West Virginia, known as the Mountain State, is filled with hidden gems that offer peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Nestled among rolling hills and dense forests are secluded towns that capture the essence of Appalachian charm and history.
Whether you’re looking to explore rich cultural heritage, delve into fascinating history, or simply enjoy serene natural landscapes, these ten towns provide a perfect escape for homebuyers looking to get away from it all.
Join us as we count down the most secluded towns in West Virginia, each offering unique attractions and stories waiting to be discovered.
10. Thomas
Thomas is a picturesque mountain town in West Virginia with an approximate population of 600 residents. Known for its vibrant arts scene, Thomas boasts a historic downtown area lined with galleries, antique shops, and cozy cafes that reflect the town’s creative spirit.
Visitors can enjoy live music at the renowned Purple Fiddle or explore the heritage of the area at the Thomas Historic District. While the coal industry once dominated the local economy, the town has transformed into a hub for artists and outdoor enthusiasts. Secluded amidst the Appalachian Mountains, Thomas offers easy access to natural attractions like Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley, making it a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
Its remote location and small population contribute to a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
Where is Thomas?
Nestled in Tucker County, Thomas is situated in the northeastern part of West Virginia, high in the Allegheny Mountains. Its secluded nature is enhanced by the surrounding dense forests and the rugged terrain that separates it from larger cities. The town is accessible via U.S. Route 219 and West Virginia Route 32, winding roads that offer scenic views but require a deliberate journey off the main highways.
The remote location not only preserves its peaceful ambiance but also makes Thomas a gateway to the pristine wilderness areas nearby. Visitors willing to venture into the mountains are rewarded with the town’s unique blend of art, history, and natural beauty that remains untouched by the hustle of modern urban life.
9. Hillsboro
Hillsboro is a charming village in West Virginia with an approximate population of 260 people. Rich in literary history, it’s the birthplace of Nobel Prize-winning author Pearl S. Buck, and visitors can tour her beautifully preserved childhood home, now a museum.
The town is a gateway to outdoor adventures, with proximity to the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area where unique plant life flourishes in a high-elevation bog rare to this region. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with small farms dotting the rolling landscape.
Hillsboro’s seclusion stems from its location deep within the Appalachian Mountains, offering a peaceful retreat far from crowded urban centers. The town’s quiet streets and close-knit community provide a glimpse into a slower pace of life, untouched by the rapid changes of the outside world.
Where is Hillsboro?
Hillsboro is located in Pocahontas County, nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s Greenbrier Valley. Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains and expansive national forest land, the town enjoys a secluded setting away from major urban areas.
Its remote location is accentuated by the winding roads that traverse the mountainous terrain, making it a destination reached primarily by those seeking its quiet allure. Travelers can access Hillsboro via U.S. Route 219, which offers a scenic journey through rolling hills and dense forests, leading to this peaceful enclave. The town’s isolation provides a serene environment perfect for immersing oneself in nature and history.
8. Wardensville
Wardensville is a quaint town in West Virginia with a population of approximately 270 residents. It exudes rural charm, offering a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can enjoy small-town hospitality.
The town is a gateway to the George Washington National Forest, providing ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and immersing oneself in nature. Local businesses like mom-and-pop shops and farm-to-table eateries contribute to the town’s economy and community feel.
Wardensville’s secluded nature is enhanced by its picturesque surroundings of rolling hills and forested mountains, far from the noise of urban life. This tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and experience the simple pleasures of rural living.
Where is Wardensville?
Situated in Hardy County, Wardensville lies in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia near the Virginia border. The town’s secluded ambiance is due in part to its location amidst the sprawling George Washington National Forest, which envelops it in natural beauty.
hile it’s accessible via U.S. Route 48 and State Route 259, the journey involves scenic drives through mountainous terrain that deter heavy traffic. This off-the-beaten-path location ensures that Wardensville remains a peaceful retreat, preserving its quiet charm and making it a favored spot for those seeking solace in a rural setting. Visitors often find the route itself is part of the appeal, as it offers stunning vistas of the Appalachian landscape.
7. Green Bank
Green Bank is a unique community in West Virginia with a small population of about 140 residents. It’s renowned for housing the Green Bank Observatory, home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, the Green Bank Telescope.
