Tuesday, January 28, 2014

A visit to Culpeper, VA.

The town of Culpeper, once surveyed by a young George Washington, has seen many great men!  In times of war it has been used by both Union and Confederate soldiers, it was home to A.P Hill, a Confederate General and Major John Pelham died here after being wounded during the battle at Kelley's Ford.  This historic town has seen many things since Culpeper County was formed in 1748, then known as The Town of Fairfax, its name was officially changed in 1869. 


Today the small streets are lined with a variety of differential architecture.  It is a quaint place, filled with the small town chatter and laughter of its towns people and abundance of local visitors.  Couples and friends gather to meet inside coffee shops and window shop among a variety of beautiful, eclectic local, small businesses.  At the intersection of Main and Davis Streets you'll find everything from cheese, wine, antique and clothing shops to some of the best restaurants in the Metro DC area. 
Quail at the Wood on Main St. specializes in all things beautiful for your home!  You'll find early American oil paintings and wooden furniture, marble sculpture, silver pieces and loads of hand painted porcelain!!!  



Walk just a few doors down and make a left on Davis St, and here you'll find Cafes, and other curiosities!


Found will delight you at every turn!!!  This shops store windows pulled me into a candy land of color and fun!  Found boasts a smorgasbord of sweet treats, pops and vintage finds, need you ask for more?!!?!  You won't be able to resist walking out the door with a bundle of chocolates, funky home decor and the need to come back week after week to see what's new!!!





Foti's was sadly closed for renovations, it will be re-opening January 30th, so we'll definitely be back!!!  I've heard amazing things about this little restaurant, and if you haven't yet, you will!!!  Just open up your local newspaper or magazine, you're sure to find a good read somewhere about this little treasure:)  Owners Frank and Sue Maragos built their reputation at the Inn at Little Washington and now they've brought their talents to Culpeper!!!  This amazing resto is sure to knock your socks off, even if you're used to the creme de la creme of the best restaurants in New York and DC!!!  What you'll find in the tasty dishes here are local produce, herbs and livestock, the cheeses are handmade and the wine list rocks, so seek out good food no further than Foti's:)



As always, if you know me at all, you know that I have a special place in my heart for tearooms!  Miss Minerva's is the Victorian Tea House of Culpeper! This soft and sweet spot offers up a cup of splendid English charm:)  So if you'd prefer to nibble on scones, tea sandwiches and sweets, pop in for an afternoon delight!




The Cameleer was a world away from the shops I'm used to visiting when I visit historic districts!  This place was unbelievable!!!  Items from all corners of the world adorn the shelves of this huge space:)  You'll find pottery, clothing, home decor and accessories with an edge!

 


If you're in the mood for some good ole fashioned Americana with a kick, check out Harriet's General!  You'll find the grand spirit of Grandma Harriett throughout the shop!!!  The family that opened these doors are devoted to quality, hard work and American funk:)  Always traveling to find the brightest new designers, they fill their shop with some of the quirkiest products around from ladies and mens apparel to stationary, candles, jewelry and home decor!     



Area wineries include Prince Michel Vineyards and Winery and Old House Vineyards.  Prince Michel serves up both their own wines as well as Rapidan River wines and after you've explored the enormous grounds, sit down for a relaxing tasting!  If you want to stay in the area, they offer one bedroom suites 7 days a week and will help to arrange dinner reservations at one of several nearby restaurants!  Old House Vineyards will take you back to a special place born in the 1800's!!!  At least that's when the original, fully renovated farm house was built and it sits quietly at the foot of the Blue Ridge mountains surrounded by 75 acres of vineyards!!!  With many events going on every month, be sure to stop in for fondue and wine by a roaring fire or a special spring dinner for two!!!

Needing more over night accommodation choices???  Check out these Hot Spots for more than just a hotel:  Suites 249 sits right in Historic Culpeper, steps from everything and its ultra hip and modern!!!  The suites here boast feather beds, gas fireplaces and you'll be cradled to sleep in Italian linens, yes please!!!  The Lafayette Inn has been enchanting guests since 1840 and will delight you with grace and hospitality at every turn, including an award winning dinner next to the roaring fire:)  The Inn at Willow Grove will romance you with Southern charm.  From the finest in hospitality including french press coffee and beigntes in the morning to turn down tea and sweets service in the evening in your room to an extraordinary dining experience in their very own Vintage Restaurant.  Be sure to try them all!!!!      

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some time in the country!  Enjoy Culpeper, VA. as much as we did:)    

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