Virginia’s Western Highlands is located on the western edge of the famous Shenandoah Valley along the border with West Virginia.
You’ll find everything that Virginia is famous for – history, beauty, hospitality – plus a few surprises found only in the Western Highlands.
Craig County is the southern gateway to Virginia’s Western Highlands. More than 112,000 acres of National Forest give visitors to Craig County an enormous playground for fishing, hunting, birding, camping and hiking, including access to the famous Appalachian Trail. Step back in time as you stroll through historic New Castle and the one-of-a-kind town of Paint Bank, VA.
The Alleghany Highlands is home to two pedestrian friendly downtowns and one of the oldest covered bridges in the United States. The downtowns of Covington and Clifton Forge offer locally-owned shopping and dining opportunities as well as historic sites like the C&O Depot, a meticulously restored passenger rail station and the C&O Heritage Center which tells the story of the railroad and its vital role in the community. The Alleghany Highlands is perhaps best known for its outdoor recreation, including paddling, fishing, hiking and some of the best mountain biking in Virginia.
Famous for its mineral springs, outdoor recreation and cultural arts, the County of Bath is a captivating four season destination. Whether you are interested in visiting the world-renowned Omni Homestead Resort for a relaxing vacation, attending a concert at Garth Newel Music Center, visiting our shops and galleries, or renting a boat for a weekend fishing trip, the County of Bath has something for everyone.
Highland County is the northern gateway to Virginia’s Western Highlands. Home to the headwaters of the James and Potomac rivers, it is one of the least populated counties east of the Mississippi River. Its high average elevation is key to the success of the local maple syrup industry, which culminates each year in its longstanding Maple Festival. Known for its breathtaking beauty and rural charm, Highland is characterized by unspoiled forests, pristine waterways and high mountain pastures. Due to the abundance of clean, cold spring water, trout can be caught year-round in the county’s streams and at hatcheries like the Virginia Trout Company. Beyond the natural wonders, Highland County holds a tight-knit community made up of a mix of native farm families and new residents drawn to the high quality of life. It is perfect for those seeking solitude and a refreshing sense of freedom. Come shop, hike, bike, explore, or just unwind—and make yourself a part of our unique mountain culture!
