It’s no secret that Asheville is a top-notch vacation destination, but there’s more to a visit to Appalachia’s sweetheart than meets the eye. An easy 15-45 minute drive in any direction – north, south, east or west, will land you in an artsy and walkable downtown with a small-town vibe. 

GO NORTH!

Weaverville – it’s life at a slower pace. This inviting mountain town is only about 10 miles north of Asheville, but it has a whole different energy. It’s a bit like taking a step back in time. It’s not unusual to see folks stopping each other on the sidewalk to exchange neighborhood stories, while sipping a hot coffee or tea from its beloved Well-Bred Bakery. Locals and visitors, alike, can be found strolling its picturesque Main Street while exploring its impressive selection of high-end art galleries such as Magnum Pottery and Miya Gallery. Nature lovers can also enjoy the Main Street Nature Park right in the heart of town or visit Lake Louise Park. Chances are they’ll get a glimpse of some ducklings splashing around by the small waterfall and big red waterwheel. 

Photo credit: Weaverville Business Association

 

HEAD SOUTH

For many years, Hendersonville – about a 30-minute drive from downtown Asheville – was overshadowed by its northern sister, but as it’s been discovered by retirees and tourists, it’s really started to shine on its own. There are many reasons to visit this western NC region. A big one is that it’s an apple lover’s dream. It’s home to nearly 20 apple orchards – many where you can pick your own – as well as its annual Apple Festival, held over Labor Day weekend. People can meet the growers, sample different varieties, listen to some of the regions’ top-notch entertainment and a whole lot more. Now, if apples ain’t your thing, there’s wine too – and a lot of it. There are at least seven vineyards that we know of and each has a personality all its own. Burntshirt Vineyards is one of the oldest family-run vineyards and Stone Ashe is one of the newest. If you play your cards right you can do a little of both – pick and sip. 

Photo credit: Visit Hendersonville

 

EXPLORE THE EAST

In recent years, Trip Advisor readers have named Black Mountain, “The prettiest small town in America.” Snuggled in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountains, it’s about a 20-minute drive from Asheville and it’s a wonderful place to spend the day. Visitors can sip on an organic brew at Pisgah Brewing and then put their singing to the test at open mic night at the White Horse. If shopping is your bag, there’s no shortage of eclectic shops to explore in its very walkable downtown. And, nearby Montreat is home to Ten Thousand Villages, a retailer that sells fair-trade crafts and housewares from Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. This area also gives hikers easy access to some of the most beautiful hikes around. The Graybeard Trail is an 8-mile challenge but pays off with incredible views. 

Photo credit: Visit Black Mountain

WANDER TOWARDS THE WEST

Located in Haywood County, Waynesville is the furthest destination from Asheville – about a 45-minute drive. It’s one of the region’s top agritourism destinations and boasts a healthy selection of farm-to-table restaurants, U-pick Farms (i.e., flowers, vegetables) and farmer’s markets. Its historic farmer’s market is a great place to pick up some local treats. And while Waynesville is very proud of its Appalachian heritage, it embraces many cultures in one community each year at its Folk Moot Festival. There are live storytellers, music, artist workshops and so much more. The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre is also a cool spot to take in a live play or performance. 

Photo credit: Nina Bauer (@hiking.nina) and Visit NC Smokies

And all of these vibrant towns are just minutes away from the splendor of the Blue Ridge Parkway – America’s favorite drive. An interactive map makes planning this mountain escape fun and easy. There’s just so much to explore. 

So, what do you say? Are you ready to book an Inspired Getaway? Check out our vacation rental property list or contact us directly, info@inspiredgetaway.com.

Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains continues to be a popular destination for group travelers of all kinds, but rather than lodging in places that are widespread and dispersed, why not have everyone take over a small-scale neighborhood? If you’re traveling as a group then stay together as a group. At Inspired Getaway, we offer group lodging at Cedar Cliff Village, a newly designed, small community of homes nestled together in Fairview, North Carolina that allows group travelers the option to stay in separate but together living spaces. 

