Charlottesville

Charlottesville, Virginia, is a college town that offers all the things one may want in one location. Perhaps best known for being the home to the University of Virginia and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Charlottesville also boasts more vineyards than one can responsibly visit. It sits in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so offers plenty of outdoor activities. When your day is done, Charlottesville offers cuisine on par with more cosmopolitan cities. Only a beautiful 2-hour drive from Washington, DC (or, there's a train!) and an hour from Richmond. It’s all too easy to run out of time on a visit to Charlottesville but it’s easy to go back!

I am blessed to live in the foothills of Virginia's wine country, where the cab franc, chambourcin and viognier grapes thrive and produce some delicious varietals for our enjoyment. So, if you are a oenophile like me, then having hundreds of wineries within a short drive is basically heaven. Charlottesville, Virginia, is located two hours away from Loudoun County where I live, so my sister and I road tripped and had the most incredible girls' weekend here one February to celebrate our birthdays. The food, cozy ambience and hotel/resort were all five-star experiences, and I am anxious to go back one day with my husband because this would also make for a perfect romantic couples' weekend away as well!

I have a long history with Charlottesville and have been coming here for over thirty years. I also attended The University of Virginia and inevitably moved back to the area in 2018 to work in the wine industry. C’ville simply pulls you back. It is a vibrant college town, steeped in history and surrounded by the exquisite natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is also teeming with graceful architecture, great restaurants and an overwhelming array of breweries, distilleries and wineries. Come visit for a weekend and you’ll want to stay for a lifetime.

Charlottesville, Virginia, beckons with an intriguing blend of history, nature and charm, making it an irresistible destination for any traveler. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just two and a half hours from Washington, DC, the city boasts a breathtaking background for outdoor adventure or exploring a multitude of historical sites. Charlottesville’s vibrant downtown offers shopping, entertainment and culture. The area is home to over 40 wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, each offering a different experience. Charlottesville truly has something for everyone and promises an unforgettable escape.