The unique topography of this State, its picturesque villages, its small cities and passionating history, in addition to a scarse population and four very different seasons, are the reasons why West Virginia would be the favorite destination of people loving open air activities and great outdoors.

The steepy ground of the area, divided by fast rivers, makes of it the ideal site for the rough rafting. Descents are proposed in all the levels, particularly on the rivers Gauley, Cheat and Tygart.

Charleston

Industrial town in this natural State, the capital is one of the most important centers of production of nylon, rayon and synthetic rubber of the country.

Berkeley Springs

A historical thermal spa, the oldest of the United States, visited by George Washington in 1748. The air is here fresh and stimulant. We can enjoy a Roman bath as well as therapeutic and relaxing waters. The sources have a flow of 2 000 gallons per minute. The water is bottled and sold in a great part of the country.

The best way to discover the very special culture of West Virginia is to visit the festivals and fairs organized throughout the year, exposing the culinary products and artisanal creations of the area: festivals of pumpkins, strawberries, honey, molasses, chili, black nuts, as well as an astonishing product : the “ramps”, a garlic-like plant celebrated in spring.

As far as craft industry is concerned, the State is famous for the mouth-puffed up glass, as well as the fantastic eiderdowns, or quilts made in patchwork.

Pearl S. Buck Home

In Hillsboro, in Pocahontas County, you can visit the native house of Pearl S. Buck.

In this house, built in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, the author of The Good Earth and East Wind, West Wind was born on June 26, 1892.

Photos : WV Division of Tourism