For lovers of history, Virginia is an exciting destination filled with museums, battlefields, historic architecture and the homes of eight United States presidents. Montpelier, the magnificent home of President James Madison, is a must-see attraction.

Situated just outside the historic village of Orange in the Virginia countryside, Montpelier offers a huge variety of exciting activities, as well as interesting tours and even wine tasting. The latest offering from this historic site are the Montpelier Excursion Packages. These special packages include lodging at a romantic country inn, days filled with fun activities and dinners at local gourmet restaurants.

There are several different excursions to enjoy. The Heart of Montpelier is ideal for those who wish to spend a long weekend soaking up some history. This three-day, two-night package includes a comprehensive tour of the mansion, as well as a visit to an archaeological dig in an area known as the “North Kitchen.” The second day includes a tour of the extensive grounds and Landmark Forest of Montpelier. Each night includes a gourmet dinner at a local restaurant as well as lodging at a nearby country inn.

Other three-day, two-night excursions include the Montpelier Wine Weekend and the History Weekday or History Weekend adventures. Each of these packages includes lodging at a local inn and dining. The History Weekday and History Weekend packages also include a two-day admission pass to Montpelier, a gift bag and museum shop discount. The Montpelier Wine Weekend is a showcase of Virginia wine country and offers tastings at a half-dozen local wineries, as well as a tour of Montpelier.

For those with a bit more time, the unique Dig in Style package might be just the ticket. This six-day, five-night package includes lodging and meals, as well as a special dinner with Montpelier’s Director of Archaeology. During the day, guests actually get to participate in archaeological digs currently in action at Montpelier. There is no end to the treasures you might uncover.

Among the inns and bed and breakfasts participating in the Montpelier Excursions is the romantic Holladay House Bed & Breakfast. This historic gem dates back to the Madison era and is located just five minutes away from Montpelier in the village of Orange. The Holladay House contains some similar architectural features at Montpelier, such as their front doors.

The Holladay House offers a variety of inviting and romantic guest rooms, one of which has been recently remodeled and named in honor of James Madison great-nephew, John Madison Chapman, who owned the house and was a prominent local citizen. (Chapman also planted the rare English Oak in the backyard, which came from a seedling from Montpelier plantation.) This room features a cherry, four-poster bed and a fireplace with the original historic mantel. Other guest rooms and suites are equally charming; some even include double whirlpool tubs.

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