When spring arrives in the Mountain State, the opportunity to walk and enjoy the greening of the hills and valleys is compelling. The redbud wears its new growth in burgundy while the oaks, maples and beeches are surrounded by pale green halos. It’s a wonderful time to enjoy the warming air and shake out winder doldrums.
From either the Baltimore or Washington D.C. international gateway airports, you are only a short drive away from West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, and a trip full of history, food, outdoors and spas.
Bring some comfortable shoes and clothes for our tour of the state’s George Washington Heritage Trail. This scenic byway offers a good look at historic Charles Town, Martinsburg, Shepherdstown, and Berkeley Springs. You’ll also get a taste of Civil War history at Harpers Ferry.
Just a few minutes outside of Martinsburg, you’ll find your home-away-from-home at The Farmhouse on Tomahawk Run in Hedgeville. Owners Hugh and Judy Erskine operate the inn, which was built by Judy’s great-grandfather during the Civil War. The Farmhouse is noted for its delicious three-course breakfasts and wonderful private atmosphere.
During your first evening in West Virginia, you had to The Woods, an 1,800-acre resort close to The Farmhouse, known for its hospitality, golf and dining, tonight you opt for Walden Pub, for a casual meal of crab cake sandwiches, chicken fajitas, and the ever-popular American potato skins with your favorite beverages.
The next morning after breakfast, you head out to discover the historic Eastern Panhandle along the 137-mile George Washington Heritage Trail. Looping through a region of scenic beauty and rich history, this trek commemorates the life of our first president as well as the colorful past of the only state borne of the Civil War.
You decide to enjoy the sights today, start in Martinsburg with the annual House and Garden Tour, offered the last weekend in April for more than 45 years. Enjoy lunch at Market House Grill before touring the Boarman House Arts Center and the Art-Space Open Studio where artists-in-residence are often on hand to talk with visitors.
Dine tonight at historic Boomtown Restaurant, where the chef’s specialties shine in the restored, antique-filled rooms of the inn.
The next morning, follow The Heritage Trail down to Charles Town where you have lunch at Avanti Ristorante and enjoy some contemporary fun at the Charles Town Race Track. This popular horse track also offers video slot machines. End your day at the popular Turf Dining Room where locals and visitors alike enjoy hospitality and a great steak.
On your next day’s outing, you visit Harper’s Ferry and Shepherdstown. First, visit Halltown Memorial Chapel. Built in 1901 by African-American community volunteers, it was originally known as Halltown Union Colored Sunday School.
In Harpers Ferry, relive the excitement of October 1859 when five African-Americans joined the fiery John Brown in a raid on the federal arsenal building, an indication that the country was irreversibly headed toward civil war. Move on to Shepherdstown and enjoy some of its wonderful restaurants. Have lunch at the popular Bavarian Inn, with its German-American specialties, and then follow with dinner at the Mecklenburg Inn (known locally as the “Meck”).
Today, Berkeley Springs is noted for its lively mix of arts and culture. In fact, it has been named one of the top 100 best small art towns in the nation for three years in a row.
You’ve saved Berkeley Springs for last, and you’re glad you did. In addition to its history and art treasures, there is the luxurious spa. George Washington first visited “ye fam’d warm springs” in 1748. The official name of the town is Bath – a name chosen by Washington, his family and friends.
Have lunch at Tari’s where locals and frequent visitors have come to expect only the freshest ingredients in her innovative fare. After lunch, head for the spa at Berkeley Springs State Park. After you settle in at the original Roman Bath House built in 1815, move on to the park’s second bathhouse, which offers several spa options including massage. Rested and relaxed, you’ve enjoyed your chance to learn more about American history, and you’ve discovered the wonderful West Virginia hospitality that brings visitors back again and again.