Cape Charles Virginia « Life and Real Estate on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

Posts Tagged ‘Cape Charles Virginia’

Celebrating the Fourth of July, 2017 In Cape Charles, Virginia

Thursday, July 6th, 2017

On July 3, 1776, John Adams told his wife Abigail that when Independence Day came, it should be celebrated with ” pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports… and Illuminations.” Then, voila’, on July 4,1776, the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence and as a country, we’ve never looked back ! Now, in 2017, on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, the historic little coastal town of Cape Charles, VA celebrated America’s 241st Independence Day with the very same traditions John Adams wished for… and more ! This year, the festivities kicked off at 10am with the traditional Parade, the best ever in my book, led by the Color Guard from the US Coast Guard Station Cape Charles.

The Cape Charles Parade is always a marvelous combination of local pageantry, floats, banners, fire company trucks with air horns blasting a loud ” howdy”, antique tractors and cars, horses, kids on bikes, motorcycles, decorated golf carts, etc., from local organizations, clubs and individuals. They march enthusiastically down Bay and Mason Avenues, tossing candy, beads and even a few yellow rubber duckies to the appreciative spectators lining the streets cheering them on ! This year, however, the parade within the parade, the Golf Cart Parade, was truly amazing ! Golf cart entries were dressed to the nines, red, whites and blues galore, flags, balloons, Pom-poms, streamers, banners, signs, Uncle Sam top hats, creativity shone everywhere. Since they are street-legal in Cape Charles, many residents own electric golf carts and a little friendly competition among neighbors resulted in dozens and dozens of fantastic cart entries this year, all the better to enjoy the Parade !

After the Parade, it was on to the arts and crafts tents and food vendors out on Bay Avenue by the beach. Lots of fun stuff to see and buy. Business was brisk at the Italian Ice stand and yummy aromas wafted from the taco tent and the shrimp po boy tent, with nearby hot dog and burger venders ladling on mustard and ketchup at a fast pace too. Down at the Gazebo, Mistress of Ceremonies, perennial favorite Trina Veber, announced all the Parade winners, including best golf cart float which celebrated the now-extinct Cape Charles ferry and best Novelty entry, awarded to Reid Diggs, who drove his boat-into-a-car conversion in the Parade.

Next up on the events schedule, the “Guppie Challenge”, a fishing tourney for kids, held out on the Cape Charles Fun Pier and sponsored by New Roots. Seemed to be lots of entries, excited kids milling around the LOVE sign, waiting for parents to finish the sign ups. And right next door, the medical assistance tent in case anyone got hooked by their hook… or whatever ! Teams were registering for beach volleyball and the corn hole contest. ( If you’ve never seen Corn Hole played, it’s a pretty simple set-up, a wide tilted board with round holes cut through it, hence the name corn hole ). The object of the game is to toss little bean bags through the not-much-bigger-than-the-bean-bag holes. One of those things that sounds easy but in practice is complicated, no doubt a metaphor for life in these days. ) Out on the Gazebo, live music all day and into the evening, keeping everybody rocking and rolling through sunset and last light.

My young great-grandkids love the fireworks on the 4th of July best of all. As soon as darkness starts to fall, it’s like a road trip — but instead of “are we almost there ?”, it’s “are they going to start soon? ” Meantime, I’m still fooling with camera settings, hoping to get a few good shots of the fireworks, which seems always to be a challenge. Suddenly, the first loud booms and the crackly sizzles of lacy sparklers. Then oohs and ahhs, the squeals of sheer delight, wide young eyes staring at the sky with amazement as brilliant colors and shapes streak upwards, illuminating the darkness, then fading, softly falling back towards earth. Each seemingly more beautiful than the one before, going on and on and on, until the spectacular Grand Finale, the always perfect conclusion to a marvelous 4th, a Cape Charles 4th !!

Tags: Cape Charles Virginia, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Events in Cape Charles, Fishing, Forth of July Celebration in Cape Charles Virginia, Golf Cart Parade in Cape Charles VA, Holiday events in Cape Charles Virginia, life on Virginia's Eastern Shore
Posted in At the Beach, Crafts, Entertainment, Events In Cape Charles, Fine and Casual Dining, Golf, Just Having Fun, Our Little Towns, The Arts, Uncategorized, Virginia History | No Comments »

First Annual Live Auction At Lemon Tree Gallery And Studio

Thursday, June 22nd, 2017

Another exciting “First Of ” event in Cape Charles,VA kicked off recently with the “1st Annual Live Art Auction” hosted by the Lemon Tree Gallery and Studio in Cape Charles to benefit Experimental Film Virginia. At the door, attendees were greeted with a sparkling limoncello prosecco cocktail before moving on to the registration table (manned by Blue Heron’s own Luisa Gazzolo), then flowing into the main gallery to view the tables laid out with the myriad works on auction. Entitled the “Sail On Sale” and sponsored by GEAR ( Global Exchange Arts Roundtable, a 501 (c)3 non-profit led by Renata Sheppard, daughter of Clelia Sheppard ), the Silent Auction and the Live Auction proceeded simultaneously.

