Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Review of Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness with RVshare

Welcome to the Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort Sign

The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort offers guests a unique camping experience in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort. The resort compromises 700 wooded acres of cypress and pine forest and features around 800 campsites, each equipped with picnic tables, charcoal grills, and access to water and electrical hookups. The campsites available for guests are spread out on 21 camping loops and includes sites designed for tents, popup campers, full hookup sites and preferred or premium sites giving more room and a closer location to the amenities. In addition to these options Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort also, has rental cabins on property.

Using RV Share
Over all it was a dream come true to go camping at Walt Disney World and you can have it too even if you don’t own a RV by using RV Share. No matter what type of RV you choose camping at Walt Disney World will be memorable and fun.

Using RVshare at Disney

It has been a dream to camp at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, but even after buying my own RV I really didn’t want the expense or hassle of traveling with it over 1,500 miles to Walt Disney World. Then I was introduced to RVshare. You can think of RVshare as an AirBnB, but for camping where you can rent someone else’s RV. There are many different RV choices to pick from including towable, drivable or delivery. For this trip I opted for delivery directly to the Campground at Disney’s Fort Wilderness so I didn’t have to worry with moving the unit around or setting anything up. I just wanted to arrive and checkin.

Booking with RVshare was a breeze and each listing had so much information to help me make the right decision. RVshare also, has live agents that can help you book your trip and give you ideas if you need it. For the price of one night at some the Walt Disney World Resorts during the same dates I booked three nights at the Fort Wilderness Campground with a RVshare rental including setup/breakdown and delivery!

The choices I made with RVshare allowed me to have a RV that was walk-in ready. All I needed was to bring my luggage and necessities.

When booking a RV with RVshare you will need to decide on a few things for example if you want the owner to furnish the linens or to deliver the RV to a certain location or set/breakdown the RV for you. Each owners may offer different options and prices with their unit. The choices I made allowed me to have a RV that was walk-in ready. All I needed was to bring my luggage and necessities. This experience was like checking into a hotel and how I had hoped it would be. You may have different requirements for your needs and vacation making your cost different than mine.

Checking Into the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

The RV owner I worked with advised me to select early checkin to the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. I prepaid my Walt Disney World Resort reservation and completed checkin on the My Disney Experience app requesting a before 7:30am checkin weeks prior to arrival. On the day of arrival the RV owner had also, instructed me to call the campground for a campsite number at 7am. Getting a campsite assigned that early isn’t guaranteed and in my case I wasn’t assigned a campsite until around 2:30pm.

map of the campground at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort
The map of the campground at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort is accurate in the fact that the area is HUGE and laid out.

After being assigned a campsite number in the 1800s loop I conveyed it to the RV owner and he brought over the RV and got it setup by 5pm. If you are planning to explore the campground while you wait for your RV delivery or plan to use the amenities you are going to want to rent a golf cart either from your RV owner if they offer one or the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. I like to walk, but the campground is HUGE and without some sort of transportation (golf cart, bikes ect) you won’t be able to get around to everything. Using a personal vehicle is limited because of where you can drive them vs a golf cart and bike path access.

Golf Carts Fort Wilderness Resort Disney WorldTIP: without some sort of transportation (golf cart, bikes ect) you won’t be able to get around to everything at the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

Don’t expect to get to your campsite early and make a plan of what you will do while you wait at the campground or make plans to go to Disney Springs or the parks the day of your arrival. You can always go to the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and park your vehicle at the campground and use Disney transportation. You could even hop a boat from the dock and go check out some of the other resorts around Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon or make a dinning reservation for one of the resort’s restaurants. There is plenty to keep you and your family occupied while you wait to get into your RV. If you are flying and didn’t rent a vehicle at the airport you can also, easily get the campground to store your luggage for you while you go explore.

Amenities at the Campground at Disney’s Fort Wilderness

The 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Electrical Water Pageant made its way to the campground around at 9:45pm and was a highlight of my stay!

