Summer officially kicks off on June 20, the longest day of the year, but it’s 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. Pedego Electric Bikes is opposite the W&OD Trail in Leesburg and 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 an intimate show experience try the Tally Ho in Leesburg, which features concerts and other shows. Many of Loudoun’s local artists perform here, including those who have gone on to book shows like American Idol. Franklin Park Arts Center in Purcellville is another place to drop in to explore the arts up close, both visual and performing. Walk in here and discover wonderful hand-made art. Exhibitions change regularly, the next exhibition will be on August 8 showcasing the "On Vacation" theme - fitting, I'd say, and it will end on September 8. Uniquely, the monthly Last Ham Standing Improv comedy shows are also a must see.
Staycation
Arguably, the most crucial part about 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, infamously owned by BET co-founder, Sheila Johnson. It is the ultimate upscale stay located on 340 picturesque acres with on-sight gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments and even a zip line course for those outdoor enthusiasts. More subtly, nestled in the trees secluded, and literally in the woods in the heart of Waterford is Hummingbirds Hideaway Treehouse. This property is tucked away enough for a peaceful getaway yet close enough to explore more than just the treetops like nearby farm brewery, Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery.
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.
