Virginia

The Islands of Virginia's Eastern Shore: Chincoteague, Assateague and Wallops

Program No. 2018RJ
Experience the wonders of Virginia’s Eastern Shore islands as you explore local museums, see the wild ponies of Assateague and enjoy special access to unspoiled Wallops Island.

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At a Glance

Wild ponies, fresh and saltwater wetlands, sand dunes and small town hospitality await you in one of Virginia’s most unique settings among the barrier islands of the Delmarva Peninsula. Experience Chincoteague, Assateague and Wallops Island with Chincoteague Bay Field Station. Chincoteague’s fascinating history of the settlement of the Eastern Shore sets it apart. Gain access to NASA’s restricted Wallops Island to study an environment left unspoiled. And explore Assateague’s forests and discover the wild ponies.
Activity Level
Easy Going
Walking up to a quarter-mile at a time.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Stroll the beach and collect seashells on restricted-access Wallops Island where we may just be the only group there all day.
  • Learn about the art and history of the waterfowl decoy as a local carver demonstrates his skill.
  • Learn about the Tales of Chincoteague from local experts.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, a live performance or event, and a value-priced single room. ATTENTION FOREIGN NATIONALS: Part of this program takes place on Wallops Island, which is a restricted access NASA base. In order to participate in the Wallops Island activities, all foreign nationals must complete additional paperwork at least 6 weeks in advance to be allowed access onto the base. Access is then subject to approval by NASA Wallops Island base. If you are a foreign national enrolled in this program, please contact the program provider directly at julie@cbfieldstation.org to request the required forms.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Nancy Richards West
Nancy Richards West has lived on Chincoteague Island for three decades, using this picturesque setting as inspiration for her paintings. The first resident artist chosen by the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, the thrill of painting en plein air often lures her out of the studio and into the field, where she captures the effects of changing light, weather and seasons. Nancy has extensive training in classical drawing and color theory, and her delicate treatment of oils is subtly elegant.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

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Nancy Richards West View biography
Nancy Richards West has lived on Chincoteague Island for three decades, using this picturesque setting as inspiration for her paintings. The first resident artist chosen by the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, the thrill of painting en plein air often lures her out of the studio and into the field, where she captures the effects of changing light, weather and seasons. Nancy has extensive training in classical drawing and color theory, and her delicate treatment of oils is subtly elegant.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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