A unique attraction for a unique Southwest Virginia destination
WYTHEVILLE, VIRGINIA—MARCH 2022—Known for its “homegrown” attractions, Wytheville, Virginia, has a lineup of one-of-a-kind, locally owned attractions that set it apart from other destinations. Beginning this spring, Beagle Ridge Herb Farm and Environmental Education Center (1934 Matney Flats Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382, 276-621-4511) will take center stage among them as it invites visitors to celebrate its 20th anniversary with unique events, tours and herbal products.
This Southwest Virginia town (pronounced “withville”) is located at the crossroads of Interstates I-77 and I-81, two hours north of Charlotte, North Carolina. Its location, set amid the mountains and rolling valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountain range, is the perfect home for Beagle Ridge Farm. Over the years its 210 acres have been filled with gardens of lavender and herbs, a butterfly house, as well as nature trails.
In its 20 years of operation, owners Ellen and Gregg Reynolds have established the property as Southwest Virginia’s premier lavender farm. It features 14 themed display gardens as well as the Flying Flowers butterfly house to showcase its herb and perennial collections. It’s the only one of its kind in the region.
“If you would have told me in 2001 when we opened, that we would have grown to be the business I see before me,” said Ellen Reynolds, “I would have been skeptical. As we look forward to our spring opening on May 1st, we are so excited that 2021 will be our 20th anniversary. It seems like a blur but here we are, 20 years older, hopefully wiser and with so many new friends who have shared their love of herbs, lavender and butterflies with us on our journey. We look forward,” she added, “to an even bigger 20th season. Lots of new additions so stay tuned.”
The Reynolds have special events planned throughout the year, beginning in April. They offer a two-day Lavender Academy for those who want to delve into the details of choosing, growing, pruning and harvesting lavender. Other classes focus on topics ranging from growing herbs and pollinator gardens to butterfly awareness and wreath making to distilling essential oils. They also offer Lick Mountain Excursions, guided tours through the property’s undeveloped wilderness, as well as hiking along the remote trails.
This unique attraction is just one of many that make Wytheville a destination like no other. Natural areas like Crystal Springs Recreation Area (723 Pump Hollow Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382) with its 1,800 acres of preserved land and the 58 mile long New River Trail, one of America’s top-ranked rails-to-trails routes, offer more ways to enjoy the outdoors. And Big Walker Lookout (8711 Stoney Fork Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382, 276-663-4016) is the oldest –now celebrating its 75th year–and highest private attraction in Virginia. At an elevation of 3,405 feet, Big Walker Lookout offers a spectacular view of the Appalachian Mountains.
Downtown Wytheville has a whole host of one-of-a-kind spots, too, including five historic museums. Visitors can begin planning their journey at VisitWytheville.com. Beagle Ridge and a whole host of homegrown attractions are waiting in one-of-a-kind Wytheville.