Recently our friend and hiking guide Melanie took us to Cedar Run in Shenandoah National Park. From the parking area, the hike was a little over 2 miles, uphill. It was a muggy 90-degree day, and when we got to the first of several “swimmin’ holes”, we hastily slid down smooth rocks into a 60-degree pool of water. It was truly breathtaking! We then swam in another deeper pool formed by huge rocks and a beautiful waterfall, before enjoying a picnic by the stream. On our way back to the Inn, we stopped at DuCard Vineyards and cooled off some more with a glass (or two) of their most excellent Viognier. What a great way to spend a hot summer day! If you’re visiting Charlottesville this summer and want to be cool, stay with us at the Inn at Monticello, take a hike with Melanie, and taste wines at DuCard or one of the other 30+ wineries in our area.