





Life is sweet here!
We believe that there’s no better place than Highland County, which is why we want to share it with you! Enter our sweepstakes giveaway for a chance to win a Labor Day weekend to experience the rustic charm and scenic beauty of the Virginia mountains. Enjoy peaceful lodging, two fairs, family-friendly experiences, and local treats!
IT'S FREE TO ENTER! YOU COULD WIN THE FOLLOWING:
- 3-night stay for up to two adults and two children at the Blue View Lodge in Monterey (August 29 - September 1, 2025)
- 4 season tickets to the Highland County Fair
- 2 adult weekend passes to the 18th Century Trades Fair (18 and under free entry)
- Guided tour of Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary
- Future 2-hour backyard foraging class and "Seasons of a Wild Life" book from Emerald Mountain Sanctuary
- Meals and treats from local businesses, including Buck's Bee Shack, Claire's Cakes & Café, Eagle’s Sugar Camp, and Townsend Draft Goods
- Highland County merchandise
Enjoy What Makes Highland County Special!

Stay in a convenient, cozy cottage in Monterey
The Blue View Lodge close to the heart of Monterey with easy access to the town’s attractions. This comfortable setting hosts three bedrooms, two remodeled baths, remodeled kitchen with all new appliances, a dining area/sunroom, and more. Enjoy a large yard with a firepit, cornhole boards, and a lovely view of the mountains. There are screened new windows and ceiling fans throughout, plus air conditioning in two of the three bedrooms. Rounding out amenities is a work station for your own computer, good cell service and WiFi, and 50" Smart TV. Once you step foot on this property, it won't take long to discover why this home is a guest favorite on AirBnB and VRBO!
*Note for children: The owner began coming to Highland County as child from the city, camping and hiking and exploring a whole new magical world. They know what a treat it is for kids, and what a joy to see it again through their eyes. Guests should know though, that there are not special accommodations for very young children here. There is no special furniture, child-proofing, or toys. BYO extras and good sense.

Get an authentic taste of Highland County
Home of Virginia's famous Maple Festival, Highland County's sugar camps make the community an annual culinary destination for visitors from all around. Enjoy Virginia maple syrup from the local Eagle's Sugar Camp during your getaway. Of course, we do more here than just syrup! Enjoy both sweet and savory dishes from local favorites like Claire's Cakes & Café, as well as tasty treats from area businesses like Buck's Bee Shack and Townsend Draft Goods.

Experience summer in our rural mountain community
We’re the least populous county in Virginia, but we have so much to offer! From riding the ferris wheel at the Highland County Fair to learning about frontier life at the 18th Century Trades Fair to petting mini-horses at Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary to backyard foraging at Emerald Mountain Sanctuary, memories are waiting to be made. You'll also discover a bustling arts scene, authentic Appalachian eats and treats, starry nights, and much more in our special part of the Commonwealth that is sometimes called "Virginia's Little Switzerland."
Photos courtesy Blue View Lodge, Crisp Pics, Highland County Chamber of Commerce, Laura Honaker Photography, and Sky Pics.
Website page and getaway contest are projects of Highland Community Development Initiative (HCDI) core partners: Highland County Chamber of Commerce, Highland EDA, Highland Tourism Council, and The Highland Center.