If you'd like to take a day to relax in West Virginia, this is the perfect spot to do it! Lambert's Winery in Weston offers tours, tastings, and more in a scenic and serene location.
Lambert's Winery in Weston has been producing some of West Virginia's best wines since 1992.
The winery building is constructed from hand cut stones gathered from various parts of West Virginia. Some of the stones weigh as much as 3,000 pounds.
advertisement
Beautiful gardens surround the winery, making it feel like a place out of a fairy tale.
The scenic grounds have plenty of places to sit and relax.
You can visit Lambert's Winery for tours and tastings.
Starting May 17, the winery will have wood-fired pizza available every Wednesday through August.
You're sure to fall in love with this winery, and maybe also fall in love at the winery... it's a popular spot for weddings!
advertisement
Lambert's Winery is located at 190 Vineyard Dr, Weston, West Virginia. It's open from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday, 11 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays, and 1 PM to 5 PM on Sundays in April through December. Call (304) 269-4903 for more information or to arrange a tour. You can also visit their website to learn more about the winery.
Looking for more day trip ideas in West Virginia? Here are 18 ideas for unique trips.
Are you a birder? I am, albeit quite an amateur, and I'm always on the lookout for good bird-watching opportunities. Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains near the New River Gorge Bridge in the New River Gorge National Park, the New River Birding & Nature Center in Fayetteville, West Virginia, is a beautiful hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. It flies (pun intended, of course!) under the radar for many, but this 230-acre nature preserve that features a gazebo (affectionately known as the "outdoor classroom") and an accessible boardwalk trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the New River Gorge region.
advertisement
Upon arriving at the center (which isn't an actual building yet, but rather a boardwalk and small open air pavilion, along with various signage and lots of opportunities for viewing wildlife), visitors will find several miles of self-guided hiking trails that wind through lush forests, meadows, and wetlands.
There are even beaver ponds!
These trails through all the various habitats provide ample opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, including warblers, woodpeckers, herons, and bald eagles, and so many more.
Although it's tucked in Wolf Creek Park between Fayetteville and Oak Hill, this area is wild enough to host birds that are otherwise quite hard to find -- some folks come here to spot their lifer!
In addition to bird watching, the center also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for all ages.
From guided bird walks to bird tagging to projects around the preserve to nature-themed activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the New River Birding & Nature Center.
Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation and habitat preservation, as well as how they can help protect the natural world around them. If you are interested in some supplemental instruction, contact the center ahead of your visit to see if and how they can partner with your group to add to your experience.
advertisement
And it's not just certain times of year that the birds are active here. Even in winter you'll spot lots of beautiful views and wildlife activity.
Overall, a visit to the New River Birding & Nature Center is a must for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you are a seasoned birder or just looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, this hidden oasis in West Virginia is sure to leave a lasting impression. Learn more about the New River Birding & Nature Center on Facebook or on their website. And before you go, make sure to pick up a good bird identification guide to help you make the most of your visit!
For me, a perfect summer day includes two things: mountains and water. Give me a West Virginia creek, a West Virginia river, a West Virginia lake! Perhaps that's why I'm so eager to share with you what I've learned about Charles Fork Lake, a beautiful reservoir located near Spencer, West Virginia. Nestled in the rolling hills of Roane County, this serene lake offers visitors like you and me a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
advertisement
The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Anglers will find a variety of fish species in the lake, including walleye, musky, and bass.
Boaters can explore the calm waters and soak up the stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges (only electric trolling motors are permitted on Charles Fork Lake, making this a popular destination for paddlers with their kayaks, paddleboards, and more).
There's also a picnic area and a campground. All in all, it is the perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing day by the water.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are hiking trails around the lake that offer a chance to admire the local flora and fauna.
The Charles Fork Lake Outer Loop Trail, for example, is a moderate seven mile hike that circles the lake. Bird watchers will particularly enjoy the diverse bird species that call the area home.
Charles Fork Lake also hosts the Tour de Lake mountain bike race and various fishing tournaments each year.