WanderLove: Your Ultimate Scenic Road Trip Guide to Madison County, Virginia
Imagine hitting the open road through gently rolling hills, expansive pastures, and towering forests. Madison County, Virginia, delivers on those countryside dreams and so much more.
With its lush, serene landscapes evoking a century past, Madison County boasts charming farmhouses, grazing cattle, and majestic horses. Peppered with inviting inns and B&Bs, it's the ideal destination for aimless wandering, adventure, self-reflection, and quality time with loved ones. Start your journey in the welcoming town of Madison.
Pro Tip: Always contact businesses ahead to confirm hours, availability, and any requirements.
ROUTE 231 (OLD BLUE RIDGE TURNPIKE): MADISON TO ETLAN
22 miles, about 36 minutes
In Madison, step onto the wide front porch of She She on Main, an upscale consignment shop brimming with treasures like bejeweled gowns, custom jewelry, accessories, everyday wear, and household décor. Nearby, a charming new toy shop delights visitors of all ages.
Just up the street, veteran-owned Mad Local serves up Southern comfort food with genuine hospitality. Savor starters like fried green tomatoes, alongside local meats, produce, wines, and beers.
Stop by the Madison County Visitors Center en route for the latest on events, activities, and local insights.
Detour from VA 231 at Banco onto VA 670 to Banco's artists' haven. Possum’s Store (A Curious Place) in Criglersville features local pottery, stained glass, abstract wood sculptures, and whimsical possum décor in a bright, airy historic general store (circa 1900).
A short drive away, Rose River Farm offers trophy trout fishing in crystal-clear spring waters. Enjoy catch-and-release fly fishing, private or group lessons, or book a luxury yurt cabin for an immersive overnight stay.
At Graves Mountain Farm and Lodge, spanning 1,100 acres of streams, ponds, forests, and meadows, try horseback riding (1-6 hours), apple picking (27 varieties in fall), hayrides, hiking, or fishing. Relax on the porch with stunning views or dine at the farm restaurant.
Follow winding VA 642 north to Etlan, where a LOVEworks sculpture welcomes you to solar-powered Ducard Vineyards. Reserve a patio table for mountain views of Shenandoah National Park, wine tastings, pairings, or premium library wines. Continue the Blue Ridge Whisky Wine Loop northward.
Alternatively, reconnect to VA 231 south on Ft. Valley Road to Blue Quartz Winery and Shotwell Run Brewing Company—sample wines, beers, and ciders in one tasting room.
Lodging Options
- Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges: Cozy cabins, cottages, and suites. On-site restaurant open to all.
- Rose River Farm
- Spirit Dancer Lodge
ROUTE 29: DOWNTOWN MADISON TO LEON
25 miles, about 45 minutes
Known as the Tween Rivers Trail, this Route 29 stretch highlights Madison County's gems between the Rapidan and Rappahannock Rivers.
Bald Top Brewery offers ample outdoor space, picnic tables, artisan beers from brewer Mike, and rotating food trucks. Owners Dave and Julie share insights; check for events and live music.
Head north on VA 231 to Clore, renowned for early American-style handcrafted furniture from durable hardwoods like cherry, oak, and walnut—a family tradition since 1830.
Prince Michel Vineyards, a Virginia wine pioneer, boasts award-winning wines (400+ medals) from winemaker Brad Hanson. Tour the oval bar and glass catwalk overlooking the cellar; shop accessories and book vineyard suites.
In Leon, turn right on VA 631 to Spruce Rock Farm (Thanksgiving–Christmas Eve) for choose-and-cut trees including blue spruce, Canaan fir, Fraser fir, concolor fir, and white spruce.
At Revalation Vineyards (near Reva), international owners Julien and Francoise Seillier-Moiseiwitsch craft viognier, chardonnay, vidal blanc, and more in experimental vineyards. Enjoy tastings in a reclaimed log cabin. Reservations recommended.
PHOTO CREDIT: M.A.P DRONES
Dining options: Prince Michel Vineyards or Tap 29 Brewery's pub fare with outdoor seating.
Lodging Options
- Prince Michel Suites
ROUTE 29: LEON TO ORANGE
20 miles, 30 minutes
South on VA 287, Madison County Farmers Market emphasizes local produce, eggs, meats, wine, and beer—all from nearby family farms.
Nearby, Madison Gardens offers farm-fresh produce, plants, and flowers.
Yoder’s Country Market specializes in Mennonite baked goods like fry pies, shoofly pie, and German chocolate cupcakes. Grab counter lunch, picnic outdoors, or visit the petting zoo.
Via Wolftown Road, Early Mountain Vineyards blends grand lodge luxury with sophisticated wines. 2019 award-winner Eluvium red blend shines; owners Jean and Steve Case highlight Virginia wines.
Back on VA 29 south, Bavarian Chef (since 1974) delights with wiener schnitzel, bratwurst, and weisswurst. Dine in or take out.
Plow & Hearth's log cabin shop overflows with flannel sheets, fireplace tools, feeders, and mountain retreat essentials.
MAD Arts (Madison Arts Exchange) showcases 200+ local artisans' unique works in a charming multi-room house.
U-turn north to Southern Grace for Virginia's largest outdoor water fountain display, eclectic garden art, and décor amid towering trees (appointments advised).
Nearby, The Inn and Tavern at Meander exudes 1700s Southern elegance with formal gardens, porch rocking chairs, and historic ties to Jefferson and Lafayette.
Lodging Options
- Inn and Tavern at Meander
BONUS: SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK EXCURSIONS
Spanning 70 miles of Blue Ridge skyline, the park features Madison County's top draws.
Park at Nethers (end of SR 601) for Old Rag Mountain: 5-mile hike to 3,284-ft summit (360° views) or 9-mile circuit with rock scrambling.
White Oak Canyon Trail boasts six waterfalls (86-ft tallest). Hike in boots; swim in base pools.
Extend your adventure south into Orange County for more Virginia LOVE signs on scenic byways.
