Gather Your Girls and Get Ready for the Glamp of a Lifetime

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Admit it—it’s been forever since you had some uninterrupted, quality time with your gal pals. There’s a million reasons why—you can’t get time off, you don’t want to leave the kids, you don’t want to stray too far from home. No more excuses! As luck would have it, just a short two-and-a-half-hour drive away sits Frederick, MD, a mecca for millennials, mommies on vacay or empty nesters, all trying to catchup with their crew.

It’s home to stunning scenery and an array of outdoor activities, but if your squad is more into the sights and sounds of nature, than immersing themselves in it, consider a glamp! With plenty of options for the hands-off outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be able to see the local wonders without exposing your crew to the elements.

Here’s a guide to planning the perfect glamping getaway:

Quaint Cabins

Photo credit: Courtesy of Visit Frederick

Of course, the first step in securing a Glampsite is making sure it’s cute, cozy and has all the amenities of a luxe hotel in the middle of Mother Nature’s playground. Consider renting a space in one of Frederick’s comfy, countryside campgrounds like Gambrill State Park, Cunningham Falls State Park or Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort. Still not convinced your standards are met? Opt for a vacation rental instead. There are plenty of comfy, country homes closer to civilization like Fox Haven Farm and The Sage Way Farm. They combine convenience and style without skimping on the first-class Frederick scenery.

World-class Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries, Oh My!

Photo credit: Courtesy of Visit Frederick

The local libation offerings leave nothing to be desired. Home to the Flying Dog Brewing Company, Milkhouse Brewery, Distillery Lane Ciderworks, McClinktock Distillery and dozens of world-class wineries, most within walking distance of one another, Frederick truly has something for every taste. To stay on task with your nature theme, we recommend, The Catoctin Breeze Vineyard. It’s nestled in the scenic hills of the Cactoctin Mountains and has a stunning view of the local flora and fauna. You can book a private tour for your group or just swing by the sampling room to try a bit of their beloved Butterfly or Musical series.

Farm-Fresh Foods

Photo credit: Courtesy of Visit Frederick

Cancel your fine dining reservation and instead create your own farm-to-table meal with the fresh ingredients you can gather from local Frederick farms. With all the necessary supplies easily within reach, you and your girls can whip up a seasonal dish to match any five-star restaurant. The first stop on your shopping trip should be the Field Fresh Farmer’s Market. There you’ll find dozens of local vendors selling produce, baked goods and cheese. You can even top off your whiskey stash with quick stop at Tenth Ward Distillery’s table. If you’re more in the market for picking your own produce head to Catoctin Mountain Orchard or Pryor’s Orchard. Both are situated in the scenic countryside and offer and array of fresh foods like apples, peaches, plums, berries, pears, cherries, nectarines, vegetables, nuts, jams, and honey. Can someone say wine and cheese night?!

Rest and Relaxation Starts Here

Photo credit: Courtesy of Visit Frederick

Once you’ve eaten enough to ease your way into a food coma, consider soaking in Frederick’s serene side. New York, New York Day Spa serves as a sanctuary, set in a refurbished antebellum mansion. With group packages available, your whole gang can simultaneously undergo facials, exfoliating body treatments, pedicures, paraffin treatments or an aromatherapy steam shower. If spas aren’t your cup of tea, try heading to the Serenity Tea Room instead. Sip the afternoon away in style and comfort while catching each other up on life. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can venture out of town a bit to the Springfield Manor Lavender Farm. There, you can pick out your own potted plants, beauty or culinary products and learn about the healing and relaxing benefits of lavender.

Hiking Trails with Heavenly Views

Photo credit: Courtesy of Visit Frederick

Skip your boutique spin class and instead opt for a workout with nature. Frederick is renowned for its hiking trails. Whether you’re an avid hiker or not, there are an array of options to stroll through the scenic landscapes surrounding your cabin. If you’re looking for the best view, try Chimney Rock (be warned, it’s a hardcore hike) or Cunningham Falls (you’ll see a waterfall!). If you’d like to experience the history of the town, try the Monocacy Aqueduct trail, which passes by the largest tree in Maryland and the largest aqueduct along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. If you’re less inclined to break and sweat, stroll through Carroll Creek Park, an urban oasis and home to the Community Bridge Mural (it’s a great spot to snag a selfie or group photo-op) or saunter up the sweet and simple climb at Sugarloaf Mountain (it’s an easy hike but doesn’t skimp on scenery). Soaking in the fresh air with leave you feeling relaxed, renewed and grateful for your girls’ weekend getaway.

For more information about planning your getaway to Frederick County, Maryland, click here.