Travel
Boozing and Cruising Virginia’s Route 151

Nelson County has some of the most picture-perfect views of the Blue Ridge mountains in all of Virginia. Situated both in the mountains and in Rockfish Valley below, Nelson is the perfect backdrop for craft breweries, hard cideries, wineries, and distilleries. In fact, in the past decade these establishments have all popped up in the area and formed a craft beverage trail known as Nelson 151. (I mean, who wouldn’t want to sit in the shade with a drink in their hand, soaking up mountain views?) Nelson 151 is a perfect day trip from Charlottesville or even Richmond. Grab your sober driver, buckle up, and let’s hit the road! We’re going to booze and cruise in this guide to Virginia’s Nelson 151.
Cideries
Y’all know that I’m super into hard cider, right? I have definitely mentioned it before on this site and the odds are I will mention it again. Hard cider is my go-to alcoholic beverage. For that reason, I will lead this post with a summary of Route 151’s two cideries.
Bold Rock Hard Cidery
1020 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford VA
Bold Rock is most definitely the king of hard cider in Virginia – if not the mid-Atlantic. Their ciders, which are sold in nine states, feature both signature flavors and seasonal varieties. Bold Rock has also recently broken into the hard seltzer industry with two low-calorie flavors. Last but not least, if you visit the Nellysford location on 151, you can try exclusive flavors available only at their Barrel Barn tasting room.
Bold Rock Must Tries:
Signature Series – Pear Cider, IPA, & Rosé
Seasonal Flavors – Ginger Turmeric, Peach, and Blackberry
Barrel Barn Exclusives – Barrel 78° (cider with a post-ferment addition of apple brandy!!)
Hard Seltzers – Cucumber Melon
Beyond the tasty drinks, Bold Rock is located on a hill above a stream with gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge. They also have a large field where they hold events such as movie screenings, music, and more.
Blue Toad Hard Cidery
462 Winery Lane, Roseland VA
Blue Toad is a hard cidery that was founded by three childhood best friends and is based in both Virginia and New York state. Blue Toad has three flagship ciders and a handful of seasonal flavors. Their ciders can be found in local groceries in both of their home states. I love fruity flavor pairings and was blown away by Blue Toad’s blueberry cider.
Blue Toad Must Tries:
Flagship Flavors: Black Cherry & Blue Ridge Blonde
Seasonal Flavors: Blueberry & Paddy Green
Blue Toad has a very charming and quaint pub-style tasting room and outdoor picnic table seating. We stayed longer than we meant to, just enjoying the fresh valley air and listening to a nearby babbling brook.
See Also : Richmond, Virginia Street Art Guide
Wineries

If hard cider is my favorite alcoholic beverage, then I would say that wine is a very close second. Luckily for me – and you! – there is no shortage of award-winning Virginia wine to be found along Nelson 151.
Veritas Vineyard & Winery
151 Veritas Lane, Afton VA
Veritas Vineyard and Winery has been at the forefront of the Virginia wine scene since 1999. Their selection of wines is comprised of a variety of award-winners. Veritas’ name is a reference to the quote “In Vino Veritas” (In Wine there is Truth) by Pliny the Elder. Honestly, the truth about Veritas is that their wine is delicious and their winery is one of the classiest places I have ever been.
Veritas Must Tries:
Petit Verdot (red), Vigonier (white), and Mousseux Sparkling (rosé).
Veritas Winery’s vineyards and grounds are incredibly picturesque. It’s no wonder that Veritas is a very popular (and pricey) wedding venue. The rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge, a lush green meadow, a gorgeous grand ballroom… Pretty much the stuff a dream wedding venue is made of! Veritas also hosts an outdoor summer concert series called “Starry Nights,” where you can bring a picnic blanket and lie underneath the stars as local musicians play.
Flying Fox Vineyard
10368 Critzer Shop Road, Afton VA
A sister winery to Veritas, Flying Fox vineyard has been producing 8 locally-sourced wines since 2006. They also recently began their own line of Vermouth. Though I have not had the pleasure of visiting Flying Fox Vineyard, I hope to do so in the future! In the meantime, their Pinot Gris & Trio (red blend) wines have both won state-wide awards, so those are definitely at the top of my to-try list.
Cardinal Point Winery
9423 Batesville Road, Afton VA
According to their website, Cardinal Point’s winemaker Tim Gorman “is one of the few Virginia-born and educated winemakers in our area.” Though the winery itself only opened in 2002, the Gorman family has been growing grapes in their vineyard since the late 1980s. Unfortunately, I have not visited Cardinal Point yet. However, my good friend Steph is a wine connoisseur and she highly recommends their Rockfish Red and the Hopped Chardonnay.
Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery
2800 Berry Hill Rd, Nellysford, VA
Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery specializes in unique fruit wines and meads. Their fruit wines consist of everything from pears and plums to blueberries and blackberries. As their name suggests, they have a very attractive hill-top location. I have not been to Hill Top since I became of-age, however I did go when I was a bit younger to pick some delicious blackberries from their PYO plot amongst the grapevines. I would love to visit their tasting room to try either their spiced lavender mead (“Lavender Metheglin”) or their “Blue Heeler” blueberry wine.
Afton Mountain Vineyards
234 Vineyard Ln, Afton VA
Owned by UVA grads who couldn’t get enough of the area, Afton Mountain holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I did my first ever wine tasting on my 21st birthday. I’ve been going back to Afton Mountain every few years since then, and I love seeing how their business has grown. My gateway wine at Afton was their rosé, but as I’ve gotten older I have also come to appreciate their full-bodied reds.
Afton Mountain Must Tries:
Rosé, Gewurtztraminer (white), & Tradition (red)
Although each of the craft alcohol campuses along Route 151 has great views, I believe that Afton Mountain Vineyards has the best views. Since they are perched on a location higher up than most, their vantage point of the surrounding Rockfish Valley is incomparable. Afton Mountain is the perfect place to bring a picnic – no matter what the weather. In the Spring and Fall, you can enjoy the cooler temps out on the hillside. In the Summer and Winter, head into the Pavilion where you’ll be either cooled down or heated accordingly.
Breweries
Blue Mountain Brewery

9519 Critzers Shop Rd, Afton VA
The first brewery to establish itself in Nelson County, Blue Mountain features a number of beers made with Cascade hops. Not only that, but their brewpub has an extensive menu with many vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Back in the day, my family used to love to visit Blue Mountain for it’s restaurant fare – their specialty pizzas are *chef’s kiss emoji.* I am not a beer drinker myself – Emmett recommends the Full Nelson Virginia Pale Ale.
Wild Wolf Brewing Company
2461 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford VA
Wild Wolf Brewery’s onsite restaurant and taproom was once a schoolhouse and now include a beirgarten & playground. Wild Wolf has six core-series beers as well as five rotating seasonal flavors. Their restaurant features farm-to-table provisions and has been voted #2 best farm-to-table in the Blue Ridge. Wild Wolf’s Area 151 Belgian-style blackberry beer is a local award-winner and comes highly recommended.
Devil’s Backbone Basecamp Brewpub & Meadows
200 Mosbys Run, Roseland VA
Inspired by European brewpubs, Devil’s Backbone features Euro-style craft beers and is one of the largest breweries in Virginia. (A caveat for local brew purists: Devil’s Backbone is now owned by Anheuser Busch). Devil’s Backbone brews 128 (!) beers and can be found in 15 states. The odds are that if you’re not not a local but you have tried a Virginia beer, it was from Devil’s Backbone.
Devil’s Backbone Must Tries:
Core Series – Vienna Lager
Throwback Series – Cattywompus & Tommy Two Fists
Specialty Series – Hibiscus Hard Lemonade
Devil’s Backbone is a pretty large establishment – remember the 128 beers? – that has a plethora of seating both indoor and outdoor. They also have an extensive menu that is one of the most vegan and vegetarian friendly on Route 151. I personally had the cauliflower steak there a few months ago and it was superb. Last but not least, Devil’s Backbone consistently hosts outdoor music onsite throughout the warmer months.
Distillery
At the moment, there is only one distillery located along Nelson 151. I have no doubt in my mind that more may pop up. In fact, Devil’s Backbone has been getting into the spirit distilling business as well. That being said, let me go ahead and talk about the award-winning Silverback Distillery.
Silverback Distillery
9374 Rockfish Valley Highway, Afton VA
I’m going to be real with you: this is the only distillery I have ever visited. Ever. I do really enjoy a craft cocktail. However, I’m really cheap so I rarely treat myself to any while out and about. Thus, on my visit to Silverback this past July, I went all out and got three cocktails in order to sample some of their signature liquor.
Silverback Must Tries:
Straight Up – Route 151 Proof Blackback Moonshine, Blackback Straight Bourbon, and Strange Monkey Gin.
Mixed Cocktails – Sex in the Jungle, Blushing Mandrill, Jungle Juice, and Peach Sour.