Guests of the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and archery for a fee. Plus, the resort is just a short boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom entrance. I didn’t partake in any of the amenities during this trip, but have gone on a carriage ride during Halloween from the stables and I would recommend it or horseback riding if you and your family like horses. A visit to the stables might be something fun to do during your stay at the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

child on horse with helmet
A visit to the stables might be something fun to do during your stay at the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

There is a lot to explore around the campground itself including two pool areas and a private beach. One of my favorite things about this Walt Disney World Resort property was the private beach that over looked the Seven Seas Lagoon. Putting my feet in the sand and soaking in the warm Florida sunshine was a vacation in itself. In the evening from my same lounge chair I was able to watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom and see the 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Electrical Water Pageant as it made its way to the campground around at 9:45pm.

Watching the 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Electrical Water Pageant from the beach was truly a magical experience and I always find so much nostalgia in the Disney Electric Water Parade. The campground even has food trucks that come out to the area giving more food options than just P and J’s Southern Take Out. P and J’s does offer mobile ordering from the My Disney Experience App and has many food options. If you’re a Disney adult without children it is so much fun to grab some snacks and enjoy a quiet evening on the beach while waiting for the evening fireworks. Likewise, the area is also, fun for children to dig in the sand and play while waiting.

The campground also, has the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue which you can make reservations for. I have been to the revue on a previous trip to Disney and thought it was really entertaining as an adult and was glad to see they offered meatless food options. Another fun feature of staying at the campground is the free Campfire Singalongs and Movies Under the Stars. You will need to check with guest services to see what is offered during your stay.

Saving Money Camping at Disney

One of the most commonly posted topics posted related to camping at Disney is cost effectiveness. Having now camped at Disney I can say that camping is a great way to stay on Walt Disney World Resort property, enjoy all the resort options available and also, have a unique cost effective experience. Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness even with the cost of renting a RV was dramatically cheaper than many of the other Walt Disney World Resort options for the same time period.

One of the most commonly posted topics posted related to camping at Disney is cost effectiveness. Having now camped at Disney I can say that camping is a great way to stay on Walt Disney World Resort property, enjoy all the resort options available and also, have a unique cost effective experience.

The amenities at the Campground at Fort Wilderness as mentioned are wonderful. Typically a Walt Disney World Resort with access to the Seven Seas Lagoon and multiple transportation outlets can be pricy. The campground also, allows one to stay on property, but have a campground experience giving the best of both options. If you are not a seasoned camper this campground has all the bells and whistles that you might not find at other campgrounds along with staff to help you along the way.

The campsites are well laid out, the grounds are well manicured, the comfort stations are clean and spacious with apparent Walt Disney World Resort special touches. While at the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness I didn’t even realize sometimes I was in central Florida at Walt Disney World. The area really gives such a rustic feel and is vastly different from the bustle of the Walt Disney World parks. The campground even had quiet spots for example to watch nature and I saw several deer and turkey.

Turkey at Fort Wilderness Campground Disney World
Vastly different from the bustle of the Walt Disney World parks the campground had quiet spots where I could watch nature and I saw several deer and turkey.

Another thing to consider is that hotel rooms don’t typically give one access to a full kitchen. With RVshare you can have your choice of renting a RV with a full kitchen. This can add up to cost savings in itself by getting groceries and cooking your own food while at Walt Disney World. If you have dietary restrictions this may also, be a comfort knowing you have a space to prepare meals.

Disney Parks are very welcoming of dietary issues and try their best to accommodate guests. There are many options for vegan, gluten free and vegetarian options at the restaurants within the campground at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, other Disney resorts and in the parks. If you choose you can even bring in your own food to the parks (within reason) if you need special foods. I have had no problem bringing in medicine or food while I have visited the parks and always alert security to what’s in my bag.

What was it like to camp at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort?

If you are on are the fence about trying out camping I would recommend booking for just a few days. Give enough time to have a day to check in and get settled and then a couple days to enjoy the experience. You can then book a second Walt Disney World Resort for the other half of your trip and not commit the entire trip to camping. Which in my opinion this experience is more like glam-ping thank camping because you are at a Walt Disney World Resort.

Stanley Cup and Florida bird in sand
One of my favorite things about this Disney property was the private beach that over looked the Seven Seas Lagoon. Putting my feet in the sand and soaking in the warm Florida sunshine was a vacation in itself.

