Forget expensive vacations: a full picnic basket and a short drive to High Bridge State Park off of U.S. Route 460 are all you need for a fun, romantic escape. Set up a cozy meal for two on one of the tables. They’re near the parking lot but secluded enough to give you space to yourselves so you can talk, reminisce and reconnect. That’s almost enough reason to go in itself, but there’s much more waiting. When you’re ready to take in a gorgeous view, the High Bridge itself is about a half-mile hike away and will give you lovely memories for years to come.

Two out-of-towners enjoying a picnic table near the caboose.

Some people like to get in a workout at the end of the day, but maybe you prefer to unwind a little more quietly. The deck just outside the Barbara Rose Johns Farmville-Prince Edward Community Library overlooks Wilck’s Lake. Check out a book, bring a little coffee and a snack (keep it outside!) and get absorbed in a good read. Or, if you’d rather, sip peacefully and contemplate the waterfowl cruising the lake. We think the peaceful water, lively birds and semi-secluded setting are the best things to ease a tired, stressed mind.

Want to grab a quick lunch outdoors during the work week? Take a bagged lunch and your journal to the caboose just off Main Street in the heart of downtown Farmville and take an idyllic few minutes to jot down your thoughts over a sandwich. Or, if you’re in the mood for company, there’s plenty of other tables closer to the street where you can hang out with your coworkers, get takeout and engage in people-watching.