7 Serene Towns in West Virginia for a Weekend Retreat
The forested state of West Virginia is a wonderful option for a quiet escape. From its lush woodlands to rolling green hills, it is an oasis of natural beauty. There are also many adorable towns and villages perfect for a weekend escape. Slip away to one of these serene small towns. From the historic Barboursville to idyllic Harper’s Ferry, each town offers a place to slow down and escape it all. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and walk the downtown streets of Buchannon, or hike among the trees and meadows. Those looking for a tranquil weekend away will love these small towns in West Virginia.
Barboursville
Barboursville, West Virginia, is a great place to enjoy a tranquil holiday. With a population under 5,000, it is a quiet option away from the fast-paced city lifestyle. Still, it is conveniently located only a 2-hour drive from Lexington, Kentucky, and 2.5 from Columbus, Ohio, making it perfect for a weekend trip. Soak up the small town charm, including the historic district on the National Register of Historic Places with buildings ranging from the 1830s to the 1930s. Visitors particularly enjoy the Civil War Era Toll House. The center of the downtown area includes a scenic gazebo, perfect for relaxing and people-watching, and The Barboursville Park, a 750-acre park including outdoor sports fields, trails for walking and horseback riding, an amphitheater, and fishing ponds.
Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry is a perfect place to enjoy West Virginia’s serene vibes. Located in the eastern panhandle, it is an excellent weekend trip from Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, Maryland. This quiet town of roughly 300 people offers a calm and tranquil option for a weekend retreat. Enjoy scenic views of the Shenandoah River and Potomac River. Explore the Appalachian Trail hiking paths and beautiful nearby wilderness. Visitors can also enjoy the rich history of the harbor port. Tour the Harpers Ferry National Park, also home to John Brown’s Fort, the old armory and arsenal. Harpers Ferry also has a Civil War Museum, which further dives into the town’s role during the Civil War.
Bramwell
Bramwell, West Virginia, is a gorgeous little town on the Bluestone River. Though the area was once a booming coal mining town with a large population of millionaires, the end of the mining industry has seen the town transition into a peaceful village of less than 300 residents. Many old historical buildings remain, including the Perry House, Hewitt House, and Thoms House. Visitors can also experience the olden days at the Coal Heritage Trail Interpretive Center or the Bramwell Depot. The town is also a great place to escape into nature. Explore the many miles of the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, one of the longest off-road trail systems in the world. The system’s Pocahontas trailhead starts just outside of town. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy Pinnacle Rock State Park with its grand sandstone rocks and scenic, tranquil views.
Clay
Another serene river-side town is Clay. Like Bramwell, it has a particularly small population of around 400 people, making it a perfect place to escape it all. Clay sits on the Elk River amidst stately forests and majestic trees. Visitors can enjoy some of the best fishing opportunities in west Virginia, as well as hiking, biking, and recreational activities in the gorgeous surroundings. The Elk River Trail State Park and Buffalo Creek Recreational Trail are excellent options for those who want to venture into the serenity of West Virginia's wilderness. Escape into the lush green hills and mighty forests, and let cares fall away. For those who want to experience the heart of the village, consider visiting during one of Clay’s many festivals, like the Elk River Festival or the Golden Delicious Apple Festival.
Helvetia
For those looking for somewhere even more remote than Clay or Bramwell, Helvetia is the perfect destination. It has a population of less than 100 people, making it one of the quieter places to escape to in West Virginia. This little gem of a town was originally founded by German and Swiss settlers and has a distinctly European feel. Get away from it all and indulge in traditional German and Swiss food, music, dancing, and festivals. The buildings and town streets reflect traditional European and Scandinavian architecture that will transport visitors to another world. Like Clay, Helvetia is also a warm and friendly town that has several festivals that draw visitors from all over the state and country. Check out the Follow Your Bliss Festival and Helvetia Community Fair, or visit during a Swiss holiday to get the most authentic experience.
New Martinsville
New Martinsville is another West Virginia town perfect for a weekend retreat. It is tucked in the mid-Ohio valley region along the edge of the Ohio River. This serene landscape makes for a perfect escape from the bustle of a bigger city or the noise and hassle of the day-to-day. Escape from it all into this cute little town full of charm and artsy vibes. Check out the “Art in the Park” summer events, including live concerts and shows, or visit the historic Lincoln Theater. This picturesque town has a little bit of everything, perfect for a quick trip away. Soak up the natural beauty of West Virginia, stroll the quaint streets, or window shop through downtown.
Thomas
Take a trip to West Virginia’s panhandle and visit the town of Thomas. Like Bramwell, it is also a former coal mining town that has transitioned into a quiet little village of around 600 people. The area around Thomas is full of scenic views and natural phenomena ideal for anyone looking to get away from the noise and hustle of a larger city. Spend the weekend hiking the trails and hills, including the beautiful Albert Falls. After a day in the peaceful wilderness, browse the shops and galleries that line the town’s main streets. Though small, Thomas oozes charm from the Purple Fiddle cafe and bluegrass venue to the Mountain State Brewing Company. Thomas has a little bit of everything, making it an ideal location for a weekend escape. Enjoy the views, shop, and relax with a good evening meal and drink.
From old coal mining villages to historical landmarks, each of these West Virginia small towns offers somewhere to retreat for a weekend away. Close to major cities but with a vibe all of their own, they are easy to get out for a weekend trip or short stay. Stay riverside in a cute bed and breakfast, walk the scenic trails, or enjoy an excellent meal at a local hot spot. There is so much to see and do in these serene small towns of West Virginia.
