The diversity of Virginia's geographic regions has allowed it to be a state with multiple identities. In the coastal plain, life is determined by access to the ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. In Piedmont, rolling hills and farmland create a stunning countryside surrounding the metropolis. Then head west to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Valley and Ridge, and Appalachian Plateau, where you'll find ancient mountain ranges towering over rivers, valleys, and various small towns. Many of them have their own unique personalities. Things to see and reasons to visit.
“Virginia's mountain towns remind me of windy roads and endless stone walls. It's like stepping back in time,” says Ann Shannon, chief concierge at The Clifton, a boutique hotel in Charlottesville. It will be,” he says. “I also remember the eclectic shops, good food, very friendly people, and fresh air. It gives me peace.”
As someone who grew up in Bedford, a small town at the base of Otter Peak, I too can vouch for this unique blend of charm, magic, and nostalgia. And fall is an especially special time to experience fall, although, according to Shannon, the fall foliage is “unparalleled, with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges cascading across the mountain range.” Virginia's best mountain towns fill the year. Read on to find out what our experts recommend.
charlottesville
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Charlottesville may technically be a city, but it leans more toward a small town than a bustling metropolis. “Charlottesville, home to the University of Virginia, is a beautiful college town,” Shannon says. “I love walking around his UVA grounds and hiking the Rivanna He Trail and Sanders Monticello Trail. [also] A great hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just a short drive from Charlottesville. ” When you're hungry, fill up at a neighborhood bistro or snack on a charcuterie plate at a local winery. “The restaurant offers a great culinary experience and is home to over 40 of her vineyards in the region,” she added.
harrisonburg
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If you're traveling through the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, be sure to stop in Harrisonburg. “This prime location provides access to most of the outdoor activities you'd want to do in Virginia, including hiking, biking, rock climbing, paddling, hunting, fishing, and off-road trails,” says Blue Ridge Mountain Guide, says Grant Price. guide. Want to learn more about exploring the area? He recommends visiting the many fashion stores in Harrisonburg, including Walkabout He Outfitter and Mossy He Creek He Fly He Fishing.
lexington
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Another college mountain town to add to your list is Lexington, home of the Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. “The main street, surrounded by mountains, welcomes visitors with cute shops and nice restaurants, most of which are locally owned,” says Shannon, who recommends staying overnight at The George's. I recommend. If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to include time on your itinerary to enjoy a performance at the Lime Kiln Theatre, an afternoon at Devil's Backbone Brewing Company, or a full day of tubing on the Maury River or fly-fishing in nearby streams. Please incorporate it.
galax
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Galax, Virginia is well above average in two areas: music and mountain adventure. It's not only a stop along The Crooked Road, Virginia's musical heritage trail, but also known as the Old Music Capital of the World. Appalachian music continues to reign supreme here, with venues such as the Blue Ridge Music Center, the Old Fiddler's Convention (held each August), and The Rex, a historic theater and live music venue downtown. You can listen to music in a variety of ways. Galax. Before heading out to hike or mountain bike along the New River Trail, which has a trailhead in Galax, stop by New River Trail Outfitters for last-minute gear and bike rentals.
damascus
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“Simply put, Damascus is a city of trails,” Price says. “In fact, we are one of only three downtowns on the Appalachian Trail” (the other two being Hot Springs, North Carolina and Hanover, New Hampshire), but this definition depends on understanding the trail's alignment and (depending on where it falls in relation to the town.) He also notes that the mountain town is home to 53.4 miles of trails. Virginia Creeper Trail. Many runners, hikers, and bikers use the area between Abingdon and the Virginia-North Carolina border to explore. While in Damascus, be sure to visit Appalachian Heritage Distillery to sip bourbon and dine at The Damascus Diner.
luray
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Those familiar with Virginia may think of Luray Caverns, a geological wonder and the largest cave in the eastern United States, when they hear the town of Luray, but this Shenandoah Valley town has much more to offer. there are a lot of. Start your journey by checking into Hotel Laurence and start earning miles with Skyline Drive. Hiking in Shenandoah National Park is, of course, a must. You can also make a quick stop at the Luray Valley Museum or enjoy a family day out at nearby Mount Massanutten. During the warmer months, the resort's outdoor water park offers hours of fun on the water slides and wave pool.
sperry building
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One of the best things about mountain towns is that you can explore them in just a day or two. Take Sperryville, for example. This small destination has two main streets and no traffic lights. It's the perfect basecamp for those driving the Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking in Shenandoah National Park. “On a recent visit to RPK Pizza Kitchen, we had lunch and everything was delicious, gourmet, and fresh,” Shannon says. “Right next door is The Corner Store, an upscale grocery store with local products, perfect for picking up fresh bread and wine for dinner. Just 10 minutes north is The Corner Store.” Patty O's in Washington is a true culinary destination.
roanoke
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“Roanoke continues to evolve into an outdoor hotspot,” Price said. “One of his shining examples is the annual Roanoke Go Outside Festival, which attracts paddlers, bikers, hikers, Frisbee golfers, tree climbers… [and all types of] Along with people outdoors. ” For those looking for a small-town feel while in the city, head to historic Grandin Village, a walkable neighborhood filled with all kinds of boutiques, local restaurants, coffee shops, and live music performances. For travelers looking for a more heart-pounding adventure, Price recommends “classic sections of the Appalachian Trail, such as Dragon's Tooth and McAfee Knob.” The latter is his one of the most photographed spots on the AT.
bedford
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Bedford is a small mountain town that is starting to come into its own in Virginia's tourism world. It's an easy day trip from Lynchburg and Roanoke, about 20 and 40 minutes, respectively, and its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains is unbeatable. The Peaks of Otter is a short drive away with hiking trails, picnic tables, and beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Parkway. While in town, stop by the National Day Memorial, grab a beer at Beale's Brewery, or shop for local art at Goose Creek Studio.
