Are you Tired of the same gift ideas for valentines day? Well forget flowers and chocolate, and forget shopping online. This Valentine’s Day, surprise your sweetie with a cozy weekend getaway at Smith Mountain Lake. Here are Mariners Landing Hospitality we have many options for cozy stays. There are many different options around the lake to make your valentines day perfect from dining to shopping.
Keep It SimpleSometimes the most impactful experiences are the simplest, and a walk along the shores of Smith Mountain Lake can be the most romantic activity of all! The quiet of a winter evening, the feeling of his hand in yours, and the sight of that Virginia sun setting over the water are the moments you’ll never want to forget.
A Toast to Your LoveYou know how lucky you are to have found the one who makes your heart smile. She looks so beautiful as the sun shines down on her and he gets so much more handsome with each year that passes; drink a toast to your love with a wine tasting at Hickory Hill Vineyards in Moneta! Voted one of the best winery’s in the area for six years, Hickory Hills offers an award-winning selection of wines, most of which have been created from grapes grown right on the property. The charming farmhouse holds the wine tasting room and celebrates the history of the family that owns the vineyard and the region in which it is located.
Sunset and Candlelight MealThe time-honored tradition of a romantic meal for Valentine’s Day stays popular for a reason—it really works! The Landing Restaurant in Huddleston is one of our favorite places for a romantic dinner, offering candlelight at the tables and a view of the sunset over Smith Mountain Lake through the windows. The menu is sophisticated and tasty and changes with the season; And, of course, as you raise another toast to your love, you’ll never forget this moment right now. Isn’t it amazing how it just keeps getting better between you?
Romantic Ambience and Valentine’s Day in VirginiaThe romantic ambience continues after the sun has set when you come home to one of our cozy and warm vacation rentals

Surrounded by scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake is an ideal weekend vacation for families or a romantic getaway for couples.
As winter approaches, weekend getaways become more difficult to arrange. The cold weather can discourage travelers, but Smith Mountain Lake thrives when wrapped with fall’s foliage or covered with winter’s frost. Nicknamed The Jewel of the Blue Ridge, this lakeside town offers a variety of outdoor adventures, art galleries and dozens of restaurants that offer charming ambiance and resort-style luxury.
To map out your mountain excursion, the Blue Ridge Parkway Association’s app can help. The Blue Ridge Parkway-Travel Planner mobile app, which is compatible with Android and Apple, maps trails, wildlife and driving routes to help visitors see everything the Roanoke region has to offer. Additionally, the National Park Service contributed to the app to help visitors discover the natural splendor of Smith Mountain Lake.
Below are some can’t-miss spots you should add to your itinerary:
Bridgewater Plaza
The Bridgewater Plaza is located near shops and restaurants, so visitors can spend the day hanging out while enjoying the surrounding mountain landscape. For those interested in feeding fish as opposed to catching them, visiting the carp at the plaza is a great way to connect to the lake.  For young thrill-seekers, The Lucky Duck, an adventure and entertainment center, leads Smith Mountain Lake in extreme activities. Elsewhere, you can play mini golf at the Wild West-inspired Harbortown Miniature Golf Course. Art appreciators can head to The Little Gallery on Smith Mountain Lake, which highlights artists from across the globe. // 16430 Booker T. Washington Highway, Moneta; 540-721-4594
Hickory Hill Vineyards and Winery
It isn’t difficult to persuade visitors to tour Hickory Hill Vineyard and Winery. Tasting the different wine blends available while taking in a picturesque view of the mountains makes for a tranquil vacation. The farmhouse, built in 1923, is a historic landmark that the entire family can appreciate, as kids are welcome at the vineyard, too. // 1722 Hickory Cove Lane, Moneta; 540-296-1393
Spring Valley Farm and Cabins
Whether you are an experienced equestrian or have never ridden a horse before, this animal farm has unparalleled riding trails and scenic views. Or, you can let someone else take the reins during an old-fashioned carriage ride. Children are welcome to participate in instructor-led pony carousel rides around the lake and pond. // 1190 Horseshoe Bend Road, Moneta; 540-309-6884
Smith Mountain Lake Dam
The construction of the Smith Mountain Lake Dam helped brand the lake as an environmental wonder. Today, the visitor center provides an inside look into how the dam was created with historical accounts, interactive exhibits and scale models of the Roanoke region

