Your Adventure Begins Here! Discover Smith Mountain Lake, Bedford, Virginia: A Country Lakeside Vacation
When I told my best friend that I was interested in featuring the most beautiful lakes in nation as part of my Zen Mom Travel tour, she perked up and shouted, “You must see Smith Mountain Lake! Stay in Bedford and visit the lake!” (Photo: Brunch at the famous Peaks of Otter Lodge)
Our private sandy oasis beach in front of Mariner’s Landing Resort.
Since I’m a beach girl, I needed all the assistance as possible to learn about this fabulous new secret vacation spot. I partnered up with the kind folks at Bedford Tourism and the love story took off.
Really, we’re in love. Surrounded by the glory of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bedford offers adventures in dining, outdoor activities, historical explorations and cultural experiences as well as a wide array of lodging to suit any taste.
Getting there is easy — Bedford is between two airports in Roanoke and Lynchburg and Amtrak is just one-half hour away!
Bedford truly is a beautiful destination. Everything is so close! At times, I felt I was on a movie set. In Bedford county, gorgeous picturesque moments do exist and they are everywhere you turn. Bedford is known for it’s incredibly rich history and charming historic little town. When you arrive you can hear the our nation’s anthem in your head…”God Bless America, land that I love, stand beside her and guide her through the night with the lights from above…” But don’t be fooled. Although it’s small, and yes, everyone knows your name, it’s packed with modern amenities and boasts friendly attitudes from all.
Within blocks of each other you’ll find mom & pop craft storefronts, famous museums, a trendy Pilates studio and gourmet cuisine. Bedford is home to the world-famous National D-Day Memorial, a thriving artisan community, fine wines, glorious apples, and breathtaking lush green surroundings. Bedford is a treasure trove of experiences. We couldn’t see it all, but had time for activities that families seek on summer vacations.
And so our five-day journey began.
We enjoyed an afternoon lunch and walk around the serene property of the Peaks of Otter and a solitude hike along the Appalachian Trail, ending our trip at the serene and ever-so-fun Smith Mountain Lake. Often my travels include time exploring with my boys. It’s how I connect with them. I find getting out of our home life and into something new bonds us.
My 11 year-old son is a world traveler and knows where he likes to visit and how to make his steak in the ground. When he found out we we’re going to visit the D-Day Memorial in Bedford he was astonished. He was confused as to why the memorial was in in Virginia. Then and there he, too, fell in love with heroic story and history of the Bedford Boys (See below!)
Peaks of Otter
Nestled between two of the three mountains that make up the Peaks of Otter, the Lodge offers 63 rooms, meeting and wedding facilities, a full-service restaurant, a lounge, and a gift shop – all overlooking beautiful Abbott Lake and majestic Sharp Top mountain.
They’re also pet friendly, with designated pet friendly rooms available! The full service Lake View Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, as well as annual holiday buffets and seasonal Sunday Brunch and Friday Night Surf & Turf Buffets.
Smith Mountain Lake – Mariner’s Landing Resort
A 35 minute drive from downtown Bedford, this huge lake is clean, gorgeous, easy to navigate and simply thrilling. Smith Mountain Lake is nestled in the protective embrace of the mountains, this beautiful lake is massive and a playground for boaters, fishermen, swimmers 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. We stayed at Mariner’s Landing.
These privately owned condos range from 1, 2 & 3 bedroom lakefront accommodations with nightly, weekly, or long-term rates.
Awesome amenities including an indoor and outdoor pool, fantastic clean swim beach area, fitness center, and on-site restaurant (seasonal hours apply). Golf is close-by and located within a five-minute drive of Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
This secret Lake hot spot will win over your family’s heart. From splashing in the lake all morning, having a peaceful lunch on a pontoon boat, to swimming in the pool with cool slides, to winding down on your balcony or porch with a nice chilled chardonnay.
I think the perfect vacation for summer is always on a lake. We typically vacation at the beach, but this was great as at the lake kids jump in without worry of being toppled over by big waves. I love that you can rent boats, jet skies or go water skiing. The greenery and rolling mountains that surround the lake are mesmerizing.
It’s just a truly a serene place to kick back and enjoy water sports. There’s a floating dock in front of Mariner’s Landing Resort where the kids can jump off and live that happy and fearless childhood they deserve.
My tweens love action and this lake is set up for it.
Day or night, this lake is stunning. Call the office of Tourism and ask for “The Guide to Smith Mountain Lake” magazine – it’s filled with great information to help you plan a wonderful family lake vacation. If you need larger places, or if you prefer to rent a lake house visit HomeAway.com and start browsing!
The National D-Day Memorial
“You are about to embark on the great crusade toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you… I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle.” – Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower
We learned about the invasion and how they preserve the legacy of D-Day… oh and if you visit, you must bring your tissue, you’re eyes will tear up for sure! This giant monument and memorial will make your heart heavy.
The detail and visual pride that went into creating this place is surreal. It is spectacular and full of love.
