One of the things we love most about The Foxes Retreat is its location. Nestled in the mountains of Shawneeland, you'll enjoy peaceful seclusion while remaining just minutes from charming small towns, award-winning wineries, scenic hiking trails, breweries, and some of the Shenandoah Valley's most beautiful landscapes. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend, a romantic getaway, or an outdoor adventure, here are some of our favorite places to explore during your stay.

Explore Historic Old Town Winchester

Just 20 minutes from The Foxes Retreat, Old Town Winchester is the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and one of Virginia's most charming historic downtowns. Stroll the pedestrian-only Loudoun Street Walking Mall, browse locally owned boutiques, enjoy outdoor dining, and explore more than 250 years of history. The area is filled with restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, museums, and seasonal events throughout the year. Learn more:
https://oldtownwinchesterva.com

Our Favorite Restaurants

Village Square Restaurant

A perfect date-night destination featuring elevated American cuisine, craft cocktails, and a cozy historic atmosphere in the heart of Old Town. Reservations are recommended for weekends. https://villagesquarerestaurant.com

Water Street Kitchen

A local favorite known for creative seasonal dishes, excellent cocktails, and one of the best dining experiences in Winchester. Frequently recommended by locals and visitors alike.
https://waterstreetkitchen.com

Violino Ristorante Italiano

Authentic Italian cuisine in an intimate setting, perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions.
https://violinoristorante.com

Bonnie Blue Southern Market & Bakery

A must-visit for Southern comfort food, barbecue, and homemade desserts.
https://winchestersbestbbq.com/

Hopscotch Coffee & Records

Our favorite stop for coffee, pastries, and browsing vinyl records before exploring downtown.
https://hopscotchcoffeeandrecords.com

Breweries & Wineries

The Shenandoah Valley is home to some of Virginia's most scenic wineries and craft breweries.

Briede Family Vineyards

Located just outside Winchester, this boutique vineyard offers beautiful views, award-winning wines, and a relaxed tasting experience.
https://www.briedevineyards.com

Valerie Hill Vineyard & Winery

A beautiful historic estate featuring wine tastings, live music, and stunning grounds.
https://www.valeriehillwinery.com

Bluemont Vineyard

One of the most breathtaking vineyard views in Northern Virginia, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.
https://www.bluemontvineyard.com

Escutcheon Brewing Company

A local craft brewery serving a wide variety of beers in a laid-back atmosphere close to downtown Winchester.
https://www.escutcheonbrewing.com

Hiking & Outdoor Adventures

The Foxes Retreat is surrounded by some of the best hiking and outdoor recreation in the region.

Tuscarora Trail to Pinnacle Shelter

Distance: Approximately 4.8 miles round trip. Access to the Tuscarora Trail is located less than a one-minute drive from The Foxes Retreat, making it one of the most convenient hikes in the area. This moderate out-and-back hike follows a scenic ridgeline through mature hardwood forest before reaching Pinnacle Shelter, a backcountry shelter popular with long-distance hikers. Along the way, hikers are treated to peaceful mountain scenery, seasonal wildflowers, and occasional views through the trees overlooking the Shenandoah Valley. As part of the historic Tuscarora Trail—a 250-mile trail that runs through Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania—this hike offers guests a true wilderness experience just steps from the retreat.

Trail Information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/tuscarora-trail-bidy-trail-to-pinnacle-shelter

Local Tip: One of our favorite features of The Foxes Retreat is that you can leave the cabin, drive less than a minute to the trailhead at the top of the mountain, and be immersed in nature within minutes—no long drive required.

Raven Rocks

Distance: 5.5 miles round trip. One of the area's most popular hikes, featuring a spectacular overlook of the Shenandoah Valley. The trail follows part of the Appalachian Trail and rewards hikers with sweeping mountain views. https://gohikevirginia.com/raven-rocks-hike/

Bear's Den Overlook

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip. A relatively easy hike with one of the most iconic overlooks in Northern Virginia. Perfect for sunrise or sunset. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/bears-den-park-trail

Sky Meadows State Park

Distance from Retreat: Approximately 30 minutes. Offering miles of hiking trails, rolling meadows, mountain views, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows

Shenandoah National Park & Skyline Drive

Distance from Retreat: Approximately 45 minutes. Spend the day exploring one of America's most beautiful national parks. Skyline Drive features breathtaking overlooks, waterfalls, scenic drives, and access to hundreds of miles of hiking trails. https://www.nps.gov/shen

Winchester Green Circle Trail

An easy trail system that loops around Winchester and connects several parks, wetlands, and scenic areas. Great for walking, jogging, and biking. https://www.winchesterva.gov/parks-recreation/green-circle-trail

Come Home to The Foxes Retreat

After a day of exploring, return to your private mountain escape. Relax in the hot tub, unwind in the barrel sauna, pour a glass of Virginia wine, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings that make The Foxes Retreat so special.