Peaceful Moments of Wonderful
The first thing we have to discuss is the peace and quiet. As much as we love summer and the flocks of guests that arrive each year, the quiet of a winter day feeds our soul after they have all returned home. For those of us who live on or near the lake, evening walks after the sun has set allow us to calm our thoughts; how can you be stressed or worried as the sounds of the night mingling with the quiet splash of lake water acts as a soothing lullaby to your soul? When the temperatures drop to a point that’s not comfortable (which happens rarely!), most of the homes in the Smith Mountain Lake area come with fireplaces for added warmth; the heating systems work just fine, but the romance of a roaring fire enjoyed with that special person in your life makes every winter night a special one.


 

Ahoy, mateys! As many of you know Pirates day is a big thing around the lake, and some of you don't, so why don't I take a few minutes to explain what exactly it is and why people love this weekend.A fun-filled weekend for the whole family, Smith Mountain Lake Pirate Days continues to grow in popularity each and every year!
Pirate-themed events include a Pirate Ball with live music and a costume contest, Pirate Trivia Night, a Pirate Ship Parade and much more.
Business and restaurants around the lake offer up specials and sales throughout the weekend, so make plans to join us the third weekend in July.

It is so easy to get caught up in work and deadlines that we forget to take care of ourselves. Given the current situation, multiple stressors pester our minds and souls daily. Now more than ever, it is necessary to relax and unwind every once in a while. It is vital to pick a vacation spot that you would enjoy the most.
Are you looking forward to the perfect weekend getaway destination, but you do not know where to go yet? In this article, I shall tell you the wonders of one of the top luxury vacation destinations. I will be your guide — without further ado, here are reasons why you should spend your weekend getaway in Smith Mountain Lakes, Virginia.

Water Adventures around Smith Mountain Lake


Smith Mountain Lake is famous for water activities such as swimming, jet skiing and, boating. If you were not able to arrange your rentals before your trip, fret not. Smith Mountain Lake has various facilities that offer watercraft rentals.
Bridgewater Marina offers boat rental to five locations in Smith Mountain Lake. Bob’s Up the Creek Outfitters has kayak rental services for your kayak needs. On the other hand, Parrot Cove Boat Rentals and Sales has rental services for pontoons, wakeboards, fishing boats, and kayaks. Bernard’s Boat Rentals offers surf boat and deck boat rental services. Now that you are all set, you are now ready to go on water adventures. The first item on the list is the Blackwater Junction Wake Park. This complex offers wakeboarding and wake skating for riders of all skill levels. Here, you would not have to worry about being a beginner.
The picturesque Smith Mountain Lake State Park is the ultimate water enthusiast’s paradise. In this park, you may swim, rent a boat, and go fishing with your family and friends. Your company may also enjoy serene outdoor picnics near the waterfront, watch a local play at the amphitheater. You should try out camping and hiking in this park. The Smith Mountain Lake State Park is open from 8:15 am to dusk.
Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is another location you may want to visit. With 37 acres of majesty, this park is a family-oriented outdoor facility that offers engaging activities such as swimming and fishing. The park is complete with restrooms, a beautiful waterfront, hiking trails, a playground area, and a seasonal community beach. The Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is open year-round, from dusk to dawn.

Historic Places around Smith Mountain Lake


The state of Virginia has a very rich history, and this is showcased in the historic places around Smith Mountain Lake. One of which is the Booker T Washington National Monument, which commemorates the life of Booker T. Washington. Booker T. Washington is a famous writer, orator, educator, and presidential advisor. He was born into slavery and is one of the most equally influential and controversial African Americans of his time.
Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest was Thomas Jefferson’s private retreat home. Thomas Jefferson was an American Founding Father. He was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, which he wrote in 1776. Moreover, he was the third President of the United States of America.
In this home, he rested and indulged in his favorite pastimes such as thinking, reading, and studying. You are most welcome to spend your vacation in Thomas Jefferson’s most personal architectural masterpieces.
The National D-Day Memorial was built to honor the soldiers who died on June 6, 1944. On that day occurred the most pivotal battles of World War 2. The soldiers who died during that historical event fought in one of the most significant battles of the nation’s history.
The National D-Day Memorial, bordering the Blue Ridge Mountains, is over 50 acres in land area. The memorial overlooks Bedford, and was officially opened on the 6th of June, 2001. During the opening ceremony, 15,000 people were present, including then-President George W. Bush. Every year, about 60,000 people have visited the National D-Day Memorial. Pay a visit to the memorial during your vacation in honor of our brave soldiers.
The last historical place around Smith Mountain Lake I could recommend is the Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park. This village is where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union General Ulysses S. Grant. The Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park has a bookstore, a theater, a museum, and a dozen buildings.


