South East and Mid South — Introduction

The epitome of southern style, the states of Virginia, West Virginia, The Carolinas and Georgia are a sheer delight.

These Atlantic states are where much of the history of the modern US was written amid a mix of Native American, US settlers, West African and European cultures.

West Virginia and Virginia played a central role in the American Civil War, during which West Virginia split away from its larger neighbour. Then there’s Williamsburg with its restored historic heart, a city which proved pivotal during the American Independence.

South Carolina’s stately Charleston also has a deep-rooted history and distinctly European charm among its Greek revival and Italianate buildings.

Away from the cities these states hold other treats for visitors – Greensboro in North Carolina has a number of wine trails. Then there’s the Blue Ridge Mountains which stretch a blue-tinged chain across these states opening up to two of the most spectacular parks in the US. The idyllic Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks are a breathtaking wilderness where deer, bears, bobcats, raccoon and possums roam.

Georgia has an impressive coastline including the Atlantic Ocean’s Golden Isles – a pretty group of barrier islands.