Posted in Virginia March 18, 2021 by

Bath County, Virginia Was Recently Named A Top U.S. Travel Destination And It’s Not Hard To See Why

Travel these days looks a bit different. Fortunately, it’s given us a chance to explore more remote corners of our country, places where we can find solitude and escape the busyness of everyday life. At the top of the list is Bath County, Virginia. Infused with natural beauty, surrounded by mountains, and filled with historic charm, this place has gained national attention as it was recently rated a Top U.S. Travel Destination by Forbes. Truth be told, we couldn’t agree more! Here’s everything you can look forward to when you visit Bath County.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Heading down Route 220 on your way into Bath County is a bit like being transported through a tunnel of trees to a realm of natural tranquility.
krblokhin / Getty Images
Soon, the landscape gives way to vast views of farmlands, rolling hills, and old-growth trees. Roll down your window and breathe in that fresh mountain air!
krblokhin / Getty Images
If you're wondering what to do when you arrive in Bath County, Douthat State Park is a wonderful place to start.
County of Bath / Facebook
One of Virginia's original state parks, this breathtaking property has welcomed visitors for decades. Complete with a manmade beach, a swimming lake, waterfalls, and multiple hiking trails, this park is a nature enthusiast's paradise.
Next up on the itinerary: a home-cooked meal from the Country Cafe.
County of Bath / Facebook
The specialty here is mountain trout, but just about anything on the menu is worth sampling.
And don't forget to stop by the famous Omni Homestead Resort for a hot springs soak, a maple donut, and historic lodgings.
The Omni Homestead Resort / Facebook
We've written about the Omni Homestead Resort many times, and that's because there's so much to do here. Whether you're fascinated by the hotel's history — it dates back to 1766 — or the natural hot springs, you'll find it's a delightful place to stay year-round.
For dinner, you can't go wrong with the Waterwheel Restaurant at the Inn at Gristmill Square. Tucked away in Warm Springs, this historic building is home to the region's most elegant restaurant.
County of Bath / Facebook
Wine enthusiasts will love the opportunity to head downstairs and pick out their own bottle of wine right from the cellar.
There are countless places to stay the night, from the stately rooms at the Homestead to the country-chic suites at Fort Lewis Lodge.
management / TripAdvisor
Photographed above is one of the suites at Fort Lewis Lodge. Looking for something a bit more rustic? Sleep under the stars at a nearby campsite.
On your way out of town, don't forget to grab a sandwich and a pint of ice cream to-go from the charming Milk House Market at the Old Dairy Barn.
management / TripAdvisor
It's one of the cutest lunch spots in town!
So whether you stay for just a night or an entire week, you'll quickly discover what makes Bath County such a remarkable Virginia destination.
County of Bath / Facebook
Spend enough time here, and you're bound to encounter a little magic.

Have you visited Bath County, Virginia lately? What was your favorite part about the experience? We’d love to hear from you — be sure to share your comments below!

Address: Bath County, VA, USA