Car Rental Virginia

A quick guide to Virginia

There are many great aspects to exploring Virginia by hire car, but chief among them might be the contrasts you’ll find as you head from county to county. From wild coastline to the quiet of beaches, from mountainous peaks to forest rich with the scent of pine. You’ll also find history galore, as well as towns and cities that are embracing the future too.

Stunning Shenandoah

• Over in the west of the state, Shenandoah has been wowing visitors since the 1930s, a national park that seemingly contains every possible aspect of beauty. With the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background, here you’ll find sensational colours all year round, with the trees turning endless shade of red.
• Watch out for wild turkeys and deer as you navigate the streams, hundreds of miles of trails, walking past wildflowers. There are numerous camping and picnic areas, whether you’re planning a short or long stay.

Life in the colonies

• They aren’t phoning it in at Colonial Williamsburg. What was the capital of England’s first US colony is now a museum that truly brings the era of the New World to life. Many of the buildings here are original, lovingly preserved and restored, while you’re invited to participate in 18th century life by the many costumed staff.
• Close by, on the James River, is Jamestown, the very first settlement dating back to 1607. You can discover the true story of Pocahontas here, and see where they’re excavating the remains of the settlement, which was only found in the late 20th century.

A taste of the south

• Two different cities will give you a flavour of Virginia – and the way it straddles both north and south. The capital, Richmond looks and feels like a southern city, but is slowly gentrifying and opening up. Visit the capitol building, built to a plan drawn up by Thomas Jefferson, and then wander the world-class Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. There is plenty of notable stuff on display here – furniture by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, art from Edward Hopper and Whistler and a collection of Faberge Eggs.
• To the north-west of the capital you’ll find Charlottesville, a good-looking town with a high quality of life and a relaxed feel. C-Ville, as its known, has a number of outstanding places to eat. Head for C&O on Water Street for a warm welcome and tempting entrees such as applewood smoked pork loin and scallops with raisin-caper butter sauce.
• With car hire in Virginia you can discover everything there is to see in this storied state, from the tales of the first settlers to the beauty of the great outdoors.