Virginia Wine Country is the perfect place to go for your summer getaway, but the heat and humidity can quickly leave you wondering how to enjoy the Blue Ridge Mountains comfortably. With our list of ten ways to stay cool this summer, you can easily embrace the heat of a hazy afternoon.
Ten Ways to Stay Cool this Summer
- Go for a swim at Sherando Lake – While dogs aren’t allowed on the beach, there are plenty of swimming and fishing holes around the lake.
- Cool off at the creek – Some of our favorite drinking holes, like Bold Rock Hard Cidery, Brewing Tree, and Blue Toad have creek access. Grab a drink and your dog to cool off on those warm afternoons.
- Hike to a waterfall or natural swimming hole – While there are plenty to choose from, you can hike 3 miles to Blue Hole and/or 4 miles to a waterfall with swimming access at the Sugar Hollow Reservoir.
- Plan a paddling adventure with Rivanna River Company – Located about 30 minutes from the Indigo, this outfitter has numerous rental items, including canoes, kayaks, tubes, and paddle boards. They can shuttle you to multiple points along the river and provide guided trips for those looking for a bit more instruction on the water.
- Cool off with local ice cream at Black Bear Creamery – Black Bear has plenty of outdoor seating and pup cups for your dog’s enjoyment.
- Enjoy the pool – Buy a day pass for Wintergreen’s pool or plan a spa day and gain free access.
- Try flyfishing – Virginia’s mountaintops are still home to the East Coast’s first and only native trout. Hire a guide through Ladyfish East or Ribjord Fishing. This excursion can be dog-friendly!
- Take your pup for an indoor tasting – Last we called around, these places allow dogs inside: Flying Fox Vineyard, Brewing Tree, Cardinal Point Vineyard, Hill Top Meadery & Winery, Pollak Vineyards, WildManDan Brewery, and Silverback Distillery. Download our favorite pet-friendly places to go to in the area!
- Have a picnic at the creek – Just 5 minutes from the Indigo House is Camille Trailhead, which runs parallel to a creek with many little beaches and access points. It’s super dog-friendly, and you can grab takeout or cheese and crackers from one of the local restaurants along the way.
- Enjoy a glass of rosé while sitting on the porch at the Indigo! Whether it’s under the ceiling fan on the covered porch or lying in a hammock in the shade, we’ve got a spot for you!
