Loudoun County Essential Guide

Virginia is home to mountains, vineyards and small towns. It also has some of the best culinary scenes in the East Coast. While you could certainly traverse the Commonwealth to witness its multiplicity, you could also stick to one region—namely, Loudoun County.

Loudoun County, often referred to as “Loudoun,” is comprised of a few towns and communities, including: Leesburg, Middleburg, Purcellville (the county seat), Waterford, Sterling. Round Hill, Lucketts. Hillsboro. Lovettsville. Hamilton. Ashburn. “As an owner of a Loudoun-based business, I am very appreciative of the diversity. Each city and town has a unique culture. “I also enjoy how each city has a local flare and events the community can participate in,” says Silas Redd. Nostalgia Boutique You can also find out more about the following: Mister on Main Purcellville, Virginia

“Some people ‘pit’ eastern Loudoun versus western Loudoun,” Jody Brady, founder and director of the Loudoun Appalachian Trail FestivalTells Travel + Leisure“But I think Loudoun works because east and west mix all this up and make the county dynamic, thriving place it is,” she says. “But I believe Loudoun succeeds because east and western mix all of this and make the country the dynamic, vibrant place that it is,” says she. Reagan Walker, the owner of Waterford Reservations“Whether it’s outdoor activities, culinary adventures, or if you love wine and beer, there really is something for everyone.”

Here is our complete guide to Loudoun County in Virginia.

Best Hotels

Hotel Burg

The new, elegant hotel is the talk of the town. Hotel Burg Brady. Set to open to guests this summer, the luxury boutique hotel will have a restaurant, The Huntōn, a cocktail bar, The Diana Lounge, and a rooftop bar.

Lansdowne resort

I have loved my visit as well Lansdowne Resort. Redd says, “It is spacious and the food here is excellent.” The 500-acre property in Leesburg is family-friendly and has three golf course, a spa, with 12 treatment room, and three pools.

Salamander Middleburg

“Of course, five-star Salamander Resort Middleburg is the best place to stay in Loudoun,” Brady says. This resort is perfect for travelers who like to balance activities and relaxation. The resort offers horseback riding, tennis, golf and a swimming pool. There is also a full service spa for when you want to relax.

What to do?

Take a walk.

It is easy to stay active and explore Loudoun County by hiking. “Walk a section of the Appalachian Trail Picnics at the Beach Bears Den OverlookExplore the trails or. Sweet Run State ParkBrady.

Find live music.

We have so many talented musicians in our area, and the summer music series for free is unbeatable. Hillsboro You can also find out more about the following: LeesburgBrady recommends that you listen to music in the background while working. Monk’s BBQ You can also find out more about Wheatland Spring. “Tarara Summer Concert Series Walker calls it “one the most beautiful concerts venues she has ever seen.” “Invite friends and family to the concert and enjoy great bands all season long.”

Visit a local cidery, distillery, or winery.

Loudoun County has many places where you can get a local drink. Redd’s favorite Walsh Family Wine—and recommends a glass of their viognier—and Catoctin Creek Distillery, “for one of their highly curated ‘Dinner at the Distillery’ events.” Walker recommends that you check out Breaux VineyardsYou’ll be “surrounded by breathtaking views of the vineyard” and 8 Chains North. She says that this is a dog-friendly spot and one you should stop at if you’re bringing along your dog. Brady has several favorite places, including Black Hoof Brewing Co. Leesburg Henway Hard Cider Bluemont, Bluemont

On weekends, many wineries and breweries offer live local music as well as delicious food. Keep an eye out on their event calendars as most places host special events—festivals, wine dinners, and more,” says Walker.

Attend a well-known tag sale.

Loudoun County hosts the largest shopping event in Loudoun County every year. Purcellville VA Tag Sale. “This one-day event, which is the largest in Purcellville and a dream for collectors and shoppers alike, is one of the biggest events to take place there. Redd explains that the local boutiques are offering special discounts. There are also over 150 vendors with antiques and handmade items.

The Best Towns To Visit

Purcellville

“Purcellville may be my favorite.” It’s one of the few small towns left in Loudoun. Redd says that the community supports restaurants, boutiques and events.

Leesburg

Walker: “Downtown Leesburg, over the years has grown to be a wonderful place, with its many great restaurants, historic sites, stores, and live entertainment.” The town also celebrates First FridayThe downtown is alive with people who are enjoying live music, art exhibitions, open stores, food and drink.”

Round Hill Hillsboro Bluemont

“Round Hill, Hillsboro, and Bluemont are Loudoun’s three ‘A.T. “A.T. Communities” is a designation that each town received from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in recognition of their commitment to protecting and promoting Appalachian Trail,” Brady explains. These three communities collaborate to host the annual Loudoun A.T. Festival In June, enjoy a full-day of Americana music and trail talks. You can also take part in nature crafts or an art exhibition.

