Summer officially kicks off on Sunday June 21, the longest day of the year, more famously recognized as Summer Solstice - a holiday celebrated by cultures throughout the Northern Hemisphere.

 

For me, it is the time of year to take advantage of some solo travel - there’s nothing like experiencing a new place alone to form your own perspective. As a woman who travels alone, I am always looking for new and exciting experiences wherever I am going. So how to celebrate your perfect longest day in Loudoun? Below I share five of the best ways to experience Loudoun as a solo traveler.

 

Picturesque Moments for Your Feed

Did you really go on a vacation if you didn’t post about it? Here in Loudoun there is no shortage of nature-abundant backdrops, and in downtown Leesburg, there is an epic public art scene that also serves as a fun background for your photo dump. So, where are the best places to get the shot? Leesburg is known as the county seat, the art scene throughout is vivid with sculpture parks and hand-painted murals. Take a photo with the sculptures in Raflo Park, located next to the Washington & Old Dominion Trail and made by local artists. To capture Loudoun’s beautiful landscape, go up high - 951 feet up the Blue Ridge Mountain-side to Bluemont Vineyard. Enjoy a wine tasting and take in the panoramic views from their tasting room. Many people also find their picture-perfect frame between the vines. The town of Bluemont is the perfect all-in-one stop for photos; the village sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains or get your exercise and head up the nearby Appalachian Trail.

 

Solo Excursion

When traveling alone, you value those experiences that you can take the wheel on - or handlebars in this case. At Ebike Connections on Sycolin Rd in Leesburg you can rent e-bikes by the hour, for a half-day or a full day. You also have the option to choose from the self-guided programs; experience the day visiting three popular Loudoun wineries or enjoy a rewarding bike ride to have brunch at farm-to-table restaurant Magnolias at the Mill in Purcellville.

 

Stop and See a Show

For intimate live music, Tally Ho in Leesburg hosts regular concerts and variety shows. Many local Loudoun artists perform here including some who have been on American Idol. Franklin Park Arts Center in Purcellville is another place to explore the arts up close, both visual and performing. Exhibitions change regularly but this being America's 250th anniversary year don't miss "American Revolution: Black Patriots and Black Loyalists,” paintings by Loudoun artist Gertrude Evans that runs from July 15 to August 2. The monthly Last Ham Standing Comedy Improv nights are also a must-see.

 

Staycation

The most crucial part of planning a trip is where you will be staying - whether you are there for one night or one week. Make your experience unique and head to historic Middleburg - known as the nation’s horse and hunt capital. There, you will find Forbes 5-star resort and spa Salamander Middleburg owned by BET co-founder, Sheila Johnson. It's the ultimate upscale retreat, located on 340 picturesque acres with gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments and even a zip line course outdoor enthusiasts. More intimate, nestled in the woods outside historic Waterford, is Hummingbirds Hideaway Treehouse, a two bedroom guesthouse with mountain and valley views from its high perch. It's quiet and tucked away, but still close enough to popular nearby spots such as Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery and the restaurants of Lovettsville.

 

Shopping Local & Lavish

There’s another way to experience a new place and take a piece of it home with you - shopping! From chic boutiques to unique antique stores, visitors have a range of local goodies to choose from. Purcellville is home to a favorite of mine, Nostalgia Boutique where you can shop high-quality vintage clothing, antique furniture and home décor for customizing your own style. Learn more about where to shop locally in Loudoun, including fresh, locally-grown produce.