We visited Little Switzerland, NC in late September 2024, and while the town may be small, it left a big impression. With cooler mountain air, early hints of fall color, and a laid-back atmosphere, it was exactly the quiet escape we were looking for.
Tucked high in the mountains just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland is a charming and peaceful village that feels like a step back in time.
From scenic drives to great food, cozy shops, and local wines, Little Switzerland offers a relaxing and rewarding experience. In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do based on our visit and local favorites to help you plan your own getaway.
About Little Switzerland
Little Switzerland, North Carolina, is a tiny mountaintop village perched at over 3,500 feet elevation along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Founded in 1909 as a summer resort community, it was named for its resemblance to the Swiss Alps—rolling green hills, dramatic ridgelines, and cool summer breezes. Today, it's a small and peaceful retreat along the Parkway.
What makes Little Switzerland special is its size and simplicity. There’s no sprawling downtown or chain stores—just a handful of locally owned businesses, cozy inns, and scenic overlooks. Whether you’re sipping wine with a view, browsing handmade goods at the general store, or enjoying a drive along the Parkway, everything here invites you to slow down, breathe a little deeper and stay a little longer.
Despite its small footprint, Little Switzerland offers an impressive mix of history, hospitality, and natural beauty. It’s a popular stop for Parkway travelers, motorcyclists riding the famous Diamondback, and anyone looking to unplug and reconnect with the mountains.
Grab a Coffee and Explore Books & Beans
One of our favorite stops in Little Switzerland was Books & Beans, a perfect blend of mountain coziness and small-town charm. This little spot is part cafe, part bookstore, and very inviting.
We each grabbed a two vanilla lattes and found ourselves browsing through shelves lined with local reads, regional history, Appalachian fiction, fantasy, and even cookbooks. Aisle after aisle of books, with whimsical decor and inspirational and funny signs.
It's the kind of place that encourages you to slow down and just enjoy your visit. We sat near the window with our drinks, soaking in the quiet, while other visitors sat outside or flipped through books. It’s more than just a a coffee shop—it’s part of the local experience.
If you venture upstairs, you'll find an art gallery full of beautiful art from local area artists. Books & Beans is among our all-time favorite bookstores.
Mine for Gems at Emerald Village
While we didn’t go gem mining during this visit, we’ve been to Emerald Village before with our kids and highly recommend it—especially if you’re traveling with kids or enjoy a bit of hands-on discovery.
This is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a real historic mining site where you can pan for gems, tour the old mine, and learn about the area’s rich mineral history.
There’s also a museum, gift shop, and even a nighttime blacklight tour of the mine that adds a little adventure. It’s about a 10-minute drive from town and makes a great outing on a longer stay.
Bring Home Some Gifts from the General Store
We always make a point to stop at the Little Switzerland General Store when we’re in town. Located right in the center of the village, this shop is packed with local goods, crafts, souvenirs, snacks, and nostalgic treasures.
On our visit, we picked up some locally made jam, a few mountain-themed items, and a candle. The store feels like it hasn’t changed much in decades—in the best way. Friendly staff, creaky wood floors, and shelves full of surprises make it a place you’ll want to linger.
Grab some tasty food at the Little Switzerland Cafe
After browsing the shops and grabbing a coffee, we stopped in for lunch at the Little Switzerland Cafe, a cozy and inviting spot located right next to the General Store. In fact, they are connected.
This charming little restaurant has rustic style booths and tables, warm mountain hospitality, and windows that let in beautiful natural light.
There are several different and tasty options available, but are well known for their BBQ. We enjoyed the smoked, deviled eggs and a couple of delicious sandwiches.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or a slow lunch after exploring the Parkway, the Little Switzerland Cafe is a great place to refuel and soak in the small-town charm of this mountain gem.
Taste Local Wines, Beers, and Ciders at Little Switzerland Orchard & Winery
We spent a relaxing afternoon at Little Switzerland Orchard & Winery, and it ended up being the highlight of our trip. The setting is rustic, quiet and beautiful, with outdoor seating that looks out over the surrounding hills.
We tried a few of their wines, beers, and ciders — each crafted onsite. We enjoyed tasting them all.
While their wine and beer list is small, it’s well-curated, and the cider and beer options make it a great stop for everyone. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back, enjoy the breeze, and forget about time.
They also offer various food items and have both indoor and outdoor seating.
Visit and Hike at Chestoa View Overlook
This section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is currently closed, due to Hurricane Helene.
Just a short drive from Little Switzerland at MP320.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Chestoa View Overlook offers one of the best panoramic views in the region.
We stopped here during our visit to McDowell county and were blown away by the layered ridgelines stretching into the distance. There’s a short, easy loop trail that leads to equally nice views, and it’s a great way to get a little hike in without committing to something long.
The view is especially striking in the early morning or late afternoon light. The overlook and trails are a fantastic way to get some beautiful views, just off the parkway.
Enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway
Please note that due to Hurricane Helene, portions of the parkway around Little Switzerland are closed.
We spent a good part of our visit cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway, and it never disappoints and makes for a peaceful and scenic drive.
We pulled off at multiple overlooks, took photos of the fading summer greens giving way to golden hues, and just enjoyed the ride. This stretch of the Parkway is perfect for photography, picnicking, or simply soaking in the views. It’s also a great jumping-off point for nearby trails and attractions.
Drive the Diamondback (Highway 226A)
226A was significantly damaged by Hurricane Helene. The highway is open, but the repairs make it unsuitable for high speed or motorcycle riding.
We didn't drive on the Diamondback, also known as Highway 226A, but we saw lots of motorcycles travelling it during our visit.
This twisty mountain road is packed with over 190 curves in just 12 miles, making it a favorite among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts.
For us, it was just a fun way to experience the terrain and enjoy a scenic, adrenaline-tinged drive. Along the way, you’ll get peeks of the forest, mountain views, and glimpses of rural mountain life.
Visit the Orchard at Altapass
A short drive from town, the Orchard at Altapass is a lively and historic spot full of Appalachian flavor. While we didn’t stop here on this trip, we’ve been before and always enjoy the mix of culture and tradition.
You can pick apples, listen to live bluegrass music, enjoy fresh baked goods, and learn about the area’s rail and apple-growing history. The setting is family-friendly, educational, and fun—and the view from the orchard itself is a bonus.
Taste Amazing Wine at Linville Falls Winery
We wrapped up one of our afternoons at Linville Falls Winery, and it couldn’t have been a better way to end the day. The property is beautiful—surrounded by vines, with plenty of outdoor seating under shady trees. We split a wine flight and enjoyed a charcuterie board while listening to live music from a local duo.
The wines were impressive—especially their reds—and the relaxed setting makes it a great stop whether you’re just passing through or planning to linger. It’s also very close to Linville Falls if you’re combining outdoor exploring with a bit of indulgence.
What’s Nearby?
If you have extra time in the area, there are some great nearby attractions that are well worth the short drive:
- Mount Mitchell – The highest peak east of the Mississippi, with cool temps, sweeping views, and hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. Currently Closed.
- Grandfather Mountain – Home to the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge, wildlife habitats, and some of the most rugged hiking in the state.
- Linville Caverns – A fascinating underground world with guided tours through limestone passages, complete with stalactites, streams, and a rich mining history.
