Please see our January/February 2022 issue for the full details on what to see on these trails. And use the information here to plan distinctive, unique dining and lodging of every level for each trek.
West Virginia
Washington Heritage Trail
Dine. The Press Room (Shepherdstown). This popular dining establishment will likely require a reservation up to one week in advance. Selecting from the menu might prove challenging with delicious choices such as grilled calamari, smoked bluefish and PEI mussels on just the appetizer menu. They also offer an international wine list and full bar to compliment the Mediterranean-accented dinner and Sunday brunch fare. (pressroomwv.com)
Kitzie’s Restaurant & Lounge (Martinsburg). Stop by “the city’s best kept secret” for a terrific steak and seafood meal. With hundreds of positive reviews online, thousands of followers on social media and two locations, it’s likely this eatery will not remain a “secret” for much longer. (kitziesrestaurant.com)
Stay. Hillbrook Inn & Spa (Charles Town) offers 19 guest suites located across the lands first purchased by George Washington in the 1750s. With clawfoot tubs, rich hardwood, fireplaces and custom duvets inside and orchards, stone pathways and quiet woods outside, guests return year after year for the luxury, elegant dining and full spa services. (hillbrookinn.com)
Cacapon Hideaway (Morgan County). At this family-owned destination, choose a stay in the rustic cabin with hardwood floors, full kitchen and bath, fireplace and roomy outdoor area. Or, reserve a two-bedroom country home with all amenities. Also, on the property is a small A-frame camping cabin and several primitive tent sites. Nearby are the Potomac and Cacapon rivers and the new 354-acre Eidolon Nature Preserve. (cacaponhideaway.com)
Midland Trail/U.S. Route 60 National & State Scenic Byway
Dine. Up Da Hollor Pizza (Cabin Creek). For legit pizza, wings and subs, stop just off Route 60 at this new eatery. Begun with a dream and some mad kitchen skills, this family-owned business is quickly making a name for itself with unique and delicious creations. The dough is made from scratch and a five-cheese blend is included in all baked items. Finish with a “sweet hollor pizza” made with fruit pie filling and icing. (updahollorpizza.com)
The Greenbrier (White Sulphur Springs). Take the opportunity to dine at this luxury mountain resort and experience “Life as Few Know It.” The atmosphere of a “grand southern resort” is created with stately columns, bespoke chandeliers and arched windows with stunning views at this restaurant. Come dressed in your finest for a culinary delight at breakfast, lunch or dinner. (greenbrier.com)
Stay. The James Wylie House Bed & Breakfast (White Sulphur Springs) has welcomed travelers for almost 200 years. Four rooms in this in-town mansion are well-appointed with antiques, baths, views and even some original fixtures. Cozy parlors are available for gathering and relaxing. While in the area, visit Lost World Caverns and hike various trails at nearby state and national forests followed by a spa treatment. (jameswylie.com)
Heritage Farm Museum & Village (Huntington). Book a reservation in a log cabin, farm house, cottage and even a restored train caboose. Explore the blacksmith shop, artisan center, log church, nature center and seven themed museums (transportation, country store, doll and carriage, progress, schoolhouse, heritage and children’s activities). (heritagefarmmuseum.com)
Virginia
The Crooked Road – Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail
Dine. Hob-Nob Drive-In (Gate City). Come see why this family-owned business has served up locals for over 60 years. Choose from 19 kinds of hamburgers plus hotdogs, grilled cheese, catfish and more. If you want to know (or remember) what a REAL milkshake tastes like, this is the place. Friendly staff and consistently delicious food make this the meal stop where folks say, “If you leave hungry, it’s your own fault!” (2256 Daniel Boone Rd. 24251)
The Bristol Hotel (Bristol). For Appalachian cuisine reimagined, make a reservation at Vivian’s Table in this boutique hotel. Come for breakfast, Sunday brunch and dinner. On the evening menu are unique creations such as fried green tomato caprese and smoked gouda grits. For the main course, select from grilled steaks, lobster and waffles, rainbow trout and Appalachian stuffed chicken. You may also order from the menu while enjoying live music up top. (bristolhotelva.com)
