The southeastern region of Virginia has long been known for its peanuts, salt-cured hams and pork products. The Salty Southern Route takes you on a journey through this picturesque area to experience this tradition first-hand. From the town of Smithfield, namesake to the world's largest pork producer Smithfield Foods, and the city of Suffolk, home to the world-famous Planter's Peanuts, to the farms, peanut processors and charming country stores of Surry, Sussex, Franklin & Southampton County, you'll experience the culture and people behind the delicious foods the area produces. And of course - you'll get to sample some mighty fine food along the way!
Enjoy our Salty Southern Route videos produced by Rock Eagle Productions.

Explore the Salty Southern Route

The city  of Franklin, Southampton County, the town of Smithfield, Isle of Wight County, the city of Suffolk and Surry County, and Sussex County have been at the very center of the pork and peanut industry since the area was first settled in the 17th century. These charming southern communities are proud of their historic and culinary traditions. They're all conveniently located in the heart of Coastal Virginia, just up the interstate from Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Newport News, Chesapeake and Hampton. Plan your visit around one of the region's special events - there's always something happening!
Virginia Tourism Corporation approves "Virginia is for Peanut Lovers" and "Virginia is for Pork Lovers!"
Read about it in our "Along the Salty Southern Route" Blog.