Location, Location, Location

The Cedar Cliff Village location is difficult to beat. Located in Fairview, NC within 5-minutes of the Blue Ridge Parkway and 10 minutes to downtown, Cedar Cliff not only provides the convenience of groups lodging together but allows you to be in close proximity to all things Asheville has to offer. For wedding parties, corporate retreats or family’s traveling together, Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff homes are also popular for the communal neighborhood amenities such as the community pavilion for picnicking, fire pit, and walking paths. 

Wedding Party Lodging

Planning a wedding or small elopement? Couples and wedding planners know Asheville is the second most popular wedding destination in the United States. Our colorful mountain landscapes and long-range views attract families and friends from all over the world to spend an entire wedding weekend together. And by together we also mean, stay together with Inspired Getaway’s group lodging options.

Save time and money by lodging together at Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff Village. No more hassle of wrangling wedding guests who are staying all over town or in separate hotels. We’re set up to accommodate easier coordinating for your weekend wedding events.  For carpooling and transportation coordinating, the group rentals at Cedar Cliff offer guests next-door living making wedding party logistics an easier feat. 

Corporate Retreats

The same goes for small businesses or corporate retreats that want to assemble for company meetings, planning, and group wellness. Asheville’s unique backdrop and endless play activities make us one of the top destinations for wellness and company retreats. Inspired Getaway understands that planning a corporate retreat at a stuffy hotel can be disappointing and unoriginal.

Our quiet, small-scale neighborhood Cedar Cliff Village is an ideal way to convene yet escape to reconnect with coworking teams and ourselves without feeling like you’re stuck in another hotel. Cedar Cliff Village homes are also great for planning those extra add-ons like mobile spa massages and private chefs. There’s also plenty of space to hold meetings, gather around a bonfire in the evening, or relax in your own private hot tub after a long day of retreating. 

Family Travel

Planning a family reunion or group family vacation in Asheville, NC? Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff Village is also perfect for families to gather for quality time together. Several of our Cedar Cliff lodging rentals are furnished and set up for small families with children. We understand that parents need space to relax but also need to know their children are nearby and safe. Some of the houses have amenities that include board games, bunk beds, TVs for gaming or watching movies, and space for running around and spreading out. A few are even dog friendly. 

Separate but together, relax and enjoy the mountain living lifestyle in Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff Village. Inspired Getaway is ready to help you start planning lodging for your next group vacation, wedding  or corporate retreat. Contact us at info@inspiredgetaway.com to reserve your village in the mountains of North Carolina!

Ask a local who’s been a renter in Asheville, or is currently, they will explain their frustration about how difficult it is to find a space to rent here in the mountains. The demand for renting a single-family home in Asheville has skyrocketed in the last decade, making our area one of the more difficult and expensive locations to rent. While there are many factors contributing to this, Inspired Getaway has solutions.

Finding the right property to rent in Asheville doesn’t have to be such a struggle. At Inspired Getaway, we are able to offer lovely living spaces for you to lay your head at night and feel secure whether you’re staying for work or leisure. Our property management company not only provides short-term vacation rentals, but we also offer long-term as well for those who need and can stay for an extended amount of time. Let’s take a closer look at the type of person we match our rentals to and why.

Location, Location, Location

Many travel employees want to live as the locals do. This means enjoying an outdoor adventure right out your door, sipping beer at one of the multitudes of breweries and great restaurants, or booking a sunset yoga hike with Asheville Wellness Tours. Many times, the locals access annual passes to Biltmore Estate grounds and other historical sites. While these places mainly appeal to tourists, many locals like booking tours with LaZoom Comedy Bus, Flying Bike Electric Bike Tours, and many other fun, local activities. Being surrounded by the majestic beauty of the blue ridge mountains has always been a place attractive to travelers, especially for escaping for self-care, curiosity, or now, a work position.

Digital Nomad Stays

Digital Nomads are referred to as people who can work from anywhere they land whether nearby or far away thanks to internet capabilities. With more and more employees choosing to become independent contractors, living in more desirable areas is now a reality for many. Tech companies and others alike allow employees to work from home or anywhere in the world, independent from an office space, and Asheville is at the top of those destination lists. Long term rentals hosted by Inspired Getaway appeal to digital nomads because many of our properties are close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, downtown Asheville, and outdoor adventure or social outings. 

