Just a short and scenic drive from Charlottesville, Nelson County is a hidden gem in Central Virginia. Jump in the car and head west to experience the county’s breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, endless hiking trails, crystal-clear fishing streams, quaint coffee shops, historic family orchards and farms, and unique craft beverage offerings.

Boasting 12 wineries, 3 distilleries, 9 breweries, and 3 cideries, Nelson County is a “must visit” for craft wine and beer lovers, offering a vibrant local food and music scene and year-round events. See Events Calendar

Create your own adventure making stops along the “Brew Ridge Trail” while enjoying a scenic drive on Rt. 151.

Looking for something active? Wintergreen Resort offers skiing, tubing, golf, and tennis. Or, plan a private guided horseback ride at your venue of choice with Indian Summer Guide Service. Fish, kayak, canoe, or tube along the Tye, James, and Rockfish rivers. Hike the 3-mile trail up to Crabtree Falls, the tightest vertical-drop cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, or load up the kids and bikes to Piney River for 7 round-trip miles on the flat, crushed stone trail along the Piney and Tye Rivers.

Take a trip back in time and walk through the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, the longest railroad tunnel in North America at the time it first opened to traffic in 1858, or visit one of the county’s many historical sites or museums. Shop for artisan pottery and jewelry, antique collectibles, or stop into an old country store.

Experience the wilderness, beauty, and history that awaits just west of Charlottesville!