Written Directions
Hwy 43 in Virginia, also known as Parkway Drive is a short, but really fun mountain road that breaks off from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Bearwallow Gap and takes you right into the small town of Buchanan, Virginia, just NE of Roanoke. Big elevation change going down to Buchanan with tight switchbacks and plenty of warning signs to trucks to Not take this road with trailers over 30 feet.
So, if you happen to be riding the BRP North and want to avoid the Hussle and Bustle of Roanoke and all it's traffic for a lunch break, I highly recommend taking this short route into Buchanan. There are three local places to eat. Hometown Diners.
Scenery
Not much to really see on this short ride, but trees. You will mostly be concentrating on the road in front of you.
Drive Enjoyment
If you like tight mountainous roads with multiple switchbacks and steep climbs and descents, this road is for you. There was not much traffic on it in the middle of the day when I rode it. Smooth pavement, no potholes of washed out edges.
Tourism Opportunities
This short route is a contrast to the big sweeping curves of the BRP, and is basically a way to get to a local lunch spot or just to ride off the Parkway for a change of scenery.
Motorcycle Road Additional info
I stopped at MS's B's diner (formerly Tammie's Place) and had a nice sandwich. Good service and good food. There is also the James River Drip, right across the street and Buchanan Fountain and Grill, both highly rated.