Attractions around Smith Mountain Lake
​The Virginia Dare Cruise is a 63 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 26.6 feet tall replica side-wheeler. It cruises almost every day, from April to December. Going aboard this ship is something you would not want to miss during your trip to Smith Mountain Lake.
If you love alpacas, or you are traveling with children who love these animals, visit Smith Mountain Lake Alpaca Farm. Smith Mountain Lake Farm is one of the only alpaca farms in the country that offers an educational tour. An interactive, 90-minute tour with a guide will tell you everything you need to know about the science and history of alpacas. The inner child in you will love this side trip, as you may feed, hold, and hug alpacas.
If you love movies and the whole cinema experience, Westlake Cinema is the place for you. Westlake Cinema is located in Westlake Town Center. It features concessions, stadium seating, a four-plex movie theater, and Real D 3D. Westlake Cinema has four theatre screens, two of which has 128 seats, and the other two with 174 seats. This cinema is an upscale movie theatre with a state-of-the-art sound system and world-class amenities.
Harbortown Mini Golf is the destination for mini-golf lovers. This course features an 18-hole miniature golf course. The course is challenging and unique, providing fun for adults and children alike. Harbortown is located right above the boat docks. Thus, the mini-golf experience here is one of a kind — with a breathtaking view of Smith Mountain Lake.

It’s time for one last hoorah this summer so why not spend it at Smith Mountain Lake! It’s the perfect time to stay at Mariners Landing Resort and enjoy the lake, pools, tennis courts, 18-hole professional golf course, boating, biking, paddle boarding and kayaking. After a fun-filled day, grab a delicious meal and a tantalizing cocktail right on-site at Heath’s Waterfront Grill while overlooking the lake.

If you’re looking for some options for some family fun, here are 10 great ones!

1. Get Out On The Water!
Rent a boat or jet ski right from Mariner Landing or by visiting bwmarina.com to book online. They will get you out on the water in not time. Smith Mountain Lake has so many incredible views and it is a MUST to experience on the water.

2. Introduce the Kids to the Fish at Bridgewater!
No trip to SML is complete without feeding popcorn to the huge fish at Bridgewater Marina. You can throw the popcorn in or have the carp pluck it right from your fingers. Be sure to bring your camera and some money for the popcorn and explore Bridgewater Plaza.

3. Take Advantage of the Park!
Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers swimming, fishing, hiking, biking and walking trails. There are many trails throughout the park for novices to experts that you can enjoy. Bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful setting at the park.

4. Try Your Hand at Miniature Golf!
This is something all families love to enjoy…a friendly game of putt-putt and it’s only 15 minutes from Mariners Landing. Try Harbortown Mini-Golf at Bridgewater Plaza or Hot Shots Family Fun Center on 122 (near Krogers). Both courses offer a wide variety of holes that are constructed with attention to detail and designed for fun.

5. See A Movie!
We all get so busy in our everyday life that we sometimes are unable to get to a movie theater. Here’s your chance. If the weather is “iffy,” take in a first-run movie at the air conditioned Westlake Cinema, a four-plex theater with stadium seating, concession, and games at the Westlake Towne Center.

6. Sit on the Beach and Relax!
Grab your beach chair and plop it down on the beautiful beach at Mariners Landing and watch your kids swim out to the platform dock and enjoy their last days of summer.

7. Celebrate the Food!
Grab lunch or dinner at Heath’s Waterfront Grill where you can enjoy lakefront views inside or outside on their beautiful deck. Relax and enjoy one of their juicy burgers, crispy fish and chips, delectable pasta dishes, tasty steaks and many more options!

8. Learn About History!
There is so much history surrounding the lake. Be sure to visit the Visitor’s Center at the Smith Mountain Lake Dam. See how electricity is generated and try out the hands-on exhibits. Take a picnic lunch and sit by the overlook and enjoy the view. You can also spend a day on the farm when you visit the birthplace of Booker T. Washington on the Burroughs Tobacco Farm on Route 122, or drive to Bedford and visit the National D-Day Memorial.

