Bath County, Virginia—
Over the River and Through the Woods

by Lynette Johnson

Hot Springs, Warm Springs, & Bath County Tourism Information

If you're feeling the need for peace and quiet, head west to Bath County, Virginia. The area's name comes from all the thermal springs that bubble to the surface here, regarded as healing waters over the centuries. Here you'll discover The Homestead, an internationally-famous resort, and many more attractions.

"The views are magnificent—the valleys so beautiful, the scenery so peaceful." Gen. Robert E. Lee's words, penned in 1861, are still true. Guarded by the rugged Allegheny Mountains, the county now offers, along with its beauty, a full range of outdoor recreational opportunities. It is 89% woodland, with clean mountain streams for bass and trout fishing. The county falls in the Warm Springs Ranger District, whose oversight includes the Jackson River, Back Creek, Lake Moomaw, and the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. For hiking, biking, and outdoor enjoyment, the George Washington National Forest and the Nature Conservancy’s Warm Springs Preserve excel. Nearby Douthat State Park boasts a fine lake, with sandy shores, and excellent camping, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities.

The Homestead is a magnificent resort, with something for just about everyone, at every time of year. From falconry, to golf, to a super-luxurious spa, to relaxing, bowling, swimming, hiking, fly fishing, and more, you'll find it here—in addition to the hot and warm springs (take a dip in the Jefferson Pools!) and world-class dining.

If The Homestead is out of your budget range (Be sure to check out their special packages before you rule out The Homestead, though—some of them are surprisingly affordable!), you can choose from a wide selection of local accommodations. There are no chain hotels, but plenty of bed & breakfasts, rental cottages, homes, and cabins, in flavors from Victorian to rustic. My favorite is the Inn at Gristmill Square, offering both excellent rooms and fine cuisine.

Nearby Garth Newel Music Center offers fine music throughout the year, from intimate indoor concerts to great outdoor festivals in the warm summer months. There are some wonderful weekend festivals at Garth Newel this spring, including the Archduke Weekend, April 23-25 and the Memorial Day Festival, May 28-30. The Virginia Blues & Jazz Festival will bring the hills to life June 11-13.

The small towns of Bath County—Hot Springs, Warm Springs, and Millboro—are rich in the visual arts as well, with a number of excellent galleries to browse. Check out the Jackson River Gallery, Grover Galleries, the Gallery at Seven Oaks, and Warm Springs Gallery. The Mustoe House (the area's oldest building) is now an antique shop and art gallery as well. For quilters and quilt enthusiasts, Quilts Unlimited and Tender Heart Quilts are 'must-stops'.

It isn't easy to get to Bath County. You'll be singing "Over the river and through the woods..." many times before you arrive. You can take Rt. 39 west from Lexington, Virginia or take I-64 west to US220 north. Alternatively, take US250 west from Staunton, Virginia to US220 south. The roads are mountainous and winding. But, take my word for it, the long drive is worth every second. Bath County is the perfect playground, in any season!

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