Stay. The Martha Washington Inn & Spa (Abingdon) is a meticulously preserved 1832 structure, now a centerpiece of history with the comforts of modern amenities. Sixty-three rooms and suites are each decorated with antiques to create individualized atmospheres reminiscent of the 19th Century. On the property are the expected pool, jacuzzi, tennis courts and fitness facility; and, the unexpected ladies boutique, mini golf course and private library of American Literature (available to guests). (themartha.com)
Blue Ridge Motel (Patrick County). For an overnight stay at U. S. 58 and just a stone’s throw from the Blue Ridge Parkway (MP 177.7), opt for this quaint, vintage-style motel. As a mom-and-pop-owned business, it calls to mind the motor hotel of days gone by. Former guests always comment on the friendliness and cleanliness at this establishment. There are 19 rooms, and the location in the picturesque Meadows of Dan area makes this the perfect stop for peace, quiet and stunning views. (2295 Jeb Stuart Hwy, Meadows of Dan, VA 24120)
Monticello Wine Trail
Dine. Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie (North Garden). Come taste why food doesn’t have to be fancy to be good, according to the owner of this popular “dive” that serves the best pizza in the area. Oh, and accolades also bestowed for best wings… best fries… best fried fish… best strombolis…and the best cheese bread. All dishes on the menu are made from scratch (“ho-made”) from local sources. (drhoshumblepie.com)
C&O Restaurant (Charlottesville). While the faded Pepsi sign on the outside might suggest a certain diner-esque eatery, this decades-old restaurant is highly regarded in the city. Choose from six unique room themes complete with candlelight, flower arrangements on the tables and a superb menu with a deep wine list. The fare is largely country French with other alternating international flavors. Or stop by for a late-night crème brulée. (candorestaurant.com)
Stay. Afton Mountain Vineyard cottages and guest house (Afton. This location is famous for saying: Grapes don’t grow in ugly places. Choose to stay in one of the four pet-friendly cottages with all the comforts of home and a deck overlooking vineyards, wildflower meadows and wooded, mountain terrain. Or, stay in the two-bedroom guest house with a modern kitchen, screen porch and fireplace only steps from the tasting room. This destination is one of the first farm wineries in the state. (aftonmountainvineyards.com)
Delfosse Vineyards and Winery cabin (Faber). Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind vineyard weekend getaway in a log cabin that dates back to 1870. Inside are modern features including a large bath, full kitchen, fireplace and for the current age—a smart TV and WiFi. Bring your pets and have a picnic by the lake at one of the state’s only terraced vineyards. (delfossewine.com)
Kentucky
Country Music Highway
Dine. The Jockey Club—Corbie’s Department Store (Ashland). Revisit the times when a stop at the department store also meant you could grab a bite to eat. This new little restaurant is the latest, creative addition to a downtown shopping experience. With a lunch menu of classic country food, you’ll find a signature chicken salad croissant, a Waldorf salad, homemade soups, the racetrack recipe of Kentucky Burgoo (a combo of meats, veggies and sauce stew) and the state’s famous “hot brown” – turkey, bacon and cheese sauce. (311 17th St. 41101)
The Brickhouse (Prestonburg). For a delicious meal of Kentucky favorites with a culinary twist, come by this popular restaurant. The brickhouse chicken is famous. Other entrée choices include ribeye, ravioli, salmon and a mouth-watering bourbon maple pork chop, and the goat cheese salad is a scrumptious spring blend. Come by for live music and cocktails Thursday through Saturday. (358 S Central Ave. 41653)
Stay. Jenny Wiley State Park Resort (Floyd County). Enjoy performing arts while staying at the 49-room May Lodge or one of the park’s 18 cottages. Choose a room with a kitchenette or dine at the bar and grill For a leisure RV opportunity (or more nature-centric tent camping), stay at one of the 121 sites at the campground. Visit the gift shop and nature center, and catch a live performance at the outdoor theater. (parks.ky.gov/prestonsburg/parks/resort/jenny-wiley-state-resort-park)
