Travel

The Virginia Hunt Country Travel Guide

November 3rd, 2025

We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, sip, and shop in Virginia Hunt Country, according to Tuckernuck.

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The Hunt Country Look

Equestrian-inspired, rich in heritage, and practical yet polished. Think jeans, riding boots, and wellies, layered with cashmere, waxed jackets, and classic shirting— timeless pieces made for crisp days in the field and charming strolls through town.

our fashion director’s packing list

What Is Virginia Hunt Country?

This postcard-worthy pocket of Northern Virginia is known for its rolling hills, equestrian traditions, and charming small towns. Centered around Middleburg, the area also includes The Plains, Marshall, Upperville, Millwood, and nearby countryside dotted with vineyards, historic inns, and stone-walled farms. It’s where D.C. goes to unwind—no boots required, but definitely encouraged.

Getting There

Just over an hour from Washington, D.C., Hunt Country is an easy weekend escape for most of the East Coast. Flying into Dulles International Airport (IAD) is the closest major option, about 30 minutes from Middleburg. Once you're here, you’ll want a car to hop between towns, wineries, and antique shops at your own pace.

Find the Fun in Hunt Country

Take in the Views

Hike to Piedmont Overlook in Sky Meadows State Park and end with a picnic.

Sip in Style

Sample Virginia wines at a local vineyard, then go to dinner at the Red Fox Inn.

Go Antiquing

Our favorite shops include The Shaggy Ram, Middleburg Antique Emporium, Another Blue Moon, Vilnis & Co., and Thistlethwaite Americana.

Giddy Up

Attend a horse race or the National Sporting Library and Museum to learn about VA’s equestrian roots.

Pick Your Own

Go apple or cherry picking depending on the season at family-friendly Hollin Farms.

Where to Stay

From historic charm to spa-like estates, these stays feel like home (only better).

The Red Fox Inn, Middleburg

This may be the oldest inn in the US, but it’s stylish as ever and makes for a great romantic retreat. Even if you’re not staying there, don’t miss their restaurant.

Goodstone Inn, Middleburg

Where luxury meets comfort. From visiting the 255-acre farm to taking a matcha-making class, there’s something for everyone here.

Salamander Resort, Middleburg

This fabulous option is complete with a sought-after spa and an easy walk to town. Walk the property during the day, and stop by the in-house market for a quick bite.

The Ashby Inn, Paris

This well-decorated stay has an amazing restaurant for brunch or dinner, and is close to Sky Meadows State Park (take a picnic to go!).

Where to Eat

Farm-fresh favorites, cozy taverns, and a little something sweet—here’s where to dig in.

Middleburg

Upper Crust Bakery

The best bakery in the world, in our opinion! Get the ham and cheese croissant, the rooster sandwich, cow pies, peanut butter cookies, then enjoy your treat on the porch.

Middleburg Common Grounds

Grab coffee, breakfast, or a wrap to fuel your day, then linger awhile—it’s more than a café, it’s “a place to meet.”

Gold Cup Wine Bar

Casual yet elegant, Gold Cup at the Salamander Resort is a great place to settle in with friends over Virginia vintages and yummy bites.

King Street Oyster Bar

This family-friendly option is great for brunch, lunch, or dinner. You can’t go wrong with an oyster platter, crab dip, or lobster roll.

Tremolo Bar

A chic wine bar with international flair. Come for the pours, stay for the delicious small plates that make sharing easy.

Knead Wine & Pizza Shop

This wine shop serves amazing takeout-only pizza, and their sommelier is one of fewer than 280 Master Sommeliers in the world!

The Conservatory at Goodstone

Set in a glass-walled conservatory overlooking rolling fields, this farm-to-table spot is great for a brunch or dinner that feels like a peaceful escape.

The Red Fox Inn & Tavern

Historic ambiance meets wow-worthy dining. Go for a burger and pub fare in the casual Night Fox Pub or treat yourself to a four-course dinner in the cozy, romantic Tavern downstairs.

The Plains

Doppio Bunny Coffee

Known for their latte art and breakfast sandwiches, this is a local favorite that’s worth a stop if you need a pick-me-up.

Bistro @ The Porch

A cozy, classic spot for farm-to-table dishes with a little taste of every cuisine. Don’t miss their Side Bar next door for cocktails and nachos.

The Rail Stop

A well-loved go-to for a relaxed dinner after a day of countryside exploring. Their rotating seasonal menu always has us coming back.

Marshall

Red Truck Bakery

Famous for their pies, sandwiches, coffee and cakes (including booze cakes!), Red Truck is a must-stop for sweet treats. The Marshall location is their largest one with seating.

The Whole Ox

An old-fashioned, full-service butcher and market serving next-level sandwiches, housemade sides, and foods from nearby farms.

Field & Main

Farm-to-table meets fine wine in this rustic-chic spot. Go for a cozy date-night dinner in historic Marshall.

Upperville & Millwood

Locke Store

Stop at this modern country store after hiking at Sky Meadows for their delicious to-go meals. Don’t miss the free wine, beer, and cider tastings on the weekends!

La Table Provençale

Tucked inside a cozy country inn, this French-inspired spot feels like a little escape. Think rustic setting, seasonal menus, and seriously good bread.

Hunter’s Head Tavern

A 1700s home-turned-tavern in Upperville with local charm and a hearty, organic menu straight from the farm it’s owned by.

Where to Shop

Think local, shop unique. These spots are full of treasures you won’t find just anywhere.

Middleburg

Crème de la Crème

French goods, elevated decor, and everything you need to set the table or find a hostess gift, thoughtfully curated for life in Hunt Country.

Nature Composed

A charming flower and plant shop with a great selection of topiaries, candles, and earthy home goods for the green thumb of your group.

Tully Rector

A boutique with covetable brands like SIMKHAI, STAUD, and Ulla Johnson—and according to locals, it’s “the best dress shop in town.”

PLAYRoom

A whimsical toy store brimming with well-made gifts and playful finds—a winner for kids (and the grown-ups shopping for them).

Every Little Something

Pretty, playful, and giftable, this shop is full of treasures you’ll want to tuck away in a drawer, or display proudly on your desk.

Federal & Black

Small in size but full of character, this spot features seasonal scents, cozy teas, and Hunt Country-inspired finds—from foxes to pheasants.

Middleburg Books

Middleburg Books is a small-town gem. Stop for its storybook charm, stay for the staff picks and the surprise of a “blind date” with a book.

Bedford Lee

The newest shop on the block, Bedford Lee blends California cool with Virginia charm—Sarah Horton’s edit of home goods, giftables, and vintage finds.

Where to Sip

Breweries and vineyards are the Hunt Country’s signature. Grab a glass and take in the view!

Middleburg

Greenhill Vineyards

A laid-back but elevated spot for sipping estate-grown wines with a view. Great for an afternoon toast in true Hunt Country style.

Mt. Defiance Cidery and Distillery

With two locations, The Cider Barn and The Distillery offer ciders on tap, craft cocktails, live music, and food trucks. Grab your group for a made-in-VA experience.