We decided to treat ourselves last night (and this morning) with a stay in a bed and breakfast. The Dutch Haus is a B&B located just off the trail near Montebello Virginia. We just called them at the top of the mountain and walked down the hill a mile and they were there waiting to pick us up. The stay was amazing - hot shower, tasty vegetarian diner, comfy bed, beautiful house, and a hearty breakfast. It has never felt so good to take a hot shower. After 64 days this is only the 4th time it has happened - the same with laundry.
Were now on the last leg of our journey. Jess' mom is picking us up in Luray Virginia on the 12th - which puts us about 3/4 of the way through Shannandoah National Forest - so we've still got about a week and a half left. We've been hearing that section is pretty spectacular and the terrain is easier compared to what we've had the past week so I think it will be a nice place to end our trip. We feel recharged after having such a relaxing evening/morning and definently ready to take on the next section into Waynesboro. We hear its tough with climbs over The Priest, Three Ridges, and Humpback mountains. This portion of Virginia has been more challenging than the southern half - everyday it seems like we go down to a major river/creek around 900 feet then climb straight up to mountains over 4000'. The terrain has been beautiful and well worth all the climbing. Hope everyone is doing well - Brian and Jess.
