Atop the Blue Ridge Mountains, in the middle of the Shenandoah National Park, sits Skyland, Va.
As opposed to an actual town or city, this small community is more of a retreat among the vast wilderness surrounding it.
The centerpiece consists of a resort by the same name, which tourists and hikers use as their base for sight-seeing and nature hikes.
Some stop just to catch their breath, while others plan to stay an entire week, experiencing the many activities available.
Originally established as a privately owned camp in 1895, the resort was first called Stony Man Camp.
However, in the early 1930's, a large chunk of Virginia was roped off for what would become Shenandoah National Park.
Since all National Park land became property of the U.
S.
Government, most existing establishments were torn down.
However, this was not the case for the resort, which has actually been expanded and remains open to the public to this day.
Travelers don't just use this locale as a spot for a quick rest or an information center.
The resort offers accommodations for those looking to spend a night or two in the mountains.
Available are anything from single private rooms to entire cabins for that authentic rustic feel.
At such a high altitude, most rooms provide a panoramic view of the mountains and valley of the Shenandoah.
And being placed inside a genuine forest, there is no shortage of wildlife, including deer and owls, outside many a cabin door.
Most accommodations are part of package that includes activities.
A popular choice among visitors is horseback riding, which is part of a guided tour through the hills.
Astronomy and Audobon enthusiasts are also drawn to this resort because of the array of star gazing and birdwatching.
There are also learning activities in the form of seminars and courses.
All of the courses available, such as culinary or identifying plant life, relate to the surrounding wilderness.
Not a real town and a not a gated community, Skyland, VA is a retreat open to the public.
It exists mainly as a step for one to stand on to peer over the trees and take a peek at the beauty of the Shenandoah Park.
Since the entire park is public owned, there is a concentrated effort to keep construction to a minimum, which makes this particular spot a rare occurrence.
It also makes it all the more popular, and first-time visitors often return year after year.