En route to the most beautiful evening at Blue Rock (check it out on my Instagram highlights!), we spent the afternoon exploring Sperryville, VA, a charming town in Rappahannock County. We’ve driven through countless times, making note of the charming homes and tiny, but vibrant, main street. It’s just 10 minutes up the road from Washington, VA (a great day trip from DC!), so this was the perfect opportunity to add it to our itinerary.
About Sperryville, VA
Sperryville is a tiny foothills town boasting restaurants, galleries, shops, and a stunning view of the Blue Ridge mountains. Just an hour and a half west of Washington, DC, it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The homes and businesses lining the main street have maintained their original 19th century character, and the McFarmhouses of Loudoun County have yet to extend their creep to these unspoiled vistas. There are bed and breakfasts where you can stay right in town, explore, and then hop over to Shenandoah National Park for hiking or make your way to one of the many wineries or breweries in the area.
Itinerary for an Afternoon in Sperryville, VA
Stop One: Grab Lunch at Before & After
We stopped by Before & After, a quaint cafe in the heart of Sperryville, where you can pick up to-go food or stay and eat (they have a wonderful outdoor space!). Residing in a building originally built in 1857, they not only offer a delicious lunch, but an impressive wine selection as well. On the weekends, you can pick up a box lunch, with a sandwich, chips, cookie, pickle, and a beverage, which is exactly what we did. Adam got the curry chicken salad sandwich, while I had the smoked ham and swiss. Both were on flaky, buttery croissants. It was perfect for packing up and bringing to our next stop…
Stop Two: Enjoy a Cocktail and a Tasting at Copper Fox Distillery
Walking into Copper Fox Distillery, my first thought was, “this smells exactly how I want my condo to smell all the time.” I’m not sure what it was — it wasn’t the smell of mash, thankfully. But it was smoky, sweet…delicious.
We took a seat out back, where they have outdoor tables set up along the creek, transporting you into a lush, woodsy picnic spot. Adam did a flight, while I ordered the Shrubby Whiskey Sour, described as: Copper Fox Original Rye, House-made Orange Ginger Shrub, Wildroots Rosehip Hibiscus Syrup Club Soda, House-made Orange Bitters, and Orange Garnish. I liked it so much I picked up a shrub while we were out shopping that afternoon.
I can’t rave enough about Copper Fox. If there’s one stop on this itinerary you must go to, this is it.
Stop Three: Wander through Copper Fox Antiques
Fed and with a drink under out belt, we wandered over to the massive Copper Fox Antiques. It’s been a minute since I went antiquing — I’ve had less need since finishing Rosehill Cottage, and it’s best not to be tempted. There were so many incredible finds in here. I, thankfully, walked out with just a small Wedgewood ashtray that’s serving as a dish on my desk. But I am still dreaming of a stunning midcentury jewelry box.
A fair warning: this place is dusty. I accidentally picked up a dead cockroach. This is for those who want to treasure hunt, not those who want a curated experience.
Stop Four: Treat Yourself at Wild Roots Apothecary
We were about to head to our next destination when we spotted the darling Wild Roots Apothecary. This relaxing, whimsical shop carries everything from candles to skincare to all sorts of items for your kitchen and home. I picked up a grapefruit vanilla shrub here — inspired by my drink at Copper Fox — yet could have left with half the store. There were Virginia-made candles that I’ll certainly be back for.
Stop Five: Make Your Way to Blue Rock
Okay, this isn’t in Sperryville, but, of course, we ended up back at our final destination, Blue Rock. The inn is in Washington, VA, and, yes, we strolled through the hometown of the famed Inn at Little Washington briefly. But, regardless of where you stay, you should end your day by taking in the scenic mountain views with a glass of Virginia wine in hand.
