Hollymead, VA

County: Albemarle

History

Hollymead, Virginia

Hollymead is an unincorporated community located in Albemarle County, Virginia. The area was initially settled in the 1700s by European colonists who were attracted to the region's fertile soil and natural beauty.

The name "Hollymead" is derived from the combination of two words: "holly" and "mead." Holly refers to the holly tree, which is common in the area, while mead refers to a meadow or open field. Together, the name Hollymead evokes the imagery of a landscape adorned with holly trees.

The community of Hollymead began to take shape in the late 20th century with the development of a planned community. In 1977, the Hollymead subdivision was established, offering residents a blend of residential and commercial properties. Over the years, the community expanded with the addition of new subdivisions, shopping centers, and amenities.

Hollymead has undergone significant growth and development, with an emphasis on creating a vibrant and diverse community. Numerous neighborhoods have been built, featuring a range of housing options from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments. The area boasts well-maintained streets, sidewalks, and green spaces, contributing to its appeal as a desirable place to live.

In recent years, Hollymead has seen the establishment of several shopping centers, including the Hollymead Town Center, which offers a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and services. The community also features recreational facilities, such as parks, playgrounds, and walking trails.

The proximity of Hollymead to Charlottesville, the county seat of Albemarle County, has further contributed to its growth and popularity. Residents have easy access to the amenities, employment opportunities, and cultural offerings of the city, while still enjoying the suburban lifestyle and natural surroundings of Hollymead.

Overall, Hollymead has evolved from a rural area with a rich agricultural history to a thriving suburban community with a diverse population and a wide range of amenities. Its growth and development have made it an attractive place to live for many residents in the Albemarle County area.

Attractions

The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection

The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection

It is the only museum outside Australia dedicated solely to Aboriginal art. It holds one of the finest collections of Indigenous Australian art in the world.

Virginia Discovery Museum

A children's museum that offers interactive play and educational exhibits designed for kids aged 1-10 years. It provides a fun and learning experience for families.

Albemarle CiderWorks

A local cidery that offers tastings of their artisanal ciders made from locally grown apples. They also have a picturesque orchard that visitors can explore.

Ivy Creek Natural Area

A nature preserve with walking trails that wind through meadows, woodlands, and along the banks of Ivy Creek. It is a great place for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.

Old Dominion Mobile Observatory

A mobile observatory that offers stargazing events and educational programs about astronomy. Visitors can observe celestial objects through telescopes and learn about the wonders of the universe.

Ash Lawn-Highland

The historic home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States. Visitors can take guided tours of the house and gardens, and learn about the life and times of Monroe.

Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall

Although not in Hollymead specifically, it is a short drive away. It is a pedestrian mall with various shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Climate

Hollymead, Virginia experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, and mild to cool winters. The climate is influenced by its location in the southeastern United States. Here are the key features of the climate in Hollymead:

Summers

The summers in Hollymead are hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s °F (29-33 °C) in June to the low 90s °F (32-35 °C) in July and August. Heatwaves are not uncommon during this season. Humidity levels can be high, making it feel even hotter.

Winters

The winters in Hollymead are generally mild, with average low temperatures ranging from the mid-20s °F (-3 to -6 °C) in December and January to the low 30s °F (-1 to 0 °C) in February. Snowfall is relatively limited, with an annual average of about 16 inches. However, occasionally, the area may experience significant snowstorms.

Spring and Autumn

Both spring and autumn seasons in Hollymead are considered transitional periods. Springs are typically mild and gradually become warmer, with blooming flowers and trees. Autumns are mild and usually bring beautiful foliage as the leaves change color.

Rainfall

Hollymead experiences a moderate amount of rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The wettest months tend to be July and August, receiving around 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) of precipitation. Thunderstorms are common during summer afternoons. In contrast, the driest months are October and November, with an average of around 2 inches (5 cm) of rainfall.

Overall, Hollymead, VA has a pleasant climate, with warm to hot summers, mild winters, and enjoyable spring and autumn seasons. However, residents should be prepared for high humidity during the summers and potential snowfall during winters.

Neighborhoods

Hollymead is a community located in Albemarle County, Virginia, near the city of Charlottesville. It comprises several distinct neighborhoods that offer a variety of housing options, amenities, and community features. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Hollymead:

Hollymead Town Center

This is the central neighborhood within Hollymead and serves as the commercial hub of the community. It features a shopping center with major retailers, restaurants, banks, and medical facilities. The neighborhood also includes a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

Forest Lakes

This is a large, master-planned community located within Hollymead. It offers a range of housing styles, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. Forest Lakes has several amenities for residents, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, walking trails, and a golf course. The neighborhood also features a shopping center and is known for its strong sense of community.

Hollymead Square

This neighborhood is primarily comprised of townhomes and condominiums with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It provides a more urban feel and is located in close proximity to the Hollymead Town Center, making it convenient for residents looking for amenities within walking distance.

Hollymead Lake

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is centered around a picturesque lake. It primarily consists of single-family homes and offers scenic views and access to outdoor activities like fishing and boating. Hollymead Lake is ideal for those seeking a peaceful residential atmosphere with natural beauty.

Hollymead Crossing

This neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. It offers a quiet and family-friendly environment with well-maintained streets and sidewalks. Residents of Hollymead Crossing enjoy proximity to schools, parks, and community facilities.

Hollymead Square II

Situated close to Hollymead Town Center, this neighborhood features newer construction and townhomes. It provides a range of amenities and modern designs in a convenient location.

Overall, the different neighborhoods in Hollymead, VA, offer diverse housing options, amenities, and community characteristics, allowing residents to find a home and neighborhood that suits their needs and preferences.

Nearby Cities