The Dell UVA - Plaza de Castilla
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The Dell UVA

4.7
·28 reviews·Charlottesville, United States

A tranquil green oasis on the UVA campus, featuring a serene pond perfect for fishing, picnics, and quiet contemplation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nature awakens beautifully

CrowdLow
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The Dell UVA - Plaza de Castilla

The Dell UVA

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nature awakens beautifully

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil green oasis on the UVA campus, featuring a serene pond perfect for fishing, picnics, and quiet contemplation.

4.7
(28 reviews)

"Great hidden gem in Charlottesville. Serene and well maintained green space."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Cast a Line

The Dell UVA pond is stocked with bluegill and bass, making it a great spot for casual fishing.

🌳 Nature's Classroom

Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection, especially during spring when the greenery is vibrant.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dell Pond

The Dell Pond

Central area

A tranquil pond surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for quiet contemplation and spotting local wildlife.

Contemplative Commons Adjacent

Contemplative Commons Adjacent

Near the pond

Experience the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, bringing nature's calm right to the edge of the university.

Fishing Haven

Fishing Haven

Pond edges

A beloved spot for anglers, teeming with bluegill, bass, and catfish, offering a rewarding fishing experience.

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Embrace the Tranquility

Discover a serene escape at The Dell UVA, a hidden gem perfect for quiet reflection or a peaceful picnic. It's an ideal spot to decompress between classes or enjoy nature's beauty.

Fishing Fun for All

The Dell UVA is a fantastic spot for fishing, especially with kids. Expect to catch bluegill, bass, and catfish in its well-stocked pond. It's a great place to teach beginners!

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Nature awakens beautifully
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Picnic and relaxation
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall evenings
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Modern style and masterfully landscaped backyard overlooking stunning views of the UVA Dell pond and new Contemplative Commons. Enjoy a tranquil oasis less than a block from UVA grounds! 1916 Thomson Road, Charlottesville, VA. @lorrie_nicholson #home #house #homedesign #uva #charlottesville
nestrealtycharlottesville
98 likes • 2.3K views

🎣 Cast a Line

The Dell UVA pond is stocked with bluegill and bass, making it a great spot for casual fishing. Reddit

🌳 Nature's Classroom

Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection, especially during spring when the greenery is vibrant. Instagram

Meditate with your friends and community at our special Meditation from the Dell! A soothing sound bath, guided meditation, and live music by The Golden Hours will transform Dell Field at UVA this Saturday at 12:45 pm. Free and open to all! This event is weather permitting. For more information, please visit the link in our bio. 🎤: @spenceropatrny @uva #uva #wahoowa #charlottesville #meditati...
uvacsc
91 likes • 22.3K views
Master Naturalist class today @uvacsc #uva #thedelluva #spring #masternaturalist #nature #urbanforest
amylowelllikesblue
35 likes • 467 views

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Enjoy a relaxing picnic with a great view, especially on weekends. Benches are available. Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The fall foliage and serene pond offer stunning photographic opportunities. Instagram

Guess what's here on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag Metallic paper? This is an 8 x 12 print of one of my fall photos in The Dell at UVA (chosen by my lucky giveaway winner). Quality confirmed ✅️ I will be opening direct photo orders as soon as I finish my website (which has been put on hold until next week). #oliviahathaway #photography #ohphotography #oliviasphotographyhobby #fall #autumn #art #wallart...
okhismakingart
1 likes • 61 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Cast a Line

The Dell UVA pond is stocked with bluegill and bass, making it a great spot for casual fishing. Reddit

🌳 Nature's Classroom

Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection, especially during spring when the greenery is vibrant. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Enjoy a relaxing picnic with a great view, especially on weekends. Benches are available. Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The fall foliage and serene pond offer stunning photographic opportunities. Instagram

🤫 Quiet Contemplation

Ideal for a quick pause between classes or a moment of quiet reflection. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The Dell UVA as a serene and well-maintained hidden gem in Charlottesville, perfect for peaceful reflection and family fishing. Its natural beauty and accessibility make it a beloved spot for students and locals alike.

"Great hidden gem in Charlottesville. Serene and well maintained green space."

Forrest Lloyd

"Grew up fishing here. You won’t find a better place to learn how to fish in the entire world. This place is loaded with various sizes of bluegill, bass, catfish, and the occasional koi!"

Tianhan H

"Great spot to fish with the kids. Small pond with good sized large mouth bass. Plenty of bluegill as well."

Robert Jeffers

What People Like

Serene and peaceful atmosphere
Great fishing spot
Beautiful natural setting

What People Dislike

Limited direct parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Dell UVA is located on the University of Virginia grounds. It's easily accessible on foot from central campus, particularly near the Contemplative Commons. Parking is available in nearby university garages, though walking is often the most convenient way to reach this green space. Instagram

Yes, The Dell UVA is situated within the University of Virginia campus, which is well-served by the Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) bus system. Several routes stop near the university grounds, making it accessible via public transport. Check the CAT website for specific routes and schedules.

While you can drive to the general vicinity of The Dell UVA, direct vehicle access into the green space itself is limited. It's best to park in designated university lots or garages and then walk to the Dell. Instagram

The closest parking options are typically university parking garages such as the Central Grounds Garage or the Emmet/Ivy Parking Garage. From these garages, it's a short walk to The Dell. Instagram

Absolutely! The Dell UVA is a perfect spot for a quick dip between classes, offering a peaceful environment to recharge. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Dell UVA is a public green space on the University of Virginia campus and does not require an admission ticket. Entry is free for all visitors. Instagram

As an outdoor green space on the UVA campus, The Dell UVA is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set closing times, but it's advisable to visit during reasonable hours. Instagram

Fishing at The Dell UVA is free, but you will need a valid Virginia fishing license if you are over a certain age, as per state regulations. Reddit

Yes, The Dell UVA occasionally hosts events like meditation sessions with sound baths and live music, especially in conjunction with the Contemplative Sciences Center. Instagram

The Dell UVA is a public space, and reservations for private events are generally not available. It's best suited for informal gatherings and individual enjoyment. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy peaceful walks, fishing, picnicking, photography, or simply relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. It's also a great spot for quiet contemplation. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a wonderful spot for families. Kids can enjoy fishing in the pond and exploring the green space in a safe, serene environment. Reddit

Restroom facilities are not directly located within The Dell itself. However, you can typically find restrooms in nearby campus buildings, such as the Contemplative Commons. Instagram

While specific leash laws can vary on university grounds, dogs are generally welcome at The Dell UVA as long as they are leashed and cleaned up after. It's always good to check UVA's campus policies.

You can spot various bird species, and the pond is home to bluegill, bass, catfish, and sometimes koi. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Dell UVA is beautiful year-round. Spring offers lush greenery, while fall provides stunning foliage. Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or large-scale photo shoots might require permission from the university. Instagram

The pond itself, the reflections on the water, the surrounding trees, and the architecture of the nearby Contemplative Commons offer excellent photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Selling photos taken at The Dell UVA might fall under commercial use, which could require university permission. It's best to check UVA's policies on commercial photography. Instagram

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great. A wide-angle lens can capture the landscape, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Dell UVA is a fantastic destination for families looking for a peaceful outdoor experience. The pond is a highlight, offering a safe and engaging environment for children to try their hand at fishing. It's stocked with bluegill and bass, ensuring plenty of bites to keep young anglers excited. Reddit

Beyond fishing, the open green spaces are perfect for kids to run around and explore. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the pond, making for a delightful afternoon outing. It’s a low-key, natural setting that provides a refreshing break from screen time and city bustle, allowing families to connect with nature and each other. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Students and Faculty

For students and faculty at the University of Virginia, The Dell UVA is an invaluable sanctuary. It offers a much-needed escape for quiet contemplation, a peaceful study spot, or a brief respite between demanding classes. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty provide an ideal environment to de-stress and recharge. Reddit

Its proximity to campus buildings, including the Contemplative Commons, makes it incredibly convenient for a quick visit. Whether you're looking for a quiet bench to read, a scenic spot for a mindful moment, or simply a breath of fresh air, The Dell UVA is an accessible and restorative amenity right on your doorstep. Instagram

📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers

The Dell UVA is a dream for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The picturesque pond, surrounded by mature trees, offers stunning reflections and a tranquil ambiance. The changing seasons paint the landscape with vibrant colors, especially in the fall, providing endless opportunities for capturing beautiful shots. Instagram

From wildlife spotting to landscape photography, the area offers diverse subjects. The interplay of light and shadow, especially during the golden hours, creates magical moments. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in nature and capture its serene beauty, whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Natural Oasis on Campus

The Dell UVA is a cherished green space nestled within the University of Virginia's campus, offering a peaceful retreat from academic life. It's a well-maintained area featuring a serene pond, lush trees, and open lawns, making it a popular spot for students and locals alike. The adjacent Contemplative Commons further enhances the area's tranquil atmosphere, seamlessly blending the natural environment with spaces for reflection and well-being. Instagram

This hidden gem is particularly noted for its biodiversity. The pond is a thriving ecosystem, home to various fish species like bluegill and bass, making it a surprisingly popular spot for fishing, even for beginners. Birdwatchers can also find enjoyment here, observing local avian life. The changing seasons bring new beauty, from the vibrant greens of spring to the stunning colors of autumn foliage, offering a picturesque backdrop throughout the year. Instagram+1

Beyond its natural beauty, The Dell UVA serves as a vital space for relaxation and community engagement. It's an ideal location for a quiet picnic, a moment of meditation, or simply a leisurely stroll. The area's accessibility and serene ambiance make it a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and reconnect with nature amidst the bustling university environment. Reddit

Fishing at The Dell UVA: A Local's Favorite

For many who grew up in Charlottesville or attended UVA, The Dell UVA holds special memories as a prime fishing spot. The pond is known for being well-stocked with a variety of fish, including bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. This makes it an excellent location for both experienced anglers and those new to the sport, especially children. Reddit

The accessibility and calm waters of The Dell make it an ideal place to teach someone how to fish. The abundance of smaller fish like bluegill provides plenty of action, while the presence of bass offers a more challenging catch. Some visitors have even noted the occasional koi, adding to the pond's unique charm. It’s a place where simple joys of nature can be experienced firsthand. Reddit

While fishing is a significant draw, it's important to remember that a Virginia fishing license is required for individuals over a certain age. The Dell UVA offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a peaceful fishing session without having to travel far, making it a convenient and rewarding local amenity. Reddit

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