The Country Bumpkins Bed and Breakfast

     Bedford, Virginia and Bedford County have so much to offer.  If you can only spend two nights, there are many day trips, outdoor and cultural activities, and historical attractions to choose from, not to mention shopping, visits to galleries featuring local artisans and crafters, and dining and wine tasting opportunities.  Or maybe you are looking for just a peaceful, quiet get-away to stretch out, kick back, unwind, and enjoy--snoozing on the screened porch surrounded by the sounds and sights of nature or reading a good book, with no schedule, no worries, no stress.  Eureka--you've found the place!

     If you can spend more time with us, you might even fall in love with this area--just as we have--and you might make plans to come back or even stay forever!

Whatever. . .remember our state's motto: "Virginia is for Lovers"!

     Here are some suggestions that may appeal to all interests of young and old(er) guests alike!  We encourage you to visit the individual web sites to learn as much as you can about the area before you arrive.  We will help you when you get here.

• Take advantage of our proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Peaks of Otter, and "Experience America's Favorite Drive."  You will be surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest.  Enjoy a picnic--the vistas are truly beautiful any time of year! (www.BlueRidgeParkway.org)
• For the more adventurous, there are easy to moderate hiking trails along stretches of the Appalachian Trail or try Flat Top Trail which leads to the three highest peaks in the area.  We are very close to entrances to the Trail.  Check out hikingupward.com--a great interactive web site recommended by one of our past guests.  Last but not least, enjoy floating along the historic James River. 
• Bedford, Virginia is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a visually awe-inspiring and educational tribute to those who lost their lives on the beaches of Omaha in June 1944.  You won't want to miss this experience.  (www.dday.org)
• Visit Avenel House, 413 Avenel Ave., if you can.  Learn the history of the plantation and maybe spot the ghost!  In its 170-year old history, other important guests have included General Robert E. Lee and Edgar Allen Poe.  (www.historicavenel.com) 
  
• Thomas Jefferson's private retreat, Poplar Forest, is an architectural masterpiece, and there are always a variety of very educational programs and activities throughout the year.  Poplar Forest has been designated a National Historic Landmark.  Be sure to check seasonal hours of operation.  (www.poplarforest.org)
  
• Stroll through the unique shops and galleries located in historic Centertown Bedford and the surrounding area.  (www.centertownbedford.com)  For antique shopping, try the Liberty Antique Mall, 703 Industrial Ave., and Bell's Treasures on Bridge Street.  Be sure to enjoy leisurely dining opportunities.  Our recommendation for lunch is The Artisan's Cafe on Depot Street or the Blue Ridge Bagels at 503 4th Street and for dinner the Bedford Social Club, 124 S. Bridge Street; or Liberty Station, 515 Bedford Ave.; or Millstone Tea Room, 9058 Big Island Hwy., for a special occasion.
  
• For something a little different, you might want to experience wine tasting at five different and unique wineries along the Bedford Wine Trail.  (www.BedfordWineTrail.com)
• Many of our guests have enjoyed The Natural Bridge of Virginia close to the Blue Ridge Parkway nearby--a natural wonder at its best!  (www.NaturalBridgeVA.com)
• We are flanked by the historic cities of Lynchburg to the east (22 miles) and Roanoke to the west (25 miles), as well as Smith Mountain Lake to the south (28 miles), for more sight seeing and recreational opportunities.
• And we are conveniently located nearby to Liberty University and Lynchburg College for conferences, parents' visits, and college activities.
  
• For this area's most complete and up-to-date information, visit the friendly and helpful staff at the Bedford Tourism and Welcome Center, 816 Burks Hill Rd., when you arrive.  They have so much current information on what is available to see and do--they are the experts!  (www.visitbedford.com)
  

The hills are alive!

Come enjoy the splendor!

Gift certificates

 are available

And for those of you who travel with a pet or two,they can stretch out, kick back, unwind, enjoy, and spend quality time with you in our pet-friendly accommodations.  This is Eloise, another beautiful rescued basset hound who helps me in the kitchen--just kidding!