Ranada and Pink Art

Well-known names such as David Turner, Christine Harris, Anne Bois and dozens of other talented local artists donated 100% of auction proceeds from the sale of their work to GEAR. Pieces ranged from embroidered wall hangings, oil paintings, prints and carvings to exquisite blown glass, jewelry and bronze sculpture. Gift baskets, a romantic weekend getaway, etc., even an eye procedure, were donated by local businesses for this event. Item # 4, a cocktail party at Lemon Tree Gallery for 20 guests including live music, beer, wine, mixed drinks plus cheese and antipasto platters resulted in some fast paced bidding action.

Several of the donating artists present were coaxed to take the stage while their works were being sold, including Melinda Blanchard, who paints amazing pet portraits. During her item’s bidding, Rosilina, Clelia’s super-soft, super-cuddly long haired dachshund, whose portrait is featured on Melinda’s brochure, made a surprise appearance on stage to the delight of the audience. Auctioneer William Summs kept the bidding lively throughout and by the end of the evening over $5000 had been raised to support this year’s crop of experimental filmmakers. Concluding with musical entertainment by Bruce Brinkley and Scott Wade, it was definitely a delightful evening. Much fun was had by all — especially by the successful bidders!

P.S. A group of nearly 50 experimental filmmakers who will be accepted by GEAR for its 2017 program will arrive here in July and spend 2 weeks living in Cape Charles, creating unique 3-5 minute films centered on the Shore. And the public will be able to see the results when their films are premiered on July 15th at the Palace Theatre. So save the date on your calendar, it’s going to be an interesting evening.

Tags: Cape Charles Virginia, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Events in Cape Charles VA, Lemon Tree Gallery and Studio, life on Virginia's Eastern Shore
Posted in Business, Crafts, Entertainment, Events In Cape Charles | No Comments »

Spend A Vacation Week Or A Lifetime In This Delightful Beachfront Home Near Cape Charles, VA

Thursday, May 25th, 2017

Overlooking the wide blue waters of the Chesapeake Bay, this delightful Cape Cod style home is a perfect place to spend a vacation week — or indeed, a whole lifetime. Haven’t reserved the place for your summer vacation yet ? Looking to purchase a leisure or full-time home ? Located near the vibrant little historic town of #CapeCharles on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, this gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3 and a half bath home, priced at $775,000, is your unique opportunity to spend a week and discover if perhaps you’d love it for a lifetime. Sort of try and buy ! Imagine dramatic water views, golden sunshine, sandy beach, salty breezes and gentle tides — this home has perfected the relaxed feel and open style of a truly comfortable coastal home.

Located just a few minutes from the quaint historic town of Cape Charles which offers so much to do and see. From fine and casual dining to art galleries and little shops, Cape Charles is ground zero for fun and relaxation. Boaters — provide a home for your boat at one of its 2 state of the art marinas. Golfers– take a swing at the 2 gorgeous waterfront Signature courses, a Nicklaus and a Palmer, among Virginia’s top ranked courses. Joggers — take a run down to the beach and throughout this charming little town on the new community path. Whether is for a vacation week or a lifetime, this bayfront home offers the Eastern Shore’s sweet beach life. Call Blue Heron Realty at 757-678-5200 to make an appointment to see if this property would be the right leisure or full-time home for you. This is the perfect place to live the #EasternShoreSweetBeachLife!

Tags: Blue Heron Realty Co. Machipongo and Cape Charles, Cape Charles VA Homes, Cape Charles Virginia, Chesapeake Bay real estate, Eastern Shore Virginia real estate, Real Estate
Posted in At the Beach, Boating, Just Having Fun, Our Little Towns, Vacation rental homes | No Comments »

HGTV NEW EPISODE OF “BEACHFRONT BARGAIN HUNT CAPE CHARLES” WILL RE-AIR ON MAY 21st

Tuesday, May 16th, 2017

TAKE TWO !! TUNE IN !! Blue Heron Realty is pleased to report that the 2nd national showing of the new Cape Charles Chesapeake Bay episode of HGTV’s popular “Beachfront Bargain Hunt” series featuring Blue Heron’s listings and Blue Heron agent, Eva Noonan, will re- air at 1 pm on Sunday, May 21st. Although it seemed to us that the premier showtime on April 2nd might never get here, (the actual filming took place early last fall ), that wait just served to heighten the anticipation all the more ! We are really proud as this is the second Home and Garden Network “Beachfront Bargain Hunt” program to feature Cape Charles, Blue Heron Realty listings and its agent, Eva Noonan, —a trifecta for our Small Town, Big Future !

