This Lesser-known Virginia Destination Has Secluded Waterfalls, Wine Tasting, and a Charming Historic Town—and It’s 3 Hours From Washington, D.C.

Roughly three hours from Washington, D.C., Nelson County, Virginia, is a charming destination with an ideal combination of outdoor adventure, historic charm, and award-winning wineries.

As someone who grew up in Virginia, I’ve visited Nelson County more times than I can count. I’ve hiked its scenic trails, explored its hidden waterfalls, and even chosen it as the backdrop for some of the most important moments in my life—I got married nearby and celebrated my rehearsal dinner at the stunning Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards.

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Nelson County feels like a world away from the big city. Its quiet roads, rolling farmland, friendly communities, and local businesses provide a sense of escape, a slower pace of life, and the chance to unwind in Virginia’s countryside.

Whether you’re drawn to hiking among hidden waterfalls, savoring delicious wines, or relaxing in a quaint historic town, Nelson County offers something for every type of traveler.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Iris Inn

Located on a hilltop with jaw-dropping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Iris Inn is a peaceful retreat with luxury cabins, private cottages, charming suites, and a welcoming main lodge. Guests have praised this boutique property for its impeccable service, romantic ambience, and convenient location near the area’s top hikes and wineries.

The Farmhouse at Veritas

Set at Veritas Vineyard & Winery, this charming farmhouse offers guests a unique wine country experience. With six comfortable bedrooms and a fresh farm breakfast each morning, it’s peaceful retreat just steps from delicious food and fine wine.

Everett Estate

Once known as the Mark Addy Inn, this historic bed-and-breakfast has been beautifully restored and now offers 11 suites perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration and wine tasting. The property itself is stunning, with scenic mountain views, a large front porch, and a gravel patio with chairs and a fire pit, making for a warm spot to experience true Southern hospitality.

Best Things to Do

Hike to Crabtree Falls.

As an avid hiker, I can confidently say this is one of my favorite hikes in the state. It’s one of the tallest vertical-drop cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning views at every turn. The trail winds through lush forest and leads to multiple overlooks, making it a must for nature lovers.

Explore the Monticello Wine Trail.

Discover some of Virginia’s finest wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail. This scenic route features award-winning vineyards where you can sip exceptional wines while taking in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Discover Upper Shamokin Falls.

This hidden gem waterfall hike offers a peaceful, scenic route through lush Virginia forests. Heather Smith, events manager and marketing coordinator at Wintergreen Resort, describes it as a moderate trail suitable for a wide range of ages and a must-visit in the area.

Ride Down the Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Drive.

Drive along one of America’s most scenic highways, with breathtaking mountain vistas, hiking trails, and plenty of spots for a lovely picnic.

Visit Wintergreen Resort.

Wintergreen Resort offers outdoor activities year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in the colder months to hiking, golfing, and zip lining in the warmer temperatures. With incredible mountain views and plenty of trails to explore, it’s a great destination for adventure lovers, no matter the season.

Best Restaurants

Blue Mountain Brewery

Known for its great beer selection and laid-back atmosphere, Blue Mountain Brewery is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a pint after your daily adventures. It’s famous for its pizza, sandwiches, and burgers, but there’s also a wide array of outdoor seating and lawn games. Whether you’re relaxing on the patio or enjoying a game of cornhole, Smith says, “Blue Mountain Brewery is always a crowd-pleaser.”

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards

Though it’s best known for its breathtaking views and award-winning wines, Pippin Hill also has fantastic farm-to-table dining. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating in a picturesque setting provides the perfect environment for enjoying fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Devils Backbone Brewing Company

With award-winning craft beers and satisfying pub food, this popular brewery is another excellent place to unwind after a day of exploring. I particularly love their tasty nachos, brisket-loaded fries, and flavorful pulled pork sandwich.

Basic Necessities

Bare Necessities is a cozy cafe serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients and European-inspired dishes, along with an impressive wine selection. While it’s a popular choice for lunch, the Sunday brunch is a standout, too.

Veritas Vineyard & Winery

The Veritas tasting room is a must-visit for wine lovers looking for a relaxed yet elegant experience, complete with delicious cheese boards, sandwiches, salads, wraps, and light snacks. Of course, the views are top-notch, and dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nelson County is from March through November. Each season offers something special. Spring brings colorful wildflowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for hiking and exploring. Smith says summer is gorgeous, with the mountains turning green and inviting beautiful hikes. Then, there are the patios at restaurants, wineries, and breweries all encouraging visitors to dine and drink al fresco. Fall is the most popular season, with stunning foliage and wineries in full harvest mode. While winter isn’t peak season, it’s still a good time for a quiet, cozy retreat with fewer crowds. Plus, Wintergreen Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

How to Get There

The closest major airport is Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO), about 45 minutes away. It offers connections to major cities. Travelers from Washington, D.C. can tackle the scenic, three-hour drive via I-66 and US-29 for a quick weekend getaway.

Cities and Neighborhoods to Visit

Lovingston

The historic center of Nelson County, this charming small town is home to boutique shops, historic architecture, and a warm, welcoming community. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Lovingston Historic District and the courthouse, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Fun fact: The town’s jail was designed by Thomas Jefferson.

Afton

This charming town is home to some of the region’s top wineries and breweries. It also serves as the starting point for Nelson 151, a picturesque Virginia byway with a variety of breweries, cideries, wineries, and other craft beverage spots. Smith is a big fan of Afton Mountain Vineyards, sharing, “They have a beautiful tasting room, breathtaking views, and some of the best wine in the area.”

Nellysford

Nellysford provides easy access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and local artisan markets. It’s also home to Wintergreen Resort, a year-round destination perfect for beginner skiers, golfers, or anyone seeking an underrated resort with great mountain views and a relaxing atmosphere.

How to Get Around

Renting a car is the best way to explore Nelson County, as public transportation is limited. Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are available, but they’re limited and not as common in rural areas. For those planning a wine tour, private car services and guided tours are highly recommended for a safe and stress-free experience.