Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and adjacent to the downtown mall – the hub of Charlottesville – The University of Virginia captures the best of all worlds. During the week we are busy with studies and activities and on the weekend we have the opportunity to take advantage of the eclectic atmosphere that makes up Charlottesville. Yes there are always the frat parties, the football games, and the lazy day relaxing, but why put to waste such an interesting setting to be explored? There are so many great outdoor activities in Charlottesville to take you away from the high stress environment that can come with being a UVA student. Here are just a few that I find especially fun! Enjoy!
Downtown Mall Farmers Market
(photo from The Hook)
Spend your Saturday morning the local way by feeding into the local produce provided by farmers at the downtown mall. Charlottesville is all about the local food movement and the farmers market at the downtown mall is just one of many in the area. The best part about this particular market is the convenience. The free trolley takes you right to the scene. The market runs from 7 a.m. (for the early birds) until 12 p.m. April through December in the parking lot behind the downtown mall. With over 100 vendors the market you can enjoy a plethora of fresh foods that are in season as well as baked goods. Try the Ezekiel bread its delicious! You can only pay with cash or check so keep that in mind before you head.
Carter Mountain Apple Orchard
(photo credit: pinwheels )
Only a twelve-minute drive from the University, Carter Mountain Orchard is a delicious attraction for everyone. Depending on the time of year the Orchard’s fruit availability varies. Currently Golden Delicious and Jonagolds are in season – yummy! Here’s how it works: grab a bunch of your friends and drive on up to the orchard. Once you are there get an apple bag from one of the orchard workers and follow the trails to the trees and apples of your liking. The orchard provides apple picker poles for the apples out of reach, but climbing the trees is also doable and extra adventurous! Apples you pick and want to take home can be paid for at the entrance of the orchard. Apples are not the only thing you can purchase at the orchard, they also sell apple cider, apple butter, apple pie, apple cookies, apple donuts and much more.
There are many events at the orchard throughout the year. Starting in October there is an Apple Harvest Celebration every weekend. To see what other events the orchard holds check out there website: Carter Mountain
Humpback Mountain Hike
(Photo credit: paulpoley )
This activity may be 40 minutes away, but the breathtaking view is so worth the drive. The scenery leading up to the mountain is only a preview of what is to be seen at the top of the hike. Park at the base of the hike and follow the trail to the top. The hike takes about thirty minutes to get to the top and the incline is fairly steep giving you a great workout for those glutes! Once you reach the top, you will see the jagged rocks in a clearing that overlook a spectacular view. With all the stress that comes from classes and extra-curricular activities, this hike is a must for all University students to exercise, clear their heads, and spend time with friends.
Monticello
(photo credit: monticello )
What better way to spend your afternoon than to visit our founder’s humble abode – Monticello. If you have yet to go to Monticello, this activity should be at the top of your lift! The fall is such a beautiful time to visit the estate that Thomas Jefferson designed. Sometimes we take for granted the impressive architecture that makes up the University and Monticello gives a different look into the brilliant man that our founder was. This is a great activity for you and your friends to feel even more a part of the University. There are daily year-round tours as well as special tours, such as “Wine Tours.” You can tour not only the house, but also the historic gardens. Go to the Monticello Website to find out more information for tickets and tours.
James River Reeling and Rafting
(photo credit: suzysaid )
Despite the recent cold front, we still have some warm sunny days left! Take advantage of a nice day and go lazy river tubing with a group of friends. James River Reeling and Rafting offers more than just tubing, but I highly recommend the very relaxing activity. However, if you are feeling a little more intense and adventurous, maybe kayaking is for you. The price for is $22 per person unless you go with a group of 25 or more then it if only $20. You can even bring food and drinks to have while you float down the river. If this sounds like the activity for you, call up James River and make reservations!