Silverback’s tasting room is small but welcoming – it’s really got a tiny-bar-in-the-city vibe. More than that, though, there is a big gorilla outside that you can pose with for a souvenir photograph. When you’ve had a few drinks, this is exactly what you want to do before leaving the distillery. (At least me and my crew did).
There you have it. Nelson 151 is the perfect adult’s day out in Virginia’s mountains. Have you ever been on a Craft Beverage Trail? Would you visit Nelson 151?
Travel
6 Best Movies for Travel Lovers

If you love travel, you know the feeling. The itch to pack a bag. The curiosity about people who live differently. The quiet thrill of landing somewhere new and not knowing exactly what the day will bring.
Movies can’t replace the real thing. But they can come close. A good travel film lets you see the world through someone else’s eyes. It reminds you why you fell in love with the road in the first place.
Here are six of the best movies for travel lovers. Each one captures a different side of adventure, from soul-searching road trips to wild, real-life journeys. And if you’re planning a movie night, you can always watch free movies at losmovies to explore these stories without leaving home.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Directed by and starring Ben Stiller, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a dream for anyone who feels stuck in routine. Walter works a quiet office job at Life magazine. He spends most of his time daydreaming about bold adventures. Then one day, he has to step out of his comfort zone and travel across the world to find a missing photograph.
The movie takes you from New York to Greenland, Iceland, and the Himalayas. The landscapes are stunning. You see icy seas, dramatic mountains, and wide open skies that make you want to book a flight immediately.
But this film isn’t just about scenery. It’s about courage. It shows that travel often starts with a small decision to say yes. For anyone who’s ever hesitated before buying a ticket, Walter’s journey hits home.
Into the Wild (2007)
Based on a true story, Into the Wild follows Christopher McCandless, a young man who gives up his possessions and savings to travel across the United States and eventually into the Alaskan wilderness.
Directed by Sean Penn and starring Emile Hirsch, this film is raw and emotional. It shows deserts, rivers, forests, and long, empty highways. You feel the freedom of sleeping under the stars. You also feel the cost of isolation and extreme choices.
This movie is perfect for travel lovers who are drawn to the idea of simplicity. It asks hard questions about society, materialism, and what it means to live fully. It also reminds you that nature is powerful and not always forgiving.
If you’re looking for something deeper than a typical adventure film, this one will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Before Sunrise (1995)
Before Sunrise, directed by Richard Linklater, is quieter but just as powerful. The story is simple. An American man and a French woman meet on a train and decide to spend one night walking around Vienna together.
There are no big action scenes or dramatic twists. Instead, you get long conversations, city streets at night, and the magic of a place seen through fresh eyes.
Vienna feels alive in this film. Cafés, parks, trams, and cobblestone streets create a romantic backdrop. It captures something many travelers know well: the intensity of short connections on the road. Sometimes you meet someone for just a few hours, yet it feels unforgettable.
For those who travel for human connection as much as for landscapes, Before Sunrise is a must-watch.
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
The Motorcycle Diaries tells the true story of a young Ernesto Guevara, long before he became known as Che Guevara. Played by Gael García Bernal, he sets off on a motorcycle journey across South America with his friend Alberto Granado.
They travel through Argentina, Chile, Peru, and beyond. Along the way, they meet miners, farmers, and families struggling to survive. The trip slowly changes Ernesto’s worldview.
The scenery is breathtaking. From the Andes mountains to the ruins of Machu Picchu, the film offers a sweeping look at Latin America. But what makes it special is how travel becomes a teacher. The journey shapes identity. It challenges assumptions.
If you’ve ever felt that travel opened your eyes to injustice or inspired you to think differently, this movie will resonate deeply.
Eat Pray Love (2010)
Based on the memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat Pray Love stars Julia Roberts as a woman who leaves her comfortable life behind to travel through Italy, India, and Indonesia.
This film leans into the sensory pleasures of travel. In Italy, it’s all about food and joy. You see plates of pasta, busy streets, and warm conversations. In India, the focus shifts to spirituality and discipline in an ashram. In Bali, the story moves toward balance and love.
Some critics find it idealistic, but for many travel lovers, it captures a real truth. Sometimes you need to leave everything familiar to find clarity.
It’s especially appealing if you’re drawn to solo travel. The movie shows that being alone in a foreign country can be both scary and transformative. And if you’re planning a relaxing movie night before your next trip, you can watch free movies at losmovies and dive into this journey from your couch.
The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
Directed by Wes Anderson, The Darjeeling Limited follows three brothers traveling across India by train in an attempt to reconnect after their father’s death.
