Replies

No, it is just that some of the very finest gated communities in the nation are in SC, and unlike those in many states are not necessarily either prohibitively expensive, NOR located in or around major cities. They are vital to provide amenities in what otherwise would be boonies.

I myself lived in Virginia what time I didn't live in Fla, for the most part, but have visited 47 states and most of them for more than just a few minutes, ie at least a few days.

You have misread my comment about I-81, it is a lovely highway and traverses some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Live along it, or east of it, but don't go more than 5 or 10 miles W or NW of it or it could turn into a pumpkin.

The three worst things about Virginia are January, February, and Washington DC.

Yes, I misread that comment, I took it to mean that anything within 5-10 miles of I-81 was no good. That I-81 stretch in Virginia is the main reason that I drive instead of fly to Alabama each year. My wife and I have talked of moving there someday when the kids are grown so we can be within a day's drive of either my wife's family in Massachusetts and my family in Alabama (and far enough away from both of them!)

but don't go more than 5 or 10 miles W or NW

What in the world are you talking about? We’re soon moving 40 miles west of I81. Highland County, Va., beautiful county, hunting, fishing, Maple sugar.

You must be city folk. lol

Highland County

Welcome to Highland County, often referred to as "Virginia's Switzerland". This land of high mountain valleys, sheep and cattle grazing farms and vast woodlands is known for its pristine scenic beauty and rural charm. It is one of the least populated counties in the east and boasts one of the highest mean elevations of any county east of the Mississippi River. Originally settled by Scotch/Irish highlanders and German immigrants, Highland is now an eclectic mix of native farm families and new residents drawn to the high quality of life.

Points of Interest McDowell Battlefield - Civil War site, Monterey - County Seat, Blue Grass Valley - Spectacular scenery in a farming environment, Virginia Trout Company, Maple Sugar Orchards, Highland Wildlife Management Area, George Washington National Forest.

Tourism Visitors come to Highland County to enjoy outdoor recreational activities. Special attractions include the Highland Maple Festival held each March, the McDowell Battlefield and peak foliage colors in autumn. The Highland Maple Festival takes visitors back to earlier days when trees where opened and sugar water was boiled down to make syrup. Maple Sugar camps throughout the county welcome visitors to view the process of syrup making.

Climate Highland County's climate consists of moderately cold winters and comfortable cool summers. The normal average temperature is 47.6 degrees fahrenheit with summer temperatures averaging 70-80 degrees. The average annual precipitation is 42 inches.

History Highland County was formed in 1847 from Bath and Pendleton counties. The county encompasses 416 square miles of spectacular mountain terrain and received its name from its prevailing high altitude. Highland County is rich in historic tradition. The Battle of McDowell was waged in Highland County during the Civil War. This was a significant battle in Stonewall Jackson's 1862 Valley Campaign. Monterey, the county seat, was established in 1848. Highland County is also rich in its natural resources. Agriculture plays a major role in Highland's economy.

Highland

You have misread my comment about I-81, it is a lovely highway and traverses some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

I'm a native Virginian, lived here all my life ('cept for four years in school in Kentucky). I would re-phrase your statement about I-81. Yes, it goes through some of the most beautiful parts of the state. But I avoid driving on I-81 if at all possible. It's a major truck route north to south. I'd rather drive on I-95.

I lived in Arlington for a while. We're a little weird but we like urban living and liked the DC area. We were close enough in that traffic wasn't a major problem. But now were in the suburbs of Richmond. We like it here too. Close to the mountains, close to the beach.

Worst thing about our winters. We don't really get lots of snow. But when we get winter weather, it's usually ice. But for my money the other 10 months of the year make up for that.

Now if it would just rain...