Lake Gaston covers over 20,000 acres and offers 350 miles of shoreline. If you ask us, that’s a pretty big playground. All you have to do is decide how you want to play. If you want to kick back and relax, rent a pontoon boat or paddleboard and explore the lakes private inlets. If you are up for a challenge, drop a line for some epic fishing. If you’re looking for something a little more adrenaline-filled, try water skiing, wakeboarding or kayaking. This is your adventure. Go have some fun.

Rosemont Winery is not too far from Lake Gaston. By not too far we mean literally minutes. So, dry off and head on over. This 450-acre estate has been in the Rose family for over 160 years with the home itself dating back to the early 1700s. The vineyard was started in 2003 when 32,000 grape vines across 22 acres. The Winery offers a wide selection of vintages from bold Reds with lingering fruit finishes to an extra sparkling white with bright acidity. Step into the tasting room to find your favorite blend or take the full tour. All wines are grown, produced and bottled on the estate. Have a glass or three and unwind before an amazing dinner.

313 Franklin Cocktails & Kitchen is South Hill's trendiest bar and restaurant. Housed in an old elementary school, the vibe is retro cafeteria turned craft kitchen. Grab a signature drink at the bar prepared by our resident mixologist as you wait for your table. The menu reads like a report card, and all the dishes are riffs on cafeteria culture. But the cafeteria connection ends there. The menu is filled with selections prepared simply and well. Enjoy braised pork chops. Order up sautéed shrimp in a light sauce. All meals are based upon locally sourced meats, vegetables and, in some cases, paired with local wines. When it comes to a great meal at the end of a wonderful day, we give this place an A+.

Ease into the morning with fresh-brewed, coffee prepared by hand. Bringleton’s Coffee House menu includes all your favorites from easy-going drip coffees to rocket-charged espressos to calm-me-down herbal teas. Order up some homemade toast topped with local jams or butter. There’s even that pastry in the display case you know you want but know you shouldn’t get. We say live dangerously and burn those extra calories off on a nice hike.

The Tobacco Heritage Trail is surrounded by unspoiled woods, tobacco farms and weaves through homey little towns like South Hill. Simply park in Market Square in Downtown to begin your morning of shopping and pursuing the past. Visit the local Farmer’s Market for handmade crafts, local honey, baked goods and seasonal produce.

Head over to Luca’s Italian Restaurant for lunch. Lost appetites are found here. This little restaurant is located right in the lovely town of South Hill. There you can build your own pasta perfection. Then sigh as you bite into pure awesomeness. Save room for second helpings!

Southern Virginia Makers Market is not your usual shop. You won’t find a lot of mass-produced items here. What you will find is a lot of one-of-a-kind products from over 100 small farmers and food artisans from across Southern Virginia. Save yourself the meal prep routine, and browse ready-made selections. Sample some locally crafted goat cheese. Stock up on locally-sourced meats and veggies. It’s a great way to support local farmers, learn about sustainability, and leave inspired.

Ready for dinner? Kahill’s Restaurant has perfected the culinary art of Pub Grub. Grab ample amounts of napkins and prepare your stomach for some mouth-watering goodness. You can order up every day favorites like barbecue ribs or a massive angus burger. Or you can be adventurous and try the open-faced brisket with sunny side eggs. Oh, and save room for some mega bite milky way cake. This place is why diet is a four-letter word. What are you waiting for? As the locals say, “Get in here!”