My first visit to Sperryville was several years ago in the Fall. We were waiting for the skies to clear before heading into Shenandoah National Park. Along the roadside, I spotted a farmers stand with a collection of colorful cottages. All of them were painted indigo with splashes of yellow, crimson, and bright green set against bursts of Black Eyed Susan’s. One cottage was decked out in stunning handmade quilts. It looked like a movie set in the deep south, however, I was in the foothills of the blue ridge mountains. This was the Beech Spring Gift Shop. Add it to your list of places to stop. Established in 1820, Sperryville is located in Rappahannock County along the Thornton River. The historic town has a sleepy vibe with a fresh and modern twist. Some of the most pastoral scenes and farmland are here. Sperryville takes its land and sustainable farming seriously. Restaurants use locally sourced ingredients, wood fired ovens, and creativity. Its wineries, distilleries, and breweries rely on the same principles. If you are looking for a place where history, art, and nature collide beautifully, then this is your place. Lets get started with everything you need to know in order to plan your visit to this quintessential town!
Distance
Maryland, one hour, 59 minutes, (109 miles), Harrisburg, two hours, 43 minutes,(165 miles), Pittsburgh, four hours, (236 miles), West Virginia, Four hours, 35 minutes, (205 miles), D.C., one hour, 28 minutes, (74 miles).
Attractions
Copper Fox Distillery– Located in the River District where the forks of the Thornton River meet. Enjoy tastings inside or on their garden patio. Experience the blend of unique ideas and locally sourced ingredients that make for some of the best whiskey.
Wild Roots Apothecary– A quaint cottage in the River District, this is my go to place for the body and soul. Check out their bath, body, herbal remedies, and more. Herbal remedy workshops and yoga classes available, (check website for details).
Copper Fox Antiques– An antique mall with 30,000 feet to explore. It also houses the Pottery Works.
Shenandoah National Park– A 12 minute drive from Sperryville.
Thornton River Art-A collection of local art housed in a historic building.
Cottage Curator– A collection of art by local, regional, and nationally acclaimed artists.
Jordan Hollow Stables– Spend time along the trails in the Shenandoah Valley.
Sperryville Pottery– Located in the historic section. One of a kind pieces by local artisans.
Luray Caverns– A 25 minute drive.
The School House Nine Golf Course
Penn Druid Brewery– Native beer, natural cider, and wine. Leashed dogs allowed. Enjoy Sperryville’s new Nature Trail which connects to town.
Hopkins Ordinary Ale Works– Small batch crafted beer served in their outdoor garden or indoors.
Additional Wineries/Distilleries/Breweries
Additional Rappachannock Galleries and Studios
Restaurants/Cafes
Three Black Smiths– An example of taking locally sourced/seasonal ingredients and elevating them to the next level. A fixed weekly dinner menu is available as well as a tasting menu. One of my favorite restaurants, it has a history of having owners who have travelled the world with extensive and notable culinary backgrounds.
Sumac– A local small farm and wildly sourced wood-fired kitchen. Sumac offers a unique taste to the county. Located at the Penn Druid Brewery in Sperryville. Panoramic mountain views make for a great dining experience on the brewery’s farm. Dine inside option available too. Pair your meal with wine or craft brews from Penn Druid Brew Works.
Before and After– Locals and visitors alike love this place. Grab breakfast or lunch before heading out to the National Park, or take a Cafe picnic box with you on your journey. Stop for a glass of wine after a long day.
Headmaster’s Pub– Great place for salads, grass fed burgers, and craft beers. Dogs are welcome too. Old Rag Mountain and the School House Nine Golf Course make for the perfect backdrop.
Accommodations
Airbnb– Wide array of unique properties in the Shenandoah Valley.
Skyland– Located inside Shenandoah National Park, Skyland boasts incredible views and more. Dogs welcome.
Belle Meade Bed and Breakfast– More than a peaceful and incredibly beautiful accommodation, the B&B takes a holistic approach to living. Organic gardens and farm.
Hopkins Ordinary Bed and Breakfast– Choose from guest rooms and cottages. Dogs are welcome in the cottages for an additional fee.
Happy travelling to beautiful Sperryville!
*Please check each website or call directly for changes/updates on daily hours of operation due to Covid.
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