“Virginia is for lovers” is the slogan used by Virginia to attract tourist to our beautiful state. After my weekend motorcycle ride I think our leaders in charge of tourism would be smart to start a second campaign “Virginia is for Riders”
On Saturday I went on a small group ride starting at Zion Crossroads in Troy, Va and took route 15 to Gordonsville. At Gordonsville, we turned north on Route 231. Route 231 is also known as the Blue Ridge Turnpike and for good reason. As you wind your way through the small villages of Somerset, Rochelle, past the majestic farms Fairview and Somerset Plantation, the Blue Ridge Mountains loom just to the west. 231 is curvy and the terrain varies, but it is easy to maintain the posted 55 mph and enjoy the scenery. Approaching the village of Etlan, Ragged Mountain reveals her rocky face and falls down to green pastures and gently flowing streams. Shortly after Etlan, we arrived in the town of Sperryville at the junction of Routes 231 and 522.
In Sperryville we decided to take a break and have lunch at the Thornton River Grille. What a pleasant surprise! I had a delicious cheeseburger with homemade slaw as a side. The menu varied from the usual to seared tuna and she crab soup. Great food, friendly service and a pleasant atmosphere made this a stop worth repeating on future rides.
From Sperryville, we joined Route 211 towards Luray to Skyline Drive. We turned on Skyline Drive and rode south. The Drive’s 35 mph speed limit makes it easy to enjoy the gently rolling mountains and breathtaking valley views. We followed Skyline to Route 33 and then it was down the mountain on 33 east to Gordonsville, and 231 south back to our home in Palmyra.
I have traveled all over the United States and I can truly say there is probably no better place to ride than Virginia. The Blue Ridge Mountains, green meadows, babbling streams and stately homes that dot the country side make this one of the most pleasant experiences a rider can have. Yes, Virginia is for Riders!
On Saturday I went on a small group ride starting at Zion Crossroads in Troy, Va and took route 15 to Gordonsville. At Gordonsville, we turned north on Route 231. Route 231 is also known as the Blue Ridge Turnpike and for good reason. As you wind your way through the small villages of Somerset, Rochelle, past the majestic farms Fairview and Somerset Plantation, the Blue Ridge Mountains loom just to the west. 231 is curvy and the terrain varies, but it is easy to maintain the posted 55 mph and enjoy the scenery. Approaching the village of Etlan, Ragged Mountain reveals her rocky face and falls down to green pastures and gently flowing streams. Shortly after Etlan, we arrived in the town of Sperryville at the junction of Routes 231 and 522.
In Sperryville we decided to take a break and have lunch at the Thornton River Grille. What a pleasant surprise! I had a delicious cheeseburger with homemade slaw as a side. The menu varied from the usual to seared tuna and she crab soup. Great food, friendly service and a pleasant atmosphere made this a stop worth repeating on future rides.
From Sperryville, we joined Route 211 towards Luray to Skyline Drive. We turned on Skyline Drive and rode south. The Drive’s 35 mph speed limit makes it easy to enjoy the gently rolling mountains and breathtaking valley views. We followed Skyline to Route 33 and then it was down the mountain on 33 east to Gordonsville, and 231 south back to our home in Palmyra.
I have traveled all over the United States and I can truly say there is probably no better place to ride than Virginia. The Blue Ridge Mountains, green meadows, babbling streams and stately homes that dot the country side make this one of the most pleasant experiences a rider can have. Yes, Virginia is for Riders!
I totally agree you should send this to tourist. You are an amazing writer.
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