With fine dining, nightlife, shopping districts, and more, city living has its advantages. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed way of life, complete with starry skies, open fields, and no signs of traffic, it’s the small town scene that calls. Here in Virginia, you can often get the best of both: small towns with plenty to offer. So if you’re looking to get away from it all, here are the 10 best places to go for peace and quiet in Virginia.

1. Linden
Photo Phiend/flickr
Linden, VA 22642, USA
sgibbons/flick
West of the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C., Linden is one of the most peaceful towns in Virginia that is home to apple orchards and vineyards. The town is truly tiny, with just a handful of gas stations, restaurants, and one post office. One of the most charming spots in town is known as the Apple House, which serves homemade pies and other goodies.
2. Madison
Wikipedia
Madison, VA 22727, USA
Ruth Lozano/flickr
Madison's population is just around 300, according to the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Madison County and thus the location of the historic courthouse building. In addition to charming places to dine, Madison is the home to a handful of vineyards and AirB&Bs, making it the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway.
3. Eastville
David Pratt/flickr
Eastville, VA 23310, USA
Campbell Field Airport/flickr
Located in Northampton County, Eastville is a small town in the southern portion of Virginia's Eastern Shore, and an ideal place to go for peace and quiet in Virginia. Since the 1600s, the town has served as the county seat and is known for holding the oldest continuous court records in the country. Photographed above are the breathtaking gardens at Eyre Hall.
4. Eagle Rock
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Eagle Rock, VA 24085, USA
Steve Tatum/flickr
Eagle Rock is a small town in Virginia within Botetourt County. It's located along the beautiful James River between Iron Gate and Buchannon. Situated nearby is Roaring Run Recreational Area, a beautiful area for waterfall hiking and admiring the surroundings.
5. Scottsville
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Scottsville, VA 24590, USA
Charlottesville Tomorrow/flickr
Scottsville was incorporated as a town in 1818 along the northern section of the James River, known as Horseshoe Bend. In the 18th century, Scottsville served as something of a state capitol, as the center of much of the state's commerce and trade. The downtown district is charming and an inviting place to meander as you learn more about the history of this small town in Virginia.

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6. Marion
Wikipedia
Marion, VA 24354, USA
Dana Lane/flickr
Tucked away in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Highlands, Marion is named for Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War officer. It's been designated as one of America's Main Street Communities, further proof of the town's livability and charm. Some of the main attractions of Marion include the Lincoln Theatre and the General Francis Marion Hotel, a boutique accommodation located downtown.
7. Big Stone Gap
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219, USA
DM/flickr
Big Stone Gap is located in Wise County, with a population of approximately 6,000. It's a community that was formerly known as "Mineral City," due to its rich supply of iron ore and coal deposits. Big Stone Gap is home to many museums as well as breathtaking hikes, showing off the town's incredible natural landscape.
8. Salem
Ben G/flickr
Salem, VA 24153, USA
Wikipedia
Located just outside of Roanoke, Salem is the charming small town that is home to Roanoke College. It's a town that offers peace and quiet aside from the sporting arenas. Other attractions include the Salem Fair and the Blue Ridge Mountain Festival.
9. Warm Springs
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Warm Springs, VA 24484, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Warm Springs is a beautiful small town located within Bath County. Some of its historic sites include the historic Germantown, the Inn at Gristmill, and the Jefferson Pools. Photographed above, these pools contain naturally warm waters that are said to have healing properties. Whether you believe that or not, one thing is certain: it's one of the best places to go for peace and quiet in Virginia.
10. Pulaski
Brent Moore/flickr
Pulaski, VA 24301, USA
Armistead Booker/flickr
Pulaski was officially incorporated in 1886 and named for Count Casimir Pulaski, who was a Revolutionary War hero from Poland. The small downtown includes the historic courthouse, post office (photographed above), and a fine arts center. Charming shops like Grandma and Grandpa's Place are filled with authentic antiques.

With so many incredible small towns in every corner of Virginia, this list only begins to scratch the surface. If you’re interested in learning about more peaceful destinations, be sure to read about these 14 peaceful small towns in Virginia.

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places to go for peace and quiet in Virginia

Jackie Ann | September 14, 2022

What is the most naturally beautiful town in Virginia?

Virginia is known for its stunning scenery and just about every town in Virginia offers some type of incredible view to admire. One of our favorite scenic towns in the state is Abingdon. This charming town is home to roughly 3,000 people and not only is it a naturally beautiful town, but it’s also slowly becoming a foodie destination. In fact, Abington has more restaurants per capita than San Francisco and New York!

What is the most unique town in Virginia?

Every state has a handful of towns that just embrace their quirks, and that’s no different in Old Dominion. Nestled within the Chesapeake Bay, Matthews is one of the most unique towns in Virginia. While many flock to this hidden gem for the breathtaking beaches and waterfront scenery, Matthews also offers old-school charm like the town’s general store and thriving Main Street where you can pick up souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, and learn about the history of the town. 

What is the smallest town in Virginia?

With a population of fewer than 400 residents, the tiny town of Wachapreague wins the prize for being the smallest town in Virginia. Don’t let the size fool you, this tiny but mighty town packs a punch when it comes to scenery since it’s located on Virginia’s eastern shore. Not only is Wachapreague a great place to go for peace and quiet in Virginia, but it’s also home to several incredible restaurants, some of which might even rank as being some of the most scenic waterfront restaurants in Virginia.

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