9. Take a Sight Seeing Cruise!
If you don’t want to rent a boat, let the Virginia Dare do the driving for you. A sightseeing cruise on a 19th century replica side-wheeler is a unique family experience. Travel aboard the Virginia Dare and see what makes Smith Mountain Lake such a desirable vacation destination.

10. LABOR DAY FEST IN DOWNTOWN MONETA!
On Saturday, September 1st, you can celebrate the Labor Day holiday in Downtown Moneta with food, an adult beverage garden, kid’s activities and live music by Seven Mile Ford. The music will be from 5:30-10:00 p.m. Proceeds from the gate admission benefit Moneta Volunteer Fire Department.

So book your condo or house today with Mariners Landing Hospitality whether it’s just you or 14 of you! There are accommodations to meet all of your needs, just call 540-297-4900 today.

If you’re planning on taking your dog with you on your Smith Mountain Lake vacation, make sure to read through the following tips to make sure you and your furry friend have a safe and enjoyable visit.

1. Don’t Assume That Your Dog Loves The Water.  It seems natural for dogs to know how to swim, but not all dog breeds are built for water activities. While some breeds are known for being one with the water, like Labrador Retrievers, dogs with flat faces and shorter legs (English Bulldogs and Pugs) are not known for their swimming prowess. Introduce your dog to the water slowly, and if he or she seems to struggle, then keep them ashore.

2. Buy a Doggie Life Vest. Even if your dog is an expert swimmer, put him or her in a doggie life vest just to be safe.

3. Take Lots of Breaks. Swimming works every muscle in your pet’s body. Make sure they get a break and enjoy some chill time in the shade so that they don’t get overheated or injured.

4. Don’t Drink The Water. Freshwater has algae and parasites, and pool water is full of chlorine. Bring a bowl and plenty of bottled water with you so that your pet can stay safely hydrated.

5. Check for Ticks. Even if you give your pet flea and tick treatment, be diligent about checking and removing ticks from their coats in between water sessions. When left untreated, your pet could become infected with a parasitic infection such as Lyme Disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

6. Use a Leash. Never let your dog roam unfamiliar area unattended, even if it’s fenced in. Remember, your pet is in a new environment with new sounds, smells, and shiny things to chase after. Having them on a leash will keep them out of harm’s way.
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Familiarize yourself with Smith Mountain Lake veterinarians just in case your dog needs medical attention. Remember to pack all medication that your pet is taking and store it properly. Bring plenty of their favorite treats, and a familiar blanket or dog bed from home to ease the transition of being in a new place. Following these simple rules will ensure that you and your dog have a memorable Smith Mountain Lake vacation!

Even though summer is quickly drawing to a close, there’s still time to book one last getaway before the leaves usher in the fall season. And if you haven’t discovered what locals have affectionately dubbed “The Jewel of the Blue Ridge,” then perhaps you should set your sights on Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia.
 
Whether you’re planning a couple’s getaway, a girl’s weekend, a Labor Day vacation, or a fishing or golf retreat, then check out available listings at http://www.smlvaca.com where you’ll find the absolute best vacation rentals that Smith Mountain Lake has to offer. Browse available rentals, learn more about events happening in the area (including the much anticipated Antique Boat Show September 15th), and book your vacation directly from your desktop, laptop, or mobile device. At Mariners Landing, you can enjoy the many amenities including private beach, outdoor pools, indoor heated pool, hot tub, tennis, golf, walking & biking trail, high-speed Internet, and dog-friendly rental units.
 
Smith Mountain Lake knows how to celebrate summer. From sailing to wake boarding to backyard barbecues by the dock, families big and small love splashing under the Smith Mountain Lake sun while taking in breathtaking mountain views. And with prices comparable (and oftentimes well below) what you’d pay at a crowded, cliché beach resort, you could have a beautiful condo or house at Smith Mountain Lake with a host of amenities.
 
So what are you waiting for? Give the summer season the proper send-off by booking your Smith Mountain Lake getaway on smlvaca.com!
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There is a wealth of opportunities to witness glorious sunsets at Smith Mountain Lake. When the sky gets painted in gradually deepening hues of orange, pink, and purple, it’s a natural phenomenon you wouldn’t want to miss. Here are some suggestions on how to best enjoy Smith Mountain Lake’s most beautiful show.
 
