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Middleburg, VA

As autumn approaches, a beautiful drive through the mountains seems like the perfect weekend getaway. Less than an hour drive from Washington, D.C., Middleburg is smack in the middle of Virginia’s rural wine and horse country.

Middleburg was established in 1787 by American Revolutionary War Lieutenant Colonel and Virginia statesman John Leven Powell, who purchased the property from Joseph Chinn, George Washington’s cousin. 

The town has a resonant history, including serving as the site of two clashes in 1863 as part of the Gettysburg Campaign during the Civil War. After the turn of the century, it became a hip destination for foxhunting and steeplechasing, earning it a reputation as the “Nation’s Horse and Hunt Capital” and attracting well-known visitors from all over the country, including President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

With more than 160 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Middleburg is celebrated for its natural beauty, historic charm, ideal location near Washington, DC, and Southern hospitality. Neighboring Middleburg, you’ll find pictographic and quaint countryside with low stone walls surrounding grand horse farms. The best part is having the Blue Ridge mountains in the background! 

From horseback riding to zip lining, Middleburg is the ideal spot for family fun. Just walking along Middleburg’s brick-lined sidewalks, you’ll feel world’s away from life’s hustle and bustle. 

No doubt, the biggest attraction for families, in Middleburg is horseback riding so, if you’re in town, you might as well experience the equestrian life. Salamander Resort & Spa’s equestrian programs provide everything from guided trail rides to riding lessons and horsemanship classes.

Salamander Resort and Spa

If art is your thing, be sure to swing into Middleburg’s art galleries and the National Sporting Library & Museum. With more than 24,000 books dating from the 16th to 21st centuries, NSLM is dedicated to preserving and sharing the literature, art and culture of equestrian, angling, and field sports. The museum, a newly renovated and expanded historic building, houses exhibits of American and European fine animal and sporting art.

Believe it or not, Middleburg has some really fun stores for kids! The Fun Shop has wooden toys, games, puzzles, and books. Make sure to check out the train table for little ones. For book lovers, you’ll also want to stop at Second Chapter Books, with a selection of new and gently used books.

Craving a snack? A must visit in Middleburg is Popcorn Monkey for gourmet popcorn, nuts, candy, soda and more.

Got babysitters? Go visit a winery! With an ideal climate for growing grapes, Middleburg has more than 20 wineries , making it one of the top 10 wine destinations in the world. If you want an all out winery experience, head over to RdV Vineyards nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in notable Delaplane, VA, which neighbors Middleburg. Thomas Jefferson, was not only one of America’s founding fathers but also a native Virginian and passionate viticulturist. He envisaged creating an American wine based on a French model and today, Jefferson’s goal has become a reality at RdV. Bordeaux grapes, planted on a granite hillside, produce wines that merge the refinement of Bordeaux with the brash essence of California. RdV Vineyards is open to the public for Tours & Tastings at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, Thursday through Sunday.

RdV Vineyards
RdV Tastings

If you want to be right in the center of Middleburg, there’s no doubt, the Red Fox Inn & Tavern is the place to stay! A pillar of the town , The Red Fox Inn & Tavern has been Virginia’s Hunt Country fave since 1728….yes, 1728!  Situated right on the village’s main thoroughfare, The Red Fox is a remarkable remnant to olden times, with modern and comfortable amenities.  The Red Fox offers a genuine boutique inn experience. Every guest room is unique and they not only offer inn rooms, but also suites and cottages if you need more room. Their restaurant, The Tavern, is delicious and offers seasonal ingredients, local harvest, and Southern flair, for a cherished culinary experience for the whole family. 

Red Foxx Inn and Tavern

Whether you’re looking for a historic tour, a scenic vineyard, a taste of the equestrian life or just a place to relax and have a good time, Middleburg has what you’re looking for. 

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