MOUNTAIN THERAPY & REJUVENATION
If you’re looking for inner peace, inspiration, or spiritual rejuvenation, plan a trip to Highland County, Virginia.
Those who live here, visit here, and (most importantly) RECOVER here, can’t deny it – If you’re at a point in life where you feel stuck, uninspired, or just plain burnt out, a getaway to the refreshing, wide open spaces of Highland County can be invigorating, uplifting, and sometimes even life-changing.
At Blue Grass Cabin, we offer a tranquil getaway to calm down, collect yourself, cool off, take a break, kick your boots off, put your feet up, or whatever relaxation phrase is right for you. Additionally, we recommend these local activities or services to aid in your restorative, mountain therapy:
RELAX AT HEART & SOUL MASSAGE
Massage therapy is a go-to for relaxing. Licensed Massage Therapist Nicole Frye at Heart & Soul Massage in Monterey can quickly assess what your body and mind (and heart and soul!) need for repair. Therapeutic massage, deep-tissue massage, hot stone massage, and Reiki are just a few services she offers. However, one huge thing Nicole gives each and every client is her open ears, full attention, and compassion. From almost the moment you walk through the door, she can tell what you need. With her years of experience and knowledge, she will have you feeling lighter, less knotted, and refreshed when you leave.
To book an appointment, call Heart and Soul Massage at (540) 292-0568.
REJUVENATE AT EMERALD MOUNTAIN SANCTUARY
Originally from Germany, retired clinical psychologist Annette Naber now lives at her Emerald Mountain Sanctuary, a 58-acre farm home that consists of pastures, forests, and a few small ponds. Given her professional history, desire to empower women, and passion for helping others, Annette along with her husband, Dan, have opened their little slice of Highland heaven to guests as a retreat and small conference center. Together, the couple offers workshops in self-care, stress management, life simplification, forest bathing, nature walks, journaling for self-therapy, backyard foraging, individual and group coaching sessions, and Yoga classes.
If you’re feeling lost with no direction, Annette is an absolute treasure that will provide valuable insight to experiences and methodology that could help you gain significant clarity.
For more info on her services, visit the Emerald Mountain Sanctuary website!
HOT TIP: For the motorcycle enthusiasts out there, Annette’s husband, Dan, also owns and operates Allegheny Motorcycle Tours, which offers guided rides throughout Highland County and surrounding areas! He is in the process of building a motorcycle campground, which should be open to the public in spring of 2021.
STROLL ON THE MONTEREY WALKING TRAIL
Many come to Highland County for outdoor recreation. While there are several hiking trails in the area, most options are remote and out of cell service range. For those who just want a quick, relaxing stroll, check out the Monterey Walking Trail, which loops through the charming town and past our LOVEworks sign. (Park at the Highland Pool Complex to start walking. The entrance to the complex can be found off Route 220 heading south out of Monterey.) The trail is equal parts nature, community, and quiet neighborhood and offers an approximate mile to mile-and-a-half trail.
When your walk is through, step through the rest of the town. Shop through thrift stores and flower and gift shops. Stop by the Walk of Honor and pay respect to Highland County’s veterans, and take in the view of our historic courthouse. (History Factoid: The current courthouse building is the second structure, which was rebuilt after a fire JUMPED THE STREET(!!!) from a two-story store formally-situated on the current Summit Community Bank lot.)
EXPLORE THE SELF-GUIDED BARN QUILT TOUR
Imagine… Cruising along the back roads of Highland County with a kind-of treasure map. What are you in search of? Colorful, locally-created barn quilts. Like bright blooms popping from a green garden, these delightful pieces of artwork are creatively-scattered throughout the countryside for travelers to enjoy on the first and largest barn quilt tour in Virginia (to our knowledge).
How to find them? Stop by the Highland Visitor Center at The Highland Center on Spruce Street in Monterey or download the online brochure to find these vibrant treasures throughout the county.
Not only can you enjoy local artwork, but you can also experience Highland County’s scenic back roads and spectacular views while doing it!
FIND PEACE ON HIGHLAND HIKING TRAILS
Experiencing nature up-close and personal is a sure-fire way to rejuvenate the senses and find calm. Highland County offers hiking trails that are serene, educational, and feature views to relax and inspire inner peace.
Learn about the Battle of McDowell on the McDowell Battlefield hiking trail. Explore wildlife, trees, rivers, and fishing in the Laurel Fork Wilderness Area. Take in expansive views from overlooks and a restored firetower in the Highland Wildlife Management Area.
Bring a friend, or enjoy a solo expedition. If you’re hiking alone, we encourage you to tell someone where you’re going, when you’ll leave, and when you’ll return. Also consider practicing our other hiking tips to ensure safety during your adventure.
Blue Grass Cabin 