At Virginia's westernmost tip, the Heart of Appalachia region is one of rugged beauty in its landscapes, culture and people.
From the Cherokees to the coal miners to modern-day celebrities, the folks here will astound you.
Music is celebrated along "The Crooked Road: Virginia's Heritage Music Trail," which takes you to mountain-music venues for some serious flat-footin', fast fiddle and banjo tunes and lonesome tenor echo's. One of the most famous celebrities of this region was Dr. Ralph Stanley, who has an event in his honor every spring. Some of the Saturday night events include:
- Carter Fold Music Gathering in Hiltons
- The Virginia-Kentucky Opry in Norton
The history and heritage of the region can be explored at:
The rugged beauty of the region can be explored at:
- Burke's Garden - a crater-like valley atop a mountain; dubbed "God's Thumbprint"
- Cumberland Gap National Park
- Natural Tunnel State Park - take a chairlift ride!
- Breaks Interstate Park
If you enjoy adventure, this region is loaded with places to canoe and kayak, camp and see wildlife.
Enjoy the Heart of Appalachia, where the heartbeat of the region continues to reverberate through the people that travel here and witness its many charms.
Area Events
Trip Ideas
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These five small towns beckon you to come stay a while and experience the laid back charm of Southwest Virginia.
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Virginia's Appalachia region in the southwest corner has a rich culinary scene where chefs utilize locally sourced ingredients to craft historically-rooted Appalachian cuisine.
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The area has been receiving a lot of buzz for its growing culinary scene, and what goes best with great food? A cold craft beer.