These pictures are from the first Cape Charles episode, filmed in 2013, when I tagged along with the production crew for three days to document the filming of Eva and her clients, Jim and Jodi Outland, who are now enjoying their HGTV featured home as full- time Cape Charles residents. During my tag-along, I learned a couple of interesting things about filming a show like this: The 5-6 member production crew is very hardworking. And the hours are long– location set-ups start before 9am and the wrap-up for the day isn’t usually till 7 or 8pm. So having lots and lots of coffee available is absolutely essential to TV production ! Plus doing a mid-morning pre-order for a delicious noonish to-go lunch for the crew definitely must not be forgotten. ( Like the Army, a film crew travels on its tum- tum ! )

Hopefully these photos give you a little feel for the considerable time and effort that goes into producing these popular real estate shows. We loved seeing just which leisure activities and new little nooks and crannies of the Eastern Shore the producers chose to include in this second show. Love surprises ! So tune in May 21st to discover for yourself which Eastern Shore homes Eva’s new clients considered and which very special home they fell in love with. ( If you can’t watch on May 21st, check out future schedules as HGTV will likely re-run the show a few more times. Better still, just remember to set your DVR.)

Tags: Blue Heron Realty Co., Cape Charles Virginia, Cape Charles Virginia historic home for sale, Chesapeake Bay real estate, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Fishing, HGTV Beachfront Bargain Hunt Cape Charles VA, Real Estate, Virginia historic home for sale
Posted in At the Beach, Boating, Historic Homes, Just Having Fun, Our Little Towns | No Comments »

The New Cape Charles Farmer’s Market– Fun And Delicious

Friday, September 2nd, 2016

On the Eastern Shore of Virginia this summer, Tuesday afternoons from 4 to 6:30 pm are a special time in the little coastal town of Cape Charles, Virginia — particularly for foodies and farm-to-table enthusiasts. It’s a time slot that lots of locals ( and visitors too ) have set aside for a visit to the brand new Cape Charles Farmer’s Market. Located on the spacious grounds of the Cape Charles Museum on Stone Road, the Market takes good advantage of the Museum’s huge grassy front yard so there is plenty of room for venders to set up little tents to display their yummy wares. Wicker basket in hand, I traipsed from the parking lot over to the vendor area, not exactly sure just what to expect in the way of variety so I was pleasantly surprised to see so many beautiful fruits and veggies on display, some local artwork too, including some new designs from Mama Girl and tantalizing home baked goodies from Cape Charles Confectionery. But my first stop was at Shore Beef and BBQ, where owner Ron had smoky good aromas wafting from a sizable portable smoker grill hitched to his pickup truck, folks already in line, buying sandwiches and BBQ by the quart, pulled pork, beef brisket plus cooked-to-perfection ribs.

My plan was to make a big circle, check out all the vendors and circle back around again to make my purchases. And that would have been a good plan if I had brought a bigger basket and if I had not stopped to talk to a few friends along the way and ended up having a detailed conversation comparing southern style creamed corn recipes. Who knew that “with or without bacon drippings” could be a major creamed corn issue– but trust me, it is ! ( And for those like myself, not originally from Virginia, south of the Mason-Dixon Line “creamed corn” does not contain a drop of cream, that is to say, dairy cream. Instead, creamed corn is made by cutting the kernels off the cob and then carefully scraping the corn’s own juices, the cream, from the cob with the dull edge of a sturdy table knife into a waiting bowl. This can be a pretty messy job, best done with the bowl in the sink to avoid corn splatters all over the counter. Now comes the contentious part, cooking the creamy mixture. Diehard Southerners almost always insist that sautéing in a generous amount of bacon dripping is the only true method. But transplants like myself often prefer olive oil with a bit of butter added at the end when seasoning with salt and pepper. And so it goes, where it stops nobody knows, the new vs. the traditional.

