Why We Are One of the Best Boutique Hotels in Virginia for Farm-to-Table Dining
James Beard-Nominated Chef: Travis Milton’s Appalachian-inspired, locally sourced menus at Hickory restaurant
Award-Winning Estate Wines: 13-acre vineyard with Governor’s Cup medal-winning Viognier, Chardonnay, and Merlot
Complete Farm-to-Table Ecosystem: Onsite gardens, greenhouse, beehives, and local partnerships for the freshest ingredients
Luxury Yurt Glamping: Nine custom-designed yurts for a unique, upscale stay among the rolling hills and vineyards near Bristol VA.
Why Nicewonder Farms Is Your Farm-to-Table Paradise
The Inn at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards stands out as one of the best boutique hotels in Virginia by blending James Beard-nominated Appalachian cuisine, a 13-acre award-winning vineyard, luxury accommodations, and a true farm-to-table ecosystem. This creates an immersive, romantic, and uniquely local experience for foodies, couples, and travelers seeking something extraordinary.
They want more than a room; they want a story, a taste of place, and a memory to savor. At Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we’re not just following this trend; we’re leading it. Here, every meal, glass of wine, and night’s stay is a celebration of Virginia’s agricultural bounty and Appalachian heritage.
Chef Travis Milton’s Appalachian Heritage: From Castlewood Roots to James Beard Recognition
Chef Travis Milton grew up in Castlewood, Virginia, learning the art of Appalachian cooking from his family, shucking beans, canning, and preserving the flavors of the mountains. Today, as a James Beard Foundation semi-finalist and nominee, he brings those traditions to life at Hickory, our signature restaurant.
His philosophy: “Honor the ingredient, respect the tradition, and always tell the story of our people.” Dishes like Malabar spinach with grilled pork loin or purple cornbread with roasted beet salad are more than meals; they’re a journey through Appalachian foodways, reimagined for today’s food lovers.
Summary: Chef Milton’s authentic Appalachian roots and national recognition set the stage for a truly exceptional farm-to-table dining experience at Hickory.
Boutique Hotel Farm-to-Table Dining in Virginia: Your Questions Answered
For the Foodies: What Makes Your Farm-to-Table Experience Authentic?
How seasonal are your menus really?
At Hickory, “seasonal” isn’t a buzzword; it’s our way of life. Our gardens and greenhouse supply fresh produce year-round, and Chef Milton’s menu changes with what’s growing. Spring brings ramps and greens; autumn features heirloom squash and root vegetables.
Can you tell me about your local sourcing?
We partner with small-batch producers across Southwest Virginia. Our honey comes from onsite beehives, herbs from our greenhouse, and proteins from trusted local farms. We even run our own market with fresh produce and house-made jams.
For the Couples: Romantic Getaways in Virginia Wine Country
What makes Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards perfect for romantic escapes?
Romance is in the details: cozy and welcoming hotel rooms, luxury yurts nestled in the woods, a 1,200-square-foot presidential suite, sunset wine tastings, private dinners, and morning coffee overlooking the vineyard. Every moment is designed for connection.
How do you pair food and wine?
Our estate wines, Viognier, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, are crafted to complement Chef Milton’s cuisine. The Tasting Room offers guided pairings, like our “KDN” red blend with smoked duck and hickory syrup.
Summary: Whether you’re a foodie or a couple seeking romance, Nicewonder Farms delivers personalized, memorable experiences rooted in genuine hospitality and culinary excellence.
Luxury Yurts in Virginia: Beyond Traditional Hospitality
For Experience Seekers: What’s This About Yurts?
Are yurts actually luxurious?
Absolutely. Our custom-designed yurts sleep 2–6 guests and feature luxury amenities, local snacks, Nespresso, and Nicewonder wine. Wake up to a light breakfast and vineyard views: glamping, elevated.
What activities can we enjoy on the property?
Choose your adventure: archery, hatchet throwing, fishing, hiking, yoga, farm tours, or golf at The Virginian, our sister property and Tom Fazio-designed 21-hole course. Or simply relax at the spa or infinity pool.
The Complete Experience: More Than Just a Stay
Our luxury hotel resort is a destination in itself. Our spa offers treatments inspired by regional geology, the infinity pool overlooks the vineyard, and our event calendar is packed with live music, chef collaborations, and seasonal celebrations.
Comparing Virginia’s Premier Farm-to-Table Destinations
| Feature |
Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards | Other Virginia Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Chef Recognition |
James Beard semi-finalist (Chef Milton) |
Varies |
| Estate Vineyards |
13 acres, 5 varietals, Governor’s Cup medals |
Most purchase wines |
| Unique Accommodations |
9 luxury yurts + 28-room inn |
Traditional rooms only |
| Onsite Production |
Gardens, greenhouse, beehives, winery |
Limited or none |
Summary: Nicewonder offers a complete farm-to-table ecosystem: James Beard-nominated cuisine at Hickory, estate wines, and casual dining at the Tasting Room, setting us apart from other Virginia wine country destinations.
Virginia Wine Country Romantic Getaways: Creating Unforgettable Moments
Romance thrives in the unexpected: sharing wood-fired pizza while listening to live music, discovering SINGO (musical bingo), or sipping coffee as the morning mist rises over the vineyard. Our event programming ensures there’s always something special happening.
Summary: With record-breaking tourism and growing demand for authentic experiences, our boutique hotel in Virginia is perfectly positioned at the intersection of luxury, culinary excellence, and wine country charm.
Your Farm-to-Table Culinary Adventure Awaits
Ready to discover why food lovers, couples, and adventure seekers choose Nicewonder Farms for their Virginia wine country escapes? From Chef Milton’s Appalachian heritage to our working farm ecosystem, every detail tells the story of Virginia’s bounty and hospitality. Your table at Virginia’s premier farm-to-table destination is waiting.
About Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards
Located on 450 acres in Bristol, Virginia, we’re a celebration of Appalachian heritage, culinary excellence, and wine country hospitality. From our 13-acre vineyard to our innovative spa, every amenity reflects our commitment to unforgettable, authentic experiences.
Ready to plan your visit to one of the best boutique hotels in Virginia? Explore our Bristol hotel packages for details about bundling lodging, activities, dining experiences, and more!