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Archive for the ‘Places to Stay’ Category

Secrets to Planning Your Southern WV Vacation

Wednesday, February 1st, 2012

February is here.  Do you have the winter blues?  If so, a good pick me up is to start to plan your summer vacation.

And we can help, especially if that vacation is in southern West Virginia.

Summer in WV ( New River )

Planning this far in advance almost ensures that the dates you choose are probably available for lodging, rafting or any other of the activities you can participate in here in the Mountain State.

There are a number of ways to find information about southern West Virginia.  But there’s one thing we are sure of;  your first move should be to talk with us.

Our website contains information about a variety of activities, events and lodging possibilities. If you’re not web savvy, we also have talented people you can reach by phone – 800-847-4898 – to help you find the information you are seeking.

 

Here are other recommendations on how to plan a great vacation here in southern WV.

 

Lodging

There are a few decisions that you need to make first on your own before choosing lodging.  Location, budget, and dates of your stay will be the first things to determine. When you have figured out these few variables, there are many different sources to help you find the ideal place.

There are plenty of hotels, cabins, B&Bs, and campgrounds in the area.  These choices are a bit different in style, location, and amenities. Starting your planning now allows you to really review each option and figure out what will work for your group.

Activities

Southern WV is one of the top areas in the nation for outdoor recreation opportunities. From rafting to rock climbing, ATVs to zip lines , there is enough adventure here to last a lifetime.  Before you pick activities, there are a couple of things you need to do.

* Look at the age and adventure level of your group. Even if it ranges from mild to wild, you can design an agenda that can accommodate both groups.

* Most available activities in this area are listed on our website. Researching them, and even calling and talking to people at the various outfitters, will help you determine what’s going to work for your group.

Just remember one of the most important aspects to ensuring your vacation goes off without a hitch is proper planning. When you take the time to do a bit of research and make your reservations early, chances are good you’ll have planned the perfect vacation.

So get to day-dreaming and figure out how you’re going to enjoy summer in Southern WV!

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What’s Your Choice of Lodging in the Gorge Area

Thursday, January 19th, 2012

Southern West Virginia has every type of lodging. From functional to elegant, and everything in between, you can find a place to stay that suits your needs (and your wallet). In fact, there are so many choices you may just have trouble making a decision.

We can help.  Here’s a rundown of some local options.

Cabin in the Country

Bed and Breakfast

There are many great B&B’s throughout the area, many with interesting history or cool surroundings. This type of lodging is perfect for folks who have a very outgoing personality and like to meet new people. The quaint nature and communal style of B&B’s isn’t for everyone, but if you’re up for the intimacy of this type of lodging, it can be a really special experience.

Remember, B&B’s are typically small.  They tend to work best for couples and small groups of travelers.

Cabins

Cabin stays have become very popular in southern West Virginia, and the inventory here  has grown tremendously over the last decade.  Area cabin types vary from small rustic models that are just a step above camping, to luxurious rentals that may be nicer than home. There are both privately owned cabins and those that are part of resorts or other facilities.

Cabins can work well for everyone; from couples who like their privacy to large groups looking to stay together in the same, homey place. Some cabin businesses have models that can sleep up to 20 people.  Most cabins have great access to the hiking, biking and other area activities. If you want a vacation that feels like home away from home, then a cabin stay is for you.

Hotels

Hotels have offered quick, easy, and convenient lodging here for decades. This area has plenty  hotels to choose from and most are located close to food and entertainment opportunities.

If you look at your vacation strictly as a getaway from everything normal (cooking, cleaning and the like), then a hotel stay will work really well for you.

And to really immerse yourself in the beauty of West Virginia, plan to camp!
Where do you like to stay when you visit southern West Virginia?

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Why Southern WV is the Best Place For Your Family Reunion

Monday, September 12th, 2011

Families, no matter where they are from, are diverse. There are older members, younger members, wild members, calm members, go-getters, and slow-movers.  It is this diversity that makes families fun and unique.

