The Hummingbird Inn
Hummingbird Inn’s Guide to Local Food 4 Jul 2018, 10:06 am
Food is certainly one of the great pleasures of a weekend getaway or vacation. New restaurants, fresh flavors, no clean-up… meals are part of the adventure away from home. And when you visit the Shenandoah Valley you’re in for a treat! Our chefs and specialty grocers know how to infuse the abundance of farm-fresh local produce, meats, and products into irresistible dishes that are both healthy and scrumptious. And if you fret that you’ll overindulge, there are trails around every bend to help you walk off your meal and to make room for the next!
When you stay at the Hummingbird Inn, local flavor starts with breakfast. We are members of the Fields of Gold Farm Trail and proudly support Virginia’s independent farmers and producers. We offer locally crafted chocolates, wines, and cakes for pamper yourself “extras”, and we use seasonal, farm-fresh local fare in our two-course country breakfasts. Breakfast is “serious” business – we need to make sure you’re fully energized for your day ahead, whether you choose to kick back at the Inn or to head out exploring.
With advance notice we can also set you up with a picnic lunch – perfect after a leisurely morning on the Chessie Nature Trail or at nearby Douthat State Park. Two of our favorite picnic destinations are Rockbridge Vineyard and Great Valley Farm Brewery. Talk about great local flavors and beautiful views! Below are some of our other favorite stops for farm-fresh deliciousness during your stay:
Farmers Markets
The Covington Farmers Market – Saturdays 8 am to Noon (May – Oct.)
Lexington Farmers Market – Wednesdays 8 am to 12:30 pm (April – Nov.)
North Augusta Farmers’ Market – Wednesdays 12 pm – 5 pm (April – Oct.)
Rockbridge Farmers Market – Saturdays 9 am – 1 pm (May – Oct.)
Staunton Farmers’ Market – Wednesdays 7 am – Noon (May – Sept.) and Saturdays 7 am – Noon (April – Nov.)
Farm-to-Table Dining
Cranberry’s Grocery & Eatery – Staunton
Kind Roots Cafe – Lexington
Les Cochons d’Or – Hot Springs
Mano Taqueria – Lexington
Nu-Beginning Farm Cafe & Grocery – Staunton
Pure Eats – Lexington
Southern Inn – Lexington
Zynodoa – Staunton
Additional Local Yumminess
Cattlemen’s Market – Lexington
Cocoa Mill Chocolatier – Lexington and Staunton
Mill Creek Produce – Goshen (April – Nov.)
Virginia Gold Orchard – Natural Bridge
Wade’s Mill – Raphine
Renovations of Stable View Room 28 May 2018, 7:49 am
The newly renovated guest room “Stable View” faces our historic 1875 Barn on Mill Creek. Our guests enjoy open windows and the babbling creek lulling them to sleep!
Generously proportioned, the Stable View features a queen size rice carved four poster bed and comfortable seating for two with its reclining chairs. An electric fireplace lends a cheery glow and warmth on cool nights. A 150 year old boxwood in our shade garden and the old livery stable are visible from the back windows. Around the corner, a door affords access to the wrap-around veranda with a back staircase that takes you to our gardens and mountain stream. The cozy private bathroom has a spacious whirlpool tub/shower combination with a stable view from the large window.
This room is a favorite with guests looking for a real Virginia Mountain getaway, whether for hiking, fly fishing, kayaking or just roaming about the beautiful countryside. And in good weather, with the windows open, you can hear Mill Creek – our picturesque mountain stream bubbling along by the deck next to the historic 1875 barn.
Stable View is not a pet-friendly accommodation. We have one pet-friendly room; please reserve the Teter-Wood Room for your pet-friendly stay.
Hummingbird Inn Wedding Guide 2018 1 Feb 2018, 7:12 am
Wedding Guide
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, the historic Hummingbird Inn Bed and Breakfast offers an elegant and relaxed romantic retreat. From elopements and weddings to babymoons and anniversaries, the Hummingbird Inn has become a beautiful part of the celebrations and milestones in our guests’ lives.
Check out our Wedding Guide below for help in planning your own special wedding event (& our Romance Guide HERE for lots of additional couple getaway ideas!). Suggestions are listed in order of proximity to the Inn. Whether you choose to cozy in at the Hummingbird or decide to explore our region’s natural and cultural treasures, there truly is something for every couple. Come “home” to the Hummingbird Inn and experience for yourselves why Virginia is for Lovers!
