Here are our favorite things to see and do in Fancy Gap and the surrounding area.
Some are well known, some not so well known. Have a look around as we have included photos, videos, information and links. And check our blog for more great ideas.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
One of the most scenic roadways in the country, snaking along the ridges of the Virginia and North Carolina Highlands.
Travel time from the cabin: 10 minutes
Whether it’s a short trip to Mabry Mill and then on to Chateau Morrisette for dinner or a day trip driving North or South from Fancy Gap, the mountain vistas do not disappoint.
2. Pilot Mountain
Landmark views from the cabin; a short hike to the top gets you views looking back to the cabin.
Travel time from the cabin: 40 minutes
Pilot Mountain, the namesake of Pilot’s Perch, can be seen from both decks of the cabin. Take a short drive to the top of Pilot Mountain and check out the awe-mazing views from the opposite perspective of the cabin. Hike one of the many trails at Pilot Mountain State Park. So come stay at Pilot’s Perch, take a trip out to Pilot Mountain and enjoy yourselves!
Note: The park is over capacity MOST weekends. Check the notification section on the web site for details.
3. Mabry Mill
Beautiful setting of a historic mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of the most photographed sights on the Parkway.
Travel time from the cabin: 40 minutes
Tour the mill, grab a bite to eat, or just relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. There is a gift shop for souvenirs.
4. Stone Churches and the Man Who Moved a Mountain
Stone churches founded by the Rev. Bob Childress, a man who brought the gospel to his rough and tumble mountain neighbors.
Travel time from the cabin: 20 minutes to the closest one
These churches were founded by the Rev. Bob Childress, a remarkable man who ministered in this area in much harder times. His life is chronicled in the book The Man Who Moved a Mountain.
Full service winery and fine dining at the base of Pilot Mountain. Enjoy delicious food and wine with picturesque views of the mountain towering over a pond and the surrounding vineyards. Check out our top 10 list of wineries around Fancy Gap for more options.
Travel time from the cabin: 43 minutes
This is one of our favorites. Tour the winery, taste the wine, or schedule a romantic dinner for two while taking in the views at Jolo Winery and Vineyards.
6. New River Trail
Linear rails to trails park that snakes its way along the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles.
Travel time from the cabin: 30-40 minutes
New River Trail State Park is just a short drive from the cabin. You can kayak, tube or boat down the river. You can also fish in the river. There are all kinds of hiking and biking trails. Don’t forget to check out horseback trail rides while you’re there. You’ll be sure to have tons of fun at New River Trail State Park!!
The New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the city of Galax. The trail’s gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback. The park’s Foster Falls area offers guided horseback trips; canoe and bike rentals; boat launches; gift shops; and a horse arena. Fishing is popular.
7. Buffalo Mountain
Area landmark offering a short hike to the treeless top for 360 degree views of many of the surrounding mountains.
Travel time from the cabin: 50 minutes
There are views of Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock, and even the Peaks of Otter. Enjoy your hike!
8. Mayberry
Andy Griffith’s old stomping grounds in Mount Airy, North Carolina.
Travel time from the cabin: 30 minutes
Visit Andy Griffith’s childhood home in Mount Airy, North Carolina, which is about 30 minutes from the cabin. Lesser known is the Mayberry Trading Post, which is also rumored to have had ties to Andy and the show. It’s a 30 minute drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway. And while you’re in the neighborhood, you might enjoy a back roads tour. If you’re a really big fan, you might want to head to Mount Airy for Mayberry Days.
9. Hillsville Flea Market and Gun Show
The Labor Day flea market is the largest in the country.
Travel time from the cabin: 20 minutes
The Hillsville Flea Market and Gun Show held on Labor Day weekend is a huge event in the area — 500,000 people huge! How do they fit all those folks in that little bitty town? There is a second one held over the Memorial Day weekend.
10. Blue Ridge Music Center
The Blue Ridge Music Center celebrates the music and musicians of the Blue Ridge.
Travel time from the cabin: 30 minutes
The sounds of the fiddle, banjo, and guitar are likely to welcome you when you visit the Blue Ridge Music Center. Experience regional traditional music each day of the week with free local musicians playing on the breezeway of the visitors center from Noon – 4 PM.