Travel Nurse Stays 

The same goes for travel nursing. Nursing is another industry that gives workers the freedom to travel, if they choose, to various hospitals & cities for defined amounts of time. These positions pay well and often align with someone’s yearning to move around and city-hop. Inspired Getaway’s long term rentals are appealing to travel nurses for a few reasons:

1. We offer 3 – 12 month stays allowing nurses to leave the area on schedule then, if they choose to return, Inspired Getaway can provide an easier transition into a rental if they come back to work here again.
2. Our rentals are in close proximity to the area hospitals — and everything else you will need to feel right at home in Asheville.
3. Inspired Getaway will work with you as best we can to accommodate your stay, and even give you our insider tips for how to become more familiar with Asheville and the surrounding towns. 

Inspired Deals for Winter Stays

Inspired Getaway believes in supporting its community and understands that finding a long-term rental in the colder seasons can seem unattainable. This year, we have a few rentals offering great winter deals for renters. Here they are by location:

Winter Deals on Vacation Rentals Offering Long Term Stays

Flat Rock, NC

All are offering reduced monthly rent, the price includes all utilities and is good from now through March 31st.

1. Baby’s Corner – Monthly decreased winter rate of $999/mo at Mill House Lodge
2. Johnny’s Bungalow – Monthly decreased winter rate of $999/mo at Mill House Lodge

Our Inspired Getaway team is ready to help you move into your next living space, whether long-term or short. We do our best to accommodate all our guests and renters in any situation. Consider our amazing Winter deals lasting through April 30, 2023.

Contact us today to inquire about your next long-term rental.

Your goosebumps may begin the minute you drive through the historic entry gate and continue on the drive up the winding, wooded driveway to the magnificent Biltmore House. Every year, teams of local elves spread their holiday magic across the 8,000 acres of the sweeping Biltmore Estate grounds. Visitors come from far and wide to see America’s largest private home transformed with miles of glittering grandeur.

Christmas at Biltmore — surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina — is their most popular time of year. Timed-entry tickets sell out quickly. Your team at Inspired Getaway ensures you get tickets and an entry time for this event when you stay at a participating vacation property. Christmas at Biltmore runs from early through the first week in January.

What Is Christmas at the Biltmore Estate All About?

The landmark Biltmore House is the centerpiece of any visit. Built for famed magnate George Vanderbilt and his family, the estate comes alive at Christmastime. During your visit, you’ll experience:

• 250 rooms that offer a step back in time
• Dozens of hand-decorated trees
• A hundred kissing balls
• Thousands of poinsettias
• Strolling musicians
• Choirs and Christmas concerts

The Vanderbilt family Christmas, a tradition that began in 1895, lives on today. You may amble at your own pace through the expansive house, with a complementary audio guide explaining the history of each room. Decorating at Biltmore is different every year. It takes an entire year to plan and execute. 

What Can I Expect When I Visit Americas Largest Private Home?

A hallmark of any holiday visit is the immense Christmas tree installed in the grand Banquet Hall. The raising of the tree is the most anticipated event of the season — in 2022, the team purchased a 35-foot Fraser fir, brought from a mountaintop in nearby Avery County.

Dedicated crews pull out all the stops to give you an unforgettable experience. Biltmore House offers two different experiences:

• The Daytime Tour provides stunning mountain views from every window in the house and an optional stroll through the nearby Conservatory and gardens.
• The Candlelight Tour boasts glowing fireplaces and live music.

What Else Can I Do at the Biltmore Estate?

In addition to the grand Biltmore House, your entry ticket to the grounds entitles you to participate in other activities around the Estate, such as:

• Antler Hill Village, to explore the shops and eateries
• Cedric’s Tavern, named after the beloved family St. Bernard
• The award-winning winery culminates in complimentary wine tasting
• A scenic drive through the expansive grounds, which treats you to views of a bass pond, a turtle-filled lagoon, and charming stone bridges

If you’re looking for more to do at Biltmore, packages include lodging, specialty tours, events and spa services. Traveling exhibits occasionally come to the Biltmore House too, such as the Downton Abbey collection in 2020 and the Leonardo da Vinci immersive, multi-sensory exhibit in 2022.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Biltmore at Christmas?