RVshare takes all the work out of camping and lets a renter truly enjoy the experience even if you are a novice at camping. A seasoned camper can find exactly what they need too with RVshare. Over all it was a dream come true to go camping at Walt Disney World and you can have it too even if you don’t own a RV by using RVshare. No matter what type of RV you choose camping at Walt Disney World will be memorable and fun. Book your RV/tent spot or cabin at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground today!

If you enjoyed this article please share it with your friends, pin it to your Disney or vacation boards on Pinterest and leave me a comment ☺️ If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

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Review of the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The concept of a resort within a resort at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is well executed and laid out. The Cavalier Resort consists of 3 hotels within one resort area including the Historic Cavalier Hotel, the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront and the newly opened Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort.

30 Second Review Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The near 100 year old historic and ionic Cavalier Hotel which reopened in 2018 after a $85 million remodel sits across the street from the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront and the newly opened Embassy Suites Resort Hotel. The Cavalier Beach Club is in the middle of the Marriott and Hilton properties which both face the ocean.

Inside the lobby of the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort

The Embassy Suites Resort Hotel was designed as a signature addition to the Cavalier. The resort hotel has 157 hotel suites, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill and TNT (Tacos ‘N Tequila). The hotel rooms boast beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Embassy Suites Resort Hotel has a very modern feel to it, but vibes of big band and hints of a bygone era are woven throughout.

I stayed in room 1084 during my visit to the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort

I stayed in room 1084 during my visit to the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort. The room was a one room king suite and consisted of a bathroom with a walk-in shower, lighted mirror, sofa, small kitchen table, kitchen area with refrigerator, coffeemaker,microwave, flatscreen smart tv, king sized bed and a large balcony with side views of the Atlantic Ocean and beach. The room was comfortable and the wifi was fast enough for remote working.

Resort status is only given to locations that have elevated amenities and this hotel holds up to its name. During my stay I wasn’t able to partake in any of the resort amenities like the free bike or metal detector rentals as the weather wasn’t for it. The outdoor pool was also, closed due to the season. The indoor pool I could imagine is lovely when the doors are open and the sound of the ocean waves can be heard. The outdoor pool at the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is beautifully landscaped and the pool deck has a fire pit area for lounging.

Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill inside the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The new hotel carries signature Embassy Suites by Hilton amenities such as an evening reception and made to order breakfast for hotel guests. The evening reception held at the hotel restaurant Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill consisted of light snacks and two drinks per overnight guest. During my stay hummus, pita chips, vegetables, ranch dip, potato chips, various cheese and crackers were served at a set time for overnight guests to enjoy.

History on the Arbuckle restaurant’s name sake found inside the menu at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill at the Embassy Suites Resort Hotel Virginia Beach

Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill is named after film star Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle. The actor was know to rent out entire floors at the Cavalier in the late 20s and 30s. The history surrounding Arbuckle can be found on the wall outside the restaurant and inside the menu. It is a very interesting read and I enjoyed their nod to the history of the Historic Cavalier.

Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill is named after film star Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle. The actor was know to rent out entire floors at the Cavalier in the late 20s and 30s.

The menu at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill has everything from delicious appetizers like local oysters, burgers with even a meatless option, salads, seafood and desserts. During the evening reception I tried the oysters Rockefeller and they were delicious. The complimentary made to order breakfast is also, served at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill. The breakfast items are served buffet style.

Choices at the complimentary breakfast were plentiful at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill inside the Virginia Beach Embassy Suites Resort Hotel.

The made to order omelet station was my favorite and had so many fresh choices like mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes and jalapeños. There was an area with different types of breakfast meats, breakfast potatoes, French toast, a wide variety of bread items, cereals, fresh fruit juice/soda machine, coffee and a large selection of hot teas. The staff were very welcoming and accommodating. I like that the restaurant was decorated with pictures of Arbuckle’s films and life.

Dining Options Cavalier Resort Area

Dining at Becca Cavalier Resort Virginia Beach

There is no shortage of places to eat within walking distance of the Virginia Beach Embassy Suites Resort Hotel. The Cavalier resort area boasts multiple award winning options. Out of 3,000 restaurants in Virginia Beach on TripAdvisor the top 1-4 are at the resort. Orion’s Roof on the top floor of the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach has some of the most spectacular views of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

Additionally next door at the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach is Tula a health-conscious seaside restaurant and between the two hotels the Cavalier Beach Club. Sitting in Adirondack chairs on the Marriott lawn and mobile ordering from Tula was one of my favorite things in the area during warmer days.

