WELCOME TO THE EASTERN PANHANDLE !
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West Virginia ’ s Eastern Panhandle is truly the best of both worlds . The strong sense of heritage and community of each small town offers a quiet , easy pace of life with the convenience and luxury of big cities only a short trip away .
In the heart of the Eastern Panhandle , tight-knit communities such as Martinsburg , Charles Town , Shepherdstown and Harpers Ferry offer natural beauty , unmatched outdoor adventure opportunities , rich history and thriving downtown districts .
COME OUT AND PLAY IN JEFFERSON COUNTY Jefferson County is a beacon for tourism in the Mountain State . With unique lodging , restaurants , adventure options , historical sites and fairs and festivals , its list of offerings alone brings in guests from across the country .
“ We are realizing a dream in Jefferson County ,” says Annette Gavin Bates , CEO of the Jefferson County CVB . “ We want to provide the visitor the very best experience , and it begins at our front door .”
With noteworthy destinations such as the Bavarian Inn , River Riders Family Adventure Resort , Harpers Ferry National Park , Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races , Bloomery Plantation Distillery and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy , natives and visitors alike are awed by the diverse amenities this region has to offer .
“ We have such kind and generous people who pull together for the better of the community , and they know tourism works for Jefferson County ,” says Gavin Bates . “ How many people commute to work from a gorgeous place like Shepherdstown to historic Harpers Ferry ? Each day I am literally surrounded by picturesque mountains . These small towns are each so unique but complement each other so well .”
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DISCOVER , EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE BERKELEY COUNTY Berkeley County is not only a West Virginia gem but , situated on the eastern slope of the Appalachian Mountains , also serves as the northern gateway to the Shenandoah Valley .
“ I like the peace and beauty our small region of West Virginia has to offer ,” says Mark Jordan , executive director of the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Convention & Visitors Bureau ( CVB ). “ If I feel the need to be a part of a big city , I can be in Washington , D . C ., within an hour or New York City within four hours , so to me Berkeley County is a prime location .”
Jordan works closely with the Berkeley County Development Authority , Berkeley County Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Martinsburg to facilitate growth , promote regional economic development and enhance the strengths of the historic area , but it is the sense of community he loves most .
“ The sense of Mountaineer pride and community spirit is strong in this region ,” he says . “ People are proud of where they live and are welcoming to all who visit . Visitors become family , if even for a short while .”
Whether you ’ re looking for a quiet retreat or a stylish staycation , come explore everything wild and wonderful about West Virginia ’ s Eastern Panhandle !
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE