Unforgettable Getaways for Every Couple
By Jennifer Jett Prezkop
Blackwater Falls State Park. Photo by Tucker County CVB.
The only thing sweeter than saying “I do” in the Mountain State is spending your honeymoon exploring the hills and valleys of Almost Heaven. With its unique culture, authentic people, natural beauty and long list of things every visitor should see, taste or experience, West Virginia is an ideal destination for newlyweds.
Thanks to the help of the experts at the local convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) in Canaan Valley, Lewisburg, Martinsburg, Summersville and Wheeling, we’re happy to share the insider info that will help make planning your West Virginia honeymoon a piece of cake. If you’re looking for a memorable getaway that offers a variety of first-class accommodations, local cuisine and one-of-a-kind adventures, you’re sure to find all that and more in one of these five West Virginia destinations.
Canaan Valley
Provided by Tucker County CVB
Canaan Valley Resort. Photo by Justin Harris/Canaan Valley Resort.
The Canaan Valley area is a one-of-a-kind honeymoon destination where old-world artistry and outdoor adventure combine with modern amenities. Located in one of the most stunning natural environments in West Virginia, the area offers couples an unforgettable getaway any time of year.
Canaan Valley Resort State Park pulls triple duty as a luxurious resort, a four-season destination and a pristine 6,000-acre state park. Guests can choose from lodge or cabin accommodations, and newlyweds will have a chance to catch their breath with a spa visit at the resort or Allegheny Holistic Health Care. A full-service ski area is open during the winter, and during the rest of the year, a championship golf course, sporting clays and miles of hiking and biking trails are open for guests to enjoy.
For hiking enthusiasts, Dolly Sods is a unique attraction where, on a clear day, visitors can see seven mountain ridges across a 30-mile stretch. Guests will find breathtaking views at Blackwater Falls State Park and Lindy Point. Music lovers will discover the ultimate road trip adventure with the Mountain Music Trail, including a stop for live music at the Purple Fiddle in Thomas.
For foodies and craft beer lovers, the towns of Davis and Thomas are known for serving up big flavor. At Stumptown Ales in Davis, visitors can sample the notable double-IPA brewed Holy Citra and the Lefty Lucy American Ale. Nearby, Sirianni’s Café, a must-stop for foodies, is known for its to-die-for pizza and pasta. Meanwhile in Thomas, craft beer fans will find Mountain State Brewing Company, one of the oldest and largest microbreweries in the state. See the inner workings of the brewery’s seven-barrel brewhouse and taproom for free.
The Canaan Valley area has something for everyone. For more information, visit www.canaanvalley.org.
Lewisburg
Provided by Greenbrier County CVB
Downtown Lewisburg. Photo by Greenbrier County CVB.
Lewisburg’s quaint downtown is a cozy setting for a honeymoon after a roaring wedding celebration. For a unique blend of the old and new, stay at The Historic General Lewis Inn. This luxury boutique inn offers opulent suites, indulgent amenities and mouthwatering meals in the Jefferson Dining Room.
Couples can walk hand in hand exploring the downtown shops and art galleries and observing the city’s preserved architecture. Find treasures to fill your new home at Harmony Ridge Gallery and Robert’s Antiques or art from Lee Street Studios. For lunch, try the farm-to-table standout Stardust Café, serving locally raised meats, fair trade coffees and seasonal produce. In the evening, enjoy world-class entertainment at Greenbrier Valley Theatre with productions ranging from Broadway blockbusters to enthralling dramas, or tap your toes at Carnegie Hall, which presents an eclectic season filled with Americana, classical music and more.
Toast to a new beginning at Smooth Ambler Spirits. Sip samples of craft whiskey, then take a tour to learn how it’s made. At The French Goat, the bistro-style menu with touches of the South pair well with a diverse wine list and hand-crafted cocktails.
Relax together at The Greenbrier’s mineral spa, where traditional sulphur treatments are combined with state-of-the-art therapeutic experiences. At The Salt Cave and Spa, a man-made cave lined with restorative Himalayan salt, staff specialize in halotherapy, light therapy, massages, facials and more.
For the adventurous couple, hit the road in a two-person, open-air Slingshot. Rent the roadster from Greenbrier Off-Road Adventures and navigate the twists and turns of the area’s rolling hills. For fresh air, pack some snacks and take a hike on one of the many trails at Greenbrier State Forest. To plan your trip to Lewisburg, visit www.greenbrierwv.com.
Martinsburg
Provided by Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB
Berkeley County orchards.
Photo by Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB.
Nestled in the Shenandoah mountains, Berkeley County, WV, is a honeymooner’s dream destination with breathtaking views, luxurious spas, amazing day trip adventures and a serene sense of seclusion.
