Virginia Wine Country is made for those who love to explore. Across the Commonwealth, vineyards are nestled among mountain trails, winding rivers, scenic coastlines, and quiet country roads, making it easy to combine outdoor adventure with exceptional Virginia Wine.
Whether you’re setting out on a morning hike, paddling along the Eastern Shore, or taking in the countryside on horseback, every adventure leads to a well-earned glass of Virginia Wine.
Photos (left to right): Horseback riding by Aaron Watson Photography for Wine & Country Life, Hiking picnic at Southwest Mountains Vineyards, Kayaking at Chatham Vineyards
Hit the Trail
Some of Virginia’s most spectacular hiking destinations are just minutes from wineries. Spend the morning exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park, or one of Virginia’s many state parks, then settle in at a nearby winery to enjoy vineyard views, local wines, and a relaxing afternoon. In the Monticello AVA, Southwest Mountains Vineyards offers a hiking experience that leads to a private picnic.
Explore hiking trails and nearby Virginia wineries.
Look for: Picnic-friendly and pet-friendly wineries, plus wineries throughout the Blue Ridge, Shenandoah Valley, Virginia Mountains, and Heart of Appalachia.
Saddle Up
Experience Virginia Wine Country from a different perspective with a horseback ride through rolling hills, wooded trails, and open farmland. Many equestrian outfitters are located throughout Virginia’s wine regions, making it easy to pair a morning ride with an afternoon of wine tasting.
After your ride, unwind at a nearby winery where you can take in the peaceful countryside while discovering the wines that reflect the region.
If you’re exploring Central Virginia, check out Indian Summer’s Guided Vineyard Rides or King Family Vineyard’s polo matches. In Northern Virginia, Dark Spring Stables will take you horseback through the vines.
Look for: Horseback riding experiences, vineyard views, and wineries in Central Virginia and Northern Virginia.
Get Out on the Water
Virginia’s waterways offer endless opportunities for adventure, from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and sunset cruises. Whether you’re exploring the Chesapeake Bay, lakes, or one of Virginia’s scenic rivers, wineries are never far away.
The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, in particular, offers a unique opportunity to pair time by the water with welcoming tasting rooms, exclusive discounts, and a chance to win a private Bay boat cruise by completing the trail.
Along the Eastern Shore, SouthEast Expeditions offers a Chatham Vineyards kayak vineyard tour.
Look for: Chesapeake Bay wineries, Eastern Shore wineries, and local restaurants serving #vawine with fresh seafood.
Explore on Two Wheels
Cycling is another great way to discover Virginia Wine Country. Quiet backroads, rolling vineyards, and scenic byways create memorable rides through some of Virginia’s most beautiful wine regions. After a day on two wheels, reward yourself with a tasting flight, locally sourced cuisine, and sweeping vineyard views before continuing your journey.
In the Hampton Roads region, Basket & Bike offers guided rides along the Virginia Capital Trail, beginning and ending at Upper Shirley Vineyards.
Look for: Scenic drives through Virginia Wine Country, including Hampton Roads and Southern Virginia wineries.
Chase the View
Sometimes the destination is only part of the experience. Virginia Wine Country is made for scenic drives, where winding back roads lead to vineyard views, welcoming wineries, and charming small towns worth exploring. Take the long way, linger over lunch, browse local shops, or book an overnight stay to experience even more of the region.
For a truly memorable view, soar above the vineyards with Virginia Hot Air Balloons or seek out winery events that celebrate the beauty of every season.
Request a printed Virginia Winery map to help guide your next adventure.
Look for: Group tours, overnight stays, local retailers, charming small towns, and scenic overlooks.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you’re seeking mountain views, waterfront escapes, or rolling countryside, Virginia Wine Country offers endless opportunities to combine outdoor adventure with unforgettable winery experiences. Explore wineries by region, amenities, and experiences on virginiawine.org and start planning your next getaway.
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