Gal getaways: Treat yourself
Whether it’s a celebration or a chance to reconnect with college or childhood friends, a gal getaway in West Virginia is a weekend you’ll never forget!
Spend it soaking at a soothing spa, enjoy a tasty beverage, or explore local shops in a nearby small town.
Eastern Panhandle
Berkeley Springs State Park was a famous spa long before the first Europeans discovered its warm waters. Today, visitors come from all over to soak in its soothing warm mineral springs.
The park also has steam cabinets and Swedish massages, but there’s plenty more luxury to uncover in the nation’s first spa town. For sheer pampering pleasure, nothing beats The Country Inn’s elegant Renaissance Spa, with fantastic views, mineral whirlpool baths, full body massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing and other beauty treatments.
Shopping in Charles Town is a treat for anyone with eclectic and vintage taste. Wooden Shoe Antiques features antique lamps and collectibles. Et cetera is always an interesting shopping experience, with unique West Virginia and vintage finds, gifts and gourmet foods.
After shopping, it’s time to explore some of that mountain flavor! Head over to Alfredo’s Mediterranean Cafe for a relaxing lunch or early dinner. Their menu has tastes from all over the world, including Spain, France, Italy and Greece.
Southern West Virginia
Relax and rejuvenate at Spa Orange at Glade Springs, where you can enjoy massages, body and facial treatments. Different spa packages make sure all the gals get the custom relaxation they need!
Spend the afternoon at Tamarack to shop for locally crafted goods from all over the state. Browse artisan craftworks like jewelry, apparel, wood, pottery and glass. If you’re lucky, you may just spot an artist in action in one of their on-site studios! It’s a showcase of “The Best of West Virginia” culture and heritage. Grab lunch while you’re there to indulge in dishes cooked up by top chefs trained at The Greenbrier!
Daniel Vineyards sits 2,500 feet above sea level and uses “cold climate cultivars” to produce its wine. They grow 14 varieties of grapes, which they use to create delicious award-winning selections like Blackberry and Port wine. While you’re there, take in the views of more than 200 rose bushes, a picturesque gazebo, and immaculate landscaping.
A few minutes away in Beaver is The Dish Cafe. Popular with both locals and tourists, this restaurant features fresh ingredients and lots of flavor. Their goal is to offer healthy choices with locally sourced meat and produce. Dishes include flatbreads, quiche, steak, burgers and pasta.
Central West Virginia
Sink into luxury at Mountain Laurel Spa at Stonewall Resort State Park with massage therapy, facial treatments and enticing spa packages.The most calming touch is the backdrop of West Virginia mountains and the lake at Stonewall— a nice way to end a fun day with the gals.
Pick up some keepsakes at Stonewall Resort’s gift shop, or venture over to The Flatwoods Factory Outlet Stores, where you’ll find Everything Fiesta, which features famous Fiesta ware; Wild Vines and Spirits; McFly Outdoors and Amish Farms.
Lamberts Winery, which opened in 1992, is made from hand-cut stones from around West Virginia. It is the perfect place to stop for a taste, a glass or a bottle by the fireplace in their cozy tasting room.
Want a great local spot for a cozy dinner? The quaint Thyme Bistro is a perfect pick for a gals’ weekend. The contemporary American menu caters to a diverse (but refined) palate, and the friendly staff makes the experience that much better.
This post was last updated on June 30, 2021