Virginia's towns remind us of where we grew up - or where we wish we had. Places where locals nod in greeting as you walk Main Street, and stores serve everyday needs, like a haircut or a new pair of shoes. Rocking chairs surround a stove or a card game at the hardware store. The pharmacy has a soda fountain.

These are some of our picks for great towns, with some favorite cities thrown in, to give you a place to stay and eat when you get off the trail. All have historic inns, restaurants offering fusion cuisine to down-home cookin', and activities for the active set.