Explore the Mining Heritage of Little Switzerland, NC
There are a lot of things to attract visitors to Little Switzerland and the surrounding area, but one of the most interesting is the rich mining heritage in the local area. It is believed that explorers have been coming to the area since 1540 in search of gold, silver, and other precious minerals. La Petite Chalet, our chalet cabin in Little Switzerland NC makes the perfect base of operations if you want to explore some of the mining-based attractions in the area.
Let’s take a look at some of the places to visit if you want to learn more about the minerals of the local area while staying at our chalet cabin in Little Switzerland NC.
1 – Emerald Village
Emerald Village is just a few minutes from our chalet cabin in Little Switzerlandand it is definitely well worth a visit. There is so much to do that you could easily spend an entire day exploring all that it has to offer. The attraction is home to no less than 12 real historic mines. There are impressive displays explaining the history of mining in the area. Underground tours of the mines and even the opportunity to pan for gold and dig for minerals! It’s a fantastic day out for all ages. One of the most unique aspects of the attraction is the after-dark tour when the underground mine is lit with ultraviolet lamps for the Black Light Mine Tour!
2 – Museum of North Carolina Minerals
Another of the fantastic mining themed attractions close to our chalet cabin in Little Switzerland NC is the Museum of North Carolina Minerals. It features a selection of interactive exhibits that explore the creation of the Blue Ridge Mountains and over 3000 years of mining history.
3 – North Carolina Mining Museum
The North Carolina Mining Museum is actually part of Emerald Village, so you can kill two birds with one stone when you visit. The museum consists of two different parts – the main visitor center and the historic Bon Ami Mine. The visitor center will help you to learn about the heritage of old mining practices and is even modeled to look like one of the structures of the time. There is a fantastic gift shop and refreshments counter with soft drinks and a variety of homemade fudge. The museum itself covers 2 floors and also features displays relating to mountain tobacco and Bon Ami soap which the area is also famous for. If you wish to tour the Bon Ami Mine, there is an additional fee, but it is very affordable and includes a souvenir guide book. The tour takes around 45 minutes.
—
Welcome to a little piece of heaven right here on Earth!
La Petite Chalet is the most idyllic Chalet Cabin Little Switzerland NC has to offer. The perfect spot for a romantic retreat of a mountain adventure! With stunning views of the Catawba Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains from the private tree house, you’ll soon fall in love with this quintessentially Swiss and fabulously French traveler respite. Book your visit today. Call 888-828-1654 or email Innkeeper@lapetitechalet.com