Popular Questions about Nelson County & Wintergreen Resort

 Kim Chappell is a graduate from the Realtor Institute and is an agent with Wintergreen Resort Premier Properties, the official real estate office of Wintergreen Resort.  Kim also lists and sells property in beautiful Nelson County.  Contact Kim Chappell at kim@ExperienceNelsonCounty.com or 434-238-2430.  The Free Daily Blog is posted on both www.ExperienceNelsonCounty.com and www.ExperienceWintergreen.com

 Questions & Answers

 Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Nelson County and Wintergreen Resort.

 Q:  What restaurants are open near Wintergreen Resort for Sunday breakfast?  (I get this question often.)

 A:  Several restaurants are now open on Sunday in and near Wintergreen Resort.  On Wintergreen mountain, the Copper Mine is open for Sunday Brunch starting at 7AM.  (usually a buffet).  In the valley, the Sparrow Café is now open on Sunday from 8AM-3PM and is serving either breakfast or lunch.  Ambrosia is also open serving breakfast sandwiches starting at 8AM.  You can pick up a picnic at Ambrosia for later in the day.  The Stoney Creek Bar & Grill has a special brunch menu for this Summer. 

 Q:  Where is the microbrewery in Nelson County?

 A:  Blue Mountain microbrewery is located in Afton, VA.  It is Nelson County’s first microbrewery.  Check out their web site at www.bluemountainbrewery.com  In Fall, 2008, The Devil’s Backbone will open near Wintergreen Resort and in Beech Grove.  This will be Nelson County’s second microbrewery and will also be a 120 seat restaurant.

  Q:  Do you have a list of foreclosures for Wintergreen Resort?

 A:  Unlike the primary home markets in Northern Virginia, North Carolina and Richmond, we have not had many foreclosures in Wintergreen Resort in the past two years.  So, we don’t have to keep a published list.  We still have some great opportunities to purchase a value-priced home or condo in the resort.  For those who have great to excellent credit, now is the time to buy in the resort or in Nelson County.  Lenders are looking for 20% down to purchase a second home or investment property.

Q:  Does Wintergreen Resort offer free accommodations to those looking at real estate?

 A:  No.  Most resorts that offer a free lodging package for those looking to purchase real estate are selling timeshares.  We do not have timeshares in Wintergreen Resort and they are actually against zoning in Nelson County.  If you would like to rent a home or condo while visiting Wintergreen, check out these web sites:  www.WintergreenResort.com, www.VRBO.com, www.IIMoose.com  There are some great Summer specials available.

Q:  Are there still building lots available in Nelson County and Wintergreen Resort?

A:  Yes, there are still building lot available in both Nelson County and Wintergreen Resort.  I can introduce you to a selection of builders who have been building in the resort and the county for decades. 

Q:  Is there a charge to drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

A:  No, anyone may drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway free of charge.  The Blue Ridge Parkway is the nation’s longest scenic highway and is very popular for a Summer or Fall drive.  Remember that the speed limit on the Parkway is only 45 MPH.  The Blue Ridge Parkway is accented by milepost numbers.  Features on the parkway are always advertised by the closest milepost. 

Q:  What is The Dome at Wintergreen Resort?

A:  The Dome is new in 2008 and the favorite for kids of all ages. One of my friends just told me that this is now his kids’ favorite place in the resort.  Here is what they have to offer:

• 12 Stations - 10 Xbox 360s and 2 Nintendo Wiis
• 42-inch plasma TVs and comfy game rocker chairs at every station.
• Wifi Lounge
• Mechanical Bull
• Foosball
• Pool Table
• Air Hockey
• Basketball 2-Man Game
• Theatre showing sporting events
• Children's interactive games

You can even purchase tickets on line for The Dome at www.WintergreenResort.com

Q:  Are there free wireless Internet sites in Nelson County?

A:  Yes, there are several spots for free wireless Internet across Nelson County.  Here is a list: 

Lovingston Café:  165 Front Street in Lovingston.  Open 10:30-9PM Everyday

McDonalds:  In the Lovingston shopping center on Rt. 29.  This is also our only fast-food chain restaurant in the county.  They are open everyday from 6AM-11PM

Rapunzels:  924 Front Street in Lovingston.  Open Tuesday and Thursday from 12PM-6PM; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from Noon-10PM.  They also have great coffee drinks and a nice used book collection.

Devil’s Grill:  At the Devil’s Knob Golf Course on Wintergreen mountain.  Open for lunch during the Summer and dinner from 5:30-9:30.

The Edge:  Located behind the Mountain Inn in Wintergreen Resort.  Open everyday from 11AM-10PM

The Mountain Inn & Colony Coffee:  Located on Wintergreen mountain and the main lodge.  The lodge and tables are open 24X7.

Sparrow’s Café:  Intersection of Routes 151 and 664 in Nellysford, behind the Ski Barn.  Open Monday-Saturday 6:30AM-2:30PM.

Q:  Are motorcycles allowed in Wintergreen Resort?

A:  No, due to noise and traffic patterns, motorcycles are not allowed on Wintergreen mountain.

Q:  Is there a specific historic district in Nelson County?

A:  Nelson County is full of history.  The county seat is Lovingston, VA, and Front Street in Lovingston has been designated as an official Historic District street.  Front Street is the main street through Lovingston and has buildings and homes with interesting architecture.

Q:  When and where can we pick Blackberries?

A:  My favorite place to pick blackberries is the Hill Top Berry Farm and Winery.  Keep an eye on their web site at www.hilltopberrywine.com.  Their web site is predicting that the berries will be ready for picking from July 19-August 17.   We can’t wait to pick some Blackberries. 

Q:  What are the ages for the kid’s program at Wintergreen’s Tree house?

A:   Wintergreen’s Tree House program is for kids from 21/2 to 12.  The program is open daily from 9AM-4:30PM.  For information call, 434-325-8180.  Below are some details about this week’s activities.

Q:  What is the schedule for the Wintergreen shuttle?

A:  The Summer 2008 hours for the shuttle on the mountain is 7AM-Midnight.  In the valley at Stoney Creek, the shuttle runs Friday-Sunday from 7AM-10PM.  For pick up information, call 434-325-8200. 

Q:  Do I have to belong to the Wintergreen Club to play golf or ski 

A:  No, a Wintergreen Club Membership is not necessary to enjoy any of the amenities in Wintergreen Resort.  Although, the Membership does offer discounts on many of the amenities.  If you decide not to purchase a Membership, you can enjoy resort activities and amenities by paying fees a la carte. 

Q:  What is the large building under construction beside the Ski Barn in Beech Grove?

 A:  This is one of the most frequently asked questions of the Summer.  The building is the future home of the Devil’s Backbone Brewery.  Soon, I will be posting a story about the new brewery.

Q:  Where can I get an ice cream cone?

A:  A great Summer question!  In the Piney River area, stop by the Saunders’ Farm Market for a hand-dipped ice cream cone.  The peach is one of our favorites for Summer.  In Colleen, stop by the Tastee Freeze on Rt. 29 for soft-serve ice cream.

Q:  Can the public visit Lake Monocan?

A:  Sure!  If you are not a Wintergreen Resort Member, you will pay an entrance fee.  We think that the entrance fee is well worth the visit.  This is a day that the whole family will enjoy.

Q:  Are there bears in Nelson County?

A:  Yes,  Nelson County does have black bears.  The best place to learn about our bears is to visit the Wintergreen Nature Foundation on Wintergreen Drive.  I have also posted information in my Blog Archive at www.ExperienceNelsonCounty.com.  Once in the Archive, click on the “Wildlife” section.

Q:  Do the Nelson County wineries offer tastings?

A:  Yes, most of the Nelson County wineries do offer tastings.  Some are at no charge and some charge a minimal fee.  All of our wineries are open this Summer for visits.  For stories about our local wineries, visit my Blog Archive at www.ExperienceNelsonCounty.com and click on the Red, White and Brew Tour.  Also, most of our wineries are hosting festivals and events this Summer.  The Red, White and Brew Tour in the Archive also provides the web sites for each winery.  Check out their Summer schedules.

Q:  Can I bring my dog to Wintergreen rentals?

A:    VRBO.com (Vacation Rental by Owners) is the best resource to find resort rentals that allow dogs.  Look for the blue paws next to the ads for the condos or homes that allow dogs.  I know that www.IIMoose.com also allows dogs and is a Dobie condo.  The Wintergreen Resort program (www.WintergreenResort.com) does not allow dog guests.

Q:  Are there building lots outside of the resort that have views?

A:  Yes, check out the Rockfish Heights neighborhood.  This new community is a 10 minute drive to Wintergreen Resort.  It offers some great valley and Blue Ridge Mountain views.  Lot prices range from $99,000-$200,000.  Most of the lots are over 2 acres.  

Q:  Are there timeshares in Wintergreen or Nelson County?

A:  No, Nelson County and the resort do not allow timeshares.  In the resort, up to three families may own a property together.  Currently, Sun Trust is offering loan packages for up to three families to purchase a property in the resort.  Send an email to kim@ExperienceNelsonCounty.com for details about this program.

Q:  Where is Thai Take-Out?

A:  Locals call Thai Siam in Colleen “Thai Take Out”.  It is located in a white building that looks like a barn at 4137 Tye Brook Highway. (Rt. 56).  This is one of our favorite take-out foods in Nelson County.  They are open Tuesday-Saturday from 11AM-7PM.  Call ahead to place an order:  434-263-8577.  Thai food lovers drive down from Charlottesville just for this take-out. 

Q:  Does the Blue Mountain Brewery serve food?

A:  Yes, the brewery has a seasonal menu that uses a lot of local-grown food.   They also have outdoor dining with a view.

Q:  Where can I park my car if I want to hike the Appalachian Trail?

A:  One of the popular places to park to enjoy the AT is at Reed’s Gap at the intersection of Rt. 664 and the Blue Ridge Parkway.  (Rt. 664 runs in front of the entrance to Wintergreen Mountain)  Some tips include:  1. Tell someone when to expect you back from your hike.  If you don’t have someone to watch for your return, place your name and your return time on a sign on your car windshield.  2.  Don’t leave valuables in your car 3.  Even if you think that you will only be gone for a few hours, be sure to take a day backpack with supplies. 

Q:  Is there a winery tour map for Nelson County?

A:  Yes, Nelson County does publish a map of the wineries that is updated each year.  For the latest map, click on this link:  www.nelsoncounty.com/explorenelsonwine/2004/06/07

You can also find a map in the bag of each month’s issue of Nelson County Life magazine.  This magazine is distributed free throughout Nelson County and Wintergreen Resort.  If you would like to receive a guide to Nelson County Wine by mail, send an email to kim@ExperienceNelsonCounty.com with your mailing address.

This Summer, most Nelson County wineries are open every day for tastings and tours.

Q:  Is tubing available on the James River?

A:  Absolutely!  It is a lot of fun.  We recommend checking out www.JamesRiver.com for the web site for James River Runners.  Prices are only $20 per person.  (Participants must be 6 years old and able to swim)  This activity is only about a 45 minute drive from Wintergreen mountain.  It makes a great day trip from the resort.  The James River runs through the eastern side of Nelson County.

Q:  Can the public visit Lake Monocan in Stoney Creek?

A:  Yes, the public can visit and enjoy Lake Monocan.  There is a small charge for the use of the lake facility.  The  lake has a sand beach, paddle boats for rent, swimming and also a picnic area.  For full information, check out the web site at www.WintergreenResort.com under activities.

Q:  Can more than one family purchase a Wintergreen Resort property together?

A:  Yes, Wintergreen Resort allows up to three families to purchase a property together.  Currently, I have promotional materials from Sun Trust for financing for two or three families purchasing a resort property together. 

Q:  When should we make reservations for Thanksgiving or Christmas lodging in Nelson County?

A:  You should immediately make reservations for any holiday lodging.  Check out my new Blog Archive section for lodging ideas in the library section Where To Stay.  Also, visit these web sites:  www.WintergreenResort.com, www.VRBO.com or www.IIMoose.com for lodging options. 

Q:  When is Fall Foliage Season in Nelson County?

A:  Fall Foliage Season always depends on the weather from Spring to Fall.  Usually, the best Fall foliage viewing weeks are the second and third week of October.  I will be posting additional information as weather forecasters post information in August and September.  If you are interested in visiting Nelson County for this year’s season, you should make reservations soon.  Nelson County is quite busy in October.  For lodging options, check out www.WintergreenResort.com or www.VRBO.com .  I also have a Where To Stay Blog Archive with a library of information on local lodging.

Q:  Are there Geocache sites in Wintergreen Resort?

A:  Yes!  There are geocache sites in both Wintergreen Resort and Nelson County.  To learn about geocaching and about these sites, go to my hiking library in my Blog Archive.  Go to www.ExperienceNelsonCounty.com, click on Blog Archive in the left navigation bar and then click on the Hiking library.  Keep an eye on this daily blog for a fun geocaching announcement in August.

Q:  Is the Blue Ridge Parkway open year-round?

A:  The Blue Ridge Parkway can be open year-round depending on the weather.  Usually, it is closed in Nelson County from our first winter weather through the thaw.  Fall foliage season is the most popular time to drive along the parkway.

Q:  When is “apple season” in Nelson County?

A:  Usually, apple season in Nelson County is from late September through early November.  I will be posting information about apple festivals, orchards, apple butter and other Fall activities the first week of September.  If you would like to visit Nelson County or Wintergreen Resort for the Fall Foliage Season, now is the time to book those reservations.  For lodging options, go to www.WintergreenResort.com, www.VRBO.com, or www.IIMoose.com for web sites with lodging.  I also have some lodging options in my Blog Archive at www.ExperienceNelsonCounty.com