Itineraries
Autumn Getaway in Abingdon
This Fall, fall in love with Abingdon, VA (3 Days)
Autumn is a particularly spectacular time in the Blue Ridge Mountains around Abingdon, with trees gradually turning shades of red, orange and gold. Take advantage of the crisp autumn air, delicious fall bounty and breathtaking scenery with a fall getaway to Abingdon, Virginia.
This three-day itinerary highlights the best of the season.
Day One
Begin your day with a ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34 mile hiking, biking and horseback riding trail. The fall season brings perfect temperatures and unbelievable scenery with an abundance of autumn color. Rent a bike or bring your own, taking a shuttle to the top of Whitetop Mountain and coasting downhill through Jefferson National Forest. Between Abingdon and Damascus, a short distance off the trail in Alvarado you will find Abingdon Vineyards, Washington County’s first Virginia Farm Winery. Hop off the trail to recharge your batteries with a wine tasting and lunch on the serene outdoor patio overlooking the South Holston River.
After an active day of adventure, unwind at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, a historic 4-star inn originally constructed in 1832. Enjoy a cocktail on the wide front porch, overlooking Main Street, or schedule a massage at the Martha’s day spa to work out those kinks from the day.
Next, make plans for dinner at one of Abingdon’s independent restaurants, almost all of which are located within an easy walk from The Martha. Abingdon’s culinary scene ranges from home-style southern comfort food to sophisticated fine dining. Look for the Rooted in Appalachia designation, indicating restaurants that source their ingredients from local farmers, guaranteeing dishes that are always fresh and in season.
Day Two
Pick up some fuel for the trail at Blue Hills Market, and head out for a driving tour of Southwestern Virginia’s fall beauty by traveling State Highway US 58 toward Damascus. Stop off in Damascus for a day hike on the Appalachian Trail, which runs right through downtown, or continue driving to Mount Rogers– the highest mountain peak in Virginia.
That evening, take in a show from the historic Barter Theatre.
Day Three
Stroll the tree-lined brick sidewalks of the historic downtown district; enjoy the vibrant foliage while taking a self-guided walking tour. Explore the various shops and boutiques along Main Street and find unique gifts, Virginia wines, tea parlors, art galleries, an olive oil tasting room, and studios that showcase local artists.
The award-winning Abingdon Farmers Market is in full swing during September and October, with fresh local produce like sweet peppers, tomatoes greens, pumpkins and pasture-raised meat.
Stop by the Arts Depot, located in a historic train station, and watch as local artists work in their studios, or shop at Holston Mountain Artisans, one of the country’s oldest craft collectives. For happy hour, check out Wolf Hills Brewing Company and enjoy a craft brew and live local music, stop by Court Street to sample some locally sourced cider from Tumbling Creek Cidery Company, then walk over to The Tavern to enjoy fine dining in an original inn & tavern built in 1779.