At the Historic Cavalier across the street one can enjoy Becca, the Hunt Room and the Raleigh Room for drinks and dining. Becca has some of the most amazing oysters I have ever eaten in both flavor and presentation. The Eisenhower Tarnished Truth injected filet is a must try as well at Becca along with the Signature Mile High Cake or the Apple Cobbler Cheesecake. The Hunt Room’s Wedge All the Way and Virginia Smoke and Cure with some Hunt Room Brunswick stew are perfect to eat while enjoying the restaurants large fireplace.

The Historic Cavalier is a must visit if you’re staying at the Embassy Suites Resort Hotel. The architecture and sheer luxury of the hotel alone are captivating. Make sure to check during your stay to see if the Cavalier Hotel is hosting any special events. I have enjoyed several special events at the Cavalier Hotel including Christmas Tree Lighting, Halloween Party and a Luau which were all very memorable. In addition the Cavalier Hotel is home to its own distillery Tarnished Truth. The distillery is award-winning and creates locally crafted specialty spirits, rye whiskey, bourbon, vodka and gin. Tastings and tours are available Thursday through Sunday from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.

The Historic Cavalier Hotel and resort area simply is a must visit if you’re planning a trip to Virginia Beach. The new Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort offers great amenities, a beautiful location, outstanding dinning choices and offers a great location as a base for Virginia Beach exploration or staying solely at the resort. The Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is a more modern option to the Historic Cavalier Resort and I guarantee you will love it.

Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this article for later on your Pinterest vacation board 🫶🏼 If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

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Three Reasons You Need to Visit Luray, Virginia

Three Reasons You Need to Visit Luray Virginia

Located in the Shenandoah Valley area of Virginia Luray is both a beautiful and exciting place to visit. With amazing natural attractions like the Luray Caverns, and outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Luray is also, home to a wide variety of history and culture.

There are several historical sites in Luray, like the Luray-Page County Heritage Center and Shenandoah Herring Village offering a glimpse into the town’s past. From the charming small towns that dot the landscape, to the Luray Caverns there is plenty to see and do in this vibrant corner of Virginia.

Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns
The Luray Caverns are a fantastic natural wonder located in Luray, Virginia.

The Luray Caverns are a natural wonder located in Luray, Virginia. The caverns are one of the most popular show caverns in the eastern United States and feature incredible stalactites and stalagmites, as well as other fascinating rock formations. The caverns were discovered in 1878 and have since been opened to the public, drawing millions of visitors each year.

The caverns are a National Natural Landmark and a great place to explore and learn about the geology of the region. The Luray Caverns are alluring and offer a unique experience that you can’t find anywhere else. The caverns are home to some of the world’s largest cave formations, making them a must-see for any cave or rock enthusiasts.

Hearing the organ inside the Luray Caverns is a memorable experience.

The Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction are also, included with every Luray Caverns ticket. The Car and Carriage Museum is home to 75 Historic vehicles and with the Heritage Village is part of a 3 acre museum complex. It is easy to take a whole day for visiting the Luray Caverns and accompanying museum and grounds.

The Mimslyn Inn

Mimslyn Inn

Additionally, the town of Luray is filled with unique restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Located in historic downtown Luray, the Mimslyn Inn has been in operation since 1931. The architecture and design of the Mimslyn Inn is stunning and the inn has been featured in magazines like Southern Living and Travel + Leisure. The inn offers a great place to start a Luray visit and can help with planning a variety of local activities.

The charming Mimslyn Inn in Luray, Virginia is a wonderful destination for those seeking a peaceful mountain getaway. This historic inn exudes old-world elegance and southern hospitality. Guests are immediately struck by the stately white-columned exterior overlooking lush gardens and rolling pastures. Inside, the inn is filled with cozy nooks and sitting rooms adorned with antique furnishings, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era.

Each uniquely decorated room features views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains or gardens. Wake up each morning to enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients before embarking on a day of exploring Luray’s attractions.