But diversity can also present a challenge when trying to organize a family get-together. All kinds of

Family Time in WV

people can make it hard to find activities to satisfy everyone.

So when it comes to things to do, Southern WV is hard to beat. Whether you’re into high-adventure sports or relaxing leisure activities, this area provides great opportunities for all.
Let’s look at how the diversity of this area makes it a great place for a family reunion.

Getting The Family Together

Depending on the size and make-up of your group, getting everyone together can often be tough. Southern West Virginia has many large campgrounds and cabin rentals.  If some of the family likes to camp and others don’t, many of the cabins are extremely close to campgrounds. There  are also many hotels in the area.

Some of the adventure resorts in the area even have both campgrounds and cabins located on their property. Keeping the group together and everyone comfortable is an easy task if you let the resort professionals help you through the process.

Keep The Family Entertained

Even if Aunt Barb thinks everyone in the family would love a group outing to look at the world’s biggest rubberband ball, chances are you’re never going to get everyone in a large group to do everything together.  So having a plethora of things to do makes it much easier to keep everyone entertained. Here’s a list of just some of the activities families can do (together or on their own) in southern West Virginia.

* Rafting
* Hiking
* Mountain Biking
* Rock Climbing
* Fishing
* ATV riding
* Zip lining
* Swimming
* Boating
* Horseback Riding
* Caving
* Paintball
* Golf
* Antiquing

(And no, the world’s largest rubberband ball is not here in southern WV.  But we do have the longest steel arch bridge in the western hemisphere.)

Look To Resorts for Convenience

One of the best options to consider is a package that includes lodging, activities, and meals.  Many area resorts are now packaging all of these options together to make planning easy.  Some even provide discounts depending on group numbers and length of stay.

So when you start planning your family reunion, remember southern West Virginia. You’ll make memories that will last a lifetime.

When was your last WV reunion?

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Secrets in the World of Cabin Rentals

Monday, April 18th, 2011

If you’re thinking about getting away this spring, there are lots of options for you here in Southern WV including some great cabin rentals.  Some are rustic, some more modern.

Inside View of Modern Cabin

Some include a full list of amenities, and some amenities can be added …if you know to ask for them.

Here are some secrets (ahem..tips) for knowing what to ask for when booking your trip:

Modern vs. rustic.  To some of us, a cabin is a cabin is a cabin.  But there are actually lots of different types depending on the experience you’re looking for.  Be sure and ask about things like electricity, televisions, phones, etc.  Some have them, and some are happy to offer you cabins without modern technology disruptions.

Must Haves. Must haves vary from person to person. Some people will only rent cabins with fireplaces, some have to have an outdoor hot tub, others just want their rental to be tucked away in the woods (that’s an easy order here in southern WV).  Knowing  what you ‘must have’ will help you make a decision when it comes to choosing your vacation cabin.

Late arrival. We’re fortunate in WV to have a warm hospitable spirit.  So much so, that if you are running late to your cabin, many owners will hide a key for you so that you don’t have to do the official check-in that night.

Outside view of Southern WV Cabin

Views. If you want to look out at an incredible view in the morning or sit in the hot tub with only trees surrounding you – just ask for it.  Many reservationists are used to travelers asking for rooms and cabins with the best view and are happy to oblige if it’s available.

Want extras upon arrival? If you’re planning a romantic getaway or a trip with your children, ask the owners or reservationists to help you out by placing a bottle of wine, flowers or teddy bear in the cabin as a surprise.   Many places are used to this type of request and can easily add it on to your bill.

Discounts.  WV State Parks offer some great discounts if you do your homework.  These include discounts for Active Military and spring specials.  Other area cabins offer off-peak and multi-day rental rates.

Hope to see you soon!

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Last Minute Valentine’s Day Ideas

Friday, February 11th, 2011

Last Minute Valentine’s Day Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just 3 days away and is sure to catch a few of us offguard.  If you haven’t ordered roses, made a dinner reservation, or gotten construction paper together for the kids to make a card, then you’re probably running out of time.