Continuing on with my circle, I was captivated by a lovely display of cut flowers– nothing like a gorgeous bouquet to brighten any room, especially at the great farmer’s market prices, finally settled on the cheery sunny faces of a colorful bunch of long stemmed sunflowers. Further down the line found some local honey, so great on my Mother’s excellent recipe for fresh buttermilk cornbread, eaten warm from the oven and slathered with butter, then honey. Saunders Orchard cantaloupes looked great, and so low cal as well as delicious. At Mattawoman Farms, a local CSA, some vibrant and crisp Swiss chard caught my eye, a rainbow of colors ready to sauté with chopped onion in …..you guessed it, a little bacon dripping, finished with a little cider vinegar. Yum. They also had some good looking kolorabi. I have never actually cooked kolorabi, I’ve looked at it, considered it, but never taken the plunge. This time was no exception, still haven’t worked up to it, next time maybe. But their Zebra tomatoes were keepers, small red orbs with golden stripes and so were the really ripe small tomatoes from Copper Cricket Farm, displayed in a sizeable bin and priced at ” select a bunch of them for $3.00″. By that time my little basket was about full but I headed back to the bread tent for a loaf of sour dough, hoping to try a recipe for an Italian tomato and bread salad, panzanella, that I had seen recently in the Washington Post. Doesn’t sound that great but I’m imagining that fresh artisan bread, lovely ripe tomatoes wedges combined with finely chopped garlic and fresh basil chiffonade, everything tossed in a delicate vinaigrette is going to be worth trying, we shall see. At any rate, when I got there the cupboard was bare and so the poor cook got none. But there is always next Tuesday and all the other Tuesday’s until October, so sooner or later a loaf of sour dough shall be available and a panzanella shall be made !

Tags: Cape Charles Confectionary, Cape Charles VA Farmer's Market, Cape Charles Virginia, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Events in Cape Charles, life on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Mama Girl artwork, Mattawoman Farms CSA
Posted in Business, Entertainment, Events In Cape Charles, Fine and Casual Dining, Gardening, Just Having Fun, Our Little Towns | No Comments »

HGTV FILMS NEW SHOW IN CAPE CHARLES, VIRGINIA– Redux

Thursday, July 14th, 2016

They say that good things often come in threes so I’m looking forward to a next time– but right now we are just enjoying the second time that HGTV, the Home and Garden TV channel, has chosen Blue Heron Realty Co. and the charming little historic town of Cape Charles to film another episode of its very popular home hunting series, Beachfront Bargain Hunt. Thursday through Sunday a few weeks ago, Cape Charles was all abuzz as the HGTV crew followed Blue Heron’s agent Eva Noonan and her clients as they hunted Virginia’s Eastern Shore high and low in search of that perfect beachfront bargain ! Unfortunately, the answer to which house they finally chose and why will just have to wait for this fall when the show airs– so, some pleasant suspense for a few months.

In 2013 when HGTV first chose Blue Heron Realty and Eva Noonan to film an episode of Beachfront Bargain Hunt, the whole Shore was agog. Several newspapers interviewed Eva and ran multiple articles about the then upcoming show. I got into the act too, following the HGTV crew as they followed Eva and her clients. It was a pretty interesting couple of days, being on the inside and watching the creation of a national TV show episode as it came together, piece by piece. Just the technical elements are amazing, it’s truly surprising how much can be accomplished by a small crew. More or less, a show that attracts millions of viewers is created by a couple of camera operators, a sound person, a jack of all trades who helps manage equipment, run errands and handles miscellaneous details, plus the director– voila’, a show is born ! And it was interesting to watch Eva and her clients get miked up, just the tinest little clip-on mic is all it takes for the sound person to be able to manage everyone’s conversations from what looks like an accordion strapped sideways around the waist. Of course, an airplane flying overhead brings everything to a swift halt during outdoor shots. I was somewhat amused to see that, like an army, a film crew travels on its stomach. Not sure how they did this time, but back in 2013, the first order of the day as the crew gathered in the morning to get started was steaming hot coffee, and lots of it, plus donuts of course. And the second order of the day, a couple hours later, was to pass around the menu from whatever restaurant had been selected for lunch that day and then a brief pause so the crew could order to-go lunches. No two hour, 3 martini cocktail lunch here– a half hour break and back to business for these guys and gals.

So, now as then, I am really looking forward to the airing of the new Cape Charles episode, once again seeing the town and the Eastern Shore of Virginia on national TV in all its coastal glory. The whole town had its shiny, best self on display. In fact, the local paper put out a call for volunteers to spiff up the grounds around the Cape Charles museum because of its high visibility on the road into town. Hopefully, once again this show will generate some great publicity for the town, its interesting blend of yesteryear architectural styles, charming coastal ambience, its sparkling soft sand beach and its spectacular sunsets over the broad waters of the Chesapeake Bay. No doubt that’s why HGTV decided that Cape Charles, Virginia was and is still a great place for a “Beachfront Bargain Hunt” !