Beautiful & Unique Venues
The Hummingbird Inn and Grounds
The Hummingbird Inn is the perfect setting for intimate weddings, elopements, commitment ceremonies, and renewal of vows. We offer a personal touch and a beautiful setting for your special day. Imagine a grand entrance on the 1853 staircase, an intimate ceremony in the solarium, or taking your vows outdoors in the garden or overlooking the creek. With our “Just Us Two” Package and our “Small, Intimate Wedding Package” we make your wedding day smooth, romantic, and relaxing. Our elegant rooms and creekside Serenity Cabin provide the final touch, making your stay and your guests’ stay comfortable and memorable.
Mont Shenandoah – Millboro. Highlights include: an abundance of the Great Outdoors, riverbank options, lodge for ceremony or reception, and full commercial kitchen.
Rockbridge Vineyard – Raphine. Highlights include: charming red barn, gorgeous backdrops for your wedding portraits, and excellent wine for toasts.
Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Garden – Lexington. Highlights include: 15 acres of nature, gardens, birds, art, and wildlife.
Lexington Golf & Country Club – Lexington. Highlights include: panoramic views, ballroom, and exceptional cuisine.
Virginia Horse Center – Lexington. Highlights include: can accommodate up to 400 guests, stunning views of the Blue Ridge, and amphitheater.
Ingalls Field – Hot Springs. Highlights include: perched atop Warm Springs Mountain at a 4000’ elevation with breathtaking views of the Allegheny Mountains.
Douthat State Park – Bath County. Highlights include: lakeside amphitheater, beach, Lakeview Restaurant for rehearsal dinner or reception, and an abundance of outdoor activities.
Bridal Gowns, Dresses, and Tuxedos
Alvin-Dennis – Lexington. Tuxedo sales and rentals and men’s suits.
Becky’s Bridal & Formal – Buena Vista.
Amanda’s Touch Bridal & Formal – Waynesboro. Over a thousand dresses in stock for brides and bridesmaids. Also offers tuxedo and suit rentals.
White Dress by Greta Kay – Waynesboro. Boutique and fashion design studio offering a wide range of bridal gown styles, bridesmaids, mother of the bride, tuxedo sales and rentals. All styles may be customized in any size or color. Also offers amazing selection of shoes, bridal veils, headpieces and jewelry.
Cake
Sweet Treats Bakery – Lexington.
Mountain Laurel Creations – Hot Springs.
Paris Cake Company – Staunton.
Catering
The Little Cheerful – Millboro.
Full Circle Catering – Lexington.
Hogback Mtn BBQ – Lexington.
Mountain Mama Catering – Lexington.
Southern Inn Catering – Lexington.
Blue Oregano – Waynesboro.
Entertainment
D.J. Jammin’ Jackie – Buchanan.
Guyton Mobile DJ – Crozet.
Flowers
The Jefferson Florist & Garden – Lexington.
University Florist – Lexington.
The Faded Poppy – Waynesboro.
Photography
Christy McKee Photography – Staunton.
Monica Wilson Photography – Staunton.
Ward Photography – Waynesboro.
Salons & Day Spas
Cindy’s Salon – Lexington.
Encore Salon – Lexington.
Bonitas Salon – Staunton.
Breezy Hill Day Spa – Staunton.
Mill Street Body & Soul Day Spa and Salon – Staunton.
Freda’s Skin Studio – Waynesboro.
Transportation
Lexington Carriage Company – Lexington
Videography
Whiddon Productions – Millboro.
Wedding Planning
The Faded Poppy – Waynesboro. Also creates gorgeous wedding floral arrangements!
Hummingbird Inn Romance Guide 2018 1 Feb 2018, 6:10 am
“My husband and I found peace and relaxation at this beautiful B&B. What a gem! Outdoor river deck under the stars in front of a blazing fire…luxurious breakfast…solarium to enjoy coffee…peaceful and romantic – a wonderful weekend getaway!” ~ Michelle, Maryland
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, the historic Hummingbird Inn Bed and Breakfast offers an elegant and relaxed romantic retreat. From elopements and weddings to babymoons and anniversaries, the Hummingbird Inn has become a beautiful part of the celebrations and milestones in our guests’ lives.