This scientific landmark draws visitors interested in astronomy and the mysteries of the universe, offering informative tours and exhibits. The town’s economy revolves around the observatory and traditional industries like agriculture. Green Bank’s seclusion is amplified by its location within the National Radio Quiet Zone, a 13,000-square-mile area where radio transmissions are heavily restricted to prevent interference with the telescope.
This means no cell phone service or Wi-Fi, providing a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern technology and enjoy the serene, untouched natural surroundings.
Where is Green Bank?
Green Bank is situated in Pocahontas County in eastern West Virginia, nestled within the Allegheny Mountains. Its remote setting is accentuated by its inclusion in the National Radio Quiet Zone, which not only limits communication technologies but also deters urban development.
Accessible via West Virginia Route 28, reaching Green Bank involves navigating scenic but winding mountain roads. The area’s isolation is further emphasized by the lack of cell phone reception and limited radio frequencies, making the journey feel like a step back to a quieter, simpler time. Visitors are rewarded with stunning natural vistas and a unique, technology-free experience that’s increasingly rare in today’s connected world.
6. Bramwell
Bramwell is a historic town in West Virginia with a population of approximately 360 people. Once known as the “Town of Millionaires,” it was home to more millionaires per capita than anywhere else in the United States during the early 1900s due to the booming coal industry.
Visitors can stroll through streets lined with elegant Victorian-era mansions, many of which have been carefully preserved and reflect the opulence of that era. The Bramwell Millionaire Row Historic District offers guided tours that delve into the fascinating history of the coal barons who shaped the town.
While the coal industry has long since declined, tourism centered on its rich heritage supports the local economy. Bramwell’s secluded setting and small population contribute to its quiet charm, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Where is Bramwell?
Bramwell is nestled in Mercer County, in the southern part of West Virginia near the Virginia border. Its location along the Bluestone River and amid the Appalachian Mountains contributes to its secluded atmosphere. Accessible via U.S. Route 52, reaching Bramwell involves navigating through scenic landscapes of rolling hills and forested areas, far from major interstate highways.
This remoteness not only preserves its historic ambiance but also offers visitors a sense of stepping back in time. The journey through the winding roads enhances the town’s allure as a hidden gem waiting to be explored by those interested in its storied past and tranquil setting.
5. Matewan
Matewan is a small town in West Virginia with an approximate population of 500 residents. Steeped in rich history, it is famous for the Matewan Massacre of 1920, a pivotal event in the coal miners’ labor movement.
Visitors can delve into this significant past by exploring the Matewan Depot Replica Museum and taking historical walking tours that bring the town’s storied events to life. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the nearby Hatfield-McCoy Trails, offering extensive ATV riding opportunities through rugged terrain.
While coal mining once dominated the local economy, Matewan now leans on tourism and outdoor recreation. Its secluded nature, nestled deep within the Appalachian Mountains, adds to the town’s appeal as a quiet retreat with a profound connection to American labor history.
Where is Matewan?
Matewan is situated in Mingo County, along the Tug Fork River, right on West Virginia’s southwestern border with Kentucky. Its position deep within the Appalachian Mountains contributes to its isolation from larger cities and main thoroughfares.
he town is accessible via West Virginia Route 49, which winds through mountainous terrain and provides scenic views along the way. This remote location not only emphasizes Matewan’s secluded charm but also immerses visitors in the natural beauty of the region. The journey itself, through forested hills and valleys, underscores the sense of stepping into a place where history and nature coexist harmoniously away from the bustle of urban life.
4. Davis
Davis is a tranquil town in West Virginia with a population of about 660 people. It serves as a gateway to some of the state’s most breathtaking natural attractions, including Blackwater Falls State Park, where the amber-colored falls are a must-see. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Davis for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing opportunities, particularly in the nearby Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods Wilderness areas.
The local economy thrives on tourism and outdoor recreation, offering quaint lodging, local eateries, and gear shops. Davis’s seclusion is heightened by its mountainous surroundings and proximity to expansive wilderness areas, providing an escape into nature that’s both accessible and serene. The town’s small size and tight-knit community add to its charm as a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures.
Where is Davis?
Davis is located in Tucker County, positioned at an elevation of over 3,000 feet, making it one of the highest towns in West Virginia.
Nestled at the intersection of West Virginia Routes 32 and 93, it is surrounded by vast expanses of protected wilderness and state parks. The town’s seclusion is a result of its mountainous terrain and distance from major highways, with access requiring a drive through scenic, yet winding roads.
