Surprise trips bring joy and adventure
“Where are we going,” my wife Fyllis inquired as we walked toward our car. “I have no idea,” I replied, “but it’s going to be great.” Later, we wholeheartedly agreed that it had been wonderful.
We had taken a surprise day-trip, driving to destinations near where we live that we had not visited before -- and enjoying sites, bites and diversions that were both entertaining and educational. Our excursion was provided by Guess Where Trips, one of several companies that offer outings close to home, journeys to other areas of the United States and trips around the world.
How often do you get to surprise yourself? Actually, it’s virtually impossible to do so. But these imaginative outfits have figured out a way to make it happen, and for those willing to trust their travel plans to these experts, the rewards can be well worth the wonder.
Destinations included in the Guess Where itineraries
While destinations included in the Guess Where Trips itineraries remain a secret until departure time, nothing else is left to chance. After picking a general locale, participants choose whether to receive their itinerary by mail or a digital version. The packet includes an introductory section with suggestions for a time to depart, driving instructions, about how long to spend at each stop, recommended places to eat and other helpful, practical information. Among hints of what we were going to see and do were references to Mill Mornings; Shop, Cheers & Eat, and A secret Bridge.
Leaving Washington DC we entered a country setting.
With a variety of recommendations made for some stops, you’re told to select those which come closest to fitting your preferences. Also, that if you can’t fit in all of the attractions, consider returning to enjoy them at a later date.
Shortly after our departure from our home in Washington, DC we entered a pastoral setting of rolling fields enclosed by low stone walls and split rail fences, tidy farms and tiny towns
Our Mill Mornings exploration brought us to Aldie Mill Historic Park. Afterwords we headed to Middleburg.
The site of a grain mill and storehouse was built in 1804 and was powered by twin overshot water wheels. President James Monroe made use of the mill when he lived nearby after his presidency ended in 1825, and during the Civil War Confederate raiders captured Union soldiers who were stationed there.
After a short drive, we encountered a very different setting. Middleburg, Virginia offers equal doses of charm, natural beauty, southern hospitality and the past, with more than 160 buildings which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It also boasts an upscale horse country charm, and serves as an epicenter of a number of outstanding wineries.
The walkable main streets are lined by country-chic boutiques and restaurants. The crown jewel of the eateries is The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, which has been a pillar of the village since it opened in 1728. No wonder presidents, politicians and Hollywood celebrities are among those who have dined, and wined, there.
Speaking of wine, the nearby Greenhill Vineyards provided us a welcome respite. The sprawling property has been a working farm since 1762 and views from both the veranda and picnic tables scattered around the spacious lawn offer inviting views of the fields planted in grapes and gentle hills in the distance. Guided wine tastings are available which pair well with a menu that includes specialty cheeses, charcuterie, caviar and more.
For more information log onto guesswheretrips.com and smartertravel.com.