About Us

History of Little Switzerland of Books and Beans

Nestled just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 334, Little Switzerland Books & Beans is an unexpected break for travelers of the Nation’s most popular National Park. Founded as a bookstore in 1986 by Dr. Johnson at his retirement, expanded in 2004 by Thomas Wright III, and currently owned by Rick & Teresa Gougeon, the store offers over 30,000 volumes of used, new and old books with a unique selection of gift items and a full service espresso bar.

You’ll find three floors of books, nooks and crannies filled with unexpected finds, and a maze of rooms to explore.

Pride in Good Service

History of Little Switzerland of Books and Beans

A respite from the digital age, you’ll find no computerized sales kiosks or inventory here, just personal service, a friendly barista and a hand-written receipt with a thank you for your purchase. We hope you’ll take the time to browse through the racks and find a treasure in a new author, title, or trinket to cherish for yourself or a friend!

Check out our online shopping experience!

Our Sister Store: Destinations & Diversions

History of Little Switzerland of Books and Beans

Our Sister Store: Destinations & Diversions

Destinations & Diversions is a twentieth century throw-back, offering a range of pre-digital instruments and navigation devices. Lots of maps, nautical charts, atlases, local maps, mountain map art, etc.

Shoppers will find compasses, sextants, watches, magnifying glasses, binoculars, spy-glasses, weather instruments, globes, models of hot air balloons, art pieces, model boats, etc. collected to satisfy the person who wants to find their own way in life.