All tickets to Christmas at Biltmore include complimentary parking, the audio guide, access to the grounds and wine tasting. The prices vary, depending on the date you book and what’s included in the package. Ticket prices begin at $99.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider a day or a weekend that includes Christmas at Biltmore. Contact Inspired Getaway to recommend the best times to visit and secure tickets to one of America’s time-honored traditions.

With so much to see and do in Asheville, NC, the best advice is to find someone knowledgeable to make the most interesting recommendations. The team at Inspired Getaway understands that not everyone is only interested in spending time in the outdoors among the Blue Ridge Mountains. They know that the most inviting and exciting experiences can happen inside.

So after you’ve gone shopping, toured the local breweries, and found the chef-owned restaurants, it’s time for a little fun. If you happen to learn something while having a good time, all the better. The top five must-see museums in Asheville provide fun and fascination, along with an educational experience.

What Are Some Great Indoor Sites to Visit in Asheville?

Family-friendly options abound in Asheville, providing a great line-up of interesting and one-of-a-kind museums. These are especially popular in the cooler months, so be prepared for crowds during the cooler months. The top five local spots that visitors consider must-see destinations include:

Asheville Pinball Museum.

1 Battle Square, Asheville, 828-776-5671. On the edge of downtown, across the street from the historic Grove Arcade, the Pinball Museum is housed in a historical building with its own interesting history. Once you get inside, nostalgia hits you like a tsunami. In all, 35 classic pinball machines and 35 classic video games surround you. But they don’t take reservations, meaning you may get on a waiting list on busy days. Hint: go early.

Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum.

111 Grovewood Road, Asheville, 828-253-2698. This walk back in time takes you through a private collection of vintage cars. Local car dealer Harry Blomberg built this collection, which is free at Grovewood Village on the grounds of the Omni Grove Park Inn. Visit to see Asheville’s American LaFrance fire truck from 1922, as well as Harry’s rare 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham. It’s closed from January to March.

Asheville Art Museum.

2 South Pack Square, Asheville, 828-253-3227. Asheville’s well-known for its quirky artist community; the Art Museum celebrates that spirit. While actively collecting 20th and 21st-century artwork from Western North Carolina natives, the museum staff also highlights other interesting artists. It’s captured diversity in gender, race and socio-economic backgrounds, as well as new trends in digital art. This downtown museum is a hit with locals and visitors alike. Closed on Tuesdays, the museum offers late-night hours on Thursdays.

Asheville Museum of Science.

 43 Patton Avenue, Asheville, 828-254-7162. This is a fun stop for both kids and adults. Children perk up here with all the interactive exhibits aimed at the age-3-to-12 crowd. Adults enjoy the engaging exhibits, too, since its gems, astronomy and teratophoneus dinosaur skeleton inspire the imagination.

The Moogseum.

56 Broadway Street, Asheville, 828-258-1262. This mini-museum honors Bob Moog, the inventor of the groundbreaking Moog synthesizer. Music lovers, electronic music historians, sound engineers, and curious visitors enjoy walking through a timeline of Moog’s work. Included are exhibits of Leon Theremin, a major influence on Moog’s style. Immerse yourself in the sounds of the synthesizer at a hands-on exhibit and check out the first 1960s-era prototypes. Hours vary, depending on the time of year.

Contact Inspired Getaway to connect you with someone who can get tickets, recommend the best times to visit or direct you to the most updated calendar of events in these five must-see museums. Inspired Getaway also offers tickets to the other indoor and outdoor venues that make Asheville, North Carolina a worthwhile place to visit.

Feature photo credit: Asheville Art Museum

The Blue Ridge Mountains draw tourists every year because they’re glorious all year round. Asheville, the population hub of Western North Carolina (WNC), is nestled in the heart of these mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway rolls through blue-grey peaks and green valleys. Wondrous views greet you around each bend in the road. But the region also offers an opportunity to explore local vineyards and delve into your favorite finds.

