Afton is found in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, about 20 miles from Charlottesville. The Rockfish Gap, a famous wind gap in the Blue Ridge, runs through Afton Mountain. Home of famous writer Rita Mae Brown and musician Mary Chapin Carpenter, Afton attracts people from around the world, be it to move there or to visit. Also found in Afton is the well-known and well-traveled Nelson 151, a craft beverage trail that features 6 wineries, 4 breweries, 3 cideries, and a distillery. With year-round festivals and events, there’s something to do in Afton every season!
Come out of your winter hibernation… Visit Nelson County this spring! As you drive in, marvel at the gorgeous pastels that begin to creep across the landscape- the apple & peach blossoms fill the air with sweet fragrance. If you’re looking for the perfect day trip or weekend adventure, you’ll want to check out Nelson 151, one of the county’s three famous craft beverage trails. Soak in spring’s beauty by taking in the scenery at Veritas Vineyards & Winery and Afton Mountain Vineyards, then head over to Silverback Distillery, owned by Congressman Denver Riggleman, and purchase a bottle of top-shelf bourbon, whiskey, or gin. You’re in luck if you want to check out a cidery next- Nelson 151 includes three: Blue Toad Hard Cider, Bryant’s Small Batch, and Bold Rock Hard Cider. Most of the craft breweries include special weekend events and live music. Nelson 151’s wineries often include food with tastings.
If you’d like to do a little shopping, check out the craft brewery gift shops or take a short drive to the Rockfish Valley Community Center, a repurposed school building featuring local shops. Purchase a piece of Nelsonite, Virginia’s state rock, at The VA Rock Shop. If you’re into local art, check out the Rockfish Pottery Collective or the Rockfish River Gallery. Deal-hunters can see what’s available at Treasure Chest Thrift Store. Eat creative, comforting fare at Wild Wolf Brewing Company or Blue Mountain Brewery along Nelson 151.
If you’re spending the weekend in Nelson, good for you! Stay at one of Nelson’s quaint B&Bs or spacious inns. Need even more space? Rent an entire home in the mountains! Nelson’s craft breweries could write a book on responsibility- many offer accommodations on-site, like The Inn at Blue Mountain’s 4,000 square-foot country home, or WildManDan’s Beercentric B&B, which offers a great environment- along with hammock swings and a fireplace.
Amenities
- LGBTQ+ Friendly
Region
Last Updated: 09/11/2020
