Southwest of Charlottesville, Nelson County is framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains and known for its mix of outdoor adventure, rural beauty, and vibrant local culture. The Route 151 corridor is a major draw, home to the “Brew Ridge Trail” of breweries, cideries, and wineries that attract visitors year-round.
At the heart of the county, Nellysford serves as a central hub with restaurants, shops, and access to the Stoney Creek community, part of the larger Wintergreen Resort. Wintergreen itself offers four-season recreation, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to golf, hiking, and festivals in the warmer months.
Outdoor lovers flock to Crabtree Falls, one of the tallest cascades east of the Mississippi, and popular hikes like Humpback Rocks, which reward visitors with sweeping Blue Ridge views. Housing in Nelson ranges from mountain chalets and resort condominiums to country estates and farmland, providing options for both full-time residents and vacation homeowners.
With its combination of mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and a thriving craft beverage scene, Nelson County captures the spirit of Central Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Resort Living: Wintergreen Resort serves as a hub of Nelson County. This four-seasons resort features skiing, golf, hiking, and a variety of other outdoors activities... all situated in a spectacular setting.
Where Outdoor Calls: Nelson County is made for exploring, with miles of hiking trails, winding rivers, and mountain landscapes that invite you outside in every season.
Starry Nights at Veritas
This signature summer concert series at Veritas Vineyards pairs live music, local food, and Virginia wine under the stars in Nelson County.
Blue Ridge Pig
The Blue Ridge Pig in Nelson is a beloved roadside spot known for its hickory-smoked barbecue and laid-back, small-town charm.
Blue Mountain Brewery
Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge, this brewery is a local favorite for craft beer and casual dining.
Good barbecue isn't hard to find, but the real deal, Holy Grail of barbecue? That's found in Nelson.
14,777 people live in Nelson County, where the median age is 51.3 and the average individual income is $45,251. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Nelson County, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Apple Shed, Orchard House Bed and Breakfast, and Indian Oven.
Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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Dining · $ | 4.15 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 1.56 miles | 31 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
Dining | 1.09 miles | 24 reviews | 4.7/5 stars | |
Dining · $$ | 1.35 miles | 49 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
Dining | 3.13 miles | 18 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
Dining · $ | 2.48 miles | 45 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
Dining | 2.06 miles | 13 reviews | 4.2/5 stars | |
Active | 0.6 miles | 2 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Nelson County has 6,470 households, with an average household size of 2.27. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Nelson County do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 14,777 people call Nelson County home. The population density is 31.39 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
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