When you think about wine country in Arkansas, the tiny town of Altus will come to mind. After all, Altus is where Arkansas' wine-making roots began. Over the years, the Arkansas River Valley has solidified itself as the wine country of our state. And today, several vineyards and wineries have been thriving inside the charming towns in the area. So, naturally, if you love wine, these towns are the perfect places to escape. But there is one small town in Arkansas' wine country that belongs on your bucket list. Let's take a trip to the delightful town of Roland, sip some delectable wine, and bask in all its beauty.
Nestled on the banks of the pristine Lake Maumelle in the Arkansas River Valley is the unincorporated community of Roland.
In its early days, the town was a stop on the Little Rock and Memphis Railroad, and it attracted Italian immigrants who settled nearby.
With its picturesque landscapes as well as its charming farms and wineries, this small town in Arkansas is perfect for a getaway.
In addition, the quaint town is home to 2 wineries and is a venue on Arkansas' wine trail. So, if you love wine, you'll want to visit this town to experience all that it has to offer.
As one of the 2 wineries in Roland, you'll want to stop by River Bottom Winery.
Tucked in the countryside near Mill Bayou, this gorgeous winery features wine tasting as well as live entertainment. It is also a venue for weddings, birthday parties, special events, and more.
Specializing in wine made from fruit that is grown on the 235-acre working farm, you'll find wine that will satisfy any pallet.
Also, light refreshments are served on the patio, so you could easily spend the entire day basking in all its glory. Not to mention that each year, the family friendly farm attracts lots of visitors.
Roland is known for its charming farms and the Wye Mountain Flowers & Berries Farm is a must-visit.
Enjoy a day of picking your own berries, buy freshly cut flowers, or delight in a picnic on the well-manicured grounds. If you're traveling with your family, this would be a wonderful place to spend the day.
The crown jewel of the town is Pinnacle Mountain State Park that attracts thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year.
And as one of Arkansas’ most breathtaking parks, you'll want to hike one of the trails to marvel at the majestic views of the Arkansas River Valley.
Or perhaps enjoy a day of fishing or boating on Lake Maumelle. Or take the kids to explore the nearby Pinnacle Mountain visitors center or the Arboretum.
While in town, stop by the Little Italy Arkansas Heritage Society for a history lesson of the Italian immigrants who settled the land.
Each year, a festival is held in town to commemorate the rich Italian history of Central Arkansas.
Though there are no main restaurants in Roland, there's a great Italian eatery just a few minutes in nearby Little Rock.
You'll be delighted by a delicious Italian feast at Milano’s Italian Grill. Plus, the restaurant has an impressive wine list and it's a favorite of the locals.
After you've feasted, a visit to An Enchanting Evening Winery will complete a trip to Roland. As the second winery in town, this venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Spend a magical evening touring the winery, as well as mixing, bottling, and wax sealing your own blend of personalized wine.
Or relax on the patio, sip their award-winning wine, while marveling at breathtaking views of Pinnacle Mountain. It's the perfect way to end a magical day in Roland.
But wait, the fun doesn't end there. For a truly breathtaking experience, book an overnight stay in a cottage at Moss Mountain Farm.
Home to P. Allen Smith, one of "America’s most talented garden designers" this stunning estate is by far one of the most delightful places in town. Experience awe-inspiring views from atop the mountain, while basking in all the charm and beauty of the farm. As you can tell, Roland has a lot to offer and it's arguably the best small town in Arkansas' wine country.
Have you spent the day in the charming town of Roland? If you have, did you visit the wineries in the town? If so, tell us in the comments below. And for more information about Pinnacle Mountain State Park, be sure to read our previous article about this unique state park in Arkansas.
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