Hidden In Virginia's Shenandoah Valley Is A Mountain Town With One Of The Most Scenic Backyards In The Nation

It's safe to say that the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia is a glittering trove of hidden gems. First, there's the lush woodlands of the Shenandoah National Park, a scenic slice of paradise. Then, you have Natural Bridge State Park, a breathtaking marvel with mountain views. Lastly, clinging to the valley foothills is Bridgewater — a delightful town whose backyard views include the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to one side and the slopes of the Allegheny Mountains on the other. Located only about two hours by car from Richmond, you'll find abundant distractions in this quaint community.

The early mountain settlement populated by Scottish and Irish immigrants was known by many names: McGill's Ford in the 1750s and Dinkletown in the 1820s. Only in 1835 did the town eventually become Bridgewater, named for its proximity to a bridge across the North River. Flatboats traversed the waters upstream and Bridgewater developed as a modest trading hub, establishing its own college in 1880. Today, travelers can still experience Bridgewater's small-town charms.

The town's public calendar is packed with thrilling events for everyone to enjoy, typically staged at one of the many tranquil parks. There's the annual "Egg Hunt at Wildwood Park," where the Easter Bunny hides a golden egg for a prize. Dress your kids (and yourselves) in spooky costumes for Halloween trick-or-treating at Oakdale Park. And, on July 3, there are fireworks, food trucks, and live music at Generations Park to celebrate the "Eve of Independence." Just beyond Bridgewater's borders, visitors can spend an afternoon kayaking and white-water rafting on the Shenandoah River, or explore Civil War battlefields nearby. Drive about 45 minutes east and you'll reach Charlottesville, a historic mountain town with a vibrant wine scene.

Surrounded by mountains, Bridgewater is a perfect base to explore nature. Start at Wildwood Park, situated at a bend in the North River. There are wooded trails for leisurely strolling, a playground for children to frolic, and picnic areas to enjoy a snack. Kayaks are also available if you don't feel like heading out of town for it. And, just 30 minutes away, you'll find Massanutten Resort — a sprawling amusement park with zip lining, mountain biking, escape rooms, and skiing in the winter, as well as a day spa for pampering treatments after all the adventures.

To the west of Bridgewater, the Allegheny Mountains are crisscrossed with dozens of stunning nature trails. About 25 minutes by car is Hone Quarry Falls Trailhead, an easy trek through gorgeous woodlands to a tranquil waterfall. At the base of the trail is Hone Quarry Campground, where you can bed down for the night. Another stunning hike is the Hidden Rocks Trailhead nearby, which takes you to a gargantuan rocky cliff in the woods.

Pick up some farm-fresh goodies and unique souvenirs at the Shenandoah Heritage Market just 10 minutes outside town. Open every day except Sundays, they have everything from dried fruit and flavored kettle corn to antiques and home decor items. If you're interested in local history, drive over to the Virginia Quilt Museum in Dayton, the neighboring town. Once a historic home, you can wander three floors displaying stunning embroidered and patterned quilts. Nearby is also Fort Harrison, another fantastic cultural landmark. Built by a settler named Daniel Harrison, this historic stone cottage dates to the 18th century, and served as a refuge for the townsfolk from Native American raiding parties.

From cozy cafés and coffee shops to fancy Italian bistros, Bridgewater hides an excellent dining scene. For a variety of breakfast and lunch options along with pastries and coffee, head to Sugar & Bean Café on Main Street. Try their honey lavender latte or a cold brew coffee, paired with a cream cheese bagel and spicy curry soup bowl. Meanwhile, The Cracked Pillar Pub, located just opposite, is perfect for a hearty dinner of specialty burgers, pastrami sandwiches, and a variety of delicious beers. The pub is set within a historic boarding house dating to the 1820s, and a towering colonnaded entrance welcomes you in. Panoramic mountain views and fragrant wines await at Bluestone Vineyard, just 2 miles outside of town. There, you can nibble on chicken tenders and spring rolls paired with a glass of rosé as you gaze out across the vineyards and valley below.

To find a place to stay for the night, popular hotel chains like Hampton Inn and Best Western, over in Harrisonburg, the neighboring town, are just 10 minutes away. For a cozy cottage vibe, try The Village Inn, also in Harrisonburg. This delightful motel has an outdoor pool for summer swims, a children's playground, and quaint guest rooms. Stays include a complimentary buffet breakfast and access to the fitness center.

Another fantastic option is the Meadowlark Ridge Bed & Breakfast, about 20 minutes away. Tucked along rolling hills and lush woodland, this delightful cabin is a cozy home away from home. Enjoy the delightful guest lounge with beamed ceilings and a stone fireplace, then retire to your wood-paneled bedroom overlooking the surrounding meadows. No matter what your plans are for a trip to Bridgewater, you'll be at the doorstep of a fantastic mountain getaway.