Check out our Romantic Getaway Guide below (& Wedding Guide HERE) for help in planning your own special getaway. Suggestions are listed in order of proximity to the Inn. Whether you choose to cozy in at the Hummingbird or decide to explore our region’s natural and cultural treasures, there truly is something for every couple. Come “home” to the Hummingbird Inn and experience for yourselves why Virginia is for Lovers!
Romantic Getaway Guide
Bask in the B&B Experience
Elegant and Private Accommodations
Things to Explore Together
Brewery Trail
Including nearby:
Devils
Backbone Brewing
Company
Hikes
Goshen Pass – Rockbridge County.
Including:
Jump
Rock Trail
Augusta Springs Wetlands Trail – Augusta County. Great for bird enthusiasts.
Back Creek Gorge Wildflower Trail – Bath County. Trail follows an old railroad bed and is perfect for a gentle and scenic hike with low falls, deep swimming hole, natural limestone spring, and beautiful wildflowers.
Blue Suck Falls Loop and Tuscarora Overlook – Douthat State Park. Tumbling cascades and multiple overlooks.
Moongazing
The Outdoor Fire Pit at The Hummingbird Inn’s Serenity Cabin
Full Moon Walk at Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Garden – Lexington.
Douthat State Park – Bath County.
Picnic Spots
(Ask us about our picnic basket and backpack lunches!)
The Hummingbird Inn Verandas, gardens, covered deck, babbling stream… you don’t need to travel far for a beautiful and romantic picnic spot!
Goshen Pass – Rockbridge County. After your picnic, enjoy a hike in Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve.
Coles Point Beach at Lake Moomaw – Alleghany County.
Humpback Bridge – Alleghany County. Oldest of Virginia’s remaining covered bridges. Built in 1857, the bridge is 100 feet long!
Scenic Drives & Motorcycle Rides
Rockbridge Rides Sport Tour Loop
Appalachian Waters Scenic Byway Route 39
Theatre & Music
Lime Kiln Theater – Lexington.
The Lenfest Center for the Arts – Washington and Lee University, Lexington.
Garth Newel Music Center – Warm Springs.
American Shakespeare Center – Staunton.
Historic Masonic Theatre – Clifton Forge.
Train Ride
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park – Cass, WV. Ride back in time via steam locomotives. Located just 90 minutes away!
Wine Trail
Including:
Jump Mountain
Vineyard
Lexington Valley
Vineyard
Rockbridge
Vineyard
Barren Ridge
Vineyards
Winter Outdoor Lover’s Guide 15 Dec 2017, 2:48 am
Whether you want to toast your toes by the fire or get out for some exciting winter sports, The Hummingbird Inn makes the perfect winter getaway. On your way to the slopes or trout streams, be sure to take in the expansive vistas. With fewer leaves on the trees, you can get the full wonder of the beautiful rolling landscape and depth of the Alleghany Highlands and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Cross Country Skiing
Jackson River Scenic Trail -Alleghany County
Fly Fishing
John Roberts Fly Fishing Adventures
Wild Mountain Trout Fly Fishing
Fishing Resources
Fishing Licenses & National Forest Stamps
People 16 and older need a freshwater fishing license from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
Skating, Downhill Skiing, & Snowboarding
The Omni Homestead Resort -Hot Springs
The Hummingbird Inn’s Outdoor Lover’s Guide to the Shenandoah Valley 21 Sep 2017, 5:36 am
Leaf season in the Shenandoah Valley is unlike any other. There’s no better time to explore the beauty of our area than when the landscape is awash in vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges. Just pick a trail, a course, or scenic byway and experience our spectacular fall foliage!
Farm Trail
Golf
The Cascades and Old Course –Hot Springs
Two 18-hole championship courses at the Omni Homestead Resort. Open to non-registered guests.
Lexington Golf & Country Club -Lexington
18-hole course. Open to the public.
The Vista Links -Buena Vista
18-hole public course.
Hiking
This online trail guide covers over 100 miles of trails in our area that offer a variety of spectacular views and pristine wilderness. Explore via foot, bike, or saddle.
This Rails to Trails route in Rockbridge County offers 7 miles of pleasant and scenic walking and biking. Walkers are welcome to participate in the Chessie Trail Fall Half Marathon & 5K in October.