This journey through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains adds to the sense of escape, as visitors leave behind the hustle of city life and enter a realm of natural beauty and tranquility. Davis’s remote location ensures it remains a serene destination for those seeking adventure or relaxation in a secluded setting.
3. Thurmond
Thurmond is a tiny town in West Virginia with a population of just 5 residents, standing as a near-ghost town frozen in time.
Once a bustling coal mining hub in the early 20th century, it now offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historic buildings and deserted streets. The entire town is part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, allowing guests to explore the remnants of the railroad era and the booming coal industry.
While the coal mines have long been silent, tourism centered on its rich history sustains Thurmond today. Its secluded location along the New River Gorge adds to the eerie yet captivating atmosphere, attracting history buffs and photographers alike. The quietness of the town, combined with the surrounding natural beauty, creates a surreal experience that feels like stepping back in time.
Where is Thurmond?
Thurmond is nestled deep within the New River Gorge in Fayette County, West Virginia. Its remote location is accentuated by the rugged terrain and the dense forests that surround it. Access to the town is limited, typically reached via a single-lane bridge over the New River and along winding West Virginia Route 25.
The seclusion is furthered by the town’s encapsulation within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, isolating it from other communities and developments. This limited accessibility not only preserves Thurmond’s historic character but also enhances the sense of discovery for those who make the journey. The drive itself, through narrow roads and over the iconic bridge, contributes to the town’s mystique and secluded appeal.
2. Cass
Cass is a historic logging town in West Virginia with a small population of approximately 52 residents.
The town is best known for the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, where visitors can ride preserved steam-driven locomotives up the steep grades of the old logging railways to the summit of Bald Knob. The beautifully maintained company houses from the early 20th century offer a glimpse into the lives of the loggers who once thrived here, and many have been converted into cozy accommodations for guests. While logging was the main industry during its heyday, Cass now relies on tourism, drawing train enthusiasts and history buffs from around the country.
Its secluded location amidst the dense forests of the Appalachian Mountains adds to the charm, providing a serene backdrop to the chugging steam engines. The preservation of its historical structures and the absence of modern development make Cass a captivating destination that feels untouched by time.
Where is Cass?
Cass is located in Pocahontas County, nestled along the Greenbrier River in eastern West Virginia. The town is accessible via West Virginia Route 66, a scenic route that winds through the lush forests and rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains. Cass’s seclusion is largely due to its remote setting far from major highways and urban centers, enveloped by vast tracts of protected wilderness.
The journey to this historic town involves traveling through picturesque landscapes that emphasize its isolation and natural beauty. The remoteness not only enhances the experience of visiting Cass but also preserves the tranquil environment that allows its history and natural surroundings to shine.
1. Helvetia
Helvetia is a quaint village in West Virginia with an approximate population of 59 residents, all deeply rooted in Swiss traditions.
Founded in the 1860s by Swiss immigrants, Helvetia proudly preserves its cultural heritage through well-maintained Swiss-style architecture and yearly celebrations. Visitors can indulge in authentic Swiss cuisine at the renowned Hรผtte Restaurant or explore the village’s cheese house, mask museum, and artisan shops. The highlight of the year is the Fasnacht festival, a pre-Lenten celebration featuring elaborate masks, music, and dancing that attract visitors eager to partake in this unique experience.
Agriculture and tourism are the mainstays of the local economy, with residents dedicated to maintaining the traditions of their ancestors. Nestled deep within the Appalachian Mountains, Helvetia’s seclusion adds to its charm, offering a serene escape that feels worlds away from modern hustle and bustle.
Where is Helvetia?
Helvetia is tucked away in the rugged mountains of Randolph County, in central West Virginia. Its remote location is accentuated by the surrounding dense forests and the lack of direct highway access. Visitors reach Helvetia by navigating narrow and winding roads, specifically West Virginia Route 46 and County Route 45, which traverse through scenic but isolated terrain. This journey through unspoiled nature intensifies the village’s secluded ambiance, making the arrival feel like uncovering a hidden gem. The remoteness not only preserves the town’s unique Swiss heritage but also provides a tranquil environment where traditions have remained untouched by outside influences.
Hillsboro sounds like a perfect peaceful escape, especially with its literary history and stunning nature!