Just minutes away is the world-famous Luray Caverns, where you can tour the vast subterranean world of stalactites, flowstones, and mirrored pools. The inn is also a short drive from Shenandoah National Park, known for its spectacular hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. Back at the inn, guests can unwind in the evenings on the expansive front porch while sipping Virginia wine and taking in the tranquil mountain scenery. With its historic charm, abundant natural beauty, and focus on gracious hospitality, it’s easy to see why the Mimslyn Inn is a premier destination for those looking to escape the pace of everyday life.

Dining at the Mimslyn Inn

The Mimslyn Inn has a very boutique feel and a unique touch of class. The inn takes visitors back to a bygone era. I personally enjoy dining at the Speakeasy in basement of the Mimslyn Inn. The Speakeasy Restaurant is decorated in prohibition era style while the upstairs Circa 31 restaurant boast style and elegance with formal touches. I have had the pleasure of dining at both restaurants multiple times while visiting Luray, Virginia.

The menu at Circa 31 is always fresh and changes with chef specials and seasonal delights. Brunch is one of my favorite times to eat at Circa 31 and the mimosas are always delicious. The Speakeasy has a delightful menu too and boasts its own unique drink concoctions. The restaurant staff are always very courteous and knowledgeable.

The Mimslyn Inn offers a variety of activities for guests such as guided tours of the property. The staff at the Mimslyn Inn are incredibly friendly, welcoming and happy to help guests plan their stay. I always appreciate the hospitality and detail to service I receive when visiting. The Mimslyn Inn is truly a hidden treasure of the Shenandoah Valley and a beautiful Virginia hotel.

Outdoor Activities in Luray, Virginia

luray caverns
Located just 90 Minutes from Washington, D.C., Luray, Virginia can easily be a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The area around Luray, Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley is known for its stunning mountain views, lush forests, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. There are plenty of natural attractions to explore around Luray like the Newmarket Battlefield. The nearby area is also, home to some of the best wineries in Virginia, providing visitors with a chance to sample the local flavors.

Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the country especially in the fall of the year. From the nearby towering peaks of the Shenandoah National Park to the pristine waters of the Luray Caverns, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque corner of the world. Located just 90 Minutes from Washington, D.C., Luray, Virginia can easily be a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

luray caverns

Outdoor activities help make Luray the perfect destination for a getaway. With miles of hiking trails, fishing spots and opportunities for camping and biking, there is something close by Luray for everyone who enjoys being active outdoors. If you are looking for a Virginia staycation, a relaxing weekend away or an adventure-filled trip you will find Luray, Virginia is full of more than just three reasons to visit.

If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

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Double Tree Myrtle Beach South Carolina Hotel Tour

Double Tree by Hilton Myrtle Beach, Sc

If you’re looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach, SC look no further than the Double Tree by Hilton Myrtle Beach🌊 The Double Tree was the host hotel for ETA the past week and it was such a lovely hotel to stay in. The location was central to grocery, dinning, night life and activities in the Myrtle Beach area. The room had a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Spring Maid Pier. Walking on the pier was free to hotel guests showing a room key card and $12 to go fishing on the pier. The beach is secluded in front of the hotel and I found a lot of shells and even a shark’s tooth!

The Double Tree by Hilton Myrtle Beach had great amenities like an on-site restaurant that I ate at twice for lunch and dinner. The menu had seafood options, sandwiches, soups, salads, flatbreads, desserts and a full bar. The view of the Atlantic Ocean was great from the tables. The Double Tree by Hilton Myrtle Beach has several pools including children’s pools, a lazy river and an indoor heated pool.

I enjoy staying at Double Tree Hilton because I can easily manage my stay and room key directly on their app. I travel a lot and one thing I hate is when I go to unlock my door and find the hotel key has deactivated and doesn’t work. Having to go to the lobby or call someone can be frustrating.

I definitely don’t want to be standing outside my room waiting for someone to come fix my key while on vacation. This never happens at Double Tree with my in app room key. Staying at Double Tree Hilton always gives me a piece of mind especially if it’s a solo trip. Come for the Double Tree chocolate chip cookies…stay for the views.

