Monday, November 23, 2009

The Luray Caverns of Page County


Virginia is full of natural and manmade wonders! From the Natural Bridge to Smith Mountain Lake, there is no end to all the wonderful things to see and do in Virginia. Nestled in the Shenandoah National Park, north of Roanoke, is Luray Caverns. Discovered in 1878, the Luray Caverns are breathtaking! Rock formations "sing" and bridal veils, the formations are as amazing as the day they were discovered!




It all started with a sink hole. A gust of air from a limestone sinkhole blew out a candle held by Andrew Campbell as he and friends were looking for caves in the area. What they ended up discovering was the largest series of caverns on the East. Purchasing the land at public auction, the men began to prepare the cave for visitors. The rest is history!



In 1880 The Smithsonian Institution sent nine scientists to examine the cavern system. They were amazed at the stalactite and stalagmite formations they found. One of the most popular formations is the Stalacpipe Organ! Located in the Cathedral, you really can play music on these stalactites! Using a system of electronically controlled rubber mallets you can hear the rocks make music! It has even been featured on Ripley's Believe it or Not!



Giant Hall, Titania's Veil, Dream Lake, and Fried Eggs are just a few of the other amazing cave formations you can see when you visit Luray Caverns. It is about a 2 hour drive from Bedford, Virginia, but well worth the drive! There is so much to do in the area you may need to just plan your vacation to Bedford!



Come for a visit, if you like it, then move here! If you want to live in a land of natural and manmade beauty, call Vicki Millehan! A long time resident of Smith Mountain Lake and local real estate expert! From a winery to luxury waterfront homes, she can help you find your own piece of Virginia!

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