Four Unforgettable Virginia Adventures: Beaches, History, Mountains, and Trails

Create lasting memories by exploring these four exceptional destinations across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Build your ultimate travel itinerary with these must-see experiences!

—Virginia’s Stunning Beaches—

The Destination: “Paddle Your Glass Off Tour” with SouthEast Expeditions, Bayford

SouthEast Expeditions provides guided tours that blend the natural beauty of Virginia’s Eastern Shore with immersive educational activities, like harvesting fresh clams for dinner. The popular “Paddle Your Glass Off Tour” starts in charming Bayford. Begin with an on-land paddling clinic, then embark on a 45-minute kayak journey southward, spotting abundant wildlife—especially nesting birds near Rabbit Island. Next, visit Chatham Vineyards, strolling past the historic Federalist-era Chatham home and 20 acres of vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings in the tasting room, a facility tour highlighting winemaking and vineyard history, plus cheese pairings. Relax with a glass before paddling back. Priced at $89 per person, the tour includes kayak rental, guide, winery experience, and a complimentary bottle of wine for every two participants.

—Virginia’s Rich History—

The Destination: James Madison’s Montpelier, Orange

Deepen your knowledge of James Madison—the fourth U.S. President, Father of the Constitution, Architect of the Bill of Rights, and husband to Dolley, America’s first “First Lady.” At his lifelong home, Montpelier, expertly guided tours by knowledgeable historians reveal intimate details of Madison’s life and era. Explore the restored mansion, then visit reconstructed sites of the enslaved community to honor the Black Americans who lived and served there. The poignant exhibit The Mere Distinction of Colour shares broader slavery narratives alongside personal stories from Montpelier’s enslaved individuals. Wander over eight miles of wooded trails across the 2,650-acre estate for breathtaking views. Refuel at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center’s Exchange Café with acclaimed barbecue.

—Virginia’s Majestic Mountains—

The Destination: Beartown Mountain, Lebanon

Nestled in the Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area in eastern Russell County, Beartown Mountain rises to 4,689 feet—Virginia's seventh-highest summit. Its dramatic scenery shines best from nearby peaks, as direct access involves challenging bushwhacking through overgrown rhododendrons, briars, and brush, especially in summer. Admire it from accessible trails on Flattop Mountain and Garden Mountain in the Clinch Range, both exceeding 4,000 feet. For more wonders, visit Burke’s Garden—a unique “God’s Thumbprint” valley—and the Channels Natural Area Preserve, featuring ancient sandstone formations over 400 million years old.

—Virginia’s Ultimate Outdoors—

The Destination: Spearhead Trails, St. Paul

Experience Southwest Virginia’s Spearhead Trails for thrilling scenery, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and non-stop excitement. Five multi-use trail systems welcome ATV riders, dirt bikes, mountain bikers, and hikers. Highlighted on the Virginia is for Lovers Travel Guide’s Special Edition, the 100-mile Mountain View Trail launches from ATV-friendly St. Paul (with a Coeburn trailhead). Beginner to expert options abound, including 17 miles of single-track for dirt bikes. Beyond Mountain View, explore:

• Ridgeview
• Stone Mountain
• Coal Canyon
• Original Pocahontas
• Coming Soon: Clinch River Equestrian Trail for horseback riders.

*No ATV? Rent from Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure in nearby Grundy.

Ready for more Virginia vacation ideas? Order the latest Virginia is for Lovers Travel Guide today!