Virginia Community Areas

Central Virginia is known as the piedmont area, as it lies between the coastal and mountainous regions of the state. This region is known for its rural character epitomized by historic plantations, civil war sites and white fences containing horse pastures. Charlottesville is one of the highlights, and more populated areas, of the Virginia piedmont. It harbors the University of Virginia and Monticello, both initially constructed by Thomas Jefferson.

Coastal Virginia is lined on the east with wide sandy beaches, natural harbors and the Chesapeake Bay. Chincoteague Island is a center for recreation in this region as is the Chesapeake Bay for water-oriented activities. In the southern coastal region Colonial National Historic Park and Williamsburg interpret the first landing site of Europeans and the first capitol in Virginia.

Recreation - Recreation in the state varies per region. The coast provides the ocean and several harbors for water-oriented activities such as sailing, fishing, swimming and crabbing. Viewing historic sites and scenery as well as road and mountain biking and hiking are popular in the piedmont of Virginia. The mountains present opportunities for backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, scenic driving and fishing.

Climate - Virginia, as a whole, experiences high humidity throughout the year. Summers promise high heat and humidity, which can make rigorous activities uncomfortable and difficult. Spring and fall are the best times to visit the area to avoid the heat. The mountains to the coast receive high rainfall during these seasons, so rain gear is recommended. Winter precipitation levels vary from year to year. The humidity makes temperatures feel colder during the winter as it makes the summer temperatures feel hotter. Weather on the coast is generally more mild than that in the piedmont.

Location - Virginia Community Areas stretch across the entire state and reach into all corners.