Visitors would have no trouble filling a day or even a weekend enjoying all that the northern part of Rockbridge County has to offer. From quaint villages to vineyards, from an authentic working water-powered grist mill to welcoming bed and breakfasts, from antiques to history, northern Rockbridge is worth taking the time to explore.
Most everything in northern Rockbridge is accessible off US Route 11, going north from Lexington. Route 11 as a thoroughfare follows the path of pre-Columnbian Indian trails, and later the Valley Pike. The views of mountains and valley are spectacular from Route 11, and more easily enjoyed at slower than Interstate highway speeds.
The village of Fairfield, 10 miles north of Lexington, is typical of the Valley Pike town. When these villages were build, the road was much narrower and successive widenings has brought the road virtually to the doorsteps of some of the buildings. Many homes and building in Fairfield date from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Spend some time walking the sidewalk in Fairfield and explore this quaint village The Quiltery will appeal to more than just quilters. See batiks, Stonehenge reproductions, and even novelty quilts. They offer classes and supplies also.
Fox Hill Bed and Breakfast, on Borden Grant Trail, is less than two miles from Fairfield. With beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain views, comfortable suites and peace and quiet, Fox Hill is a great getaway from the pressures of everyday life.
Going west from Fairfield on Sterrett Road (a left turn just north of Fairfield) takes you to Brownsburg. Be sure to visit the Brownsburg Museum, which chronicles the life of this community.
From Brownsburg, go north on Rt. 252 1.6 miles to Raphine Road. Turn right on Raphine Road and in about .6 mile you'll see the brown clapboards of Wade's Mill to your left. Still a working water-powered grist mill, Wade's Mill sells flours and meals ground on the property. Back on Raphine Road, in roughly a mile, you'll come to Rockbridge Vineyard. Rockbridge Vineyard's wines have won awards for over 25 years. Stop and do a tasting in their expanded wine tasting room and now, their brewery tap room.
Continuing through the village of Raphine, passing under Interstate 81 find White's Travel Plaza on your right. A mile beyond White's you'll see signs for the Cyrus McCormick Farm. McCormick invented the first practical reaping machine, which started the mechanization of agriculture. Seeing the replica of the first reaper is worth the stop.
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