Welcome to Southwestern Virginia.

Southwest Virginia, often abbreviated as SWVA, is a mountainous region of Virginia in the westernmost part of the commonwealth. The term Western Virginia is usually synonymous with Southwest Virginia as the northwestern counties in antebellum Virginia became part of West Virginia during the Civil War. As a result, Southwest Virginia is bordered on the north by Southern West Virginia. southwest Virginia differs from the rest of the commonwealth in that its culture is more closely associated to Appalachia than to the other regions of Virginia. Historically, the region has been and remains rural, but in the 20th Century, coal mining became an important part of its economy up until the second half of the century.

The Appalachian Mountains have the most direct impact upon the geography of southwest Virginia and are often credited for isolating its residents from the rest of the commonwealth. Southwest Virginia falls into the ridge and valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains portions of the Appalachia mountains. Within the mountains, coal fields have been one of the sources of the significant economic booms in the region. The major river of the region is the New River, one of the oldest in North America.

Known for it's mountain beauty and peaceful rural setting, Southwestern Virginia is also home to fabulous outdoor recreation opportunities. Visit Daniel Boone Territory and hike the 7 mile wilderness road. Then travel to Abingdon, chartered in 1778,it is among the oldest towns west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Early on the Native Americans regarded Abingdon as sacred land. They did not hunt or settle here. Today, enjoy the same unspoiled beauty, but along side the modern amenities which flourish. Whether your interest is architecture or the arts, Abingdon is sure to delight. Stroll the shaded brick sidewalks… see 200-year old landmarks… experience studios, shops and galleries, while savoring the gardens.

Southwestern Virginia stretches from Big Stone Gap to Wytheville. The Virginia Highland Festival unfolds during the first two weeks in August. It has been named one of the top 100 tourist events in North America. Browse tents filled with antiques, shop the open-air markets, enjoy a concert or play. If the outdoors beckons, The Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile National Recreation Trail, originates just off Main Street in Abingdon. Enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. Also, take advantage of nearby Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, the scenic forks of the Holston River and the South Holston Lake, some of the highest mountains in the Eastern United States.

Whether you desire the charm of a historic inn or the economy of a family hotel, you can find it on Virginia Tourists Guide.com