Walker adds that Hillsboro hosts an annual Independence Day Celebration, which she describes in her words as “a hometown experience full-of-life” with “fireworks and live music,” “food, wine, beer and fun for kids.”

Waterford

Walker: “I’m biased, because I was born and raised in Waterford but there is something special about the town.” It’s filled with beautiful historic homes and is the host of the Waterford Fair annually. The beautiful walking trail is called the Phillips Farm Trail“This is a walk that follows the Catoctin Creek, adjacent to the city.”

Middleburg

No shortage of charm MiddleburgThe small town of Middleburg is a place where the equestrian history and heritage are displayed everywhere. There are also several luxury hotels and inns, including Salamander Middleburg. The Red Fox Inn & Tavern The word “as” is also used to describe the term. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant.

Best Restaurants

Purcellville

“Magnolias at the Mill Has always been one of my favorites. “Whether I am celebrating a special event, meeting with my girlfriends for brunch or stopping by for a nice meal or dinner, it is always a top-notch experience,” says Walker. Redd’s “best BLT ever” can be found at Market Burger Fries & Shakes. If you’re looking for a “great, home-cooked breakfast,” this is what he recommends. Purcellville Family Restaurant.

Leesburg

Walker calls EagleTree Farm Winery & Restaurants a “hidden gem.” She says, “Located just outside of Leesburg they have a seasonal menu and excellent service.” Stop by one of Brady’s favorite restaurants in Leesburg: Tuscarora Mill, SideBar, Shoe’s Cup and CorkIf you want to know more about a specific topic, please click on the link. The Conche.

Hillsboro

“I’m a pizza fanatic, so I love to visit the town at Hillsboro. Market in The GapWalker. She says it has “amazing wood-fired pies made right before you”, a “smaller, cozy atmosphere” inside and “an outside area for seating during warmer weather”.

Middleburg

Brady recommends two restaurants in Middleburg. Make a reservation for the Red Fox Inn & Tavern. Looking for something more casual to wear? King St. Oyster Bar, With its happy hour and seafood specials, this restaurant should be able to do the trick.

Best Shopping

Leesburg

I am a huge fan of design and decor. So, I love visiting the Lucketts Store. There are so many incredible finds. Walker: “I can spend an entire day in there and I will always take something home.” “Leesburg’s boutiques are a great place to spend an afternoon shopping. Muz & Roz, wldwst, Misguided Angels, Birch Tree Bookstore, Brick & Mortar Mercantile. Madisonbelle“, Brady adds.

Waterford

I love you The Corner Store Waterford. “Come in to see the amazing local handmade and vintage goods and furniture,” says Walker. “The store offers a delicious menu, created by Chef Estelle Richard-Legault. The menu and service are both exceptional.”

Purcellville

Purcellville has a lot of second-hand items that I like to buy. Nostalgia, Twigs, It’s Bazaar, You can also find out more about the following: Re-Love ItBrady. Redd also loves Twigs. This place is the queen for unique gifts!” He says that the store has “everything from jewelry to candles, soaps and tabletops books as well women’s wear and womenswear”. Twin Flame VintageYou should add, which is a “kitschy shop specializing in vintage clothing, homewares, decor and ephemera.” to your list. Redd’s is a great place to look for menswear. Mister on Main Nostalgia, the sister store of this boutique, is located inside.

Round Hill

“Elsass Redd says that Round Hill, Massachusetts is one of his favorites. The former mechanic’s shop has been transformed into an antique shop specializing exclusively in French antiquities. Elsass’s hours are Friday through Sunday.

Lovettsville

Walker claims that the best goat cheese can be found in Georges Mill Farm Artisan Cheese Lovettsville, Texas Long Stone Farm It’s also on her list; bring a cool box so that you can keep perishable items like eggs, pork and other products cold. 

When is the best time to visit?

Redd says that fall is the best season to visit. Enjoying a local glass wine while you watch the leaves change on trees and native plants is a great way to enjoy the fall season. Brady says that if you visit Loudoun during the spring you might be able to witness the emergence of the tulips. wildflowers at Balls Bluff Attendance Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s Spring Native Plant Sale You can also read about the Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival In April. Walker recommends a late summer visit: “The landscape is beautiful at this time.” She says that the vines at wineries are lush and beautiful.

How to get there

You’ll want Dulles International Airport as your destination if you plan to fly to Loudoun. You can rent a vehicle, book a ride-sharing service or a taxi from the airport. Loudoun is about 20 to 40 minutes away by car, depending on your destination within the county. Trains are also available from Washington, D.C. Loudoun is served by three Metrorail Silver Line Stations: Dulles International Airport, Loudoun Gateway. Ashburn Station.

How to Get Around

Loudoun County’s best way to discover it is by car. It is possible to explore the various towns within the county by car, stopping at different shops, wineries, and restaurants. If you are planning to drink wine or any other alcoholic beverage, make sure that you have a designated driving before your trip.