But instead of making a bunch of calls or running a bunch of errands, why not book one of

Massage Stones

Southern WV’s great romantic packages?  From Twin Falls to Pipestem and the Nostalgia Inn all offer “sweet” deals from spa treatments to ballroom dancing lessons.

Not sure if you can get away this weekend?  Plan a trip for later in February when you can have a last skiing hoorah or give a gift certificate for spring when special events like the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival or Bramwell Spring Homes Tour kick off the warmer season.

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A Thanksgiving Feast Where Someone Else Does the Cooking

Monday, November 22nd, 2010

November 25 is always a time to give thanks and surround ourselves with those we love.  But surrounding ourselves with thanks doesn’t always mean hours spent in a kitchen.  This year, thousands of families will take the time off and let someone else do the cooking, including those visiting Southern West Virginia.

Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving Dinner Options

Where will you find turkey and all the fixings?  Maybe some unexpected stops.

Tamarack

Take-out Thanksgiving dinners are available at Tamarack by Greenbrier trained chefs for $185 for service for 10. Dinners includes a 12-14 lb turkey, cornbread stuffing, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, fresh cranberry relish, salad, rolls and cornbread, pumpkin and granny smith and pecan pies.    But plan ahead, as orders must be placed by November 22.

The Greenbrier

If you are going to be near the Greenbrier County area, you may want to join in on Thanksgiving Brunch at The Greenbrier.  This year’s dinner will be held on November 25 beginning at 10:30am and will feature a feast beyond compare including beef as well as turkey and an early brunch selection.  Plan to stick around to glide away the holiday on the resort’s new ice skating rink.

Whatever your turkey day preferences, Southern WV has an option for you.  The question is, will you be spending the holiday with us?

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Cozy Cabins + True Adventure = One Perfect November Getaway

Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010

Whitewater rafting season is a wrap. The leaves have fallen from the trees and we are eagerly awaiting ski season (It’s just around the corner). So if you have been wanting to get away – and I mean really get away, to the mountains of West Virginia – there’s still plenty of reasons to visit.

Cabin Getaways in West Virginia

Cabin Getaways in West Virginia

True Adventure by Day
Just because whitewater season is over, doesn’t mean we’ve rolled up our adventure red carpet – there’s still plenty to be had. A November visit is perfect for riding along our ATV trails, horseback riding, trying the new canopy/zip tours, or taking a trip across the New River Gorge Bridge’s catwalk.

The scenery is breathtaking and the hiking trails are not crowded, and throughout the region towns everywhere are getting ready for their Veteran’s Day celebrations. All types of businesses, including WV State Parks, are reaching out to all Veterans with a ‘thank you’ special for the first two weeks in November.

If finding a great deal is more how you show your adventurous side, check out Tamarack or towns like Fayetteville or Lewisburg. It’s easy to get lost in a day full of edgy shops, cool owner-chef restaurants, and a burgeoning arts scene.

True Relaxation by Night
After a day of pushing the envelope, who wouldn’t want to take themselves off the grid and getaway? Southern WV temperatures in November dip down to the 30s by night – allowing for a perfect excuse to getaway to a West Virginia cottage or cabin rental with fireplaces at the ready. From rustic to refined, our region offers more than 50 cabin options sure to give you what you’re looking for.

For a nice glass of vino or a little jazz in the background, check out our Events Calendar for recommendations on where to find some locations for additional unwinding.

Go on…add this getaway to your to-do list. You’ll be glad you did.

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What’s The Big Deal With Summers County?

Thursday, August 6th, 2009

Pipestem State Park Tram

Pipestem State Park Tram

If you go less than 200 miles from home, is that considered a “stay-cation”?  If so, and you live in Southern West Virginia, go ahead and sign up for one in Summers County.

Hinton’s there.  If you have any interest in railroads, or rivers, or coal mining history, or hot dogs (you know what I’m talkin’ about!) that’s your town.  Hinton was a hub in during the coal boom, mainly because 3 major rivers, and as many major rail lines, come together there.

