Bedford is home to five wineries with others expected to open within the next several years. Mild winter temperatures, warm summers, fertile soil and the protection of the Blue Ridge Mountains make this Piedmont plateau an exceptional location for excellent grape and fruit harvests used in the production of quality wines.

100 years ago crops like tobacco and tomatoes were the mainstays of central Virginia's agriculture. Today we are witnessing the emergence of a new agri-business that links with tourism to enrich Virginia's economy. Bedford, the fifth largest county in Virginia, is now home to five wineries with others expected to open within the next several years. In the last few years, four new wineries have blossomed along the slopes of the Blue Ridge, on the gentle hillsides and along the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. Mild winter temperatures, warm summers, fertile soil and the protection of the Blue Ridge Mountains make this Piedmont plateau an exceptional location for excellent grape and fruit harvests used in the production of quality wines.

At the wineries you can expect a unique experience with several offering additional agricultural opportunities including interaction with farm animals, vineyard and orchard tours, and picnic areas. Along the way they will catch a glimpse of the other treasures of Bedford including distinctive vistas, numerous attractions, wonderful country stores and restaurants, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Warm smiles and friendly conversation await each visitor.

Bedford Wine Trail brochures are available at the wineries and the Bedford Welcome Center and visitors are encouraged to have their brochure stamped as they visit each of the wineries. On the home page at the lower right of the map, simply click on the printable version of the trail map and you are ready for an adventure. Once you have acquired a stamp for every winery, you can return it to the Welcome Center for a complimentary gift. Throughout the year each winery has several special events designed to delight the entire family.

Other Attractions:

Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is accessible all along the Blue Ridge Parkway. From Bedford, access the trail at Milepost 80.5 Floyd Field, 90.9 Bearwallow Gap or Milepost 92.5 Sharp Top Overlook.

Bedford Museum and Genealogical Library
201 East Main Street
Bedford, VA 24523
540-586-4520

Collections that tell Bedford's story from its earliest Native American residents through the last half of the 20th century. Popular exhibits include the Company A of the 116th Infantry, a Native American and African American exhibits. Genealogical records and other materials for research about Bedford and Virginia are here. Inquire about our research assistance for genealogists outside the Bedford area. The Museum is open 10:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday.

Bedford Main Street - Historic Centertown Bedford
101 North Bridge Street, Suite 3
Bedford, VA 24523
Visit the heart of Bedford with shops featuring antiques, art, jewelry, gifts, collectibles, and more! Restaurants offering American and international cuisine are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Explore the National Historic District while staying at one of several Bed & Breakfasts. Points of interest include the Bedford City/County Museum, Historic Avenue, Farmers Market, Historic Meeting House, and the Wharton House and Gardens. Walking Tour and Visitors Guide available.

Blue Ridge Parkway
The Parkway offers 460 miles of picturesque travel across Virginia and North Carolina. Ranging in elevations from 600 to 6,000 feet, the road encompasses a variety of ever changing weather conditions, regardless of the season. The Parkway was designed as a scenic leisure road for motor vehicles so bikers should use caution and be prepared for significant distances between developed areas and services that may vary by season. Parkway maps are available at the Bedford Welcome Center the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center or visit


Emerson Creek Pottery
1068 Pottery Lane, Bedford
540-297-7884
Hand painting distinctive patterns have gained Emerson Creek Pottery a unique reputation among discriminating customers. No two hand painted pieces are alike. The factory outlet is located in a historic log cabin built in 1825 by blacksmith Silas Wade. Enjoy the beautiful country setting, listen to a wide variety of birds or have lunch on one of the picnic tables under the maple trees.

Gross' Orchard Apple Valley
6817 Wheats Valley Road
Bedford, VA 24523
540-586-2436
Gross' Orchard is a family owned and operated orchard which has been in business before the turn of the century. Our specialties are mountain grown peaches and apples. We are located at the foot of the beautiful Peaks of Otter. In the summer, June 20th - Sept. 15th, we have peaches for you to select from or a U-Pick program if you choose to enjoy. In the fall season we have a great selection of apples for you to choose from at our retail outlet at the edge of the orchard. Fall apples - beginning September 1st. Our peach and apple trees are well maintained for your picking. We ship gift packs nationwide for you. Tours and Tour Buses Welcome! Call for appointment. Wagon Rides available through the heart of the orchard. Call to set up your church, reunion, school group, or any of your gatherings to tour the heart of the orchard today.

Mayberry Drive-In Theatre & Diner
1696 Whitehouse Road
Moneta, VA 24121
540-296-1480
Offering Diner fare as well as the traditional Drive-In Theatre. Call for current movie showing.

The National D-Day Memorial
P.O. Box 77
Bedford, VA 24523
800-351-DDAY, 540-586-DDAY
Located in the town suffering the highest per capita D-Day losses in the nation, The National D-Day Memorial honors the Allied forces that participated in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. With its stylized English Garden, haunting invasion tableau, and striking Victory Plaza, the Memorial stands as a powerful permanent tribute to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of D-Day participants. The Memorial and gift shop are open from 10 AM - 5PM Tuesday - Sunday, Closed Mondays. (some inclement weather closings possible). Guided tours and school programs available, guided tours will resume March 9, 2010..

Smith Mountain Lake
Water sports have never known such a home. Nestled in the protective embrace of the mountains, this picturesque lake offers over 20,000 acres of playground for boaters, fishermen, swimmers, skiers, sailors, and water enthusiasts of all ages. The rolling shores are a haven for wildlife and are home to hiking, horseback riding trails, tennis and some of the most beautiful golf courses and resorts in the state.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest
1542 Bateman Bridge Road
Forest, VA 24551
434-525-1806
This historic octagonal home and beautiful plantation was built by President Thomas Jefferson as his personal retreat. It was a place he could escape with his family and find solitude and inspiration. When speaking of Poplar Forest and Bedford County, Jefferson quoted, "In point of soil, climate...and good neighborhood, I think it the finest part of Virginia. Poplar Forest now offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to see the restoration of the home's interior and wings as well as archaeology in progress. Open Wednesday - Monday (Currently closed on Tuesday), April through November, except Thanksgiving Day from 10 am - 4 pm. Special events throughout the season, including Independence Day.

The Peaks of Otter
Rising out of the Blue Ridge Mountains, two prominent peaks stand out against the sky giving Bedford one of the most beautiful backdrops in Virginia. In addition to Harkening Hill, these peaks, known as Sharp Top and Flat Top, were once home to Native Americans of 10,000 B.C. As a part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86), offers hiking trails, wildflower walks, group or individual picnic areas, fishing, campgrounds and a beautiful lodge and restaurant facility open year-round. Visitors can hike or take the guided bus tour to the peak of Sharp Top or hike to the restored Johnson Farm and experience southern mountain life during the 19th century. Contact the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at 540-586-4496 or 877-HI-PEAKS (toll-free) For the information on the Peaks of Otter Restaurant and Lodge, call 800-542-5927 or 877-HI-PEAKS or visit www.peaksofotter.com.