At Smith Mountain Lake, you'll find wonderful places and people. Our area's great natural beauty--from the waters and woods to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia--is the perfect destination for your very own style of fun, whether you seek days full of activities or just plain relaxing.

Vacationers come from all over to fish, enjoy the water sports and play on the 500 miles of shoreline. They usually end up discovering many unexpected delights. Friendly people and genuine hospitality make everyone feel welcome and there's always something new to do. World-class golf, historical sites, unique shopping opportunities from antiques to art galleries, Smith Mountain Lake State Park, fantastic dining and entertainment options, and simply sitting back and enjoying the glorious scenery make everyday complete. Sound too good to be true? Just wait until you see our beautiful sunsets.

How about an afternoon of wine tasting?  Enjoy overnight accommodations at Smith Mountain Lakes Premier Vacation Homes & Rentals plus tours of five of the Smith Mountain Lake region’s most popular wineries.  Hickory Hill, Peaks of Otter, Savoy-Lee, Leo Grande, and White Rock Wineries are open seasonally and by appointment for self-guided or group tours.  If you are interested in a self-guided tour, please make sure you call in advance to ensure availability.  For group tours hosted by Mariners Landing, please make sure you schedule your tour in advance with the front desk before check in or at least two hours in advance upon arrival.  More information on the Bedford Wine Trail may be found at www.bedfordwinetrail.com.

Maybe a tour through the Scenic Peaks of Otter along the Blue Ridge Parkway? Their winery and orchard are a perfect complement to the breathtaking mountain views. Also along the Parkway is Explore Park, a 1,300-acre tribute to frontier life in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

A shopping adventure to Bridgewater Plaza is always a delight. The quaint shops and restaurants offer unique Lake goods and services. For the power shopper, trek to Roanoke's Valley View Mall or Lynchburg's River Ridge Mall. Both are within 45 minutes. While in the Lynchburg area, consider visiting Thomas Jefferson's summer home and architectural gem, Poplar Forest. In Roanoke, spend time with art, history, theatre, and science at Center in the Square or romp with tigers, snakes, prairie dogs, and more at the Mill Mountain Zoo.

But you don't necessarily have to travel far for fun and excitement. Smith Mountain Lake has dozens of seasonal festivals and events for all ages! Wakeboarding Tournaments, The Poker Run, July 4th Fireworks, Home Tour, Wine Festival, Fall Festival, Chili Cook-Off, Business Expo...the list is endless.

Be forewarned though....once you visit, you may not want to leave. In fact, our little community of 18,000 has grown in large part to the many vacationers who have decided to relocate permanently. The weather, our central location and a small town atmosphere make Smith Mountain Lake an excellent place to raise a family, start a business, or retire.

- Bedford County
www.co.bedford.va.us

- Franklin County
www.franklincountyva.org

Smith Mountain Lake Eagle ( local news)
www.smithmountaineagle.com

AEP Shoreline Management
www.smithmtn.com