August 8, 2023
Lifestyle, Travel, Drink, Adventures,
There’s more to Western North Carolina than meets the eye. Here, a detailed and holistic guide to truly experience these stunning foothill destinations.
THE HIGHLANDS
Where to stay…
Old Edwards Inn
Enter the lap of relaxed luxury at Old Edwards Inn & Spa while simultaneously being immersed into the natural beauty of Western North Carolina. With ample activities on the grounds and plenty of sites to see in town, you are not going to want to miss out on a weekend nestled within a European-style Relais & Chateaux property.
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The Highlander Mountain House
At the Highlander Mountain House, a refined English country house meets rustic Blue Ridge retreat. Encouraging guests that select the 18-room getaway to reconnect with nature, you are then welcomed to return to the inn’s all day, elevated tavern after hitting all the trails and exploring the property.
Skyline Lodge
If you are looking for serene mountain views, Skyline Lodge sits situated atop a mountain allowing you to feel enveloped in the area's natural beauty. You not only get a mountain aesthetic but also the design sensibilities of Frank Lloyd Wright, making for a unique and sophisticated experience with ample experiential opportunities. After its renovated in 2021, take in the indoor fireplaces, bar and lounge, and expansive courtyard to awaken all of your senses.
Where to stop…
Mountain Fresh Grocery
There's nothing better than popping into Mountain Fresh Grocery to grab a sandwich before a hike and see all of the goodies they have to offer. The selection of food and wine makes this the perfect place to order catering if everyone is tired after a long day of exploring highlands and also a fun outing for the entire family. Make sure to order ahead though because their popularity within the community means things go fast!
Where to dine…
Madison’s at OEI
Taking you back to Old Edwards Inn, Madison’s is ready to wine and dine you. This fine dining experience is one where you can dine al fresco next to a waterfall or cozy up in their stunning interiors. While breakfast is exclusive to guests, making the inn even more appealing, lunch and dinner are open to anyone looking to have a luxuriously fresh farm focused dinner.
Four65
Looking for a night on the town? Settled on Main Street, Four65 offers woodfired pizza, cast-iron sandwiches and fresh salads straight from their own garden and local vendors who want to make sure you are getting the highest quality ingredients for a high quality dining experience. Find a spot at their onyx bar or dine al fresco on the Terrazza, all while surrounded by the beautiful mountain landscape.
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Where to belly up to the bar…
After dinner, mozy on down to Ugly Dog Pub and The High Dive for a nightcap or an evening out with friends. From their expansive menu full of familiar favorites and craft beer, you are guaranteed to have a good time at either of these hot spots. From Karaoke to live music any day of the week, make sure your vocal chords are rested to have a spectacular time.
CASHIERS/SAPPHIRE
Where to stay…
High Hampton
Delving deeper into the Carolina mountains, you will discover the hidden gems that are Cashiers and Sapphire. Just as charming as The Highlands, these locales offer even more exciting trails and adventures for your Mountain getaway. Starting with where you are going to stay. High Hampton Resort takes you back to another era while maintaining a modern manicured look with golf, dining, and activities on the grounds perfect for the whole family.
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Where to play….
Chattooga Club
From culinary prowess to a round of croquet, the Chatooga Club offers intimacy and relaxation for all ages. Each day is elevated from spa treatments to the way in which exciting days turn into stunning sunsets spent with the ones you love the most. The Chatooga Club has stood the test of time, never wavering in the luxury, mountainous retreat that everyone needs in their lives.
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Where to grub…
Cornucopia Restaurant
What started out as a general store the owner purchased for a mere $27, Cornucopia has lived many lives, and today, it stands as a community favorite for days of going out and about. Much like other restaurants in the area, their ingredients are fresh and kissed by the mountain air. “Cashiers favorite porch” is beloved and must-try in the area, or if you are traveling between one of these little hamlets to the next!
ASHEVILLE/BREVARD
Where to rest…
Hotel Indigo
A little further east sit Asheville and Brevard, slightly larger but charming and beautiful all the same. There is no shortage of fabulous places to stay, starting with the Hotel Indigo. With sweeping views of the valley, Hotel Indigo is the perfect place to set up camp when planning a visit, with affordable rates in one of the most buzzing cities in North Carolina. IHG Hotels guaranteed that no two properties are the same, and the Asheville location is no exception.
AC Hotel
Inspired by local culture and design, the AC Hotel in downtown Asheville is perfect for today’s traveler. Everything the town has to offer is at your fingertips, and AC Hotel makes sure to give you an authentic Asheville experience from the moment you walk through its doors.
The Omni Grove Park Inn
For over a century, The Omni Grove Park Inn has been welcoming travelers curious about the charm of Asheville. Rejuvenate your senses in the spa’s mineral pool or play a round of golf on their Donald-Ross designed championship course. There is something for everyone at this resort nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with romantic and modern touches to make it a memorable experience.
