Photo courtesy of the Goodstone Inn
The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant in Middleburg, Va.
Looking for a little getaway during the holidays but nothing too far from home? Consider Middleburg, just an hour west of Alexandria and loaded with history and country charm.
Established in 1787, the town got its name due to its location midway between Alexandria and Winchester on the Ashby Gap trading route (now known as Route 50).
Before perusing the storefronts on West Washington Street, you might want to grab a coffee at Middleburg Common Grounds, where you can people watch and get your bearings.
In addition to some shopping, you can also book yourself for a holiday spa treatment, the Chocolate Peppermint Body Wrap, at the Salamander Resort and Spa.
Photo courtesy of the Goodstone Inn
Bistro seating at the Goodstone Inn
Afterward, a great lunch spot is King Street Oyster Bar, 1 E. Washington St., where they start serving brunch and lunch at 11 a.m.; best to make a reservation during the busy holidays.
If you're looking for a spot for an early dinner, you can't go wrong with the historic surroundings of the Red Fox Inn & Tavern, 2 E. Washington St. Be sure to make reservations.
We also talked with Raeshawna Scott, general manager of the Goodstone Inn and Restaurant in Middleburg, to get some advice on some of her holiday favorites in and around town. Here's what she had to say.
Photo courtesy of the Goodstone Inn in Middleburg, Va.
The Goodstone Inn is ready for the holidays!
- Middleburg Gourmet: Visit this cheerful yellow shop for a wide selection of high quality, gourmet specialty food items including teas, spices, finishing salts, olive oils, local honey, truffles, cheese, and more! “I love finding the perfect, locally sourced gift here!" says Rae. "Their high-quality products and commitment to supporting women-owned businesses make Middleburg Gourmet a gem.”
- Knead Wine: Whether you're looking for a tasty dinner after a day of holiday shopping, or a delicious gift for the wine lover in your life, Knead Wine is the spot for you. Rae sums it up perfectly: “What’s better than homemade pizza, wine from a Master Sommelier and a cozy cigar?”
- The Middleburg Christmas Parade: “Join me in the spirit of the season as the Middleburg Hunt parades through town with festive cheer!” says Rae about the charming community experience. And keep an eye out for Goodstone's own float as it travels down Washington Street.
- The Goodstone Inn's holiday offerings: Don't miss out on Goodstone's holiday offerings this season, including Holiday Eve (Dec 24) and Holiday (Dec 25) dining at The Conservatory, Goodstone's holiday cheer package and Goodstone gift cards, which can be used for hotel stays or meals at one of the inn's stunning farm-to-table restaurants.
Wine lovers and anyone shopping for that special holiday gift for the wine lover on their lists, note Sunday, Dec. 8, noon to 4 p.m. at the Goodstone Inn's The Conservatory.
Photo by Victoria Heer
Goodstone General Manager Rae Scott
Goodstone houses an exquisite wine collection from around the world. They confidently believe they have a bottle for every occasion, whether it's a classic or rarity, red, white, or rosé. This event offers attendees the exclusive opportunity to have a cozy holiday shopping experience while selecting unique wines to gift to their loved ones. Here's what you can expect at the event:
- Shop, Sip, and Snack: Enjoy wine-focused regional cheeses, sparkling wine, and cider options as you browse the cellar and take in the festive holiday decor.
- Top-Knotch Producers: Goodstone partners with elite producers including Didier Dagueneau, the best producer in Pouilly-Fume, to offer attendess only the best of the best.
- Exclusive Selection: Goodstone has several bottles that are only sold to restaurants, including a special allocation of Mondavi To Kalon, and monopole Louis Latour, and several vintages of Bourdeaux wines from the 1980s, 90s, and early 2000s.
- Expert Guidance: Goodstone's knowledgable staff will be available to help guests select wines and answer any questions about the varieties on hand.
Tickets are available here for $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