The film is visually distinct. Bright colors, carefully framed shots, and detailed sets make every scene feel intentional. The train itself becomes a moving world, filled with strangers, arguments, and unexpected moments.
India is shown in fragments. Bustling markets, desert landscapes, and quiet temples pass by the train windows. The story mixes humor and grief, reminding us that travel can bring unresolved emotions to the surface.
For travel lovers, this movie feels familiar. Long train rides. Awkward conversations. The strange intimacy of sharing space with people on the move. It shows that journeys are not just about destinations. They are about what happens between stops.
Why Travel Movies Matter
Travel movies do more than show beautiful places. They reflect different reasons we leave home. Some characters travel to escape. Others go to search for meaning, connection, or adventure. Sometimes they don’t even know why at first.
Watching these films can reignite your desire to explore. They can also make you appreciate the journeys you’ve already taken. Maybe you’ll remember a late-night walk in a foreign city. Or a bus ride through mountains where you felt small and alive at the same time.
If you’re not able to travel right now, movies can fill part of that gap. You can watch free movies at losmovies and step into another country, another life, another perspective for a couple of hours.
Of course, nothing replaces real travel. The smell of street food, the sound of a new language, the feel of unfamiliar air on your skin. But until your next trip, these six films can keep your wanderlust alive.
So pick one. Make some tea. Turn off your phone. Let the story take you somewhere new.
Food
Healthy Snacking Ideas That Keep You Full for Longer

Understanding Satiety
It is always best to select snacks that allow one to develop a state of fullness (satiety). Satiety is based on different variables like protein, fiber and healthy fats. These slow down the digestion and maintain a constant level of sugar in the blood. Studies indicate that high-protein snacks lower hormones like ghrelin more effectively in comparison to carb-rich ones. Amul Fresh Paneer is a high-protein food item that is easily available in the market, thanks to grocery delivery apps. One can easily come up with different healthy snacking recipes from this.
Swap Processed Snacks for Protein Power
One should always avoid inferior food items like chips or cookies. These increase the blood sugar and leave a person hungry after a short time, consume foods with high contents of nutrients. Amul Fresh Paneer can be regarded as an alternative in this. It offers fresh protein and healthy fat. With online grocery delivery app, it has become easier to get healthy food items delivered to your home. Amul paneer has approximately 18-20 grams of protein per 100 grams and some calcium to keep your bones strong. This paneer is the best snack to have when you need to keep your body going.
Quick Grilled Paneer Recipe
You can make customize your own recipe with amul fresh paneer. You can grill cubes of it with spices such as cumin, turmeric and black pepper to create a simple evening snack. Maillard reaction that happens during grilling provides a desirable texture without the use of oils. Serve it with cucumber slabs or cherry tomatoes as a source of fiber which further adds fullness. This combination can be ready in less than 10 minutes and provides the balanced proportion of macronutrients.
More Satiety-Boosting Snack Ideas
One can also add Greek yogurt and berries to their daily diet to bring together the protein and antioxidants or boiled eggs and avocado that contain healthy fats. But, if you want veg and pocket friendly snacking dishes, then paneer is the best item that you can go for in the current scenario.
To replace meat, roasted herbed chickpeas provide fiber and protein; a video tutorial by NutritionFacts.org shows the simple recipes of roasting chickpeas to achieve the best crunch and nutrition.
Conclusion
Now, it has become so easy to get all required ingredients for healthy snacking at your doorsteps. You can easily search for a “grocery delivery app near me” and place an order of Amul Fresh Paneer and all necessary ingredients effectively. It is important to be indulgent but in a cautious manner, even though protein is a must in our daily diets. Make a note of how much energy you gain when you consume each meal throughout the day. Also, try to select healthier versions of snacks such as grilled paneer or chickpeas which fill your tummy and boost your health levels significantly. This tweak will give you the right blend of health and taste.
Guides
Budget Travel Tips for Exploring Expensive Cities in the USA

Budget Travel Tips for Exploring Expensive Cities in the USA! Traveling to expensive cities in the USA might seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re on a budget. But fear not! With a little creativity and some strategic planning, you can explore iconic destinations without emptying your wallet. From bustling New York City to sunny San Francisco, there are plenty of ways to have an unforgettable experience while keeping costs down. Whether you’re dreaming of art-filled galleries or delectable food from street vendors, these budget travel tips will help you navigate expensive cities with ease. Get ready to discover how to make the most out of your adventures without breaking the bank!
Research and planning tips for saving money on accommodations
Finding affordable accommodations in pricey cities can feel daunting. However, a little research goes a long way.