Benham Schoolhouse Inn (Benham). Built in 1926, this former schoolhouse now offers 29 guestrooms created from classrooms that once welcomed coal camp students. Each room has a private, full bath and modern amenities. The restaurant, aptly named “The Dinner Bucket” occupies the principal’s office; and the kitchen was the former home economics classroom. The gymnasium is now a banquet hall. This destination is “The Charm of Tradition Reimagined.” (benhaminn.com)
Wilderness Road Heritage Highway
Dine. Back Porch Smokehouse (Rockcastle County). “Follow the smoke to the big red building,” for authentic barbeque with a view. This family-owned eatery smokes pork, chicken, ribs and briskets daily at their location right on Lake Linville. You can also find country-style catfish, burgers, pinto beans and cornbread, homemade pork skins and a full breakfast menu (all day). Check the schedule for onsite car shows and live music. (backporchsmokehousebbq.com)
Pine Mountain State Resort Lodge (Pineville). Play 18 holes of golf at the championship Wasioto Winds course (nationally ranked in “Golf Digest”), then enjoy cocktails in the lobby bar and a meal at the lodge dining room. Enjoy carved roast beef and a selection of vegetables, the popular fried catfish with hushpuppies or the famous “hot brown” – an open-faced turkey sandwich. Classic meal with a view. (parks.ky.gov/pineville/parks/resort/pine-mountain-state-resort-park)
Stay. England’s Retreat (Mount Vernon). Disappear into a peaceful and secluded location for a weekend getawayon a gated property in the woods. This single cottage is not ‘findable’ with GPS and has no cell phone service. The cottage has all the comforts of home with one bedroom and a pullout love seat. Sleep with the windows open (two Great Pyrenees are “on duty”) to hear the nearby brook. (englandsretrest.webs.com)
Holly Bay Marina (London). How about a week’s stay on a houseboat at Laurel Lake? This pristine body of water has hidden coves, cliff-lined shores, wildlife and the opportunity to scuba dive. Also, expect some prime fishing spots for trout, crappie, catfish and black bass. The houseboats are kitted out with grills, showers, hot water, coolers, stove and refrigerators, utensils, TVs, radio, beds and deck furniture. (hollybaymarina.com)
Tennessee
Top Secret Trail
Dine. Kefi (Knoxville). For an authentic experience in Greek cuisine in a well-appointed dinner setting, this new upscale dining establishment is the destination. Start with flatbreads and spreads. Have a spanakopita pie. Order the kokinisto (braised beef short ribs) or pastitsio (for the béchamel!) or saganaki (the flaming cheese for the experience), and finish with a baklava that will ruin you for all others. (kefiknox.com)
Hoskins Drug Store (Clinton). Remember bellying-up to the lunch counter at the drugstore for a perfect grill cheese and soup? You can still find that and more at this location first established in 1930. The original soda fountain with booths serves hamburgers, chicken strips, chili, chicken/tuna salad, soups, a meat and two plate, a full breakfast menu and, of course, malts and milkshakes from an authentic machine. (hoskinsdrugstore.com)
Stay. Charit Creek Lodge (Jamestown). Start your adventure with a trip to these rustic backcountry lodges in the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area—reachable only via hiking, biking or by horseback. There are five private cabins completely off the grid. The Main Lodge offers delicious breakfasts and dinners included in your stay. Sack lunches are available for purchase. These are some of the oldest structures still in use in the National Park System. (ccl-bsf.com)
Cedar Hill Resort (Celina). Book a stay at the westernmost edge of the trail on Dale Hollow Lake in the Cumberland Mountains. Choose from one- to three-bedroom cabins, houseboats and a hotel all either along the shoreline or on the hillsides overlooking the lake. Fish for world record bass; swimming; skiing; and, scuba diving in the clear lake. Accommodations have modern amenities; restaurant on the property. Pets welcome. (dalehollowlake.org)
Ocoee Scenic Byway
