Ashtabula County, one of nine Ohio counties fortunate enough to share a section of the Lake Erie shoreline, is also a county that's big on viticulture (what's that?). Perfectly moderated by Lake Erie and Grand River Valley, this region is second to none for growing grapes. Positioned in an ideal microclimate, nearly two dozen wineries take advantage of these exceptional conditions. Conjuring up any ideas of taking a wine tour? A self-guided driving tour may also include some of Ashtabula County’s 18 covered bridges and dozens of barn-quilt sites.
   One of the highlights of the covered bridge tours is the Mechanicsville Road Bridge. At 156 feet, the bridge is the longest single-span covered bridge in Ashtabula County. Believed to be the oldest of the county’s covered bridges as well, the bridge features a Howe truss as it crosses the Grand River. Built in 1867, the support system consists of 15 layers of 2x8 lumber encased by large beams that form the "X" design of the truss.
   At one time, according to the Ashtabula County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Ashtabula boasted more than 50 covered bridges. Today, the remaining bridges are showcased on the second weekend in October during the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival. Held on the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds during mid-October, the festival includes driving tours of the bridges, crafts, entertainment, historic vehicles, and a farmers market.

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