Motorcycling
The Appalachian Waters Scenic Byway
Entrance Fee Free Days include Veterans Day Weekend.
Hummingbird Inn: Your Base Camp for Summer Adventure 26 Jul 2017, 1:40 pm
What does summer rest & relaxation look like for you? Sitting on a sun porch reading and sipping wine? Kayaking rapids surrounded by the thrills of nature? Fine dining and entertainment? When you make the Hummingbird Inn your base camp for summer adventure you get the best of all worlds!
Located in the quiet country town of Goshen, the Hummingbird Inn is only a short drive to the vibrant, historic city of Lexington and is within easy access to all the outdoor recreational opportunities the Shenandoah Valley holds. You can spend your days exploring the scenic trails, byways, and blueways of our scenic Rockbridge County, and in the evening, enjoy Lexington’s dining and culture. Here are three of our favorite suggestions for experiencing R&R in all its many forms.
Bike the Vineyards
After a scrumptious, two-course breakfast at the Hummingbird, hop on your bikes for a self-guided tour to three local vineyards: Lexington Valley Vineyard, Jump Mountain Vineyard, and Rockbridge Vineyard. With advance notice, we can send you off with a tasty lunch so you can enjoy a vineyard picnic! Call ahead to verify each vineyard’s tasting hours.
Your route will bring you past historic Wade’s Mill. Built around 1750, it’s one of the oldest working water-powered grist mills. During opening hours, visitors are welcome to tour the mill and stop in their shop. If you need a break on the ride “home” to the Inn, stop in Brownsburg to take a self-guided walking tour of this historic village or visit the exhibits at the Brownsburg Museum.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Choose “paddle,” “rod,” or “saddle” – or all three if you’re giving yourself a long getaway!
At North Mountain Outfitter you can hop in the saddle and get a taste of the Old West. Half day and full day trail rides will give you a unique and unforgettable adventure into Virginia’s beautiful wilderness.
Wilderness Canoe Company offers self-guided day trips and overnight trips on the James River. Routes differ by length and class of rapids so paddlers from novice to expert can pick a level that’s right for them.
And if you’re looking to experience the Shenandoah Valley’s renowned fly fishing, get the time-saving and rewarding benefit of guide services and instruction from the professionals at Escatawba Farms Fly Fishing or Wild Mountain Trout Fly Fishing.
Lounge, Stroll, & Sip
After a long leisurely morning reading in the solarium overlooking the Inn’s gardens or enjoying an in-room massage, take a beautiful drive to Natural Bridge State Park. Stroll along the park’s hiking trails that wind under the 215-foot tall limestone natural bridge and up to Lace Falls. If you work up a thirst, head to nearby Great Valley Farm Brewery. Their outdoor patio is the perfect setting to relax and sip a cold ale. Check out the brewery’s event calendar to time your visit with live music and local food truck offerings.
For dinner, drive in to Lexington for a delicious meal at Rocca Bar Ristorante. Savor authentic Italian while unwinding on their rooftop lounge that overlooks the city’s historic Main Street. If you still have room, swing by Devil’s Backbone Outpost Brewery for a pint or flight in the bier garden. Close out a blissful evening by stargazing on the Hummingbird Inn’s creek-side deck and listening to the murmur of summer in the Shenandoah.
So what does summer R&R look like for YOU? Plan your escape to the Hummingbird Inn today!
So Many Reasons to Experience a Shenandoah Valley Spring 29 Mar 2017, 9:52 am
Hit the Open Road. No matter how you like to roll, there’s no better time to explore the beauty of our area than when the landscape is awash in pastels and greens of every hue! The Appalachian Waters Scenic Byway is just one of our area’s scenic drives that will reward you with mountain vistas, fields of color, and quaint villages to explore. Motorcycle touring is THE BEST (and Hummingbird Inn is biker-friendly!), but if a leisurely meander through nearby Lexington’s historic district is more your style, the carriage rides are perfect!
Hiking, Biking, & Paddling. What could be better than a day out on the trails, roads, and waterways of Rockbridge County or nearby Shenandoah National Park? How about a day out in nature accompanied by wildflowers!
Creekside Quiet. What would you do with a day unplugged from the world? Imagine this: sipping a glass of local wine, melting into a good book, and enjoying the sounds of spring from our new deck!
