Who couldn’t use a little mountain air?
Who couldn’t use a little mountain air? Especially from a cabin called Mountainaire! The amazing cabin vacation rental in Hampshire County that is featured on our cover is quite honestly one of the finest I’ve ever stayed in. When I walked through the front door, I froze, taking it all in and not wanting to put my luggage down because it would mar the moment. The cabin is a blend of unparalleled luxury and rustic charm. There is no detail overlooked—and I know, because I investigated every corner. Like a giddy child, I ran from room to room, each unfolding like a perfect painting. The open-concept design features a grand living room with a stone fireplace, a state-of-the-art kitchen with granite countertops, and a master suite with a spa-like bathroom. Outside, a covered porch hugs the cabin with rocking chairs, and an outdoor dining table just begs for an elaborate family-style dinner. After I walked the grounds, I told my husband, “Mary and Stephen Bauer are my kind of people!” I just love it when folks harness such creativity, hard work, and thoughtful attention to detail to craft an authentic Appalachian experience. And I love that the Bauers, who are from Maryland, appreciate the beauty and charm of our Mountain State as much as we do. If you are looking for a spot for a family gathering or place to reunite with long lost friends, I highly recommend Mountainaire. It is a place where memories are made. (It will also give you a reason to stop by Farmer’s Daughter Market and Butcher for their award-winning burger, book a massage at Capon Springs and Farms, and plan a shopping excursion at Bent River Trading Company.)
When a place, like Mountainaire, takes my breath away, I can’t wait to share it with you. Kelley Farm Kitchen in Harpers Ferry is another such spot. This vegan restaurant is so freakin’ good that words haven’t even been developed yet to accurately describe it. And I NEVER thought I’d say that about a vegan restaurant, but OMG, this place needs to be on your list. The best chicken sandwich I’ve ever had—and it wasn’t even chicken! The best ramen I’ve ever had—and I’ve eaten at some chichi ramen restaurants around the country. And the ice cream made from coconut milk made me think that maybe I had fallen out of a coconut tree. My daughter thinks I come to Harpers Ferry to visit her, but really, I come for Kelley Farm Kitchen.
In this issue, we give you some good reasons to visit some other parts of the state, too. Exciting things are happening in Elkins. From the transformation of the Tygart Hotel to the new Big Timber Brewing taproom to a plethora of new shops and restaurants, you can easily spend a long weekend in this town that wears fall’s crown. Kingwood is another town that knows how to celebrate fall. The Buckwheat Festival has some new and exciting additions to its traditional lineup. Check it out.
Hopefully, by the time you finish this issue, you’ll not only be inspired to take a fall road trip, but you’ll also be uplifted by this year’s class of Wonder Women. Seriously, each year I’m even more amazed at the incredible women of our state who are shaking things up, moving mountains, and making magic happen. This year we are going to be launching a special initiative at our annual Wonder Women Luncheon on October 30—so get your tickets now! Click the link to register, and bring a friend or two. This is one event you won’t want to miss! Enjoy our mountain air,
—Nikki Bowman Mills, Editor
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S FALL 2024 ISSUE
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