January 1 marked the official launch of the newly formed Virginia Mountains tourism region by the Virginia Tourism Corporation elevating the importance of our best natural asset. The regional tourism alliance encompasses Virginia's Blue Ridge (Cities of Roanoke and Salem and Counties of Roanoke, Franklin and Botetourt), Virginia's Western Highlands, Bedford and Smith Mountain Lake. 

"This designation better defines the region's location and more importantly gives visitors a more accurate description," said Landon Howard, President of the Roanoke Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Before, we were lumped in with the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Highlands regions, this makes more sense for Virginia's Blue Ridge. We sincerely appreciate Rita McClenny, President of the Virginia Tourism Corporation and her staff for their support of this new region." 

Pick up your complimentary copy of the 2016 Virginia Travel Guide with the new Virginia Mountains section at the Roanoke Valley Visitor Information Center open daily (101 Shenandoah Ave. NE Roanoke, VA 24016) or visit our Virginia Mountains destination website - www.VisitVAMountains.com