Tuesday, August 31, 2010

From Green Meadows to White Knuckles

What makes the perfect motorcycle ride? Some like to soak up the scenery. Others like to hug the curves. Some might choose tree-lined roads where you're as likely to see a deer as a car. Others prefer historic towns and country barns. Or maybe a carpet of light from a perch high atop a mountain. 

In Southwest Virginia, one 50-mile stretch serves up an asphalt buffet to cover just about every taste for motorcycle enthusiasts. It's all wrapped around the ultimate American biking pilgrimage, the Blue Ridge Parkway.

We've put together a few sample rides to get you started on your two-wheel tour. But it's just a beginning. You'll discover a lot more to make your motor purr as you explore Roanoke Valley and Rockbridge County.


The Sport Loop Tour
Little North Mountain Ride
Roanoke Valley/Rockbridge Combo Tour
Bent Mountain/Blue Ridge Parkway Loop
311 Loop


When you're all purred-out, come back to one of our beautiful, serene cabins for a peaceful end to your thrilling day.


See you after the big ride.

Your Hosts,
Bill and Eileen Hoernlein

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Wining Again...

Sorry we missed you last week. We were doing some traveling of our own!

This time we visited Jefferson Vineyards, just one mile from Jefferson's original 1774 vineyards and Monticello, in Charlottesville, VA. Jefferson, along with the other vineyards along the Monticello Wine Trail, are called the "birthplace of american wine". So...we had to see it! Just as the Jefferson Vineyards website says,

On the way up the mountain to Jefferson Vineyards, you'll first pass Michie Tavern the Jefferson's Monticello. About a mile beyond [that], you'll see the first of Jefferson's vineyard sites. Over the fields to your right, you get your first look at our winery. Next, the beautiful and historic St. Luke's church and the old Simeon farm store appear as the road veers hard right. At our entryway, we've replanted another of Jefferson's original vineyard sites. You can't miss it.
 Here are a sampling of the beautiful vineyards from our perspective:






Please take a peek at our facebook page for a few  more shots!


Until next week,

Bill and Eileen Hoernlein

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Get Your Kicks...On Route 76!

Hi!

This week, we are recapping our bike ride on Bicycle Route 76,which is accessible right in front of our driveway! What a great way to spend time with family and of course the bountiful flora and fauna that surround us. (Bonus--no traffic!) Here's just a taste of the beauty that's available to you when you visit us in the Shenandoah:

   


  

       
  


  


  





Your Hosts,
Bill and Eileen Hoernlein

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Alpine Hideaway Loves Singers!

Of the many offerings for our guests to partake in during their stays, singing doesn't usually come to mind. But the fact is, there are a lot of opportunities for professionals and amateurs alike to take their turn at the mic.

In the next week, there are three separate mic nights at local spots (that we know of) that sound like a whole lot of fun. On Monday, visit The Palms to show 'em your vocal stylings. This former debate club turned restaurant has a historical yet easy-going vibe. Then head to Salerno's on Tuesday to rock out to some old tunes in this family-friendly spot. And you can round out the week with a solo at Franks for the Memories, where you are encouraged to "bring your pipes and your courage."

Of course, we don't host our own open mic nights at Alpine Hideaway, but if you're decent, we might allow you to serenade your sweetheart.

With crooning anticipation,

Bill and Eileen Hoernlein

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Sweet Summer...and Our New Look!

Although it's been hot, the produce this summer has been dynamite in Virginia! The blackberries and peaches are particularly beautiful this year. If you have any interest in checking them out, please call to schedule a restful (and air-conditioned!) stay in one of our cabins, and we will gladly help you find your way to Chile's or Orchard Side Farm. Get a taste of the local!

On another note...what do you think of our new look? Complete our new poll at the bottom of our blog to let us know!

Your Hosts,
Bill and Eileen Hoernlein