Bold Rock Cider
Experience breathtaking views, delicious Bold Rock Ciders, and legendary apple cider donuts at Carter Mountain Orchard.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Bold Rock Cider
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking views, delicious Bold Rock Ciders, and legendary apple cider donuts at Carter Mountain Orchard.
"Gorgeous views, and love the concept. The cider selection is fantastic!"
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for weekend events, secure your tickets online days ahead to guarantee entry .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to pick fruit or explore the orchard.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bold Rock Cider Tasting
Carter Mountain Orchard
Sample a wide array of crisp, fresh, and local ciders, with flavors to suit every palate. A must-try for any visitor!
Apple Cider Donuts
Carter Mountain Orchard Country Store
Indulge in warm, crispy, and buttery apple cider donuts – a legendary treat that many rave about!
Panoramic Charlottesville Views
Carter Mountain Orchard Viewpoint
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the city and surrounding mountains from this elevated orchard.
Seasonal Fruit Picking
Carter Mountain Orchard
Enjoy the quintessential fall experience of picking your own apples (or peaches in summer).
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Fall Crowds
Embrace the Mountain Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for weekend events, secure your tickets online days ahead to guarantee entry.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to pick fruit or explore the orchard.
🍎 Don't Miss the Donuts!
The warm apple cider donuts are a legendary treat that many visitors can't get enough of.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning; bring your camera or phone for memorable shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for weekend events, secure your tickets online days ahead to guarantee entry.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to pick fruit or explore the orchard.
🍎 Don't Miss the Donuts!
The warm apple cider donuts are a legendary treat that many visitors can't get enough of.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning; bring your camera or phone for memorable shots.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Be prepared for potential parking challenges, especially during peak times.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Policy
Check their specific policy, but generally, well-behaved dogs are welcome in outdoor areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views and the delicious, diverse selection of Bold Rock Ciders. The legendary apple cider donuts are a major highlight, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it a popular destination. However, be prepared for significant crowds, especially during the fall, and the need to book tickets in advance.
"Gorgeous views, and love the concept. However, getting to the apple trees is quite a workout, especially for younger kids, so be prepared. Also, it is a very popular destination. Make sure to get tickets online days in advance and pack your patience as it is usually very crowded in the fall."
Candace Jones
"The cider selection is fantastic, with something for every try, and everything feels crisp, fresh, and local. The staff are friendly and attentive, adding to the laid-back but well-run experience. Whether you’re stopping by after apple picking or making it the main event, Bold Rock at Carter’s Mountain is a must-visit spot in Charlottesville."
James Bland
"Pearadise IPA was delicious. Hard cider, not really a comparison to an IPA, but delicious none-the-less.
Had a warm apple cider donut this time, delicious, crispy, and buttery. Beautiful views. Pumpkin picking fun."
Trish Campbell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bold Rock Cider is located at Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville, VA. You can drive directly to the orchard, which offers stunning views on the way up. Parking can be busy, especially on weekends.
Public transportation options directly to the orchard are limited. Most visitors opt to drive. Consider ride-sharing services if you prefer not to drive.
The orchard is spread out, with the country store and tasting area at the top. You can walk to the apple trees or take a hayride. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
Yes! Michie Tavern, a historic southern restaurant, is a short 10-minute drive away and is great for a meal after your orchard visit.
The roads leading up to Carter Mountain are winding and can be steep in places. Drive cautiously, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, especially during peak seasons like fall, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended, and sometimes required, for entry to Carter Mountain Orchard.
Carter Mountain Orchard is typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Entry fees can vary, especially for special events like the sunset series. Fruit picking also incurs separate charges. Check the website for current pricing.
While you can purchase Bold Rock Cider at the orchard, buying specific varieties or cases online might be possible through their website or authorized retailers, depending on your location.
Typically, access to the tasting area at Carter Mountain Orchard is included with orchard admission, but it's wise to confirm this when purchasing tickets.
🎫 🍎 Onsite Experience
Activities include apple picking, peach picking (seasonal), hayrides, enjoying live music, picnicking, and of course, tasting Bold Rock Cider.
Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly destination with activities like apple picking and hayrides that kids love.
Bold Rock offers a wide variety of hard ciders, including seasonal flavors, imperial ciders, and even unique options like dill pickle cider.
Yes, picnicking is encouraged, and there are designated areas, especially at the viewpoint, perfect for enjoying your own food with a view.
Yes, restrooms are available for visitors throughout the orchard grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Besides the famous apple cider donuts, you can find other food vendors offering snacks and meals. They also have wine and hard cider available for purchase.
Yes, Bold Rock Cider is a featured offering at Carter Mountain Orchard, and you can enjoy tastings and purchase bottles or cans.
Food vendor offerings can vary, but it's worth inquiring directly with them about specific dietary options.
Prices for food and drinks are typical for an attraction, with donuts being a popular and relatively affordable treat.
You are welcome to bring your own food for picnics, but alcoholic beverages other than those sold on-site may not be permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoint offers incredible shots of Charlottesville. The apple orchards themselves, especially during picking season, also make for beautiful photos.
Absolutely! The scenic views and charming orchard setting provide a romantic backdrop for photos.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your photos. The sunset series events are particularly popular for this.
Drone usage is typically restricted at most attractions for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check the orchard's specific policies.
Don't miss capturing the iconic apple cider donuts and the sweeping views from the top of the mountain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for some walking, as reaching the best picking spots might involve a bit of a hike. Consider bringing a stroller or carrier for very young children. The picnic areas are also great for families to relax and refuel. Checking the orchard's schedule for family-friendly events is also a good idea.
💑 Couples & Date Ideas
Apple picking can be a fun, collaborative activity, and sharing a warm apple cider donut is a sweet treat. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to connect and enjoy each other's company. The Thursday Sunset Series can also be a lovely evening date option.
🍻 Cider Enthusiasts
+2 The opportunity to try a cider tasting flight allows you to explore the breadth of their offerings.Many ciders are made with locally sourced apples, ensuring a fresh and authentic taste.
The knowledgeable staff can often provide recommendations, enhancing your tasting experience. It's a great chance to discover new favorite ciders and appreciate the craft behind them.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bold Rock Cider Experience
+1 there's a drink for everyone. Many visitors highlight the crispness and freshness of the ciders, noting that they are made with locally sourced apples.Beyond the standard offerings, Bold Rock also produces Imperial Ciders with higher ABV
and has experimented with unique infusions like watermelon and even vodka-based crushes. Their commitment to quality and innovation makes the cider tasting a memorable part of any visit. Whether you're a cider aficionado or new to the beverage, Bold Rock provides an accessible and enjoyable introduction to the world of hard cider.For those looking to purchase Bold Rock Cider beyond their visit, it's widely available in many stores, and some online options may exist depending on your location.
Seasonal Delights: Apples and More
Beyond the fruit itself, the orchard's country store is a treasure trove of seasonal goodies. The apple cider donuts are legendary, often described as warm, crispy, and buttery – a must-try treat that draws crowds.
Capturing the Views and Vibes
Many visitors find the atmosphere at the orchard to be incredibly pleasant and relaxing. The Thursday Evening Sunset Series is a particularly popular event, offering a chance to enjoy the views as the sun goes down, often accompanied by live music.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit