Fall in Love in Loudoun This Fall

Escape to the historic town of Purcellville, which is considered, “everybody's home town." Named after the town store in the early 1800’s, this town carries a history spanning the Quakers, African Americans, Civil War, transportation and more. Let the aroma of smoked meats carry you to the first stop, which is lunch at Monk’s BBQ. With house-smoked meats, homemade sauces with locally sourced ingredients, twists on the classics and bacon on a stick, you are sure to find something that will leave your mouth watering for more!

Still in historic Purcellville, head to Catoctin Creek Distillery. The first distillery in Loudoun County since prohibition, the owners take locally made to a new level by growing their grain at another local Loudoun landmark, Morven Park. In addition to their whiskey, they stock other spirits and goodies in what used to be an old car dealership. You can still see the original ceiling panels and other unique features.

Heading east, stop at The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, which features a restored 100-year-old stone and wood dairy barn that was transformed into a unique tasting room. Sit on the patio or walk the grounds while savoring a glass of wine.

Continue to the nation’s horse and hunt capital, Middleburg, Virginia. Here, enjoy dinner at the Red Fox Inn & Tavern, which has offered uninterrupted hospitality to travelers for over 275 years. As history unfolded, the Red Fox remained a steady Middleburg venue and has welcomed everyone from John F. Kennedy to Elizabeth Taylor. Highlighting local ingredients, the restaurant boasts delicious meals, their famous peanut soup and an ambience to match.

Make your way to Salamander Middleburg for an unprecedented experience in horse country.  This highly acclaimed luxury hotel, which opened in 2013, features a previously unattainable collection of equestrian, spa, culinary, winery, nature and dining experiences.

Day 2

Wander into historic Middleburg, just a short walk from the resort, to enjoy coffee at local favorite Middleburg Common Grounds then visit the National Sporting Library and Museum. This hidden gem houses a collection of more than 20,000 literary works and 800 pieces of art. Literature and art come together in the library’s collection of “fore-edge” books. Be sure to ask a librarian what a fore-edge book is!

The first winery of the day is Boxwood Estate Winery, which is located on one of the oldest horse farms in Middleburg, making this a National Historic Landmark. Owned by former Washington Redskins Owner, Boxwood was built with up-to-date technology, but uses old-world winemaking technique. This modern tasting room has a feel like few others; clean and sparse the wine is where the focus lies.

Savor local flavors with lunch at Market Salamander. With a menu of sandwiches, salads and additional options based on seasonal favorites, this European market inspired restaurant is a must see. Don’t forget to look at the baked goods and market items to take with you upon departure.

After, visit  Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery where a variety of infused ciders from the usual like fresh ginger to the unusual like honey, blueberries and even peppers can be found. The tasting is sure to surprise your tastebuds. Also known for their Absinthe, these handcrafted beverages are one of a kind.

Chrysalis Vineyards’ new tasting room is the next stop, sitting on 412 acres, grab a glass of wine or a bottle and enjoy views of the Blue Ridge and Bull Run mountains. Named for the state of transformation from a caterpillar to a butterfly, the touches of butterfly artwork are found everywhere, most noticeably on the bottle logos.

Head back to the Salamander and enjoy dinner at Harriman’s Virginia Piedmont Grill this evening. Highlighting fresh local goods sourced from the chef’s garden on property, the menu focuses on farm-to-table cuisine. If you want to go for something a little more relaxed, enjoy dinner at Gold Cup Wine Bar.

Day 3