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

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Western Front Hotel- St. Paul, Virginia

Western Front Hotel St. Paul, Virginia

Searching for somewhere to go on an adventure? Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia, St. Paul is a charming town that attracts visitors for its natural beauty, historic significance, and unique attractions. Surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, St. Paul provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Hikers can traverse miles of scenic trails, passing breathtaking vistas and lush forests along the way. The Clinch River runs through town, offering fishing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. The nearby Channels State Forest features majestic sandstone formations carved by water and wind erosion over the eons.

History buffs will enjoy learning about St. Paul’s origins as an early frontier settlement. The town contains well-preserved 19th century buildings and homes that provide a window into the past. In addition to its natural splendor and historical significance, St. Paul hosts a variety of unique attractions.

Check out the various festivals and events held in St. Paul throughout the year, from music festivals to holiday celebrations. The town comes alive during community events like the Clinch River Days. With such diverse offerings, it’s easy to understand why so many make the scenic mountain drive to experience the charms of St. Paul, Virginia.

Everyone I met while visiting was so friendly. If you’re an adventurer or atv lover like me you’ll enjoy this area. The Western Front Hotel is the perfect lodging and a great, “mancation”, spot, or a great hotel to surprise your guy with a trip to.

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Cross off your bucket list being able to take an ATV tour of historic trails and old logging roads winding through the mountains. The Western Front Hotel has the option to book atv packages that include an atv rental during your stay making the booking process easy. The convenience of having the atv rental at the hotel was perfect. The Western Front Hotel provided trail maps and the staff was very helpful to answer any questions we had.

We were able to walk out the back door of the hotel, get in our rental and from the parking lot drive up to the trails. In addition to atv rentals the hotel sells passes for the trail if you choose to bring your own atv, utv, quad or dirt bike. The trails were well kept and were labeled by their level of difficulty as well as what type of atv was allowed on them.

Some of the area trails allowed for Jeeps and 4×4 vehicles and other spots were only accessible by mountain bike or hiking. Our favorite spot was an overlook of the surrounding mountains. While on our adventure we saw deer, turkey and a beer with her cub. The area was very peaceful and a great place to connect with nature.

Mountain View Spearhead Trail St. Paul, Virginia

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Sample delicious Southern cuisine at one of the many eateries in St. Paul, from homestyle cooking to fine dining options. The town of St. Paul, Virginia is quaint and offers several restaurants, grocery, a pharmacy and other shopping. I really loved that we could walk from the Western Front Hotel to food options. Make sure to check for local activities during your stay.

The Fat Boys BBQ across the street from the Western Front Hotel, has the sweetest proprietors and they encourage everyone to try the Heart Attack which is a baked potato with cheese and butter topped with BBQ chicken (seen below). Locals like to add baked beans and even coleslaw on top of this creation. This restaurant also, has plenty of other options and cooks all their own BBQ in town.

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

The area behind the Western Front Hotel has a stage for live music, a fire pit for s’mores and plenty of room for relaxing. The Western Front hotel is pet friendly as well though we didn’t bring ours dogs on the trip. The hotel has a small gift shop that had some cute merchandise including their pillows, bath products from the hotel, doggie treats and other items.

One of the cutest souvenirs from the Western Front Hotel is a green ceramic rabbit that holds cotton balls (seen below). For more shopping take a stroll through the charming streets of downtown St. Paul and admire the historic architecture and charming shops.

The St. Paul, Virginia area is also close to many other activities including rafting, kayaking and hiking. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains with various hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a bike ride and discover the beauty of Southwest Virginia by biking along world-class trails that offer breathtaking views and exciting challenges.

Enjoy scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Drive through rolling hills and lush forests along the scenic byways in the area. Spend a relaxing day on the water fishing for trout or paddling along the scenic river. Go fishing or kayaking on the Clinch River. The choice is yours and there is truly something for everyone to do in the area surrounding the Western Front Hotel. I can’t recommend this hotel enough especially for ATV lovers. This adventure is waiting for you and it’s only in beautiful Virginia at the Western Front Hotel.

Riding on Mountain View Spearhead Trail Virginia

📌If you enjoyed my article on the Western Front Hotel and St. Paul, Virginia please be sure to share on your own social media and pin it.

If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.