Belmont, Gari Melchers Estate

The estate contains 28 acres of land situated on a ridge overlooking the falls of the Rappahannock River. The staff at the visitor center can provide information regarding trails and tours of the property. Adjacent to the parking lot are several meadows that are burned or mowed periodically by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources in an attempt to prevent succession and to stimulate the growth of planted native wildflowers and warm season grasses, which provide beneficial wildlife habitat. Several trail heads lead from the garden or fields to a magnificent overlook of the Rappahannock River or into the woods, following a small stream that runs through mature woodlands. The river overlook can provide viewing of waterfowl any time of the year. Behind the mansion are additional meadows that attract bluebirds which nest in the boxes erected around the property. Flower gardens and surrounding wildflower meadows are sure to attract butterflies and wildflower enthusiasts alike.