Entertainment As You Like It. One of the many things we love about this area is the abundance of art, theatre, and cultural festivals. From live music at the Historic Masonic Theatre to celebrations of C&O Railway Heritage to farm-to-table dining, there is always a fun outing to be had!
Six Shenandoah Valley Winter Getaway Ideas 15 Dec 2016, 8:40 am
Whether you just want to toast your toes by the fire or get out for some exciting winter sports, base camp at the Hummingbird Inn for your winter getaway! Here are six excellent ideas for indoor/outdoor fun all around the Shenandoah Valley. Check out our 2017 winter fun specials and book that special weekend now!
- Spend a day on the slopes and then come “home” to our log fire. Winter activities at The Omni Homestead Resort include skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, and tubing. And with lessons and terrain for all levels, everyone in your family can enjoy a day out on the slopes!
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery with a hike in Douthat State Park. The park offers 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails.
- The Frontier Culture Museum is open 7 days a week, 362 days each year! This is not your typical “museum”! History really does come alive at the Frontier Culture Museum. Throughout the winter, the Museum features a range of hands-on activities, presentations and tours for adventurers of all ages.
- The Virginia Military Institute’s Museums and Archives are a must for history buffs. The museums include The Marshall Museum and the Virginia Museum of the Civil War.
- Experience Shakespeare. The American Shakespeare Center offers performances and special programming year-round of not only Shakespeare’s work, but also the work of his contemporaries and modern playwrights.
- Maple Donuts! Plan now to attend the famous Highland Maple Festival, held on the 2nd and 3rd weekends of March in neighboring Highland County.
Special Event Calendars for more ideas!
Fields of Gold Farm
Trail, Shenandoah Valley
Garth Newell,
Hot Springs
Virginia Horse
Center, Lexington
Shenandoah
Valley Travel Association, Valley happenings
Staunton
Tourism, Staunton
Buena Vista,
Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism
5 Reasons to Visit the Shenandoah Valley in the Fall & Winter 14 Sep 2016, 7:00 am
#1 Leaf season unlike any other. Fall foliage viewing is SPECTACULAR, and there are scenic drives all around the Hummingbird Inn to take in all of Mother Nature’s splendor. Here are some tips and routes for planning a great “Leaf Peeping” adventure.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Wilderness Road Virginia’s Heritage Migration Route
#2 Outdoor recreation bonanza. Whatever your outdoor passion, the Shenandoah Valley has something for you! Opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, climbing, paddle sports and motorcycle touring for any level participant are at your fingertips. Check out the ideas on Rockbridge Outdoors to plan your outdoor adventure.
#3 Farm, vineyard, brewery festivals & events. Fancy some apple or pumpkin picking, corn maze shenanigans, stomping of the grapes or craft brewery tours? There are tons of agritourism activities to choose from near the Hummingbird Inn, and the fall and early winter are great times to experience the rich agricultural heritage of the Shenandoah Valley. Holiday markets abound as well, and there’s nothing like doing your shopping with local farmers and artisans. Plan your own special adventure on the interactive Fields of Gold Farm Trail website.
#4 Opportunities to experience history and culture. In addition to soaking up the natural beauty of the Valley, there are tons of fascinating museums and cultural destinations to make a fall/winter visit delightful. If you’re a train buff, check out our Rails-to-Trails itinerary for exploring old rail lines, museums dedicated to the railroad history of the area and railroad-themed dining. Here are a just few more varied choices!
Belle Grove Plantation
Frontier Culture Museum
George C. Marshall Museum and Library
Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
Patsy Cline Historic House
The Heritage Museum
The Newtown History Center
Plains District Memorial Museum
Strasburg Museum
Virginia Museum of the Civil War
Virginia Quilt Museum
VMI Museum
Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum
#5 A great place for just the two of you or to gather the family. If you’re looking for a cool place for just the two of you to have a romantic holiday or for the entire family to gather, we can help you plan a stupendous holiday getaway. Call us for details!
Special Event Calendars for more ideas!
Fields of Gold Farm
Trail, Shenandoah Valley
American
Shakespeare Center, Staunton
Garth Newell,
Hot Springs
Virginia Horse
Center, Lexington
Shenandoah
Valley Travel Association, Valley happenings
Staunton
Tourism, Staunton
Buena Vista,
Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism