I’ve just returned from a fabulous trip to France, the kind filled with long walks, late dinners, and the kind of pastries that make you rethink your life choices. But had we known Paris would be sweltering hot, we might have traded a few of those outdoor adventures for something deliciously air‑conditioned, like a cooking class or two… or three.
Back home in Virginia, July doesn’t offer much relief from the heat, but it does offer plenty of ways to enjoy summer without melting.
Up in the mountains, where the air is often 10 degrees cooler, the Wintergreen Music Festival is one of July’s great pleasures. Music echoes across the hills, food trucks line the paths, cold drinks are always within reach, and the views are spectacular.
If you prefer your summer adventures sweet, Gearhart’s Chocolates offers award‑winning tasting tours led by experts who reveal the craft behind their exquisite creations. Each tour ends with a four‑piece box to take home, though I’ll admit, their homemade brownies are my personal weakness.
For an even richer experience, you can add a chocolatier‑led class. Truffle making? Chocolate and wine pairing? Both sound like the kind of indulgence July was made for.
And if you’re ready to sharpen your culinary skills, Pippin Hill’s Cooking School is a summer standout. Their seasonal, hands-on classes range from homemade pasta to natural, garden‑driven soups. Chef Victoria begins each evening with a welcome glass of sparkling wine and a guided stroll through the gardens before everyone heads into the kitchen. The night ends with a family‑style dinner paired with Pippin Hill wines, a delicious reward for your hard work!
Summer may be warm, but it’s full of flavor, creativity, and experiences that make the season feel special. Be sure to book our Jump into Summer Promotion: book three nights and receive the 3rd night free!
Happy Summer,
Ann