Check Out These Charming Small Towns in Almost Heaven

There’s something about visiting a small town to remind you of what’s really valuable in life. And this stretch, from Lewisburg up to Marlinton, is sure to give you that pure, heartwarming experience. Let the stunning parks of this region amaze you and let the locals welcome you. After all, you may find yourself thinking this trip is “Almost Heaven.”

The Greenbrier

The Greenbrier is not only stunningly beautiful and completely luxurious, but is full of endless vacation possibilities. A favorite destination for elite golfers, The Greenbrier also offers tennis, swimming, falconry, and The Casino Club—America’s only private casino. Surrounded by deep green forests, the dazzling white resort is a captivating contrast to the surrounding landscape, and the exterior only mirrors that of the interior. Walk among the pristine gardens, and then head inside for some bowling, jewelry making and a tour of the infamous bunker. With so much beauty and so many things to do, you will quickly understand why The Greenbrier is often called “America’s Resort.”

Lewisburg

Despite its ever-growing popularity among visitors, Lewisburg still remains a warm, welcoming small town at heart. There is always something to do in this active community, from visiting one of the many art galleries to shopping at a local boutique to enjoying an award-winning meal. Stop by The French Goat for elegant French dishes, or check out Food & Friends for some casual steak and seafood. For entertainment, grab tickets for a show at Carnegie Hall —one of only four Carnegie Halls in the world.

Man pouring a bottle of cider into three glasses with Hawk Knob labels

Hawk Knob Hard Cider and Mead

Located just outside downtown Lewisburg, surrounded by sloping, grassy hills, sits West Virginia’s first cidery. Hawk Knob produces locally-farmed, dry aged meads and ciders. Started by two friends who met at West Virginia University, the goal of Hawk Knob has always been to create delicious craft beverages that accurately define the Appalachian region, which earned mentions from Salon and other major news platforms. And that is exactly what they do. Stop by for a tasting and enjoy the tranquil lake views from the cidery’s front porch.

Underground cave formations lit up orange and blue

Lost World Caverns

Descend more than 230 feet below ground and experience the fascinating network of caves that make up Lost World Caverns. Take the mile-long self-guided tour and see some of the most incredible stalagmites and limestone waterfalls. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, join one of the “wild” tours. These tours take you to more remote parts of the caves, where you have to squeeze through small openings and traverse muddy pools. Be sure to stop by the visitor center and learn about the World Record that was set here and the prehistoric bones that were found deep inside one of the caves.

Beartown State Park

Beartown State Park is utterly magical. Named for the many cave-like openings scattered throughout the park, nearby residents believe this region is the perfect place for black bears to hibernate in the winter. There is a half-mile boardwalk trail that cuts through the park and brings visitors up close with some of the rock formations that make this particular area so unique. Strolling along the boardwalk, admiring the towering trees and moss-covered boulders, you’ll feel like you’ve entered an enchanted forest.

Two bikers on a wooden bridge over a river, one bike towing a small baby carrier

Greenbrier River Rail Trail

A former railroad line and part of the cross country Great American Rail-Trail, the Greenbrier River Rail Trail is the longest trail of its kind in West Virginia. Stretching 78 miles, the trail has all of the things that make the Mountain State so memorable: lush forests, stunning peaks, small town hospitality, and, of course, the river. The Greenbrier River runs parallel with the trail and is both a constant companion and peaceful addition. Enjoy hiking, biking and horseback riding as you cut through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the state.