Dine. True at BHB (Cleveland). Located in a renovated vintage shopping mall near downtown, BHB offers modern southern cuisine created by a James Beard Award nominee chef and owner who has cooked for celebrities like Jennifer Anniston and Jeff Foxworthy. For an appetizer, try the Gulf snapper ceviche or hearth baked goat cheese. Entrée choices include filet mignon, roasted Tennessee trout, chicken and waffles or heirloom grain bowl. (baldheadedbistro.com)
Gg’s Diner (Benton). Also known as Lottie’s Diner, the locals-favorite fare is good, downhome country cooking. The breakfast crowd is lined out the door for a reason—anything you want in the realm. Supersized burgers, BBQ and other sandwich choices (chicken, fish and grilled cheese) with home fries and onion rings fill your plate for lunch. (5790 Old Hwy 411, 37307)
Stay. 2 Rivers Campground (Delano). Bring your RV or tent to this quaint, family-owned destination at the confluence of the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers. All sites are on the river. Each location has a nice distance from your neighbors. Launch your water craft from the property. Ask about the vast fields of switchgrass. (2riverscamping.com)
Welcome Valley Village (Polk County). Book a luxurious cabin amongst these 17 acres in the foothills of the Cherokee National Forest. Over 900 feet of waterfront on the Ocoee River surrounded by woodlands. Six cabins come with fireplaces and the option of hot tubs. Three have a river view, two are nestled in the woods and four are pet friendly. New owners are committed to this paradise getaway built by locally loved creator Warnie Dooley Finnell. (welcomevalleyvillage.com)
North Carolina
Waterfall Byway
Dine. ShoeBooties Café (Murphy). Stop at this downtown location for lunch and dinner and a view from the upstairs lounge. For the early meal, order burgundy beef tips, lemon herb crusted trout or salmon or the quiche of the day. Also, a deep menu of soups, salads and sandwiches. In the evening, enjoy scallops Oscar, chicken Marsala, Jack Daniels glazed ribeye or grilled rack of lamb and a homemade dessert shooter to finish. (shoebooties.com)
Calders Coffee Café (Highlands). Enjoy specialty-grade organic coffee, locally made baked goods, artisan crafted merch and fair-trade. Breakfast sandwiches and bagels, and patrons can purchase mugs, teapots/presses/infusers, tea, cider, honey and syrup, candy, cookies and more. (calderscoffeecafe.com)
Stay. Deerfield Inn (Hayesville). A country motel experience with all 20 rooms having outdoor seating and views of Lake Chatuge and the Blue Ridge mountains. All rooms have a mini fridge, microwave, WiFi and comfortable bedding and seating. Shopping, golf, wineries, water sports and a casino are nearby. (deerfield-inn.com)
Pilot Cove Forest Lodging (Pisgah Forest). Drive only minutes from Brevard (named one of America’s best small towns) to reach this premier hospitality resort. This 64-acre offers three cabin types: efficiency (open studio space), one bedroom or two bedrooms. All come with full kitchen and bath, custom furniture, washer/dryer, WiFi, TV. Pets welcome in some cabins. (pilotcove.com)
Western North Carolina Cheese Trail
Dine. Pig & Grits (Burnsville). “Where Southern cuisine meets Southern hospitality.” Their selection of slow-smoked meats includes chicken, brisket, turkey, ribs and pork, which they cook daily in-house with real hickory. Five regional sauces. Even the kiddos can order “I don’t know” (chicken tenders), “I don’t care” (BBQ) or “whatever” (corn dog). It’s a fun place for tasty Southern barbeque. (pigandgrits.com)
Milton’s Black Mountain (Black Mountain). Located in the Monte Vista Hotel, on the National Register of Historic Places, this destination in the “prettiest small-town vacation in America” dates from 1919. The fare includes elevated snacks and salads, main courses such as grilled sunburst trout, garganelli pasta, shrimp and grits, hanger steak and more. Come Wednesday through Saturday for dinner or for Sunday brunch. (mvhotel.com)
Stay. The Foundry Hotel (Asheville). Position yourself in the midst of this culinary trail with a stay at an 87-room boutique establishment created in a rehabilitated steel mill. Rooms are elegantly appointed with décor that highlights the structure’s features, such as hardwood, high ceilings, exposed brick and ornate tile. The restaurant is renowned for Appalachian soul food and elevating the women in this historically African American area who laid the foundation for culinary traditions. (foundryasheville.com)