Tags: Blue Heron Realty Co. Machipongo and Cape Charles, Cape Charles Virginia, Cape Charles Virginia historic home for sale, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Eastern Shore Virginia real estate, Real Estate
Posted in At the Beach, Business, Entertainment, Events In Cape Charles, Historic Homes, Just Having Fun, Our Little Towns | No Comments »

Escape To One Of Our 11 Cape Charles Virginia Vacation Rentals For A Great Summer 2016

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2016

I had set out to write this post on vacation rental homes in Cape Charles, Virginia a few weeks ago. Shows how time flies when having fun–it’s now February 23rd but when I started this post on Valentine’s Day weekend, Mother Nature had not only brought rain here on the Eastern Shore but delivered another miserable winter storm to the rest of the East Coast for the weekend– snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain ! The usual suspects. Nothing like lots of snow, slippery roads and forecasts of ice accumulations to keep a body firmly ensconced indoors, far far from the weather outside that’s frightful. What to do with the extra indoor time on a weekend this time of year ? Well, might I suggest that a cold/ rainy/snowy day is a great time to venture into “let’s-select-our-summer- vacation- rental- home” searches, letting dreams of summer fun push away the realities of winter blues.

And if you’re looking for a weekly vacation rental which offers both a relaxed and quiet atmosphere paired with lots to do, might I suggest Cape Charles, VA as a great destination. Coastal traditions, historic towns and tiny villages to explore, soft sandy beaches to relax on, off-shore Barrier Islands to visit, broad saltwater inlets to boat and kayak, fabulous fishing and crabbing, artist’s studios and antique shops to visit, seafood restaurants to sample, Palmer and Nicklaus golf to take a swing at– from A for Art Galleries to Z for Zesty clam dip, there is so much to do. Or… just laz around on the deck, book in hand, a iced tea or cold glass of Chardonnay waiting close by, letting the tension just slip away like an outgoing tide. That is the promise of a Simply Relaxing Vacation on Virginia’s Eastern Shore because Virginia’s Eastern Shore is not just a place, it’s a relaxed coastal state of mind !

Which brings us to the list of the 11 terrific vacation homes offered this year for weekly vacation rental through Eastern Shore Vacations Inc. ( Use this link to email them your desired dates and the house you are most interested in at easternshorevacationtime@gmail.com . Or call them at 757-678-5277 ) Though the homes vary by size and price, each has a distinctive personality– historic, waterfront, beachfront, in-town, in the country. From a ” 1 bedroom cozy nest for two” through ” 5 bedrooms, sleeps 14″, there is something for everybody. ( And a couple are even for sale, so if you fall in love with it, it could be yours for life !! How cool is that ? )

“SEAHORSE RETREAT”- 1 bedroom, sleeps 2 ( 4 w/sleep sofa ) Base Summer Rate: $795. /per week. Beach Access,Historic Area

“PARADISE ON THE CHESAPEAKE BAY”- 5 bedrooms, sleeps 14. Base Summer Rate: $3850 /per week. Beachfront, Pool Access

“DRIFTWOOD BEACH”- 6 bedrooms, sleeps 13. Base Summer Rate $3600 /per week. Beachfront

“BAY BREEZE”- A WEST INDIES STYLE, ACCESS TO BEACH & POOL”- 4 bedrooms, sleeps 12. Base Summer Rate $2200 /per week. Beach Access, Pool Access

“ALMOST PARADISE”- 4 bedroom, sleeps 12, in-ground pool, Base Summer Rate: $2995. /per week. Pool, Beach Access

“SEASHELL COTTAGE”- 4 bedroom, sleeps 11, Base Summer Rate: $ 2300. /per week. Beach Access, Historic Area

“SARATOGA PLACE”- 4 bedroom, sleeps 10, Base Summer Rate: $2000 /per week. Beach Access, Pool Access

“SANDY HARBOUR”- 3 bedroom, sleeps 9, Base Summer Rate: $1550. /per week. Waterfront with dock, Beach Access

“SUN AND SAND”- 4 bedroom, sleeps sleeps 8, Base Summer Rate: $ 2200. /per week. Beach and Pool Access

“BEACH HAVEN ” – 3 bedroom, sleeps 7, Base Summer Rate: $2100. /per week. Waterfront with Beach

“BAY COTTAGE” – 3 bedroom, sleeps 6, Base Summer Rate: $1550. /per week. Waterviews, Beach Access

Tags: Cape Charles vacation rental homes, Cape Charles Virginia, Eastern Shore of Virginia, life on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Real Estate
Posted in At the Beach, Boating, Entertainment, Historic Homes, Just Having Fun, Vacation rental homes | No Comments »

Three Exciting Beachfront Listings In Cape Charles, VA, Ready For Summer Fun 2016

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2016

Long walks on a soft sand beach, picking up treasures deposited by the last incoming tide. Picnic lunch on the screened porch under azure skies and golden sunshine. Languid summer’s eves on the deck, cool breezes wafting, moonlight casting sparkling white nets against dark waters, falling asleep to the music of waves gently lapping against the shoreline. These are but a few of the many pleasures of owning a beachfront home on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. And just in time for summer fun 2016, Blue Heron Realty Co. has 3 remarkable beachfront homes listed in Cape Charles, VA on Virginia’s Eastern Shore’s beautiful Southern Tip. Very special yet completely different, each home is a place where you can kick off your shoes and revel in the bliss of beachfront living ! To make an appointment to see any of these gorgeous beach homes, just call Blue Heron Realty Co. at 800-258-3437.

