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I love Charlottesville but obviously I'm biased, I was born and raised in this beautiful Mecca firmly planted in the Blue Ridge Mountains and my husband, a central Virginia addict as well, went to college at Washington & Lee in Lexington, Va. Now as I jaunt home to see my parents and my childhood friends as well, I'll take this opportunity to make this trip to the Commonwealth (yes, they do call it a Commonwealth) an eco-trip.
Where to stay.
I know, I know, I'll obviously be staying with my parents, but you won't. Many people make environmentally friendly lodging a priority and by recycling, serving organic food, utilizing solar heating, and composting, innkeepers are doing their best to preserve the earth for future generations including the Foxfield Inn.
Where to eat.
Hit the Charlottesville City Market every Saturday at 7 am from April thru October to sample some seriously delicious local favorites]. It's been around for ages and its still the best, hit Integral Yoga for the best vegetarian and healthy organic eats around. Check out Mas Tapas, Chef Tomas Rahal, sources his local ingredients from Manakintowne Specialty Growers in Powhatan County each week. One of his signature appetizer dishes is made from their fresh pimiento de padron peppers.
What to do.
Hit Shenandoah National Park. With stunning natural beauty second to none in the state, this is an awesome place to take the family hiking, go on a picnic, and check out the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
More Eco-Trips:
Escape the Cold - Plan a Quick, Green Winter Getaway to Key West
Plan a Romantic Fall Getaway to an Eco-Friendly Spot
Take an Eco-Trip to the Grand Strand
