Linking Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 755-kilometre-long scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. It follows the spine of the Blue Ridge through charming towns and villages while offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and pastoral landscapes.

Learn about pioneer life in the mountains at the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center and soak up views of the Shenandoah Valley from the top of Humpback Rocks. Hike the 6.5-kilometre-long loop trail around Roanoke Mountain before crossing into North Carolina to drive the famous Linn Cove Viaduct.

Follow one of the walking trails to the magnificent Linville Falls that cascade 27 metres into the gorge below. Continue on to the Craggy Gardens, which are famed for their brilliant rhododendrons, before finishing in the bustling mountain town of Asheville, renowned for its craft breweries and artisan community.

Getting there

The Blue Ridge Parkway is easily accessed from Charlottesville in Virginia, with rental cars available from Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport. Alternatively, you can begin the drive in Asheville in neighbouring North Carolina.