Highland Maple Festival ... final weekend

It's known as Virginia's Switzerland, this southern-most location for gathering maple syrup, and it's right here in our backyard. Highland County hosts the final weekend of the festival this Saturday and Sunday, March 15-16, in locations throughout the county.

Make plans to meander back roads, stuff yourself with pancakes drenched with locally-made maple syrup, be entertained while eating fresh maple donuts made by the Ruritans, buy crafts, take in the beauty of this rural setting populated with sheep and cattle, and relax. Slow down. Breathe the cold, fresh mountain air.

Take I-81 to Staunton's exit 225 (Holiday Inn). Turn south onto Rt. 262 and follow to Rt. 250. Exit at Rt. 250 and turn west toward Monterey. You will travel through Churchville and Deerfield on your way to and over Shenandoah Mountain into Highland County. Maple events take place all over the county. Check out the Highland County website for more info about events and lodging.

Enjoy Augusta County as you pass through!