When I think of Western Virginia, I picture rolling hills, serene valleys, and tucked-away towns that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re like me and crave a quiet retreat surrounded by nature’s beauty, you’ll appreciate these ten secluded towns.
Each one holds its own unique charm, from historic hamlets nestled in lush forests to serene valleys hidden among the mountains. Join me as I count down my favorite secluded spots in Western Virginia, perfect for anyone looking to disconnect and soak in the tranquility of untouched landscapes.
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10. Burkes Garden: Virginia’s Best-Kept Secret Valley
Burkes Garden, often referred to as “God’s Thumbprint,” is a hidden gem with a small population that hovers around 300 residents. This picturesque valley is encircled by Garden Mountain, creating a natural bowl that’s rich in farmland and panoramic views.
I love how the area remains largely undeveloped, offering vast acreages that are perfect for farming or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. Life here revolves around agriculture, with the main industries being farming and a bit of local craftsmanship.
What makes Burkes Garden truly secluded is its unique geographic bowl shape, which not only provides stunning scenery but also a sense of isolation from the outside world.
Where is Burkes Garden?
Nestled in Tazewell County, Burkes Garden lies in the southwestern part of Virginia, close to the West Virginia border. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding mountains that act as a natural barrier, keeping it tucked away from major highways and urban centers.
To get there, you can take VA-61 and then venture onto winding local roads that lead into the heart of the valley. The journey itself feels like a step back in time, as you leave behind the congestion of city life and enter this peaceful haven.
9. Criders: Hidden Seclusion in Rockingham County
With a population of just a few hundred people, Criders offers a tranquil lifestyle nestled among Virginia’s lush forests. The town is characterized by its vast stretches of undeveloped land, with over 50% remaining untouched, providing a natural escape that I find incredibly refreshing.
The main activities here revolve around outdoor pursuits like hiking, fishing, and enjoying the abundant wildlife. There aren’t any significant industries, which adds to its quiet charm.
Criders’ secluded atmosphere is perfect for those seeking solace, as the dense forests and lack of urban development create a serene environment away from the noise.
Where is Criders?
Located in Rockingham County, Criders is situated in the heart of the George Washington National Forest. Its remote position means it’s miles away from any major towns or cities, enhancing its sense of isolation.
To reach Criders, you’ll likely travel along US-33 before turning onto smaller county roads that wind through the forested landscape. The journey is part of the experience, as you transition from busy highways to peaceful, tree-lined roads that signal your entry into this hidden corner of Virginia.
8. Doe Hill: Retreat into Virginia’s Quiet Countryside
Doe Hill is a small community with a population of around 800, offering a serene environment that’s perfect for a quiet retreat. The area is characterized by low housing density, with homes spread out across rolling hills and farmland.
I appreciate the simplicity of life here, where the main industries are agriculture and small-scale artisan crafts. The surrounding hills create a natural sanctuary, making Doe Hill feel like a world away from urban life. Its seclusion is one of its biggest draws, providing residents and visitors alike with a peaceful atmosphere to unwind.
Where is Doe Hill?
Situated in Highland County, Doe Hill is tucked away in Virginia’s Western Highlands. Its remote location is part of its charm, lying far from the nearest major roads or cities.
To get there, you might take Route 629, navigating through scenic byways that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The seclusion is accentuated by the surrounding hills and valleys, which not only provide stunning views but also a barrier from the outside world.
It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the quiet of the countryside.
7. Troutdale: Gateway to Secluded Mountain Adventures
Troutdale is a quaint town with a population of just over 200 residents, offering a gateway to the majestic Mount Rogers area. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts like me, with vast open spaces perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring untouched nature.
The main industries here are modest, focusing on small businesses and agriculture. Troutdale’s remote location means there’s little traffic, and the close-knit community adds to its welcoming charm. Its seclusion stems from being nestled near Virginia’s highest peak, away from high-traffic areas and urban development.
Where is Troutdale?
Located in Grayson County, Troutdale sits near the southern border of Virginia, close to the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. The town is accessed via Route 16, a scenic drive that winds through the mountains.
Its distance from major highways and cities enhances its secluded feel. Getting there involves traversing mountainous terrain, which can be both an adventure and a barrier, ensuring that Troutdale remains a peaceful retreat for those who make the journey.
6. Mouth of Wilson: Tranquil Life Along the New River
Mouth of Wilson is a small community with around 1,500 residents, situated along the banks of the New River. I find the area perfect for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying riverside picnics. The town’s main industries are agriculture and some local trade, contributing to its laid-back atmosphere.
Large acreages and farm properties are common, offering plenty of space for those who value privacy. Its distance from city centers makes it ideal for anyone desiring a slower pace of life amidst natural beauty, reinforcing its secluded character.
Where is Mouth of Wilson?