Start by comparing prices on different booking websites. Often, one platform will have better deals than another. Don’t forget to check for any available discounts or promotions.
Consider staying slightly outside the city center. Neighborhoods that are just a bit further out usually offer lower rates while still giving you quick access to public transportation.
Flexible travel dates can also help you score deals. If possible, avoid traveling during peak seasons or major events when prices skyrocket.
Look into alternative lodging options like hostels or vacation rentals. These can provide unique experiences at much lower costs than traditional hotels.
Join loyalty programs offered by hotel chains and booking sites for additional savings on future stays.
Transportation hacks for getting around on a budget
Getting around expensive cities doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Start by checking public transportation options like buses and subways. Many cities offer day passes that allow unlimited rides for one low price.
Rideshare apps can also be a budget-friendly choice if you travel in groups. Splitting the fare makes it more economical, especially late at night when public transport may not be as frequent.
Consider biking or walking whenever possible. Many urban areas are bike-friendly and feature extensive paths. It’s a great way to explore hidden gems while saving money.
If you’re feeling adventurous, look into car-sharing services or even renting scooters. These options offer flexibility without the hassle of parking fees associated with traditional rentals.
Don’t forget about free shuttle services that some hotels provide to key attractions. Utilizing these can save both time and money during your travels.
Affordable food options and where to find them
When exploring expensive cities, finding affordable food options can make a big difference. Local markets are often gold mines for tasty and budget-friendly treats. Look for farmer’s markets or street vendors that showcase regional specialties.
Food trucks also offer delicious meals at lower prices than sit-down restaurants. They’re perfect for grabbing a quick bite while you roam the streets. Apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor can help pinpoint popular spots favored by locals.
Consider dining during off-peak hours to snag lunch specials or happy hour deals. Many upscale eateries offer discounted menus early in the evening.
Don’t overlook neighborhood delis and cafes; they usually have hearty portions without hefty price tags. Exploring food scenes through local recommendations will lead you to hidden gems that won’t break your budget.
Free or low-cost activities and attractions to explore
Many expensive cities offer hidden gems that won’t cost you a dime. Parks, gardens, and waterfronts provide perfect spots to unwind. Think of places like Central Park in New York or Millennium Park in Chicago.
Museums often have free admission days or discounted rates at specific times. Research ahead for local art galleries or cultural institutions with no entry fees on certain days.
Walking tours can be both educational and budget-friendly. Many cities have guided walking tours based on tips, allowing you to explore while supporting local guides.
Festivals are another great way to experience the culture without spending much. Check local calendars for free events where you can enjoy music, food, and art.
In some areas, street performances bring vibrant energy to public spaces. Grab a seat on the sidewalk and enjoy live entertainment from talented artists at no charge!
Insider tips from locals on how to save money in expensive cities
One of the best ways to save money in pricey cities is to tap into local knowledge. Residents often know hidden gems that visitors overlook. These spots typically offer better prices and unique experiences.
Ask locals for their favorite cheap eats. You might find a taco truck or diner serving delicious meals at half the cost of tourist traps. Also, check out neighborhood markets; they often have fresh produce and affordable snacks.
Public transport can be a lifesaver too. Many locals rely on buses or subways instead of rideshares, which can add up quickly. Look for day passes that allow unlimited travel within certain hours.
Don’t forget about free community events! Many cities host art walks, concerts in parks, or street fairs that are enjoyable without costing a dime. Embrace spontaneity—sometimes the best adventures come from going off the beaten path with tips from those who call it home.
Conclusion: Enjoying the best of expensive cities without breaking the bank
Exploring expensive cities in the USA doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. With some smart planning and a few insider tips, you can experience all that these vibrant destinations have to offer without overspending.
Focus on thorough research ahead of your trip. This way, you’ll uncover budget-friendly accommodations and transportation options that won’t compromise your comfort. Use local transit systems or consider walking—many major attractions are within easy reach.
When it comes to food, seek out hidden gems where locals dine rather than tourist traps. Street vendors or popular food markets often provide delicious meals at a fraction of restaurant prices.
Make the most of free activities available in many urban areas. Parks, museums with discounted entry on certain days, and community events can fill your itinerary with enjoyable experiences at little or no cost.
Don’t shy away from asking locals for their favorite budgeting hacks. They may lead you to surprising spots that aren’t found in guidebooks but offer great value.
By implementing these budget travel tips for exploring expensive cities in the USA, you’re setting yourself up for an enriching adventure filled with memories—not regrets about spending too much money along the way. Embrace every moment while keeping a close eye on your budget!






