Top of the World

This romantic drive loops through Virginia wine country and ends at a premier sunset spot.

Route: Take Interstate 66 west to Route 29 (Lee Highway) south to Warrenton. Take Route 211 west and go left on Route 229, right on Monumental Mills Road at Rixeyville, left on Homeland Road and right on Eggbornsville Road (Route 729; turns into Richmond Road), which leads back to 211. Continue north onto Ben Venue Road, then turn right on Route 522 and left on Fodderstock Road into Washington. Then take Route 211 southwest into Shenandoah National Park and head north up Skyline Drive. At Front Royal, take Route 55 east back to I-66.

Highlights:

Mom's Apple Pie Bakery is an old Italianate gas station whose ceiling is lined with shiny pie tins. Grab a chocolate croissant and coffee, then wander through the Old Jail Museum grounds or stroll the town's quaint, brick-lined walks. 22 Waterloo St., Warrenton, 540-347-2075.

Just after you enter Rappahannock County on Route 211, see if you can find any of the Hazel River's three best swimming holes.

At Epicurious Cow (a.k.a. ECOW), pick up spicy olive mix, bread and wine as you head to the mountains. 13830 Lee Highway, Amissville, 540-675-2269.

In Flint Hill, check out the quaint old homes and visit Farfelu Vineyards. 13058 Crest Hill Rd., Flint Hill, 540-364-2930.

Browse the shops in Washington, then head to Antique Tables Made Daily (that name pretty much says it all) in nearby Sperryville. 12018A Lee Hwy., Sperryville, 800-413-2459.

Small and private, Browntown Valley Overlook is one of the best sunset spots in the Shenandoah Mountains. Skyline Drive near mile marker 15, Shenandoah National Park, 540-999-3500.

MAP: Mary Kate Cannistra - The Washington Post