Unwinding at Lakewood: A Beverage Trail Day from Your Lakefront Retreat

A Day of Sips and Scenery

Start your morning at Lakewood with a coffee al fresco on the screened deck, then ease into a laid‑back tasting tour of Lake Anna’s local beverage scene. Everything is within a short drive, and each stop offers a distinct slice of Virginia’s countryside charm.

First Stop: Lake Anna Winery

Just a 15–20‑minute drive from Lakewood, Lake Anna Winery is a family‑run estate nestled on about 75–76 acres, producing award‑winning French varietals right on site. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating, tastings, tours, and even live music during warmer months—plus a welcoming vibe for families and well-behaved dogs.(lakeanna.com)

Looping In a Second Stop: Fifty‑Third Winery & Vineyard

A bit further out, but still within easy reach, is Fifty‑Third Winery & Vineyard. Licensed in 1999 and set among gentle rolling hills, this farm winery offers a relaxed tasting room and scenic views—especially pleasant on a slow afternoon.(lakeannalife.com)

On the Way Back: Cooling Pond & Cider Options

For a different pace, consider swinging by Cooling Pond Brewery in Mineral. This veteran- and family-owned brewery serves English-style ales on a cozy hilltop patio with rotating food trucks and a friendly, family‑oriented atmosphere.(lakeanna.com) If cider is more your thing, Coyote Hole Ciderworks is also nearby, offering hard ciders and sangrias in a laid‑back farm setting.(lakeanna.com)

Why This Tour Works for Your Group

You’re built for groups, and this tasting day mirrors that: spread across space and flavors. Start with wine, add a rustic vineyard stop, and finish with beer or cider—three stops that let you stretch your legs, enjoy a real meal between tastings, and avoid tasting fatigue (and rural roads at night).

Practical Tips from a Local Host

• Check hours ahead. These are small, seasonal operations; hours shift by season or special events.(lakeanna.com)
• Designate a driver. Rural roads, especially after a few tastings, make this a must.
• Bring cash, just in case. Most accept cards, but cash is quicker at busy times or food trucks.
• Tasting fees are common. Often modest, and sometimes waived if you buy a bottle.

Evening at Lakewood

After your tasting circuit, head back to Lakewood. Fire up the grill or gather around the fire pit. The screened deck is perfect for recounting the day’s highlights. Your private dock, paddle boards, and kayak are ready if anyone still has energy—or just wants to float under the stars.

This kind of day blends relaxation, discovery, and local flavor—just what makes Lakewood feel like more than a house: a home base for memories.