Dupont Yurts (Hendersonville). Book one of the three yurts at this family-owned ‘glampground.’ These circular tents are nothing like sleeping on the ground, offering central heat and air, queen beds, stocked kitchens, WiFi, towels and linens, decks and outdoor gas grills. The yurts are nestled in the woods with lots of privacy between them. Pets welcome. Ask about the ADA-compliant yurt. (dupontyurts.com)
South Carolina
Revolutionary War Road Trip
Dine. Bowen’s Landing (Inman). In addition to posted daily specials, select an entrée of pan seared salmon, flounder, grouper, scallops, shrimp or crab cakes. Chicken and pasta, including lobster ravioli, are also on the menu along with Angus beef burgers and salads. Take a drive by the lake of the same name for a sunset stroll. (bowenslanding.com)
The Clover Station (Clover). Looking for “food that reminds you of grandma”? Then this eatery is your destination for good ‘ole Southern home cookin’. There are rotating daily specials depending on what local items are in season. Think chicken ‘n dumplings, fried pork chops, beef tips and more. The owner is behind every recipe, and her hospitality fills the place with warmth and friendliness. Authentic home cooking at breakfast and lunch, too. (thecloverstation.com)
Stay. Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens (Spartanburg). Choose from five elegantly and uniquely appointed rooms at this lovingly restored home. Dating back to 1790s, the colonial structure offers four themed rooms: an artist’s studio, a bridal suite, the wren and the ohana suite (meaning “no one is left behind or forgotten”). Owners have also honored the past by transforming a 1947 caboose into one of the guest rooms. Local food is sourced for preparing the daily breakfasts. (clevedaleinn.com)
Horse Farm Cabin (Landrum). Horse lovers alert! Ths private 22-acre equestrian facility provides ample opportunities to get out in nature. The single cabin is a renovated barn apartment that overlooks the paddocks. A separate bedroom and full kitchen with an open living space feel like home. WiFi, TV and a deck for star gazing are nice amenities. Open, spacious, comfortable and clean with friendly hosts. (glampinghub.com – Tryon International Equestrian Center)
Upstate South Carolina Agritourism Passport Trail
Dine. The Kennedy (Spartanburg). Come for the art deco décor, and return again and again for the cuisine at this highly-rated establishment. A seasonal menu focused largely on ingredients procured from within the state and expertly created with “culinary prowess” are the focuses here. Crab fried rice (Carolina gold), duck & dumplings and chicken yakitori come in sharable portions. Duck confit, steak frites, Carolina grouper and pork shank are also on the menu. (thekennedysc.com)
Asia Pacific Restaurant & Supermarket (Greenville). Shop at the largest Asian food market in the city and have an authentic meal while you’re there. Before perusing aisles of food, sauces and spices, order from the menu that is pages and pages long. Soups are made fresh daily, and you’ll have to choose from a host of genuine noodle dishes. A large selection of appetizers, proteins, sides and drinks—all created with skill and knowledge. (asiapacificgreenville.com)
Stay. Thus Far Farm (Westminster). To stay on this farm (a participant in the Passport Trail program) you’ll need to book well in advance. They raise cows, pigs, chickens and goats. On the property are three rental options, and most are booked for the year. Three RV sites are monthly rentals with goats and horses for neighbors. Two fully furnished tiny houses are also monthly and require (well in advance) reservations. (thusfarfarm.com)
Hotel Domestique (Travelers Rest). Escape to the foothills at this modern luxury destination with a distinctly old-world feel. Inspired by the elegance of international travel, the creator (world-renowned cyclist, George Hincapie) integrated structural materials, fabrics, colors and textures along with a collection of regional art to build this intimate environment. Enjoy seven golf courses, tennis, a saltwater pool, guided bike rides, yoga and a massage. Then, dine at the restaurant serving elevated Mediterranean cuisine. Pets welcome. (hoteldomestique.com)