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The Grand Bohemian
Located near the Biltmore Estates, this tudor-esque establishment has all the pomp and circumstance for a guaranteed quality stay. They have everything and more from their on-site restaurant The Red Grill, wine tasting room, and art gallery, The Grand Bohemian is teeming with details that reflect Asheville and happens to be just a stone’s throw away from plenty of experiences in the area from the zoo to the botanical gardens.
The Foundry Asheville
Eclectic and timeless, The Foundry offers a luxury experience with what they call a refined twist. They have worked closely with the community to bring you one-of-a-kind experiences from luxury picnics, quality libations, and you can even bring your pup along with you! And while it is slightly removed from downtown, you are sure to have a unique and curated experience with the traditional service and amenities we know and love.
To visit…
The Biltmore
Book a stay or spend the day at The Biltmore’s three distinctive properties and discover the grandeur of the grounds. Explore the surrounding area, from the river to the gardens as you weave through rooms which boast architectural prowess. And not to mention, the service matches the slice of heaven that is The Biltmore.
West Asheville
Immerse yourself in the originality of West Asheville, located just across the French Broad river. The history is evident in the architecture now outfitted for new businesses, funky homes, and color bursting around every corner. Live music can be heard wafting through the streets as you frequent the pubs, bakeries, and local consignment shops to discover treasures in the special area of the city.
To drink Beer…
Oskar Blues
Oskar Blues is a tried and true craft brewery just a bit north of Brevard’s main street. Each night, they make sure to have their food truck locked and loaded for frequenters trying to have a beer at the end of a long day on the trails. The view doesn’t hurt either, and you can bring your dog!
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Wicked Weed Brewery
Located at the Funkatorium, Wicked Weed’s 50 barrel production brewery is perfect for a family weekend or week day hangout. They’ve got their food truck, taproom, and bottle shop ready for you to try all of their wine, beer and ciders. Don’t forget your beer and merch at the Bottle Shop so you rep this funky establishment all year round.
Green Man Brewery
The Green Man has been cranking out the brews since 1997, and now, they have evolved from a pub to a fully functioning brewery. Sticking to traditional English brewing techniques and flavors, their fresh look along with their brew reigns as a hit with the community, making sure travelers get the best treatment possible.
Hi-Wire Brewing
Hi-Wire Brewing, in addition to making unique and quality concoctions, has a philanthropic and sustainable side. Expect a welcoming and fun group of people who connect with their community while also providing quality service. The team champions ingenuity and reduces their carbon footprint with novel shipping and production initiatives, making sure that you are getting a beer made ethically and with love.
Where to grab a bite…
Rhubarb
Chef and owner John Fleer created a restaurant that is founded on the concept of being uncomplicated and a place where family and friends can share memories and food with one another. After helping to curate “the foothills cuisine,” the menu is fancy, rustic, simple, and one-of-a-kind.
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Cúrate
Sometimes we need to spice things up, and when it comes to dinner, you will always be satisfied with tapas. Cúrate invites you to experience the Spanish way, from award-winning charcuterie, the bodega for you to take their delicious food home with you, and even offer the opportunity to travel and really understand what makes this culturally rich country tick.
Bone and Broth
If you want to go where the locals go, look no further than Bone & Broth for a good cut of steak and elevated southern classics. Bone & Broth is quintessentially Asheville with quality people and delicious fare ready to make sure you feel immersed in the community and its thriving culinary scene.
The Square Root
This Brevard gem keeps locals coming back time and time again for its delicious food and affordable prices. With an intimate interior, dine under strung lights in a homey and upscale restaurant with unique culinary concoctions sure to make your mouth water.
Bouchon
This french and friendly neighborhood bistro is inspired by the owner’s upbringing in Lyon. From farm-to-table service, connecting the patron to the traditional Michel Baudouin remembers from her childhood, Bouchon is yet another rich and immersive dining experience to add to your list when visiting the mountain town.
For some entertainment…
The Orange Peel
With so many fun places to dine, it makes sense that Asheville has a rocking venue for all things entertainment. Catch a show after a date night to extend the fun you are having on your getaway to the blue ridge. Near and dear to its neighborhood, the Orange Peel has been reimagined and nationally recognized as one of the best Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs in the nation, dedicated to keep all of its patrons happy and having a good time.
Co-Ed Cinema
If you find yourself in Brevard, a must-do is the Co-Ed cinema. With only one theater, this is the perfect old school experience to understand what makes Brevard so special. Whether they are screening new or old films or just want a break from the outdoors, grab your popcorn and head to this special establishment in the heart of the mountains.
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