Charlottesville, Virginia, was home to two of our greatest Presidents, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, and a recent visit confirmed to me that they certainly knew what they were doing when they picked this region, known as Virginia's "Hunt Country," as a place to live. Now also famous as the home of the University of Virginia, which has one of the prettiest campuses in the country, Charlottesville is situated on the Piedmont Plateau in the foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Though it has the sophistication one would expect from a university-town, Charlottesville and surrounding Albemarle County have remained fairly unspoiled by modern eyesores, and indeed the County is still largely agricultural. A long weekend in the Charlottesville area will reward the visitor with a host of activities and attractions that will make one realize why it could make a President's eyes twinkle. Here is a list of highlights you'll encounter on a visit to Charlottesville and Albemarle County: Monticello - the beautiful home of President Thomas Jefferson is one to be admired from an architectural as well as an historical perspective. The author of the Declaration of Independence was a "Renaissance Man," whose interest in architecture and innovative "gadgets" is visible throughout the house. Tours are available daily throughout the year, except Christmas Day. Ash Lawn - Highland - The home of James Monroe, fifth President of the United States, the "cabin castle" was built on a site selected by his friend Thomas Jefferson, who also sent his gardeners to plant the orchards. Today, Ash Lawn - Highlands is a 535-acre estate with the atmosphere of a working plantation. The house, with its elegant furnishings, is open daily except Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. Monticello Wine Trail - Among his many accomplishments, Thomas Jefferson was also the "Father of American Wine-Making." His vision was to produce exceptional wines like those he had tasted on his European travels. Today, there are 18 wineries in the area around Charlottesville, with most of them open daily for tours and tastings. You can get more information on the website, www.monticellowinetrail.org. Michie Tavern - Founded in 1784 by Scotsman William Michie, the original tavern and outbuildings can be seen on a self-guided tour. You can also have a Colonial lunch, called "Midday Fare," that features period dishes served by a costumed staff. The University of Virginia - The campus, personally designed by Thomas Jefferson, is considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. The Rotunda Building, based on the Pantheon in Rome, was called by Jefferson 'a temple of knowledge." Guided tours by students are available when classes are in session. For more information, visit www.virginia.edu. Historic Downtown - Charlottesville's Downtown Historic District is not only a fountain of history, it's a fun shopping area with a pedestrian mall that has more than 100 shops, restaurants, and bistros over an 8-block area. You can see the building where Presidents Jefferson, Madison and Monroe practiced law, and look for antiques, books and specialty clothing. There's also live theatre, art galleries, cinemas and live music. There's even a free trolley between Downtown and the University. The Boar's Head Inn - An historic inn that's become a popular resort and conference center, the Boar's Head offers luxurious accommodations in an atmosphere of Virginia gentility and Southern hospitality. In October, it's host to the Monticello Wine Festival. For more information, go to www.boarsheadinn.com, or call (800) 476-1988. For additional information on visiting the Charlottesville/Albemarle County area, contact The Charlottesville/Albemarle County Visitors Association at www.soveryvirginia.com, or dial toll free, (877) 386-1102. You can reach the State of Virginia Dept. of Tourism at www.virginia.org, or (800) 847-4882. Enjoy!