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January Refresh: How to take a self-care vacation in Abingdon, Virginia

It’s January. You’ve had all the turkey and family bonding time you can take, but you’re still craving a winter getaway.  Head to Abingdon to recharge your batteries and help you get through the winter until spring weather arrives. The mild climate and year-round music scene make it a great escape.Day 1

Check in to Summers Cottage, a cute vintage cottage in downtown Abingdon. Located just across the street from Zazzy’z Coffee Roasters, it’s within walking distance of Abingdon’s most popular eateries and nightlife.

January Jams at Barter Theatre offers concerts from Grammy Award winning and Hall of Fame artists. This gorgeous 1930s era theatre only seats 500, so every seat in the house is up close and intimate.  After the show, grab a bite at a local eatery. Rain offers a sophisticated cocktail menu, while local favorite JJ’s Restaurant and Sports Bar is known for its catfish poboy, fried to perfection.Day 2

Take part in some wilderness therapy with a winter hike at Grayson Highlands State Park. Low humidity and lack of foliage mean you can get absolutely unparalleled views of Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, the two tallest peaks in Virginia.  Grayson Highlands’ famous wild ponies can be found roaming the snowy balds, and – bonus – January is the best month for taking advantage of the world-class bouldering available at the park.

After your hike, indulge in some self-care with a visit to the healing salt room at Salt of the Earth, or a massage at Mane St. Day Spa and Salon.  Treat yourself to an organic, cold-pressed juice at White Birch Food & Juice.Give your brain some love, too, by becoming a theatre critic for a day at Barter Theatre.  Barter’s Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights, is a one-of-a-kind experience, with new play readings that invite the audience to meet the playwright and then become part of the process.   Day 3

Nourish your body and the earth with a leisurely farm-to-table brunch at The Harvest Table.  This pioneer of sustainable dining was founded by Barbara Kingsolver and Stephen Hopp, bestselling authors of Animal, Vegetable, Miracle.Hop on the world famous Virginia Creeper Trail for a bike ride or leisurely hike, then head to Whitetop Yoga for a restorative practice that will leave you energized and centered.

 

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