Amherst is a town in Amherst County, Virginia, not far from the city of Lynchburg. Located at the intersection of US Route 29 and US Route 60, Amherst homes offer residents the peaceful charm of small-town and county living while still maintaining easy access to the cities of Lynchburg, Charlottesville, and Richmond, as well as interstates 64 and 81.

The town began as a stage station on the road between Charlottesville and Lynchburg where stagecoaches could switch out their horses to continue their journeys. Originally known as “The Oaks” or “Seven Oaks,” the town was officially established in 1807 and named after Major General Jeffery Amherst, who became famous during the French and Indian War and later became governor of the Colony of Virginia.

Amherst homes are prized for their close proximity to the numerous colleges and universities in the area including Sweet Briar College, Virginia University of Lynchburg, Randolph College, University of Lynchburg, and Liberty University. Nature lovers appreciate Amherst’s close proximity to some of the best hiking trails and natural mountain scenery in Virginia, including the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest. Wintergreen Resort is also close by, offering year-round recreational opportunities like golf, snow tubing, and skiing.