Our Beauty and Heritage
Close your eyes and imagine. Off in the distance you can see lush
beautiful mountains of azure blue with just a touch of morning
dew to make them glisten. As you move closer, you begin to see
the beautiful pink, magenta and white blooms of spring trees or
the brilliant red, orange, and gold autumn leaves. Now just look
a little closer, did you see it? Yes, it was a mother deer and
three fawns having a morning snack. And over there, what was that?
Oh, it was a squirrel scampering up an oak tree. Now listen, do
you hear the gentle gurgle of a nearby stream? Or the unique melody
of a bird passing by? Do you hear the faint whisper of a breeze
through the trees?
Native Americans
This area has a unique place in the history of our country and
honors its heritage daily. Early Indians populated this corner
of the mountains and several sites have been unearthed to record
their culture.
Pioneers
As pioneers began to follow the hunting trails of the native Indians,
settlement of the mountains quickly followed. The Blue Ridge Parkway
as well as many regional museums offer hands-on demonstrations
of the ingenuity, hardiness, bravery and sheer strength of the
people who survived in the mountains.
Daniel Boone
Daniel Boone blazed many trails in the region and eventually found
the Cumberland Gap, the passageway over the Appalachian Mountains
to the west. Cumberland Gap National Park provides breathtaking
vistas and an historical snapshot of this important time in American
history.
Coal Mining
The boom of the coal mining industry, the constant risks taken
by the miners, and the tools of the mining trade are exhibited
at many museums and coal mines scattered throughout Southwest
Virginia.
Civil War
The Civil War brought bloodshed to the region at several battle
sites including Wytheville, Saltville, and Newbern. The region
has preserved several historic homes which are highlighted on
Historic Walking Tours, Christmas Tours, Garden Tours, and special
festivals year 'round.
Country Music
This are has a unique place in the history of country music and
honors this heritage with special events of glorious sounds. Throughout
the region, you will find quaint shops which showcase area artists
and craftsmen as well as many small and large antiques. Indoor
and outdoor theatres bring comedy, drama and history to life.
While you are here, include a few stops at our national forests, state parks, trails, or the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. Prefer the conveniences of life? Hundreds of hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and resorts can be found throughout Southwest Virginia. You won't leave hungry, there's restaurants for everyone's appetite including some unique ones with local flavor or an abundance of nationally known eateries.
No matter the season, you'll enjoy a visit to the Blue Ridge Highlands of Southwest Virginia. We're ready to make it memorable.