Go on a night cruise. Whether you’re aboard the historic Virginia Dare, chartered a boat, or you’re on your own craft, going on a night cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy the sunset. It’s awfully romantic too, making a perfect setting for a date. Whether you’re alone or with a significant other, cruising at night allows you to watch the last of the sun’s rays glisten across the lake as it rests behind the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a wonderful way to cap off an amazing day at Smith Mountain Lake.
 
Watch it from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Labeled as one of the country’s most scenic drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway is definitely a place to be to enjoy the sunset. You can take a drive to the parkway and just stop on the side of the road or hike up either one of the parkway’s peaks (Sharp Top, Harkening Hill, and Flat Top) for a more majestic, bird’s eye view. You can do this by yourself or with your favorite group of friends. For an even more relaxing time, bring a cooler loaded with your favorite drinks. Amazing views, great friends, and your favorite cold drink – it’s the perfect combination. Life is good.
 
Take part in Hickory Hill’s Sunset Saturdays. Hickory Hill Vineyards is one of the best places to get your wine fix. Located in Moneta, just 10 minutes from Mariners Landing Resort, the vineyard hosts their aptly-named Sunset Saturdays. Enjoy the splendor of the setting sun in the vineyard with your favorite bottle of wine and fare as different artists fill the air with good music. For more information on this event, log on to http://www.smlwine.com/calendar/sunset-saturdays.

For many, the promise of an incredibly fun vacation is the light at the end of a 9-to-5 workday tunnel.  Deciding on the location, picking the dates, and finalizing accommodations soon become all night research projects likened to senior year thesis preparations. Exhausted and embattled, you may decide to book that generic beach vacation just for the sake of sleep. But before you do, check out this list of FIVE REASONS TO VACATION AT SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE and you may just discover your new favorite vacation destination.
 
1.     Smith Mountain Lake is Absolutely Gorgeous. If you’re craving a landscape that’s different from your typical beachfront resort, then you will fall in love with Smith Mountain Lake’s postcard worthy setting. Crisp waters nestled against the Blue Ridge Mountains give way to incredible sunrises, sunsets, and photo opportunities sure to make your Instagram feed insanely jealous.
 
2.     It’s Not Crowded. Located in rural southwestern Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake caters to those who prefer a casual, laid-back atmosphere over tourist traps and high-dollar seafood buffets. You’ll seldom wait in line for a table, or have to fight for a spot at the bar.
 
3.     Everyone is Incredibly Nice. Maybe it’s the relaxed pace of life, southern hospitality, or being surrounded by sparkling waters and mountaintops, but Smith Mountain Lake residents are about the nicest people you’ll ever meet. And they love sharing how special the area is to anyone who asks. From the shop owners to the restaurateurs, to the girl ringing up your groceries, Smith Mountain Lake welcomes you home every time you say hello.
 
4.     It’s Affordable. Smith Mountain Lake is home to quite a few attractions that are free to visit.  Smith Mountain Lake State Park has a public beach, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and boat rentals. There’s also the Smith Mountain Lake Community Park that has two public beaches, walking trails, playgrounds, and covered docks. Historical landmarks, including the Booker T. Washington National Monument and the National D-Day Memorial, are open for visitors with living history demonstrations, exhibits, and scheduled events.
 
5.     Once You’ve Stayed at Mariners Landing Resort, You’ll Come For a Visit and Stay for a Lifetime. If your family is like mine, the kids are always looking for things to do while the adults just want to relax. Mariners is the perfect place for both. The kids can play tennis, ride their bikes on the bike trail, try their luck at fishing from the fishing pier, or swim the whole day in one of the three pools while the adults enjoy the view of the lake from their private balcony, take a stroll on the walking trail, or hang by the pool or by the beach all day. Browse available Smith Mountain Lake rental properties by going to http://www.smlvaca.com. You can choose how many rooms you need and see photos and descriptions of each property. You can book directly on the site from your desktop, laptop, or mobile device and you can request dog-friendly rentals so you don’t have to leave your furry guy at home.
 
If you’re ready for a vacation that’s different from the same boring beach alternative, then head over to smlvaca.com and start planning your summertime getaway.