Jefferson County, West Virginia is a remarkable part of West Virginia—scenic, wild and wonderful (of course), culturally sophisticated, historic, exciting—the perfect place for those who love adventure and the outdoors.

Discovering Jefferson County by bike, hike or kayak is fabulous, but there’s so much more to explore beyond the trail, bridge or waterway. Making your way “inland” to Harpers Ferry, Bolivar, Charles Town, Ranson and Shepherdstown is such an unexpected pleasure because each has its own individual ambiance and variety of attractions, restaurants and events.

Jefferson County is just over an hour’s drive from the Washington and Baltimore metropolitan areas, but it seems a world away from the hustle and bustle. Rafting on the Potomac or Shenandoah rivers is exhilarating, as is a big win at the Charles Town (thoroughbred) Races or at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races.

A couple of miles from downtown Charles Town is the Bloomery Plantation Distillery, specializing in all kinds of “cellos”—limoncello and other varities. Along the way, be on the lookout for Washington family homes—this was, after all, a getaway for the Washingtons—and you’ll find no fewer than six, more than anywhere else in America.

For those along the C&O trail, a side trip to Harpers Ferry, Bolivar or Shepherdstown is just a matter of walking across bridges to discover genuine, authentic links to history and hospitality.

It seems everyone knows about Harpers Ferry—most likely, the John Brown story, tied to the abolitionist movement before the Civil War.

Shepherdstown’s proximity to Antietam brought it into that remarkable one-day battle, and cemeteries there continue to tell that story.

These days Shepherdstown is a favorite extended trip—it’s the quintessential small West Virginia town, with the perfect complement in Shepherd University.  The annual Contemporary American Theater Festival in July is absolutely not to be missed.  Some compare it to the Sundance Film Festival for its cutting-edge play selection and the quality of its performances.

All in all,

For those in search of the unexpected, it’s a sure bet.  ¤