Skyline Drive: Gateway to The Virginia Piedmont
–––––,
The Virginia Piedmont
There’s something special in the foothills of the Virginia Piedmont located east of the park. This is a region rich in natural beauty, American history, farmlands, quaint towns and inns, wineries and fine dining. Hike or horseback ride through fields and woods or bicycle along winding scenic roads. Don your favorite hat and head to the Gold Cup races, a steeplechase or other equestrian event.
Culpeper County, Virginia
Visit Culpeper and step back into a simpler time. A stellar example of the Virginia Main Street program, the Town of Culpeper has revitalized its downtown with world-class restaurants, art galleries, antique stores, and unique gift shops. Architecturally and historically important, Culpeper’s Victorian homes and Colonial era churches complement its equally rich Civil War significance.
Fauquier County, Virginia
Just 45 minutes west of Washington, D.C., fast-paced city life melts into the distance opening your eyes to the beauty, charm and wonder of this country paradise. From our award-winning wineries and quaint Main Street shopping to our rich outdoor life and historic celebrations, Fauquier County is rich with revitalizing opportunities.
Steeped in equestrian tradition, Fauquier’s calendar is packed with large equestrian events, including Virginia & International Gold Cup event and many more.
Madison County, Virginia
Paleo-Indians, the royal governor Alexander Spottswood and the Knights of the Golden Horseshoe, as well as Civil War Generals Stonewall Jackson and J. E. B. Stuart along with their men have all been visitors to Madison County.
Madison County, formed in 1792, was named for the family of future president James Madison. In character and feeling, the County has changed little since the day it was created. Agriculture is still the dominant industry.
Orange County, Virginia
Established in 1734, Orange County was named in honor of William, Prince of Orange and covered an area that extended to the Mississippi River and Great Lakes. Orange County is graced with rolling landscapes and incredibly breathtaking mountain vistas.
Visit Montpelier, the beautifully restored home of James Madison, walking in the footsteps of our nation’s fourth President and “Father of the Constitution.”
Rappahannock County, Virginia
Here in Rappahannock County the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains give way to scenic rolling hills, rambling streams and rivers, pastureland with grazing cattle, birding and wildlife trails, and the charm of historic villages that dot the countryside.
Home to The Villages of Rappahannock — Little Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill — which are nestled in the Greater Piedmont Region of Virginia, we provide the perfect location for your getaway, day trip, or special event.
Towns of the Virginia Piedmont
Explore the best Virginia has to offer in the Towns of Culpeper, Gordonsville, Madison, Orange, Remington, The Plains, Warrenton, and Washington.
Featuring the Five Diamond/Five Star Inn at Little Washington, a theatre featuring world-renowned musicians, the estate of our fourth President, home to one of the first legal distilleries in Virginia, award-wining wineries and breweries, specialty shops and unique lodging, our towns have something for everyone.
Choose your Adventure
ROAD TRIP EXPERIENCES IN THE PIEDMONT and CHARLOTTESVILLE
Outdoor Recreation
The Blue Ridge Mountains, scenic country roads, rivers and forests and state and regional parks provide the perfect setting for a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures all year long.
Art and Culture
The Virginia Piedmont is not limited to nature and history. The arts and culture play an active role in the region’s allure as a destination. Nationally recognized artists create and display their original works in galleries and studios. Live theater, concerts, and festivals are held throughout the year.
History and Heritage
In the Piedmont, you can follow the footsteps of the many leaders who walked here before, from Indigenous Tribal Chiefs to Presidents. Visit the towns, battlefields and historic homes where our nation was forged by the “Founding Fathers” and by every person building toward the future of the United States.
Lodging and Events
From four and five-star country inns to historic manors and country estates, farmhouses, small inns and B&B’s, private rental homes, cottages, and cabins, you will find lodging for every taste. The region also offers a variety of locations to accommodate weddings, special events and conferences.
Food and Beverages
From locally-grown food served in the finest restaurants to award-winning beverages, you’ll see why our reputation as a culinary mecca continues to grow. Classic, family-owned diners to five-star experiences known the world over, there’s a restaurant to tempt every palate and a drink for all.
Life in the Piedmont
Life is good in The Virginia Piedmont! Small towns and villages whose Main Streets and homes date back to the early days of the country, dot the landscape. Large farms, horse ranches and orchards extend for miles providing peaceful vistas and a sense of tranquility.