The grounds for the monument took us on an archival journey through World War II and the politics and perils that embody the time period. Paying tribute to the men and women who served their country in one of its most dire battles, the D-Day National Memorial creates a solemn atmosphere for veterans and visitors alike to gain insight and learn more about the events that shaped our nation’s and our world’s history.
Why it’s in Virginia… It’s the home of the Bedford boys.
Bedford provided a company of soldiers (Company A) to the 29th Infantry Division – Some thirty Bedford soldiers were still in that company on D-Day; several more from Bedford were in other D-Day companies. By day’s end, nineteen of the company’s Bedford soldiers were dead. Two more Bedford soldiers died later in the Normandy campaign, as did yet another two assigned to other 116th Infantry companies. Bedford’s population in 1944 was about 3,200. Proportionally this community suffered the nation’s severest D-Day losses. Recognizing Bedford as emblematic of all communities, large and small, whose citizen-soldiers served on D-Day, Congress warranted the establishment of the National D-day Memorial in Bedford.
Driving down the road you’ll come across this market that stands all by itself! You must stop off to taste the fresh fruit and their homemade ice cream that comes in a variety of flavors such as peach and cantaloupe (they use all local fruits!).
Places that add the spark to and pizazz to Bedford County
A refreshing mind-body workout at Urban Body Studio
I like that this small town thinks big when it comes to health and fitness. Pilates gets your mind in tune with your body. By emphasizing proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and complete concentration on smooth, flowing movement, you become acutely aware of how your body feels, where it is in space, and how to control its movement.
Also, learning to breathe properly can reduce stress. Los Angeles native and owner of Urban Body Studio, assisting a local in a Pilates session.
Dine or Lounge at Bedford Social Club
This street is so cool. I felt like I was so far away from home and on the back lot of a Hollywood film. Very quiet area that embodies pure charm. Then the food! It was plentiful and delicious. Bedford Social Club is a full service restaurant with an elegant yet casual atmosphere. Catering both on and off site available. Full bar, extensive wine list and gourmet food.
Trendy and classy, and once again, the chef, who is amazing at his job, is a transplant from Los Angeles.
Nice chill and relaxed vibe and very friendly staff. Come watch a game, or just hang out with your family….Or get a sitter, as you can see they have DATE NIGHT! LEAVE THOSE KIDS AT HOME!
Azul Fast and Fabulous
They call it Tex-Mex! It’s advertised as fast food, but it’s not. Being from LA and having full appreciation of fine cuisine, I know great food when I taste it. At Azul the food is prepared fast, but is so flavorful with a gourmet twist, healthy and good portions. You’ll have to try their Mexi-Mac-n-Cheese and the chorizo chimichangas.
Yes, how can fast food be this good? Well, the chef and co-owner is a talented chef from Los Angeles who transplanted his family to Bedford, and viola, the people of Bedford should be oh so grateful to have him serving up pure delights.
Silver Lining Acres (SLA)
This place is new and ready for visitors! SLA is relaxed and country-style meeting place or unique location for a barn wedding lavished with twinkle lights. Located in Bedford County, this family-owned farm venue offers in-house catering and the community adores it because it’s budget-friendly. The barn is absolutely picturesque and features lots of rustic charm. Come play with horses or plan your next event here! SLA is very popular style for today’s weddings and offers a beautiful scenery—perfect for stunning photo backdrops and ceremony spaces. And, perhaps best of all, barn venues’ laid-back vibes give guests permission to crank up the sounds of a live band and party!
A few days a week SLA is used as an Equine-Assisted emotional therapy farm… This type of therapy can have positive results for those who are recovering from a variety of psychological issues. It can help individuals develop a work ethic, identify and process feelings, and learn how to trust. That’s what this farm was designed for, to help people heal through horse therapy.
At Silver Lining Acres Clients often connect and feel empathy for animals before they have empathy for themselves. Being around animals helps people talk more openly and easily about their feelings.
The founder of SLA lost her husband to depression and PTSD from his experience working in law enforcement. Being a past ranch owner and avid horse rider, she moved to Bedford to open her Farm and loving arms to those in need. Horses have measurable positive impacts on the humans who care for them. They can reduce stress, reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, and promote exercise.
Silver Lining Acres was established to help people with mental health issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, bi-poloar and adjustment disorder to help them cope and reduce their symptoms. Horses are emotional mirrors and are very sensitive those around them. They respond to how you feel. Which opens the door for self-expression, healing and building a safer more resilient self.
She opened her farm knowing that horses and animals help increase trust and repair relationships and they also serve the client by needing consistent care. Animals require attention, as they are dependent upon someone for their food, for their grooming, and for their exercise. For the person experiencing mental health issues, it is helpful to have an animal near which requires the focus to be shifted away from self and toward them and their needs.
This place is prime for a child’s birthday party. So much land to run around on, Plenty of horses to ride, play games and BBQ in the great outdoors! At Silver Lining Acres the horses await you for loving and care.
My post is Sponsored by the amazing “Visit Bedford Office Of Tourism” marketing team of Bedford County. Book your trip now and tell them The Go-To Mom sent you –> visitbedford.com