Quaint, small town charm
When I think of Smithfield, Virginia, I can almost smell the aroma of dry cured ham on Christmas afternoons at Nana's house. I have such fond memories of her. She would soak the salt-laden pork in water, then bake until crisp on the outside, tender and warm in the center.
The Smithfield Foods, a business in the Commonwealth of Virginia, has been curing and smoking pork since the 1800's.
I haven't eaten pork in over 20 years, but the smell of salty Virginia ham makes me tempted start back. It is especially delicious tossed with tomato and arugula or diced in quiche, and of course, paired with fluffy lard-laden biscuits.
However fond my memories of buying ham in Isle of Wight county with my grandmother, my only other recollection of Smithfield is of farm crops as far as the eye could see.
Today Smithfield is as quaint as ever, but with a renewed charm that my family really enjoyed.
Smithfield Station is leading the way in bringing restaurants and tourists to town.
"Tucked away and secluded on the Pagan River in Smithfield, Virginia, the Smithfield Station Marina is a serene refuge from the Chesapeake Bay and was recently recognized by Chesapeake Bay Magazine's Best of The Bay awards, in five separate categories, and for its seventh consecutive year!" --Smithfield Station Marina website
Across the road you'll find miles of walking trails, and a small vineyard. Water activities abound with boating, kayaking and jet skiing as fun options.
Thankfully, hurricane weather held off long enough for us to enjoy a few hours of fun as the sun peeked out from behind the clouds.
Where is your favorite place to unwind off the beaten path?