Virginia's Northern Neck: Land of Pleasant Living

Virginia's Northern Neck, the northernmost ofhouse was destroyed by a fire during the
three peninsulas extending into Chesapeake Bay,American Revolution, and a memorial house was
is located between two rivers. To the north runsconstructed in the 1930s on the now 550 acre
the peaceful Potomac river, with the historicnational park. Here, costumed interpreters
Rappahannock running along the southern borderrecreate 18th century life on the plantation.
and spilling into the Chesapeake Bay. For peopleStratford Hall Plantation, Robert E. Lee's birthplace,
looking to get away from big city life, Virginia'sis managed to this day as a working farm and
Northern Neck provides a sanctuary of tranquility.includes a functioning mill. These two historic
There is less than one person living in thevenues are among the 16 museums on the
Northern Neck for every 10 acres of land, withpeninsula open to the public for tours.
only a dozen traffic lights on the entire peninsula.Recreational Attractions
For these reasons, many people find NorthernThe Northern Neck is prized for its vast array of
Neck real estate, with an abundance ofoutdoor activities. With hundreds of rivers,
waterfront homes for sale, extremely enticing.streams, creeks, coves, and saltwater marshes,
Commonly known as "the land of pleasant living",water plays a vital role in these activities. Boaters,
the stunning area has rich history, many naturaland recreational and competitive fishermen come
attractions, as well as an abundance ofto the Northern Neck to experience the 1,100
recreational activities including boating, fishing,miles of shoreline.
horseback riding, golf, and is a highly prized areaWith 21 Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail sites, the
for bird-watchers.Northern Neck is also a prime location for birding.
Virginia's Northern Neck is considered by many to6,500 preserved acres provide an unspoiled
be one of the most peaceful places in the area,habitat for over 250 distinct species of birds.
due to its historic villages, rural charm, andDepending on the season, you can see a plethora
timeless appeal. George Washington, who wasof songbirds, waterfowl, wading birds, as well as a
born and lived in the Northern Neck, once called itvariety of magnificent butterflies. Also, Celadon
the "Garden of Virginia."Natural Area, spanning 2,500 acres along the
The History of the Northern NeckPotomac River, boasts one of the largest
Virginia's Northern Neck was discovered by Johnconcentrations of the American Bald Eagle on the
Smith, who described it as "a place heaven andEast Coast.
earth agreed better to frame man's habitation." ItGolfers can choose between the celebrated
was the birthplace of United States presidentsGolden Eagle Golf Club and the player-friendly
George Washington, James Madison, JamesQuinton Oaks Golf Course, and end with a meal
Monroe, and U.S. Civil War General Robert E. Lee.at either of their clubhouses.
Prior to European colonization, Native AmericansBikers can enjoy one of four Biking Heritage
had inhabited the Northern Neck for at leastTours of the Northern Neck, while hikers can
10,000 years. Native American villages thrived onpartake in an eco-tour of the 733-acre Belle Isle
the peninsula's extensive river and streamState Park or the 6,000-acre Rappahannock River
network. Rivers such as the Wicomico, Coan, andValley National Wildlife Refuge.
Nomini are named for the tribes who settled uponIf you are fed up with big city traffic, noise, and
their shores.over development, then it is easy to see why
The peninsula is home to an exorbitant amount ofVirginia's Northern Neck is an ideal place to get
historical sites, such as Popes Creek Plantation-back to roots, breath in the fresh, clean air, and
the birthplace of the first President of the Unitedlet it all roll off your shoulders.
States, George Washington. Washington's actual