ON A MOUNTAIN AT THE SEASHORE— Well, to call it a mountain is a wee bit of an embellishment but definitely atop 2.7 acres of the highest sand dune formation on the entire Eastern Shore of Virginia stands this spectacular 4 bedroom, 3 full and 1 half bath, custom Lindal cedar home offering breathtaking views of the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This is truly a home that must be seen to properly appreciate its magnificence inside and out. Built from the finest Western red cedar and natural stone by one of the Shore’s best custom builders, this home features top of the line materials throughout. Even the laundry room features granite counters ! The focal point of this spectacular home is the spacious great room, which, because of the post and beam construction, features a huge open span capped by the warmth of a cedar cathedral ceiling and anchored by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. The chef’s kitchen, open to the great room, stands ready for the preparation of everything from whipping up simple midnight omelet to creating elegant cuisine for a dinner party for 20— and everything in between. The first floor master suite features a “sky window” , perfect for laying in bed and gazing up at the Milky Way as one falls asleep. On the second floor a second master suite plus 2 guest bedrooms fan out from large guest living room, giving visitors a large private space to just relax and enjoy the views tucked away from the activities in the rest of the house. Outside, a full house length deck with its own stone fireplace offers a relaxing space to breathe in the tangy Bay breezes. Steps with gentle risers and several landings lead gently down to the one of the widest sparkling sand beaches on the Eastern Shore, really comparable to the most beautiful private sand beaches almost anywhere on the East Coast, part of a mile and a half of private beach shared by very few homes. Call 757-678-5200 for an appointment to see this extraordinary beachfront home listed at $1,750,00.

BIG, BOLD, BEAUTIFUL & READY FOR THE SWEET, SWEET BEACH LIFE ! Open the front door and the eye is drawn through the foyer, through the dramatic great room with its amazing soaring ceilings and out to the sparkling sand beach and shining blue waters beyond, revealing unrivaled views out to the far horizons of the Chesapeake Bay. Fine craftsmanship and luxurious details have created a stunning beach home with waterfront vistas from virtually every room. The heart of this 4 bedroom, 4 full and 2 half bath home is its expansive great room with amazing tall elegant columns, dramatic windows and three separate conversation areas, perfect for entertaining either large or intimate groups. Fine finishing details abound including mosaic floor inserts, deep crown moldings and triple tray ceilings. The gourmet kitchen is open to the great room, offering a free flow of conversation and interaction between the two. Plenty of kitchen space, custom cherry cabinets, beautiful granite counters and high-end appliances are sure to please. Spacious master bedroom suites on both the first and second floor offer premier views, luxurious baths and plenty of closet space. Two large guest bedrooms make having stay-over visitors a breeze. A huge media room complete with full room length bar with sink and wine cooler overlooking the water also boasts a large veranda, perfect for enjoying those tangy salt breezes all summer long. Located in Bay Creek Golf Resort offering such amenities as Palmer and Nicklaus waterfront golf courses, 2 beach areas, tennis courts and pool. Offered at $1,595,000. Call Blue Heron Realty Co. at 800-258-3437 for your appointment to see this very elegant and special beachfront home.

THE “BRIDGE HOUSE ” OVERLOOKING THE WIDE BLUE WATERS AND SOFT SAND BEACHES OF THE CHESAPEAKE BAY — The “Bridge House” offers a truly unique access since the front entryway to this distinctive beachfront home is across a dramatic little bridge which beckons you to leave the all-too- busy-busy world behind and enter this realm of serene waterfront beauty. Sited high on a unique 3 acre +/- wooded sand dune which rolls gently down to a gorgeous soft sand beach and the gentle waves of the Chesapeake Bay, this 4400 sq. ft. contemporary 4 bedroom, 4 full bath home beach home offers a truly secluded feel. Once inside, the eye is immediately drawn to the dramatic views of the Chesapeake Bay sparkling below viewed through a full wall of windows and sliding glass doors. The first floor offers a huge open great room with breakfast, dining and conversation areas presenting opportunities to both socialize or relax in a little intimate corner to catch up on news one-on-one. Walk out and enjoy nearly the 2000 sq.ft. of decking, a perfect place for a glass of cold iced tea on a summer’s afternoon or wowing a crowd with casual outdoor entertaining at sunset ! When you catch a cool summer breeze flowing off the Bay, you’ll begin to realize what being “relaxed” really means. Time to pour a little mint julep and get started on the new issue of “Southern Living” magazine, just chilling out to your heart’s content ! Not to mention savoring nightly the glorious sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay . Was life ever better ? ? But wait till you catch the elevator up to the huge third floor master suite which includes spacious sleeping area, delightful master bath, large library area with built-in floor- to- ceiling bookshelves, a huge sitting area with gas log fireplace and a full-length deck overlooking the broad deep blue waters of the Chesapeake Bay and beach. WOW !!! does not even begin to suffice. Must see to really appreciate ! This spectacular home offers the essence of Virginia coastal living. Offered at $1,499,000. Call us today at 757-678-5200 to see this unique and inspiring beachfront home.