Trivia:  Guess which rivers.  If you said the Elk, Big Coal, and Kanawha, you’re wrong! And you’re thinking of Charleston.  The three rivers that meet in Hinton are the Bluestone, the Greenbrier, and the New.

And, it just so happens that Hinton is also the gateway to some of the coolest outdoor recreation in SWV.  That’s saying a lot.

Bluestone State Park
Just minutes down the road from Hinton is Bluestone State Park, at the mouth of the Bluestone River where it joins the New.  Actually, that’s all part of Bluestone Lake, being backed up by the Bluestone Dam.

But the park – the park is awesome!  Very laid back.  Clean.  Friendly folks.  Lots of space.  The cabins are the way to go if you want to be up on the mountain, but there’s a lot of great camping down at the river.

A bonus is the YPP- Young People for Parks program.  A naturalist meets up with kids every afternoon and evening to explore part of the park.  Check out the bats, find wild mushrooms, go fishing, and on and on.  It’s a very cool program for keeping the kids entertained.

Pipestem
Pipestem is a jewel in the crown of the West Virginia State Parks system.   The park opens up to a big rolling hill of green grass and tall trees, pushed right up to the edge of the Bluestone River Gorge.

Let’s just say that the picture window in the lodge is a good place to spend about 15 hours watching wildlife.  Deer, bear, all kinds of birds.  Walk outside and you’re in a painting.

Also, there’s a ton to do.  If you have kids, and you want the “park” experience, go there.  Archery, interpretive hikes, swimming.  Mini golf, not-so mini golf (par 3 course), big golf.  Camping, cabins,  and two lodges – one’s accessible only by tram.

That’s right.  I said tram.

The place is like a perfect mountain getaway, with plenty to do.  And plenty to not do.  It all depends on what you want.

Bet Summers County has it.

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What’s The Big Deal With Southern West Virginia?

Wednesday, July 15th, 2009
Golden Delicious Apples

Golden Delicious Apples

Here’s a secret:  southern West Virginia is one of the best vacation spots in the country.

Maybe that’s our fault.  We don’t want to keep it a secret, obviously.  Please, be our guests; tell everyone.  Shout it from the hilltops.  Share it on your facey-spacies.  It’s a big deal.

A New Blog Series
Well, a lot of us think it’s a big deal.  So, we’re going to spotlight exactly why with a short series of blog posts.

We’ll be talking about some of the major draws for visitors throughout our region.  And the way we’ll do that is by going from area to area, and listing the things that we like about it.

That way, when people say, “Hey, what’s the big deal about Beckley, WV?”, you can say, “Oh, Beckley? That place has a coal mine tour that goes 1500 feet under a mountain.  You’ve never been?! Are you out of your mind?  We need to go right now!  That place is a big deal…”

Or something like that.

Some Examples Of Why SWV Is A Big Deal (We’re Biased)
There really are great reasons to come visit.  Of course, we’re a little one-sided.  But can you blame us?  Check this out…

•    West Virginia is covered by more than 75% forest.
•    We have the lowest crime rate in the country.
•    One reason we’re the Mountain State is because we have the highest          average elevation east of the Mississippi.
•    We were once the site of the largest Oak tree in the country (it died), and still have the largest Sycamore (goin’ strong).
•    We’re the most northern of southern states and the most southern of northern states.
•    We have the world’s first brick street.
•   Golden Delicious apple? That’s right.  West Virginia.

Typical Big Deal Information
What we really want to provide with these posts are facts about cool stuff to see and do, places that we like to stay, some of the best places to eat… that kind of thing.

Vacation time is precious.  Maybe we can help plan a little of yours by finding out what the big deal is around southern West Virginia.

And thanks, too, for reading them. We hope they’re helpful.

What’s Your Big Deal?
Have a place that you’d like spotlighted?  Some info on the big deal about so-and-so town?  Share it.  Reply to any of these posts, and let the world know what you know that you want others to know about southern West Virginia.

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