Georgia
Toccoa Swinging Bridge Trail
Dine. The Crimson Moon (Dahlonega). Located in one of the oldest remaining structures in the historic downtown square, this establishment says it’s “not just another little dive bar.” It seats 105 patrons who are never more than 40 feet from the performers onstage. To go with an interesting selection of wine, beer and cocktails, they offer a sirloin, pasta or seafood for an entrée; and enjoy the show. (thecrimsonmoon.com)
Cucina Rustica (Morganton). Choose from Old World Italian fare at this fine dining establishment at the northern side of the national forest. Using classic culinary methods to create Sicilian fish meals, northern Italy pasta dishes and all in between, the chef/owners are sure to delight your palate. For an entrée, select from veal parmigiana, boar ragu alla quattro fromaggi, Maine lobster cannelloni, pesce del Giorno or other elegant fare. Reservations recommended. (cucinarustica-ga.com)
Stay. Len Foote Hike Inn (Dawsonville). If leaving the car behind and hiking 5 miles across scenic ridges and mountain streams to reach shelter sounds like fun, then this is your place. This backcountry lodge with minimal amenities offers 20 bunkrooms (bed, linens, towels, fan/heater, shelves, stool and mirror), hot water bathhouse and Sunrise Room with library and games await. Hot breakfasts and dinners are served with the option of purchasing a trail lunch. Often reserved. (hike-inn.com)
The Lodge at Deer Crest (Blue Ridge). At this 12,000 square-foot ultimate retreat with nine bedrooms and eight full baths and three half-baths you can bring…well, everyone and their bicycles! ADA compliant on four acres, the lodge sits on top of a ridge just 10 minutes from town. Cook in the gourmet kitchen; relax in the living area that comfortably seats 10 and has a stone fireplace; The large deck, located by a waterfall, has secluded mountain views, a hot tub and grills. The three-car garage is equipped with an electric charging station. (lodgeatdeercrest.com)
North Georgia Garden Trail
Dine. Flowery Branch Farmer’s Market (Flowery Branch). Stock up on all the best locally grown produce in the area at this popular destination. Meet with local vendors to purchase honey, spices and teas, pasture-raised beef, goat cheese, garden produce, custom bakery sweetness and breads, freshly roasted coffees, mushrooms, elderberry syrup, fresh pasta, pickles and salsa, fresh-caught fish and, of course, some boiled peanuts. See crop calendar online. (flowerybranchfarmersmarket.com)
The Roof (Ellijay). The old Andy’s Jewelry location in downtown caught the eye of a couple who wanted to invest in the town they’d grown to love. Now customers are loyal guests thanks to the “consistent, delicious food and friendly, timely service.” Order the sweet and spicy mussels, shrimp cakes (Cajun remoulade) or maybe the low-country boiled peanuts to start. Follow with the blue oyster mushroom ragu meatloaf, fresh Appalachian trout or seafood pasta. Have your favorite cocktail and enjoy the rooftop views of downtown and the north Georgia mountains. (theroofellijay.com)
Stay. Cavender Creek Cabins (Dahlonega). For a “new concept in roughin’ it,” stay at this property located down a mountain road used by visitors as far back as the 1829 Georgia gold rush. There are seven comfortable and affordable cabins strategically placed for privacy and to enjoy the nearby creek or pond. Kitchens are fully equipped and all but one cabin has a hot tub on the porch. All have satellite TV, gas log fireplaces for winter and A/C for summer. (cavendercreek.com)
Barnsley Resort (Adairsville). Strategically placed within the 3,000-acre property, accommodations include a choice of 90 cottage rooms in period-inspired structures. Hardwood floors, fireplaces, full baths with clawfoot tubs and porches create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury. Some are pet friendly and all offer access to enjoy the entire village setting of this resort. Also, there are 55 well-appointed rooms in the English country Inn. Ride horses; learn archery and axe throwing; hike and bike; canoe the 10-acre lake; then, relax with a spa treatment. (barnsleyresort.com)