If you are looking to get out into nature, eat great BBQ, try local brews, and meet some of the nicest people you will ever meet, Ashville is a destination for you. This quaint town is surrounded by mountainous, green lush landscape and breathtaking views in the spring and summer months. The urban areas are pristine and the natural areas are so well kept, you can’t imagine anything has ever touched them. North Carolina, and particularly this area, provides a tone to do year round for all ages from hiking, to trying to some incredible southern food, to shopping in the River Arts district.
To Stay
The Grand Bohemian, Ashville is a true gem of a hotel. The exquisite decor evokes hunting lodge meets boudoir, with a quirky artistic flair. Tucked into the historical district of Ashville, the hotel boasts luxurious rooms, an award winning restaurant and in-house art gallery.
To Eat/Drink
The Red Stag Grill (located within The Grand Bohemian) serves up a menu of fresh local meats, fish, flavors and delectable cocktails.
The Sierra Nevada Brewery is not to miss. Located nearby Ashville airport, this disney world of breweries serves light tapas and beer (of course) in a gorgeous setting where you can wander the large back gardern, tour the brewery, play boules, or simply kick back in a rocking chair under the southern sun.
Dobra Tea House, located in downtown Ashville is a truly unique experience, if you are into tea, cushion seats and incredible atmosphere! Be sure to order the bubble tea and hummus platter while you sit and meditate your worries away.
To Do
Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway – and stopping of to hike. There are so many places to stop along this beautiful stretch of road, but be sure to visit Mt Pisgah and do the hike to the top for an incredible view (it’s worth the 45 minutes up and down.) Once you’ve heated up, drive and park at Looking Glass Rock (another sensational view) where across the road you will find the path to Skinny Dip Falls – beautiful pools and waterfalls of crystal waters to admire and cool off in!
Visiting the River Arts District – which consists of a vast array of artists and working studios in 22 former industrial and historical buildings spread out along a one mile stretch of the French Broad River. This eclectic area is an exciting exploration of arts, food and exercise. Plan on spending a day or more visiting artists working in their studios, grabbing a bite of local cuisine or a brew and taking time to find art that’s perfect for your world.
To Travel
You will want to fly into Charlotte Airport or Ashville Airport. Visit a site that provides lot’s of options, like Skyscanner, which compares millions of flights to find the best one for you, and can also book your car rental all under one roof.
To Bring
In the spring and summer months, the sun can be strong even if it’s cool. On a trip like this, be sure to take a camera or GoPro, hiking boots, a hat, and light outdoor gear. For smart travel ideas and products visit Travelsmith online.