
Little Switzerland's panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains continue to attract visitors to this unique mountain community located adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the DiamondbackNC. Charlotte attorney, Heriot Clarkson, rode a mule north of Marion via Turkey Cove, towards Grassy Mountain to discover these breath taking views in 1909. It was hardly necessary for Clarkson to articulate his thoughts at the time, "This is the place" noted in Louisa Duls book, The Story of Little Switzerland.
Visit during the summer of 2010 to join the historic centennial celebration. The Little Switzerland General Store continues to serve the community. Be sure to stop by its sister site, the Switzerland Cafe and Zak's Pub. Originally built in 1927, the General Store was the place to pick up messages, parcels and mail. Locals and part-time residents reminisce about the good ole' days on the county oral history site at www.mcdowellhistory.com.
Anniversary events are found under the "local events" tab on this website. Special activities are also planned on the grounds of the Switzerland Inn, also celebrating 100 years! Also visit the www.littleswitzerlandnc.com site for more details.