Tags: Blue Heron Realty Co. Machipongo and Cape Charles, Cape Charles homes for sale, Cape Charles Virginia, Chesapeake Bay real estate, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Eastern Shore Virginia real estate, life on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Real Estate, Virginia beachfront property
Posted in At the Beach, Just Having Fun, Odds and Ends, Our Little Towns | No Comments »

Ready, Set, Go— Now Is The Perfect Time To Lock In Your Week At A Cape Charles VA Vacation Rental House

Friday, March 21st, 2014

It probably seems a bit counter-intuitive to be planning reservations for a warm, sunny summer vacation in the midst of all this cold, snowy weather which seems like it has been making East Coast life miserable for eons. Or maybe not. Definitely planning can take the mind to a better place, sort of like warming one’s hand on a hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter afternoon brings a smile to the face, it just feels good. When I was a child, my mother used to pull out her seed catalogues on a wintry Sunday afternoons and work on her garden plan. Not that she had such a huge garden but she had it organized down to a T– what needed to be rotated to a new spot, what plants complimented the other, where to stick insect repelling marigolds, she planned it all in detail, usually changing her mind numerous times before she was satisfied. But it seemed to me that she enjoyed working on her garden project most on a really cold, miserable day– and in Ohio, unlike on the Eastern Shore, there are a whole lot of really cold, snowy, icy winter days ! Just like back to the future, she was mentally transported from winter’s wind and ice to the cool days of Spring, outdoors in the sun, in her garden.

But, I digress, my point being that planning one’s vacation is a task that offers a lot of fun in the execution. Just deciding where to go is key and offers lots of opportunities for on-line exploration of lots of great places– for instance, not that I’m biased of course, the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Naturally a lot depends on the type of vacation one is looking for. If its bright lights and loud music, then the Eastern Shore isn’t the place. But if you’re looking for a quaint, restful area with lots to do, the Shore is a great place to enjoy a unique coastal vacation experience. Not only can you enjoy our pristine natural beauty, there is nearly an endless list of fun things to do, from “A” for artists galleries to “Z” for zesty clam dip.

Savor sunset strolls on our uncrowded beaches, feel the exhilaration of kayaking our to our string of off-shore Barrier Islands. Charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing expedition. For golfers, the Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus Signature courses which front along the Chesapeake Bay in Cape Charles offer opportunities to challenge your game on some of the most beautiful waterfront courses on the entire East Coast. Or check out our museums and art galleries, treasure hunt on the beach or in one of our antique shops. Get wet swimming, clamming or crabbing. Explore our quaint little towns, visit a vineyard and winery, check out our Wildlife Refuges or State Park. Or just chill out on the porch, gentle breezes blowing, book in hand, letting the stresses of everyday life disappear. And at Blue Heron, we call this “Simply Relaxing The Shore Way.”

This year the Blue Heron Realty Co. vacation rental department is introducing a new vacation rental home, “Seashell Cottage“, located just a quarter block off the soft sand beach in the little Victorian town of Cape Charles, VA. Seashell Cottage offers 4 bedrooms, 2 and a half baths plus a 3 rd floor loft overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Its open floor plan, comfortable furniture and close proximity to the beach make this a great vacation home. And the wrap-around porch is perfect for outdoor dining and soaking up the dazzling sunsets. Check it out at www.blueheronva.com, click on the Vacation Rental section under “Listings” and give us a call at 757-678-5277 to reserve your vacation week at one of our great vacation rental beach homes. From a cozy in-town cottage to a beach home on acreage in the country, the Blue Heron Realty Co. vacation rental agents can help you select the best home for your needs and budget.

