SAVOR Weekend at Mountain Lake Lodge to Celebrate Southwest Virginia's Growing Culinary Scene, June 13 to 15

PEMBROKE, Va., March 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The award-winning Mountain Lake Lodge will showcase Southwest Virginia's exciting culinary scene with the debut of SAVOR: Chefs, Farmers & Friends from June 13 to 15, 2025. The region's best chefs, farmers, brewers and artisans will come together to present Appalachian Mountain techniques, local flavors and sustainable initiatives as the resort becomes a grand farm-to-table weekend of cuisine, community and celebration set against the magnificent Blue Ridge.

The "Root to Table" gathering – in partnership with the not-for-profit Root to Table and Virginia Tourism – is the first collaboration of its kind to celebrate Southwest Virginia's regional flavors and sustainability. Mountain Lake Lodge is located outside of Blacksburg atop Salt Pond Mountain and amidst a 2,600-acre nature preserve and bird sanctuary.

"Whether you're a food enthusiast, advocate for sustainable dining, or looking for a great weekend getaway, SAVOR is a unique opportunity to explore Southwest Virginia's rich Appalachian culinary heritage and meet the artisans behind the flavors," said Heidi Stone, president and CEO of Mountain Lake Lodge. "Mountain Lake Lodge is surrounded by a peaceful, magical setting and the perfect place to hold this one-of-a-kind culinary experience."

The weekend will be led by the resort's Executive Chef Wells Selbe who has long been passionate about sustainability, drawing inspiration from the area's traditions and exceptional flavors throughout his career. Regional culinary celebrities will share stories and inspirations, and demonstrate their craftsmanship with locally sourced and seasonal wines, quality farm fresh items and produce.

Root to Table highlights include:

• Farmers & Flavor Marketplace – Featuring the area's best artisans, chefs, brewers and distillers, and handcrafted goods.
• Interactive Culinary Workshops & Chef Demonstrations – Hands-on workshops, tastings and demonstrations highlight farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable food sourcing and innovative cooking techniques.
• Mountain Chill Evening Gathering – Music, live entertainment, craft cocktails and storytelling by the fire pay homage to the region's vibrant culture.
• Roots & Relax Dinner – Elegant multi-course dining experience and wine pairings crafted by Southwest Virginia's finest chefs.
• Artisan's Breakfast Table – Open-air breakfast with cooking booths and live demonstrations.

Click here for the full itinerary.

SAVOR Weekend Package
The all-inclusive SAVOR culinary package includes a two-night stay; welcome reception with craft beer, cider and wine tastings; daily gourmet meals with farm-to-table breakfasts, marketplace tastings and Saturday evening multi-course dinner, and live entertainment. Guests will also enjoy hands-on culinary experiences and exclusive access to the Farmers & Flavor Marketplace.

Mountain Lake Lodge guests enjoy 22 mile of hiking trails; Mountain Lake Excursions for an insider's look into regional art and culture; Gator Tours of the property's backcountry trails and overlooks; arts & crafts; naturalist programs; retail shops, and golf, fly fishing and family floats on the New River. The new Giles County Trail Center at Mountain Lake Lodge is the focal point for planning hikes and outdoor adventures. Mountain Lake Lodge or "Kellerman's" is where the iconic movie Dirty Dancing was filmed 38 years ago and is still the ideal place "to have the time of your life" to create memories and relax in a retreat faithful to the outdoors. 

For SAVOR Weekend Package reservations visit https://www.mtnlakelodge.com or call 540-626-7121. Mountain Lake Lodge has been recognized by TripAdvisor's Travelers Choice Awards 2024, The Knot Best of Weddings 2024 and 2023, and The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame, and received first place in Virginia Living's Best Resort and Best Special Event Venue 2023.

SOURCE Mountain Lake Lodge