The Greenbrier Valley is made for slowing down, with it's small-town charm and mountain scenery. Now that the mad dash of the holiday season is over, allow yourself to ease into the New Year with some much-needed downtime. Trade the packed schedules and long to-do lists for slower mornings, cozy afternoons, and a little time to simply breathe.
Set aside the checklists and replace them with fresh air, leisure time and unexpected discovery. (You’ll thank us later!)
1. GET AWAY FOR THE WEEKEND. Resist the hustle and bustle and take a few days to relax. The Historic General Lewis Inn and The Escape hotel located in downtown Lewisburg are just right for such an endeavor. Each is strollable to shops and dining and close enough to sneak in an afternoon nap or retire early for cocktail hour.
2. THERE'S NOTHING LIKE A SPA DAY. Put your mind and body at ease with a halotherapy session and foot soak at Pomona Salt Cave and Spa. Salt is known to have many benefits, including a boost to your immune system and energy level. And let’s not forget it’s much easier than a day at the beach! Couple your 45-minute session with a foot soak in salts and essential oils, and you’ll be energized from head to toe!
3. TAKE THE REINS. OK, maybe not exactly, but your coachman is ready to take them! That’s right, enjoy a leisurely tour of The Greenbrier’s gardens and grounds from the seat of a horse-drawn carriage. The slow pace gives you time to take in the scenery, and it makes a memorable outing for a couple, a family or a friend who needs a break.
4. SAMPLE THE LOCAL SPIRITS. Stop in the Smooth Ambler distillery for a grain-to-glass tour and see how a locally made spirit comes together from start to finish. Then head over to Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company to try new brews or stick with a flagship favorite, the Devil Anse IPA. It’s an easy way to spend an afternoon sampling the Valley’s craft side.
Sit back and let stress melt away with a luxurious herbal foot soak.
5. DISCOVER THE SNOWY CHANDELIER. You can find this natural wonder at Lost World Caverns along with many other impressive underground formations on the 45-minute self-guided tour. Not to be missed—the aforementioned 30-ton, compound stalactite, an impressive column of sparkling white calcite and a 28-foot stalagmite aptly named the War Club. And don’t forget, it’s a comfortable 52 degrees in the cave year-round!
6. GET OUTSIDE. No matter what the temperature, a brisk walk (or casual cruise) on the Greenbrier River Trail is sure to clean out any lingering cobwebs. The trail follows the river through quiet woods and open stretches, so you can go for a short stroll or settle into a longer trip.
7. SHOP SMALL. In the Greenbrier Valley, independent shops filled with antiques and one-of-kind keepsakes to the latest fashions and handmade treasures make it easy to find the right gifts without the holiday hustle. Browse at a relaxed pace and chat with the shop owners, who are often happy to share the story behind their finds.
8. BREWTIFUL INTERMISSION. Cool days require a warm drink. Linger over a Vanilla Kissed Mocha at The Wild Bean. Try a giant chocolate chip cookie if you’re looking for something else to satisfy your sweet tooth. For a jolt of “jo,” Manic Espresso serves Seattle-style java at their convenient drive-thru.
9. SHARE A MEAL. Catch up with friends at one of the Greenbrier Valley’s many fine restaurants. Stardust Café lunch and dinner menus feature artful dishes with locally-raised meats, artisan breads and seasonal produce. Food & Friends is one of Lewisburg’s most enduring restaurants, well known for its steaks, seafood, pasta and divine blue crab dip. For fine dining, the General Lewis Inn is a must. They know how to infuse locally harvested ingredients into every mouthwatering plate.
It's easy to sip, savor and celebrate in the Greenbrier Valley.
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