Over on the south side of Smith Mountain Lake, you’ll find a cozy rural community brimming with local flavor, breathtaking vistas, and a collection of small businesses that prefer to keep it that way. Lovingly referred to as Southlake, this hidden gem encompasses the communities of Glade Hill, Union Hall, and Penhook, Virginia. Together, they’re quietly making a name for themselves by offering residents and visitors a more thoughtful, curated experience that’s a world apart from the busier attractions around the lake.
The pace is slower by design, but the charm is anything but ordinary.
Get ready to discover your new favorite place. Here are some of the hidden gems of Southlake, Virginia.
Fresh Finds at the Southlake Community Market
One of the best ways to experience Southlake’s sense of community is at the Southlake Community Market. Held every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. from May through October, the market brings together local farmers, artisans, and neighbors in a welcoming outdoor setting.
Visitors can browse fresh, locally grown produce, shop handcrafted goods, and connect with the people who make Southlake special. Whether you’re looking for seasonal ingredients, unique gifts, or simply a relaxing way to spend a morning, the Southlake Community Market offers a fun and authentic local experience.
Be sure to stop by during market season and discover why it has become a favorite weekly tradition for residents and visitors alike.
Luxury Tiny Homes at Belle Terre Retreats
Tucked beneath a canopy of towering hardwoods, Belle Terre Retreats offers a different kind of lake escape. Thoughtfully designed tiny homes blend modern comforts with the quiet beauty of the surrounding landscape, creating a place where mornings begin with birdsong and evenings end beneath a blanket of stars.
Located just a short drive from Smith Mountain Lake, Belle Terre is an ideal home base for exploring Southlake’s hidden gems, scenic backroads, and outdoor adventures at your own pace.
Discover Stillness at Southlake Spa & Salt Room
Southlake Spa & Salt Room is truly a wellness work of art. Located on a wooded farm only minutes from The Coves, this holistic healing space blends stillness, sustainability, and self-care through sound healing, massage, yoga, and thoughtfully curated retreats and personalized services. The spa’s signature feature is its unique salt room, housed in a beautifully restored grain bin, where guests relax and recharge while experiencing the benefits of halotherapy.
Before you leave, take the time to browse the lobby for beautiful pieces of handmade jewelry from local artisans, salt lamps, skin and body care products, and seasonal offerings like freshly picked lavender and honey, both harvested from the farm.
Find Your Story at Read Between the Wines
Part wine bar, part bookstore, part gathering place, Read Between the Wines offers guests a truly unique experience. Whether you’re immersed in a novel, writing your own adventures, or catching up with friends over a glass of chardonnay, this rare find embraces the spirit of storytelling in the most delightful way.
Choose from a curated selection of fine wines, fresh coffee and cold beverages, along with small bites that pair well with your drink of choice. There’s a local authors section, handmade gifts, cards, a gift wrapping station, and plenty of places to cozy up with your next great read.
Get Inspired at Lakescapes Nursery
Known throughout Smith Mountain Lake for its breathtaking blooms and impeccably curated grounds, Lakescapes has become a favorite destination for gardeners and casual visitors alike.
With vibrant displays of seasonal flowers, unique pottery, fresh produce, and thoughtfully arranged outdoor décor, every turn feels like a stroll through a botanical garden. In fact, many locals describe it as more of an experience than a nursery. And their passion for plants is matched only by their hospitality, making it easy for even the most hesitant gardener to leave feeling inspired.
The Little Mule Cafe
Located in nearby Penhook, The Little Mule brings together homemade recipes, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels more like visiting family than dining out. Known for authentic Mexican-inspired favorites, hearty sandwiches, and fresh-baked treats, it’s the kind of place where every meal is made with care. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat, The Little Mule offers a flavorful local experience that’s worth the short drive.
Sago’s
A true community gathering place in the heart of Penhook, Sago’s combines small-town hospitality with a surprisingly elevated menu. From handcrafted burgers and comfort-food classics to locally sourced American Wagyu specialties, there’s something for everyone at the table. The relaxed farmhouse atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite stop for both locals and visitors looking to experience the authentic charm of Franklin County.
Magnum Point Marina: One of Southlake’s Favorite Stops
For many Smith Mountain Lake locals, Magnum Point Marina is a go-to destination for great food, good company, and everything needed for a day on the water. Whether you’re fueling up with breakfast before hitting the lake, grabbing a casual lunch, or unwinding over dinner with waterfront views, there’s something on the menu for every craving.
The fun doesn’t stop with the food. Sip a handcrafted cocktail, enjoy live music on the patio, or test your knowledge during trivia night. With its laid-back atmosphere and unbeatable lakefront setting, Magnum Point captures the easygoing spirit that keeps visitors coming back.
Boaters will also find all the essentials, including covered slips and lifts, fuel, and snacks for a quick stop before heading back out on the water.
And no visit is complete without a scoop of Homestead Creamery ice cream. Because every great lake day deserves a sweet ending.
Plan Your Trip to Southlake
Whether you’re visiting for a concert, a weekend getaway, or simply a change of pace, Southlake offers a thoughtfully curated experience rooted in Southern charm with a touch of modern luxury. If you’d like help planning your visit, send us an email. Our team would be happy to help you build the perfect Southlake itinerary and discover everything this special corner of Smith Mountain Lake has to offer.