If cabin fever has you itching to get out of the house, make Charlottesville your destination for a day or for an overnight. Even without leaves on the trees, the beauty of the Blue Ridge is a romantic backdrop for a quick getaway.
I love heading to Charlottesville for a change of scenery and to indulge in Virginia’s viticulture – vineyards and wineries, that is. One of my favorite stops is the serene sophistication at Pippin Hill Farm, where farm-to-table cuisine meets boutique blends from the Monticello Wine Trail. Through March, Pippin Hill celebrates winter weekends with complimentary s’mores and live music. What could be more inviting? Only 10 minutes from downtown Charlottesville, nestled between Monticello and James Monroe’s Highland estate, Jefferson Vineyards offers exquisite tastings of award-winning varietals including Meritage and Viognier. Pack a picnic and enjoy heated seating with can’t-beat views of the rolling countryside. Barboursville is another winery always at the top of my list. With onsite dining and a cozy inn, you can stay a while to unwind.
Charlottesville offers a number of inviting boutique accommodations, with even more on the horizon. Richmond’s beloved Quirk Hotel is opening a location there in early March. If you are in the mood for Charlottesville tradition, stay at The Boar’s Head or The Clifton Inn. Both properties offer luxury amenities in historical settings.
Dining-out options in Charlottesville are abundant and impressive, but my go-to recommendations are Tavola (in the Belmont area) and Little Star. Worlds apart in their culinary styles – Tavola is rustic Italian and Little Star honors Mexican-Spanish flavors – these spots share notable reputations for the culinary talent driving them and their commitment to the simplicity and authenticity of quality ingredients and techniques.
Look no further than Charlottesville for an indulgent getaway this February.