewery in Fauquier County, Virginia, part of a unique farm called ‘Vint Hill’ that for 50 years operated as a top secret military listening post. We believe life should be both rich and sustainable.
Altered Suds: We started our business in 2019 with two main goals in mind - to brew damn good craft beer, and to have a cool place to drink it at. This is a brewery based on a life passion to make beer for beer drinkers, while providing a welcoming and laid back environment to get together.