Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store — Attraction in Charlottesville

A comical and honest review, from the point of view of the owners

Disclaimer so they can't take it down: THIS IS NOT ACTUALLY THE OWNERS REVIEW

Apple Orchard Adventures: Where the Fun and the Overpricing Collide!

Pros: -Pay 20 per person to park. -Pay per bag for every 2 people in your party. -Be shoved into a two lane orchard where the Apples are all picked -Cider that doesn't come from their own Orchard -Bush Gardens prices and lines.

Cons: ?

Ever wanted to experience the joy of apple picking, but without the pesky hassle of affordable prices? Well, then, buckle up, because I've got just the place for you!

Nestled atop a hill on a charming country road, our orchard is the epitome of commercialized apple-picking bliss. Forget about the quaint farmhouse feel and the homy country charm – we're all about the hustle and bustle of a well-oiled machine!

Here's what makes our orchard truly special:

Overpriced Delights: Our apples? Priced higher than a penthouse in Manhattan! But hey, what's a little extra cash when it comes to the unparalleled joy of picking your own fruit?

Limited Tickets, Maximum Excitement: We love to keep things exclusive! That's why we hand out a limited number of tickets, ensuring that the crowds are thick and the atmosphere is electric. Get ready to elbow your way through the masses for the best apples!

A Commercialized Wonderland: Forget the rustic charm of a traditional orchard. We've got all the bells and whistles of a modern amusement park! From our overpriced cider press to the overpriced souvenir shop, we've got something for everyone to enjoy – as long as they have a fat wallet.

So, if you're looking for a truly unique apple-picking experience that's as overpriced as it is commercialized, then look no further! Our orchard is the perfect place to create memories that will last a lifetime – or at least until your wallet is empty.

Additional Tips:

Don't forget to bring your own basket, because ours are made of pure gold and cost a small fortune. If you're planning to visit on a weekend, be prepared to wait in line for hours. Trust me, it's worth it! And remember, the best apples are always the ones you picked yourself – even if they cost an...

Hubby and I had a great time visiting this beautiful mountain orchard and picking Fuji and Pink Lady apples. Being here reminds me of the true beauty of Virginia, the hills and the mountains.

The View: amazing views of the mountains and valleys, beautiful orchard with trees chock full of fruit

Mobility: for those with mobility issues, they offer drive thru services! And you drive through a picturesque scenic drive going into and leaving the mountain

Apple Barn & Apple Cider donuts: cute stuff for sale in the barn aka the gift shop. If you're military they will give you a discount in the gift shop! There's also a wine tasting shop, multiple food and drink vendors along with their main counter serving their star attraction...

APPLE CIDER DONUTS! WOW, they are good! You should expect the lines to be long. Get ready to stand

The walk to the orchards: walk up the mountain can be strenuous for ANYBODY. Kids, normal people, elderly folks, please be mindful that you'll be walking uphill and it's exhausting! Picking areas in November can be a 2 mile walk UP the mountain

Parking: there's a huge dirt gravel lot but the workers will make you park in the back. There were spots in the front but they discouraged you from going to the front. My guess? Lots of families & kids walking near the front and vehicles driving would kick up dirt to the people who are walking

Facilities: there were portable potty's throughout, and a regular/normal bathroom near the food vendors

People: there were a diverse group of folks from all ages and all walks of life visiting Carter mountain orchard. We noticed quite a handful of UVA (University of Virginia) students with the school located nearby. Nothing negative, they are good kids😃

Be sure to grab some apple cider donuts, fresh apple cider, apple pie and maybe even a couple jars of apple sauce before you leave! The prices are a little steep for the apples, but hey, you will have an unforgettable memory and experience!

Oh, and the apples are Delicious! Crunchy. -Juicy- Tasty!...

We have been apple picking at Carters for the last 6 years and have enjoyed all of them. October 5 was a bit chaotic and if you’re looking to visit this Apple Orchard, I would strongly urge you to come during a weekday to avoid the massive crowds since that can deter from the experience.

Pros: Bold Rock Sunset Slice is the best of the bunch. Apple Cider Donuts are freshly made, warm, and delicious. Add an Apple Cider Slushie to complete the food experience! The Mountain Overlook view is stunning and overall ambience is nice

Mixed Pros/Cons: It’s a little pricey, but it’s ultimately about the experience. You can always go to the grocery store if you want cheaper options. The no bag policy and rule explaining adds to the time it takes to start picking - and most people waiting in line couldn’t hear or understand what was being said anyways. The no bag policy should be enforced at the entrance where people are closer to their cars, and a guard posted at the 3 exits. There is not much stopping someone from dumping apples in their cars and walking back in since both sides of the orchard forces you go back into the parking lot.

Cons: Crowded. Tablespace is limited. 30 minute wait in an unshaded line to get donuts and cider slushie. The guard staff in the orchard weren’t exactly friendly. I am guessing they were dealing with aggravating customers and standing in 80 degree weather, making them irritable. Weekends cost extra money for the same, if not worse, experience

Things to watch for: Look up what apples are going to be in season ahead of time. The better baking apples aren’t ready yet (Winesap was when I was there, but not my favorite to use). Look for Granny Smith and Pink Lady dates. Stinkbugs and bees are prevalent this time of year Wash your apples when you get home. Found several mealy bugs on a lot of the apples and if you’re a plant lover, don’t put the apples...