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Weekend Getaways in Virginia (The Best Ideas Yet)
WRITTEN BY:
Kevin Daisey
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Home Destinations Weekend Getaways in Virginia (The Best Ideas Yet)

Key Takeaways:

  • Devil’s Knob is a stunning location among the Blue Ridge Mountains for families to enjoy an unforgettable Appalachian getaway.
  • Local hiking trails come in many difficulties, with options for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
  • Booking a rental property can offer breathtaking views without ever having to leave your lodgings.
  • Numerous activities and attractions are available throughout the area, including hiking, biking, winery tours, distilleries, breweries, the Shenandoah Valley, and much more.

Virginia offers so much to see and do that narrowing down the activities for a weekend getaway can be tough, but nothing offers an experience quite like Devil’s Knob does. Its mountains are among the highest peaks in the South, and you can enjoy endless fun suitable for the whole family.

To get the most out of your trip to Devil’s Knob, you will need a relaxing place to stay to rest and recover for the next day’s adventure. A high-quality on-site rental can offer all the comforts of home while still leaving you intimately close to the stunning outdoors of Devil’s Knob. Learn more about this picturesque region, and discover some rentals that could work well for you and your family.

Why Devil’s Knob? The Best-Kept Secret for Family Adventures

Devil’s Knob is home to a wide range of exciting activities to do, whether you are traveling with the whole family or looking for a romantic getaway with your partner. Around the region and Wintergreen Resort, Devil’s Knob offers several picturesque trails perfect for hiking or biking. You can also expect relaxing spas and serene waterfalls, and couples, in particular, may enjoy the numerous winery tours.

History Behind Devil’s Knob & Its Lost Devil’s Gate

The Devil's Knob forest

Devil’s Knob is one of the highest peaks in the entire region, yet it is easily accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway, near where it intersects with State Route 664. In the past, this convenience wasn’t available, as the only way to reach this mountain was a narrow pass between Reeds Gap and Laurel Springs Gap. This pass became known as the Devil’s Gate due to how difficult it was to traverse.

The Devil’s Gate passage became so notorious for how difficult it was to squeeze through that the entire mountain of Devil’s Knob was named in reference to the gate. The gate no longer exists since the Blue Ridge Parkway was built, but the mountain kept its name all the way to the modern era.

Hiking Trails for the Whole Family

When visiting Devil’s Knob outside of the winter months, you can explore a wide range of exciting hiking trails that stretch for miles. Along these hikes, wildflowers and waterfalls line the trails, complemented by towering rock formations, breathtaking vistas, and natural springs. There are more than 30 miles of trails to explore in the Wintergreen area alone, so you’ll never be short of hiking opportunities at Devil’s Knob.

The local hiking trails are notably diverse with several difficulty levels. If your family has small children, you may want to restrict yourself to the easy hikes that are largely flat or even paved, like Stoney Creek Park and the Loggers Alley Trail. If your family is seasoned at hiking, you may be more interested in challenging trails like Blackrock Trail, which features rock climbing opportunities. Moderate trails offer a satisfying middle ground for experienced yet casual hikers.

To learn more about the local hiking trails, be sure to check out our handy guide.

Where to Go in Devil’s Knob, Virginia, to Relax

If you are more interested in relaxation on your weekend getaway, Devil’s Knob offers plenty of opportunities with spas and serene natural features. The local spas are especially popular, as they offer visitors a chance to enjoy relaxation and rejuvenation that prepares them for the next day’s adventures. Some of the local spas include:

  • The Spa at Wintergreen
  • Détente Spa & Salon
  • Rejuvenate

If you’re more interested in the area’s natural features, the local waterfalls offer a sense of serenity that you may not want to miss out on. While some of the waterfalls take a bit of work to get to, others are located off paths that are easy to traverse no matter your hiking skill level. Don’t hesitate to take in the natural grandeur of the area with some of the following stunning waterfalls:

  • Lower Shamokin Falls
  • Upper Shamokin Falls
  • Fortunes Ridge Trail Waterfall
  • Crabtree Falls
  • White Rock Falls
  • Three Ridges Waterfall

Winery Tours for Couples

Central Virginia wine country is home to more than 80 wineries, and Devil’s Knob will put you close to quite a few that can make for the perfect romantic weekend. You can enjoy delicious wine tastings in addition to stunning views, especially if you visit around sunset. Be sure to check out our list of the most incredible winery tours near Devil’s Knob and Wintergreen Resort.

Take a closer look at some of the local wineries:

  • Delfosse Vineyards & Winery
  • Hill Top Berry Farm Winery & Meadery
  • Caihailian Vineyard
  • Veritas Vineyards and Winery
  • 12 Ridges Vineyard

Check Out More of the Best Virginia Activities for Your Family Getaway

A family going for a hike in the Devil's Knob forest

Unique Getaways in VA: Why Visitors Love Our Vrbo

To get the most out of your Virginia getaway, you will need a place to relax in between your outdoor excursions. Vrbo offers several kinds of rentals that offer all the comforts of home while still letting you feel like you’re on an adventure in a new place.

Luxury Chalet in Wintergreen

This stunning luxury chalet offers three bedrooms and room enough for eight people to sleep comfortably. It has a kitchen, a washer and dryer, free Wi-Fi, and even a pool that you are free to use. Plus, it’s located near Wintergreen Resort, Shenandoah National Park, and the stunning George Washington National Forest.

Pet-Friendly Retreat

This stunning condo lets you bring the entire family along, as it allows dogs as well as people. With the picturesque natural beauty of a mountain view and room enough for seven guests, this could be the perfect destination for travelers across America looking for the ultimate family excursion.

Testimonials

“Kevin’s place was a perfect retreat for us. We spent time in the area hiking, at some wineries, and sightseeing along the parkway. The condo was quiet and cozy, and we spent each evening with good food, wine, and a warm fire. It was perfect!” — Darron

“Great spot for a weekend away. It had everything we needed, and the hosts were very helpful.” — Douglas

“Quiet place to stay for a reasonable price. Plenty of activities to do nearby.” — LaVertta

Frequently Asked Questions About Weekend Getaways in Virginia

How Can I Relax in Virginia?

Several destinations can serve as a place to relax in Virginia, but if you want the best, no experience is quite like Devil’s Knob. With its remote location surrounded by towering mountains and beautiful vistas, a wide range of activities are available with a dramatic backdrop all year long in contrast to more densely populated regions like Charlottesville or Richmond.

Where Do Lovers Go in Virginia?

If you are looking for a romantic getaway for lovers in Virginia, the mountains are a popular destination. At Devil’s Knob, you’ll find accommodations and activities specifically designed for couples to enjoy together.

How Do I Plan a Weekend Trip on a Budget?

The best weekend getaways on a budget begin with booking a local rental that comes complete with a full kitchen and plenty of room. Even if you are only staying for a night or two, this kind of convenience lets you focus on packing your weekend with as many fun activities as possible without worrying about the distance from your hotel.

Escape the Ordinary and Make Unforgettable Memories With Your Family

Devil’s Knob is an incredible destination when you are looking to embark on a weekend getaway with your family. Explore our rental properties and find the perfect fit for your family to enjoy the ultimate weekend of outdoor adventure among state parks and beautiful American overlooks.

Written By Kevin Daisey

Kevin is a dedicated family man, entrepreneur, and outdoor enthusiast. When not working, Kevin cherishes quality time with his wife, and their two children. With a spirit as vast as the landscapes he traverses, he finds solace and inspiration in the great outdoors, particularly the Blue Ridge Mountain area. Kevin is both an intrepid adventurer and a knowledgeable guide, and he is excited to share his knowledge with you so you can embark on your next scenic adventure.

Customer Reviews

What guests say

  • Quenzelle
    October 13, 2023
    Erik and Lisa are awesome host! No issues what so ever! Great place!! Great location! Great views!!! Definitely would stay again!!!!
  • Nick
    August 13, 2023
    Was looking for somewhere to bring our kids to so we could enjoy some time away from work. We found a good deal with this chalet and decided to try it out. Was pleasantly surprised to find this beautiful place….
  • Michael
    August 12, 2023
    Our family loved staying here. It is a lovely home in a very peaceful setting. The host was super responsive and helpful. Would love to stay here again.
  • Megan
    July 13, 2023
    Erik and Lia’s place was lovely! Very friendly and communicative hosts. The condo was clearly well taken care of and located a walk away from a restaurant and some nice trails. Would highly recommend!
  • Michael
    July 11, 2023
    Owners were very accommodating. The property was very comfortable and provided a great getaway opportunity for me and my family. Would definitely book again!!
  • Amy
    July 11, 2023
    Chalet on the Green was the perfect place for our weekend away! Beautifully renovated, great location, hosts quick to communicate. We would definitely stay there again!
  • Keith
    June 13, 2023
    Still feeling refreshed. We booked last minute for a weekend getaway and our hosts were amazing. 5 stars!!!
  • Mike
    June 12, 2023
    Nice place! We loved opening up all the windows and feeling the cool mountain air. It was 10° cooler at the top of the mountain than it was in the valley.
  • Kristen
    May 13, 2023
    We enjoyed our stay! There is a great trail from the condo that follows along the road. It was so nice to be able to go for a run in nature right outside of Erik and Lia’s place.
  • Brett
    April 13, 2023
    First of all, our previous reservation fell through literally when we arrived at Wintergreen, but we were able to find this beautiful place and book it via phone phone. Within a half an hour, Eric and Lia had c…