On a recent trip to see my sister in the southern part of Virginia, I stopped at a Bed and Breakfast in Charles Town, West Virginia for some sight-seeing and two days of relaxation. It was about a five hour trip from the Cleveland area. Although about 90 minutes from the Washington D.C. area, the pace of the Eastern Panhandle is relaxed, historic, and uncrowded. It’s hard to believe, but there are many commuters who live in the area and work in Washington.
Charles Town itself is a small community with many historic homes and buildings. Founded by the younger brother of George Washington, it changed hands from Union to Confederate many times during the civil war. Most historic buildings are civil war and late 1800s era. Most are privately owned, but a walking tour of the area pointing out historic properties is available. I ate at two restaurants, Alfredo’s Mediterranean and La Mezzaluna Italian. Both offered gluten free options and La Mezzaluna even had gf dessert. I stayed at the Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, 417 E. Washington St. Which was used as a headquarters for both Union and Confederate generals during the civil war. Yvonne did a great job of providing a filling and delicious gluten free breakfast on both days I stayed. It was relaxing, comfortable, and quiet. I highly recommend. Other Charles Town activities include a small museum, a Saturday Farmer’s Market (gluten free bakery available), Casino gaming, two golf courses, and Thoroughbred Racing.
Also, I visited Harper’s Ferry which is about 20 minutes from Charles Town. Historic buildings and activities abound, most run by the National Park Service. There are numerous history tours and even a nightly ghost tour, which became very spooky when the town closed down. Harper’s Ferry is at the confluence of two rivers and many river sports are available. One warning, parking is very limited and Harper’s Ferry is built into a mountain, so there is a lot of uphill and downhill walking.
Topping off the visit was a trip to Martinsburg and it’s mall with many chain restaurants. It was about 20 minutes away from Charles Town. There are a few antique shops left in the area, but, many have closed due to covid. However, prices are below the Cleveland area and there are some good bargains. I found great deals at the Two Crows Antique Mall, 1212 Mildred St. in Ranson.
Slower paced and leisurely, the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia has many historic, comfortable, and gluten free affordable options.
I also just vacationed in this area! We stayed in Harpers Ferry but also visited Shepherdstown, which was a great college town with several GF dining options.