Found in Grayson County, Mouth of Wilson is positioned near the border of North Carolina. The town is somewhat off the beaten path, accessible via Route 58 and several smaller county roads.
Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding Appalachian Mountains and the meandering New River. To get there, you’ll pass through scenic landscapes that gradually move away from urban settings, signaling the tranquility that awaits in this riverside community.
5. Sugar Grove: Quiet Living Near the George Washington National Forest
Sugar Grove is home to approximately 700 people, offering a peaceful lifestyle nestled near the George Washington National Forest. The town is surrounded by natural barriers like mountains and forests, ensuring a quiet environment that I find incredibly calming.
Residents often engage in outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching, taking full advantage of the expansive lots and natural surroundings. There are few major industries, which adds to the town’s sparse and serene atmosphere. Sugar Grove’s seclusion is a key feature, providing a retreat far from the noise of urban life.
Where is Sugar Grove?
Located in Smyth County, Sugar Grove is in southwestern Virginia, not far from the West Virginia border. Access is primarily via Route 16, leading through mountainous terrain that accentuates its remote feel.
The town’s proximity to the national forest means it’s enveloped by protected lands, further isolating it from more developed areas. Getting there involves a scenic drive that gradually distances you from populated regions, immersing you in the tranquility of the mountains.
4. Paint Bank: A Remote Escape on Potts Mountain
With a population of around 200, Paint Bank is a tiny community that offers a true escape from modern life. It’s located over 15 miles from the nearest urban area, surrounded by vast undeveloped lands on Potts Mountain.
I enjoy visiting the historic Paint Bank General Store and the Swinging Bridge Restaurant, which add quaint charm to the area. The main industries are limited, focusing on small-scale tourism and local crafts.
The town’s seclusion is perfect for solitude seekers, as the expansive wilderness provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation.
Where is Paint Bank?
Paint Bank is situated in Craig County, near the West Virginia border. It’s nestled along Route 311, a winding road that traverses through the Appalachian Mountains. The town’s isolation is heightened by the rugged terrain and lack of major highways.
To reach Paint Bank, you’ll journey through scenic mountain passes that offer stunning views and a sense of adventure. This remoteness ensures that Paint Bank remains a quiet haven, undisturbed by the hustle of city life.
3. Orkney Springs: Hidden Among Lush Forests
Orkney Springs is a small village with a population of just over 100, known for its historic charm and natural beauty. Nestled miles away from bustling towns, it’s surrounded by expansive forests that provide a lush, green canopy.
I particularly appreciate the Orkney Springs Hotel, a historic landmark that adds character to the area. The lack of significant industry contributes to its quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection. The seclusion here is profound, with the dense forests and mountainous terrain offering a true getaway.
Where is Orkney Springs?
Located in Shenandoah County, Orkney Springs sits near the border with West Virginia. The village is accessed via Route 263, which winds through the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Its hidden location amid the George Washington National Forest enhances the sense of isolation.
To get there, you’ll drive through picturesque landscapes that gradually lead you away from populated areas, immersing you in the tranquility of this forested enclave.
2. Warm Springs: Serenity in the Allegheny Highlands
Warm Springs, with a population of around 120 people, is a haven of natural beauty and relaxation. Known for its historic warm mineral springs, the town offers a soothing retreat that’s deeply connected to nature. I enjoy the serene atmosphere, where outdoor activities like hiking and soaking in the springs are daily pleasures.
The main industries revolve around small-scale tourism and local crafts. The low population density and mountainous terrain provide a secluded environment, making it a perfect private retreat.
Where is Warm Springs?
Situated in Bath County, Warm Springs lies in the Allegheny Highlands of Western Virginia. The town is accessible via US-220, but its distance from major highways keeps it off the typical tourist path.
Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding mountains that not only offer breathtaking views but also a barrier from the bustle of larger towns. Getting there involves a peaceful drive through rolling hills and forests, setting the tone for the tranquility you’ll find upon arrival.
1. McDowell: A Peaceful Hamlet in Highland County
McDowell is a small, peaceful hamlet with a population of about 200 residents. It’s characterized by rolling hills and vast farmlands that create a serene and secluded environment.
I find the area perfect for those who appreciate rural life, with activities like farming, hiking, and exploring historical sites like the McDowell Battlefield. There aren’t major industries here, which adds to its quiet charm.
The town’s seclusion comes from being far removed from urban centers, nestled in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque countryside.
Where is McDowell?
Located in Highland County, McDowell is in the northwestern part of Virginia, close to the West Virginia border. The town sits along US-250, but despite this, it remains secluded due to its distance from larger cities and the surrounding mountainous terrain.
To get there, you’ll travel through scenic routes that wind through the George Washington National Forest. The journey takes you deeper into a landscape of rolling hills and open fields, reinforcing the sense of escape from the modern world.