Little Switzerland is right on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 334 just 3 miles from Spruce Pine and is a picturesque village that you will definitely want to put on your list. This little summer village is filled with charm, character, and stunning mountain views. Whether you are searching for fine dining, an outdoor adventure, or shopping, Little Switzerland is the place to find it!
As you pull off of the Blue Ridge Parkway into Little Switzerland, you are in “uptown” where you will find the picturesque Switzerland Inn resort with shoppes, tennis, fine dining, and breathtaking mountain views complete with firepits.
Just a few stop signs down the road you will find “downtown” where you will be enchanted by the Switzerland Cafe and General Store, a cool coffee shop and used book shop as well as an art gallery with locally created pieces. From here you can venture out to explore hikes, waterfalls and gem mining all within a short drive.
Little Switzerland home to many hiking trails that lead to some special spots. Crabtree Falls, located just off the Parkway at milepost 339.5, is a 2 mile looping trail that leads to a stunning 70 foot tall waterfall. This hiking trail has an elevation gain of 480 feet and sections that are strenuous. More hiking trails, such as Wiseman’s View and Linville Falls are just a short drive from Little Switzerland and also offer stunning views.
Switzerland Cafe & General Store
The Cafe offers a unique spot to grab a delicous handcrafted meal while the adjacent General Store is complete with creaky wood floors, foods and craft beer for your picnic as well as local pottery, tees and other cool stuff!
Emerald Village Gem Mine & Mining Museum
Enjoy gem mining, tour a real mine, take in the exhibits at the Mining Museum and more! It’s a great experience!
For the motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts, driving the DiamondBack route in Little Switzerland is a thrilling experience. This route overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains has 190 steep climbing curves in only 12 miles!
The Orchard at Altpass is located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a must stop on your visit. Complete with live music, homemade fudge, hayrides and a great gfit shop! And of course pick your own apples in the Fall!
Shops at The Switzerland Inn Resort
The Shops at The Switzerland Inn offer unique and sometimes one of a kind finds including local art.
Grassy Creek Falls is a 2 mile trail round trip trail that is perfect for beginners within walking distance of all of the main spots in Little Switzerland, with an elevation gain of only 300 feet. Although it is on private property, this trail is open to the public and is also located just off of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Artisan League of Little Swizerland Art Gallery
The Artisan League Gallery features beautiful handcrafted local art from pottery to jewelry and more!
The Spa at The Switzerland Inn
Soothe your hiking and biking muscles with a massage treatment at The Switzerland Inn Spa.
Crabtree Falls, located just off the Parkway at milepost 339.5, is a 2 mile looping trail that leads to a stunning 70 foot tall waterfall. This hiking trail has an elevation gain of 480 feet and sections that are strenuous. Located off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 339.5. turn into Crabtree Meadows Recreation Area, walk is an additional .03 miles, trail is a 2.5 mile loop with moderate difficulty.
Places to Stay
