The beautiful scenery. The leisurely drive. The surprising and delightful discoveries. This and more await you when you do a road trip across Loudoun County.
Even better, there are several scenic routes to choose from, so there’s a wealth of experiences for you to enjoy. To help you get started, we created this Loudoun County, VA travel guide for road trip enthusiasts.
Snickersville Turnpike
Looking for a quick yet lovely day trip that doesn’t skimp on scenic sights? Then the Snickersville Turnpike should be right up your alley. Built in the 1800s to partially replace the county’s first toll road, this 15-mile drive is chock-full of picturesque locations. Along the way, you’ll encounter wildflower-strewn meadows, mountain views, historic bridges, charming farmhouses, and more. If you’d like to take your time and make your drive a two-day trip, you can also stay at a rustic bed and breakfasts in Bluemont. Since you’re staying the night, why not indulge yourself in some wine tasting at the area’s renowned vineyards?
Purcellville and Waterford
Though just eight miles apart, Purcellville and Waterford offer vastly different though equally enthralling experiences. Foodies are sure to love Purcellville, a small town that has a smorgasbord of delicious eateries to try. It is home to Monk’s BBQ, a family-owned joint that serves old-fashioned smoked meats. Market Burger, meanwhile, offers tasty burgers made fresh daily using locally sourced ingredients. And for the best drinks, head over to Catoctin Creek Distillery, where you can sample award-winning spirits. Once you’ve had your fill, drive straight to Waterford, a beautiful village that boasts many historic attractions. These include Union Cemetery, Waterford Corner Store, and the local post office. You can also stroll along Lower Main Street to see rows of homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Southern Loudoun Scenic Drive
This road trip is all about idyllic charm. Over its 60-mile stretch, you’ll pass through lush open parklands and quaint towns that evoke a bygone era. Your journey begins and ends in Gilberts Corner, but you’ll pass by Middleburg, Marshall, and La Grange, among other towns. During your sojourn, don’t forget to take selfies at the historic Aldie Mill, Sky Meadows State Park, and Stribling Orchard. You can also enjoy unforgettable moments like wine tasting at The Winery at La Grange, a leisurely picnic in the town of The Plains, and a sumptuous meal at Hunter’s Head Tavern in Upperville. This road trip may last only about two hours, but it will yield memories that will last far longer.
Horse & Hunt Country
This 25-mile ride from Aldie to Philomont is every bit as scenic as it is historic. The region is dubbed “The Capital of Horse and Hunt Country” because of its idyllic horse farms and lush forests. Highlights of the drive include a stop at Welbourne B&B, a working horse farm founded in 1775 that now also offers accommodations to travelers. Another must-see stop is the Red Fox Inn, which former first lady Jackie Onassis used to frequent. End your day at the Philomont General Store, where you can feast on fresh deli sandwiches, ice cream, and other gourmet food.
Virginia-Maryland Border
Loudoun County’s proximity to Maryland makes it easy to explore the wonders of this historic area. Right from the get-go, you’ll be exploring Leesburg, a picture-perfect and historic town in Northern Loudoun County (be sure to grab a slice of Mom’s Apple Pie!). You’ll then be making stops at Balls Bluff Battlefield Park and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, before touring Tarara Winery. Crossing over into Maryland, you’ll encounter Point of Rocks and its historic railroad station, before concluding your trip at Dickerson Conservation Park. If you have time to spare, book a room at The Inn at Stone Manor in Middletown.
Charles Town Pike
The Charles Town Pike route is another interstate road trip, this time taking you to West Virginia. The starting point is Paeonian Springs, whose historic district features 58 buildings constructed between 1880 and 1910. You’ll then reach Hillsboro, home to Stoneybrook Farm & Market, an organic farm that also sells scrumptious sandwiches and smoothies. Another worthwhile destination in town is Hillsboro Vineyards, where you can sample their estate wines. Your final destination is Harpers Ferry in West Virginia, a historic town at the intersection of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
If it’s scenic views and a laid-back lifestyle you’re after, Loudoun County, VA is the perfect choice. And the best part? There are properties still available here. To start your home search, just get in touch with the Wicker Homes Group at 571.338.3880 or debbiewicker(at)wickerhomes(dotted)com.