Tags: Blue Heron Realty Co. Machipongo and Cape Charles, Cape Charles Virginia, Capee Charles Vacation Rentals, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Real Estate, Vacation rental homes on Eastern Shore VA
Posted in At the Beach, Boating, Climate and Weather, Golf, Just Having Fun, Our Little Towns | No Comments »

4 Great Places In Cape Charles, VA To Take Your Sweetie To Dinner On Valentine’s Day

Thursday, February 13th, 2014

If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy a romantic Valentine’s dinner, you definitely couldn’t go wrong by trying one of these 4 terrific restaurants located in or around the quaint Victorian town of Cape Charles, VA. Menu info and phone numbers for reservations are included. So pick your favorite, make a reservation and take your Sweetie to Valentine’s dinner in this lovely little beachfront town by the Chesapeake Bay.

1.Aqua– Cape Charles’ only fine dining bayfront restaurant, Aqua overlooks the majestic Chesapeake Bay. Dinner here at sunset is a sensational choice. Unfortunately, sunset comes a little early in February but Aqua is lovely after dark as well. In addition to its elegant decor, starched white linens and superb service, for Valentine’s Weekend , Aqua is offering several special entrees including a luscious sounding Stuffed Lobster, slow baked Prime Rib and Chicken Piccata. And one of the succulent appetizers, Southern Oysters and Grits, sounds like a mouthwatering version of one of my personal favorite’s, shrimp and grits. Chef Shelly Cusamina has been the head chef at Aqua for a number of years and prides herself on featuring fine food with the freshest of ingredients, locally procured when possible. Especially for Valentine’s evening, a live jazz band will be playing. Located at 900 Marina Village Circle near the King’s Creek Marina. Call 757-331-8660 for reservations.

2.Hook-U-Up Gourmet– Located at 227 Mason Avenue right in the heart of the Cape Charles, Hook-U-Up is quite the eclectic restaurant. By day, a purveyor of savory pizza and gourmet sandwiches. By night, on Tuesdays, it is a Bistro serving elegant and delicious food, a bit of a continental flair right in the Cape Charles Historic District. And once a month, a special Wine Dinner, offering, as a friend who attended one recently told me, “some of the best food I’ve ever eaten”. High praise indeed and well-deserved for talented Chef and owner, Tim Brown, who is going all out on Valentine’s Week-end with both a prix-fixe and an a la carte menu available. The prix-fixe sounds tantalizing, Artichokes stuffed with Lump Crab or Baked Brie in Phylo with Orange Preserves among his appetizers, an Arugula and Watercress salad, Chateaubriand with Black Truffle and Béarnaise sauces for the entree’. The sweet for your sweetie is almond and black cherry tart with espresso ice cream, ambrosial no doubt. Highlights of the a la carte menu include Beef Wellington, a “Surf and Turf” consisting of a Petite Filet+ Lobster Tail+ Lump Crab and a Flounder Meuniere. For reservations, call 757-331-2275.

3. King’s Creek Inn– With its long views down King’s Creek and out to the Chesapeake Bay beyond, King’s Creek Inn is another beautiful location for dinner. Offering their “Fireside Feasts” on Friday and Saturday evenings all winter long, they are cooking up something special indeed for Valentine’s Day week-end. Dining by a crackling fireplace is always romantic, in addition, all the ladies will be receiving a long-stemmed rose to help celebrate the evening. Entrees will include Filet of Sole stuffed with Lump Crab, a Surf and Turf, Lamb Shanks slow roasted in wine and Chicken stuffed with Brie and Cranberry. Dessert sounds delightful, their signature Chocolate Mousse Cake or a Truffle Cheesecake, yummy. Located at 3018 Bowden Landing just outside town. Call 757-678-6355 for reservations.

4. Kelly’s Gingernut Pub– Offering great food in a unique and casual atmosphere. Located at 133 Mason Avenue in the center of Cape Charles, in what was once a historic brick bank building, now lovingly renovated by owner Gene Kelly. Try the cozy seating section called “The Vault”, located in what was once, duh, the bank’s vault. Kelly’s combines a fun atmosphere with excellent pub-style food plus some excellent chef’s specials for dinner on week-ends. For Valentine’s Day, among other offerings, Kelly’s will present Oysters Rockefeller, Crab Claw & Shrimp Cocktail, Three Cheese Ravioli in a Crab and Cream sauce, Surf and Turf as well as a Grilled Rib- eye Steak with Portobello Mushrooms. Cheesecake with Berries for dessert. Call for more info at 757-331-3222

Tags: Aqua restaurant Cape Charles Virginia, Cape Charles Virginia, Eastern Shore of Virginia, Hook-U-Up Gourmet, Kelly's Gingernut Pub, King's Creek Inn, Valentine's on Virginia's Eastern Shore
Posted in Entertainment, Fine and Casual Dining, Our Little Towns, Regional Foods & Wine | No Comments »

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