Mayberry Meets Manhattan: The Virginia Oyster Trail

How to Spend a Weekend on the Virginia Oyster Trail

A couple weekends ago, I found myself listening closely to a man tell a story on a late Saturday morning. I was sipping wine and being distracted by the yelp of a dog who was roaming around the vineyard outside. The setting was the Dog & Oyster Vineyard, resting on the Virginia Oyster Trail. I’d taken a ride there by bike, rented from the Tides Inn.

The owner of the Dog & Oyster was describing the Virginia Oyster Trail area as a mixture between Mayberry (a la Andy Griffith) and Manhattan. The region is home to plenty of expats from all over the world who have decided to make the rural area their home. What keeps things going around these parts? Oysters, wine, and a rich appreciation for nature. It’s no wonder I discovered that so many people in my circle have their own memories of this place. My dad is already making plans to take a winter visit now.

The retreat was a much needed getaway for me and a dear friend. I shared a sneak peak into our adventures here.

If you’re looking for a getaway, I’ve got a few (ok, a million) suggestions for you from my trip…

Where to Stay

The Tides Inn

This well known waterfront hotel overlooks Carters Creek. Our room had a private balcony, as most do. When I woke up in the morning and walked outside, all I could see were water, fall leaves and pieces of a nearby dock. The Inn isn’t just for scenery junkies. The staff at the Tides Inn were a part of my adventure. They shared their love for the region and even helped bandage up a badly cut finger.

Where to Eat

The Tides Inn Chesapeake Resaurant

My first meal of the weekend was eaten at the Tides Inn Chesapeake Restaurant. Throughout my three-day adventure, I indulged in crab mac ‘n’ cheese, bourbon glazed fish bites, angry oysters and whatever else Kristin of Food Fash recommended I eat from the resort’s acclaimed restaurant.

Breakfast in bed every day was simple and delicious. We even took a picnic lunch from the Tides Inn with us to Good Luck Cellars. It included hummus, crackers, cheese, sweets, and more.

Finally, you’ll want to circle next year’s date for Taste by the Bay, where you can try small servings of some of the regions best bites.

Merroir

We made it a little late to see the much talked about sunset at this oyster eater haven. Merroir is a sister to Rappahannock Restaurant in my hometown Richmond, VA. We indulged in fresh oysters and I convinced my group to try oyster shooters for the first time. Unexpectedly the shooters were with beer! I’m used to vodka, but hey, bottoms up!

Hope & Glory Inn

I didn’t get a chance to enjoy this spot, but I didn’t want to leave it off the travel guide to Irvington, Va, because of the unsolicited rave reviews I heard from Tides Inn staff, vineyard owners, and more. Check out the menu here.

What to See

Guided Water Tour

This was by far the highlight of my trip. After I hopped on the Miss Nicole, the chill in the air was replaced by sunshine and the puffiness of my eyes was deflated by the crisp, fresh wind. The 1.5-hour tour was led by a local waterman whose family had been catching oysters for generations. He pulled up oysters right from the bay, cracked them open and let us taste the freshest oysters I’ve ever had the privilege of even seeing. He shared his big-picture view of the industry and let us ogle over his tiny little canine companion.

The conclusion of our water tour led us to the Tides Inn terrace where the head chef prepared fresh oysters on an open grill and the Inn’s sommelier helped us wash them down with his favorite wines.

Where to Shop

The Dandelion

You know, I always have to ask around for the best boutique in town. Dandelion came up on top. The two-story house is packed with clothes, jewelry, belts, candles, crafts, and more in every single room. Don’t expect to find a cheap steal. This shop is full of cashmere, real wool and leather, and other high quality finds.

A travel tip from me to you? Invest in jewelry on your travels. They are easy to pack and will last a lot longer than a clothing item. I believe your future grandchildren might dig an adventurous memento of their world traveling grandma.

Where to Drink

Good Luck Cellars

Good Luck seems like a good name for any business, right? Yes, said the owner of Good Luck Cellars, especially when you’re making a living off the fickle life of a grape vine. We tasted every wine the vineyard had to offer. I especially liked the reds. The wrap around porch called to us after the full tasting. We indulged in a picnic basket put together by the Tides.

Dog & Oyster Vineyard

This is where my story began and where is ends. One of my final stops of the trip was at the Dog & Oyster Vineyard. The owner captured me with his unique perspective on the area and his approach to a winery. From a girl who has been to her share of vineyards, this one felt different. Pairing oysters and wine, breaking town rules, asking the community to help you dig up the ground…I like a good rebel story.

Have you been to any of these spots? I’d love to hear your suggestions!

I am incredibly thankful to have been hosted by the Tides Inn. All the opinions in this article are my own.