Check into The Woods Resort, a stunning property that offers guests the opportunity to connect to one another through its spa, gourmet food, hiking trails and golf packages. No matter what activity you choose, you’ll be treated to spectacular mountain views you will remember for years to come.
Treat yourself to a different relaxation experience at Touch of Grace Spa, which features a salt cave created out of pink Himalayan salt. There, you can get a couple’s massage or simply unwind.
Tempt the palate at Brix 27 in downtown Martinsburg where the dishes are small but the taste is big, and enjoy sampling from the vast array of wines available. Sweeten your trip with the confectionary delights available throughout Martinsburg. Try a delectable slice of creamy cheesecake at Everything Cheesecake, and stop by DeFluri’s Chocolates for a box of handcrafted truffles to take home as a sweet reminder of your honeymoon.
Sample local spirits with a tour of Black Draft Distillery, Berkeley County’s award-winning distiller of moonshine and whiskey. After seeing how it’s made and sampling the different flavors, head over to Boyd’s Steakhouse in downtown Martinsburg for cocktails made with Black Draft’s liquor. The restaurant provides its own charm with its delicious Sunday brunches and a bar that was once owned by Al Capone.
While creating history together, take time to check out the area’s rich Civil War history through the county’s museums, trails and proximity to battle sites like Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Make your honeymoon destination your home away from home. Learn more about Martinsburg at www.travelwv.com.
Summersville
Provided by Summersville CVB
Pirate’s Cove on Summersville Lake. Photo by Annie Johnson.
For honeymooners looking to unwind, Summersville Lake is 60 miles of shoreline and almost 2,800 acres of water. With a water temperature of about 76 degrees and a visibility of 20-45 feet, it is perfect for a host of activities, such as boating, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and swimming. If you want a little more adventure, consider scuba diving or rock climbing.
For land lovers, there is no better view of Summersville Lake than from the top of the Summersville Lake Lighthouse. There are 122 steps to the top, and once you reach the 360-degree gallery deck, the view is breathtaking. At Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, guests will be able to stretch their legs and step back in time with a variety of hiking trails and a wealth of Civil War history.
While in Summersville, take a tour of Kirkwood Winery and taste one of more than 30 different varieties of wine. The winery is also the home of Isaiah Morgan Distillery, which produces the oldest bourbon in West Virginia.
There is a variety of options for lodging, from cabins and camping at Summersville Lake Retreat to yurts and cozy cabins at Mountain Lake Campground to traditional hotel rooms. Restaurants range from fast food to fine dining. Maloney’s Pub in downtown Summersville is a must, and couples will also enjoy Long Point Grille & Bar by Summersville Lake and Craft Kings in Mt. Nebo.
For the couples looking for high-energy thrills, whitewater rafting is a short drive south on Route 19. If you are looking to stay on land, consider Bridge Walk for guided walking tours under the New River Gorge Bridge.
For more information on everything Summersville has to see and do, visit www.summersvillecvb.com.
Wheeling
Provided by Visit Wheeling WV
Picnicking at Oglebay.
Photo by West Virginia Tourism Office.
Looking for a honeymoon destination with big-city amenities minus the typical hustle and bustle? An unforgettable adventure awaits every newlywed couple in Wheeling, WV.
More than 100 years ago, a tradition of generous hospitality began at the summer estate of Earl Oglebay. Today, the picturesque beauty of Oglebay’s property is a resort that has expanded to include 2,000 acres of year-round recreational activities and exceptional overnight accommodations. While visiting, guests can enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the surrounding countryside at the Ihlenfeld Dining Room, relax at the West Spa or have a close encounter with some of the residents at Oglebay’s Good Zoo, West Virginia’s only accredited zoo.
With luck already on their side, honeymooners will want to try their hands at the slot machines or table games at Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino Racetrack. Wheeling Island offers live greyhound racing and simulcast all year. Enjoy fine dining at The Pointe Steak & Sea, and catch live music and entertainment in the showroom or on the gaming floor stage.
Discover destination shopping both big and small in Wheeling. The historic Centre Market District is home to the oldest market house in the country. Visit locally owned shops, boutiques, antique parlors and eateries, including Coleman’s Fish Market, which has been serving its famous fish sandwich for more than 100 years. The premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination in the greater Wheeling area—The Highlands—features more than 70 businesses, allowing for the ultimate shopping adventure.
Complete your romantic getaway with a show at the historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Wheeling. Nicknamed Wheeling’s Grand Lady, the theatre offers an annual Broadway series featuring nationally touring performances of some the biggest shows on the Great White Way.
Your Wheeling honeymoon adventure awaits. Plan yours today at www.visitwheelingwv.com.
