This West Virginia Town Feels Like It Belongs in Europe

On the surface, West Virginia and Europe don't seem to have much in common. But a closer look at some of Mountain State's small towns reveals not just historic ties to Europe, but cuisines, landmarks, and architectural influences that can be seen today. Did you know, for example, that West Virginia has its own Little Switzerland? The town of Helvetia carries that name, and it's about as charming as a small town can be. Let's dive into the unique history and culture of this European-inspired town in the Allegheny Mountains.

Helvetia's European-influenced history began shortly after the Civil War, when a group of Swiss and German-speaking immigrants traveled over the mountains of West Virginia from New York to settle into a new life. In 1871, just 32 people were living in the settlement, which gradually attracted new residents from various parts of the U.S. as well as directly from Switzerland. Within a few short years, the population had grown tenfold; by 1910, there were nearly 500 people. The closing of the coal mines saw a sharp decrease in numbers, and today, the population has significantly dwindled to fewer than 40. The Swiss roots, however, remain strong thanks to annual traditions and dedicated local businesses.

The remote, mountainous landscape of Helvetia echoes the landscape of Switzerland, with its picturesque mountains and green rolling hills. It's all too easy to forget you're even in the States during events such as Fasnacht, a traditional Swiss celebration of the end of winter. Swiss for "fasting night," the event is a pre-Lenten celebration, a bit like Fat Tuesday, taking place in February. The day-long event features traditional live music and masks, which are worn to scare off Old Man Winter. Attendees will enjoy homemade hozablatz, rosette, or donut, plus a children's toy, access to the Helvetia Museum & Archives, and entrance into the Alpine-Appalachian square dance in the evening.

Of course, you don't need to visit during Fasnacht to enjoy some Swiss cuisine. Head over to the aptly-named Swiss Roots store, where you'll find some locally made cheese and honey, all in the Swiss tradition. If you have time for a longer meal, there's also the Hinter Zimmer Diner. It's open for breakfast and lunch on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Have you explored the charming small town of Helvetia, West Virginia? What did you enjoy most? If you've yet to explore, be sure to send this article to a fellow travel enthusiast and begin planning your trip to West Virginia's Little Switzerland! If you need a place to stay while you're exploring the area, this charming cabin in Helvetia features its own hot tub.

Looking for more places in the Mountain State that evoke Europe? Plan a trip to Snowshoe, West Virginia, which resembles a European village hidden on top of a mountain.