Trail News

A Perfect Day to Paddle in Warsaw!

May 31, 2022

Tired of driving in the city and need to stretch your legs? Want to enjoy nature, shopping, and dining all in one place? Warsaw in the Northern Neck has it all, and we’re excited to share a sample of what the perfect day could look like. 

 

Before Your Trip

Book a kayak rental with Rappahannock Outdoor Adventures ahead of time, using their convenient online booking system. A partnership between the Town of Warsaw and Menokin (a National Historic Landmark), ROA is a kayak rental service based on Main Street. ROA provides shuttle service to and from the water, so you can park in town and they’ll take care of the rest. We recommend a morning rental, so you have the rest of the day for other activities.  

 

Morning

Stop by Chesapeake Doughnut Company for breakfast.

This locally owned and operated business shares a parking lot with Rappahannock Outdoor Adventures. They offer delicious doughnuts in addition to breakfast sandwiches and coffee. Enjoy breakfast inside their spacious storefront or outside at the picnic tables and benches. 

chesapeake doughnut co

donuts

Go across Main Street to Northern Neck Popcorn Bag to pick up flavorful popcorn treats for the paddle (open 11-6).

Then, check in at Rappahannock Outdoor Adventures for your kayak rental! ROA is hosted in the downstairs of the Northern Neck Regional Visitors Center, which offers tourism information from around the region and the Commonwealth. ROA staff will check you in, then help you get situated in the shuttle before departure. kayakers

 

   Currently, one of the local waterways you can explore through ROA is Cat Point Creek. overlookThis calm, tidal tributary of the Rappahannock River runs in between historic Menokin and the Rappahannock River Valley Wildlife Refuge. You can expect to see otters, seasonal plant life, and the occasional bald eagle. Whether you are an experienced paddler or still new, this winding waterway has something for everyone. 

 


single kayakerRentals last two hours, and when you’re done the ROA staff will pick you up to return to Main Street in Warsaw. Although ROA rentals are unguided, this season there will be guided morning and evening paddles on specific dates. Registration for these special guided paddles is
available on the Menokin website

 

Depending on how much time you want to spend outside, you can also arrange for a guided tour of Menokin.The ROA shuttle will pick you up at a later time so you can explore the Menokin Visitors Center and landscape to learn about the history of the site.tour

trail

Afternoon

Once you arrive back on Main Street and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, we recommend walking along the newly paved brick sidewalks and visiting the shops. Willow Stitch offers custom embroidered accessories and apparel. Burkes Fine Jewelers has stunning jewelry with a coastal flair. And, for your little ones, check out i Spy Boutique and Consignment. Main Street adds new businesses each year, as the Town continues to grow and thrive. 

 

Evening

A trip to Warsaw isn’t complete without a meal at Relish Restaurant and Wine Barrelish restaurant wine barThis Warsaw establishment is rooted in the culture and cuisine of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Depending on the day and season, their menu will change to incorporate only the freshest ingredients. Their wine selection perfectly complements the menu– and don’t forget dessert! 

Warsaw is the “Heart of the Northern Neck” not just for its geographic location, but also how it represents the best of what this region has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you here soon!