In the rolling hills 18 miles outside of downtown Richmond, Virginia, is the fast-growing suburb of Midlothian, where the picturesque community of Hallsley calls home. Combining a small-town Southern feel with amenities that feel like a 5-star resort, this new community has strong roots, just like the old growth trees that surround it.
If you find yourself near Richmond, it’s worth the short jaunt to Hallsley. And while you’re here, you may find yourself feeling right at home. Here’s a few ways to spend a delightful day or two.
Photo courtesy of Hallsley, Midlothian, VA.
Explore the Outdoors
Virginia is for lovers, outdoor lovers. It’s a region ready for adventure seekers. Whether you’re a biker, hiker, fishing enthusiast or boater, there’s plenty of nature for everyone in the Hallsley community. Hop out of the car, stretch your legs and walk the 7.2 miles of trails, equipped for bikers, walkers or avid hikers. Be sure to snap some pictures on one of the 14 bridges, where the views are worth a pause. If fishing is your sport, check out Tom Sawyer’s stocked catch and release fishing pond. Besides a few fish on the pole, you can sun yourself on the dock or picnic under the gazebo. Be sure to trek the Bayou Boardwalk that meanders through the community’s wetlands, taking in the wooded views along the way.
Photo courtesy of Crystal Lowzinsky.
Shop Local
In the rehabbed building of the 1850 Hallsboro General Store is the charming gift shop and picnic lunch spot called Gather. It’s a true local, can’t-miss destination. Stocked with curated furniture, home accessories and gifts all crafted by artisans, the unhurried vibe feels totally Southern and quaint. Roam the store and find a few souvenirs, but be sure to place your order by noon for a boxed lunch. They’re perfect for enjoying outside on the patio space with an ice-cold old-timey bottle of soda. We love The Martin, a croissant, piled high with thinly sliced roast beef, bleu cheese, tomato and leaf lettuce.
Photo courtesy of Hallsley, Midlothian, VA.
Hop in the Pool
Enter the Hallsley pool like you would the ocean, with its beach-like zero entry. Whether your hope is to relax, exercise or entertain little ones, all of your needs will be met. There are lap lanes and an adult area if you want to stay out of the splash zone, and a water slide and splash pad for kids. Order a poolside drink or nosh at the outdoor cabana bar, and be sure to check out dates for pool-specific events, like our favorite Float Nights, where a movie plays on the big screen as you sit on a raft and soak it up. With a pool area like this your afternoon (and evening) is made.
Photo courtesy of Hallsley, Midlothian, VA.
Acquire Abode Envy
Driving up and down the streets taking in the unique architecture of the 800-home community of Hallsley is worth the time behind the wheel. Each home is one of a kind—true pieces of art—and inspired by the historic neighborhoods of nearby Richmond. The large lot sizes and old growth trees are an intentional choice in preserving the natural beauty of the Virginia land, including an area-wide, restrictive tree removal policy. In Hallsley, it’s all about well-wooded views and big backyard spaces. It makes sense that this community was awarded Best Master Planned Community in America.
Photo courtesy of Hallsley, Midlothian, VA.
While touring home exteriors, check out the variety of design styles, along with the rich exterior materials used and the diverse color palettes. Many of the homes in Hallsley feature Hardie® siding and trim for its high-performance durability with historic appeal. James Hardie’s collection of textures, profiles, and colors help elevate the entire community, allowing for each home to be treated like a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Photo courtesy of Hallsley, Midlothian, VA.
Play Like a Little One
Hallsley’s the kind of community where the tykes run wild. When Hallsley was planning its community, it considered kids in a big way. There’s playgrounds, a pool slide and splash pad, a zip line, a treehouse, a playhouse village, equipped with a tiny town to play in. There’s even a quarter mile of the kid-friendly trails that includes an area known as Storybook Lane, where little ones can meander and read a site-specific tale that changes often. It’s innovative, exploratory and tuckers them out—all things parents (and tots) love.
Photo courtesy of Hallsley, Midlothian, VA.
Eat on the Street
On some Fridays, you can check out Hallsley’s row of visiting food trucks. From barbecue to burgers, fries and tasty brews, there’s not much more fun than sipping a cold drink and partaking in a tasting of food truck grub. If you’re seeking a sit-down, fine-dining restaurant in the area, L’ Opossum is the spot. Once inside, the décor, dishes and drink menu all demand your immediate attention. Chef David Shannon presents creative, delicious dishes that are enough to make a foodie’s eyes roll to the back of their heads. While you’re there, make an event out of reading the hilariously descriptive menu, it’s like a poetry slam chock full of flavor descriptions. For a taste, here’s the description of the entrée, the Filet Mignon of Beef “Swellington,” “Totin’ a first-class hobo stick packed tight with truffled duxelles and duck butter, in a pink peppercorn and port reduction.” A trip here is a local experience that should be on your eating to-do list.
