Bluemont
Bluemont is in Loudon County, Virginia, getting close to the Shenandoah Valley.
Get in
Cars only.
VA-7 runs from Winchester or Shenandoah in the west and from Leesburg in the east, going right through the center of Bluemont (not that Bluemont has any kind of downtown "center"). From US-50, which connects to other parts east in Northern Virginia, take a right on Snickersville Tpke after crossing US-15. Speaking of US-15, it runs south to connect with I-66 at Gainesville (near Manassas National Battlefield)
Coming from Harpers Ferry, you can take VA-671/Harpers Ferry Rd south from US-340, and then take a really scenic route through the back roads, starting with a right on Cider Mill Rd (bring a map). From D.C., the best and simplest route is the aforementioned I-66 W to US-50 W. From Baltimore and Central Maryland, take US-70 W to Frederick and switch to US-340 S, then continue as from Harpers Ferry.
See
Well, the mountains on the horizon. Consensus is wineries are the best place for viewing!
Eat
- Grandale Farm Restaurant, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville, ☏ +1 540-668-6000. W-Th 5-9PM, F-Su noon-4PM and 5-9PM. Every item is prepared from scratch and sourced locally wherever possible. The Manor House has a pond covered with many different aquatic plants and wildlife. The restaurant also hosts local talent, from musicians to dinner theater.
- Magnolias at the Mill, 198 N 21st St, Purcellville, ☏ +1 540 338-9800. M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight, Su 11AM-9PM. Free parking is available, and the patio is dog friendly.
Drink
- Bluemont Vineyards, 18755 Foggy Bottom Rd, ☏ +1 540 554-8439. March-Oct: Th-Su 11AM-6PM, Nov-Feb: F-Su 11AM-5PM. This is one of the most popular weekend winery get-away for Washingtonians, with its proximity and name-recognition. It's admittedly a little big and touristy, but that's just a reason to combine it with another quieter local winery. The ample balcony/patio seating and spectacular views are reason enough to come. Decent food too, and frequent summertime live music (check the online calendar).
- Twin Oaks Tavern Winery, 18035 Raven Rocks Rd, ☏ +1 504 554-4547. Th-M noon-6PM. And here's that aforepromised quiet nearby winery. A new vineyard, this place looks a small retreat, and is run by a Marylander who just loves the area. They also have live music in the summer, usually more small-time folksy than Bluemonth Vineyards, as well as a smaller balcony patio overlooking the mountains. Friendly spot!