The mountains of WNC provide an idyllic climate for growing grapes. The rich, cool night air, coupled with the humidity needed for a vineyard to thrive, provides the perfect storm for great wine. While the Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the most toured winery in North and South America, you can discover other local vineyards throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.

There are 60 wineries within a short driving distance of Asheville, so you’re sure to find one — or more — to make your personal favorites. Whether you live in one of the glorious mountain homes around Asheville or just like to visit the area wine country, you can end almost every day sipping wine at a different vineyard.

What Are the Exceptional Vineyards and Wineries Near Asheville?

You can find many vineyards in and near Asheville that produce excellent vintages, as Western North Carolina produces many award-winning wines. A few of the vineyards and wineries worth mentioning include:

Burntshirt Vineyards. Their Tasting Room and Bistro near Chimney Rock Village boasts magnificent views of Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls. The actual vineyards and winery are in Hendersonville, where they have another tasting room. Burntshirt offers tours and tastings within an hour’s drive from Asheville.

Marked Tree Vineyard. This vineyard is in Flat Rock, which is also less than an hour’s drive from Asheville. They have a satellite sipping space in Asheville called The Grape.

St. Paul Mountain Vineyards. Located in Hendersonville, this farm is a working vineyard and orchard. They offer award-winning wines and hard cider for your pleasure.

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. A family-operated winery near Boone, it sits at the base of the unforgettable Grandfather Mountain in Banner Elk, NC. A visit may require a day trip, as Banner Elk is about a two-hour drive from Asheville.

Silver Fork Vineyard & Winery. Huddled among the mountains, this Morganton winery is an event destination, so it offers a beautiful backdrop for enjoying the full flavor of its wines. Morganton is a bit over an hour’s drive from Asheville.

Mountain Brooks Vineyards. This award-winning winery is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Tryon. It’s not even an hour’s drive away and it’s well worth the trip.

Parker-Binns Vineyard. Also in Tryon, NC near the Tryon Equestrian Center Resort, Parker-Binns is a lovely vineyard that is now over 30 years old and is a family-run winery. You’ll be impressed with the green rolling hills, rocking chairs and delicious wine produced right there on the property.

Biltmore Estate Winery. This famous winery is located in the heart of Asheville on the park-like grounds of the Biltmore Estate. Against the backdrop of the mountains, it’s one place you don’t want to miss.

Why Is Asheville and Its Vicinity a Great Vacation Spot?

The Blue Ridge Mountains attract every kind of traveler to its nooks and crannies. From whitewater rafting and extreme hiking enthusiasts to art and wine lovers, there’s something for everyone. Exceptional vineyards and wineries are abundant throughout WNC. So if you’re a local wine lover or you’ve traveled a far distance, welcome to your heaven.

Explore and discover it all if you’re so inclined. Sip and taste the fermented grapes as you enjoy a sunset from your front porch. Enjoy that bottle of wine you bought at your favorite winery after a long day of shopping. Plan a picnic at one of the many waterfalls that grace these mountains. Or sip some wine while basking in the hot tub at your vacation condo. Anyway, if you enjoy the vineyards near Asheville, you’ll be glad you came.

 

 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable mountain escape in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. Sitting atop Sunset Mountain, it faces the city and neighboring peaks and pinnacles. It’s a historic inn built into the side of the mountain that’s designed for relaxing in the fresh mountain air.

Asheville’s mild climate makes it a great travel destination year-round. When you visit the Omni Grove Park Inn, you can count on first-class service, natural beauty and a location that’s been enjoyed over the years by many famous and historical figures.

What Makes the Grove Park Inn Memorable?

The Omni Grove Park Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for good reason. It’s a massive hotel with luxurious rooms and breathtaking views. Other amenities that make the Grove Park Inn memorable include:

• Delicious meals. There’s no reason to leave the property if you’re looking for a great dining experience. Whether you have a taste for a luxurious four-course meal, fine dining on a terrace with a spectacular view or a more casual, comfy café, you can find it at the Inn.
• Cocktail lounges. There are many choices for an evening spent enjoying hand-crafted cocktails or an assortment of fine wines. Relax with friends or have fun dancing at the piano bar.
• World-class spa. You won’t forget the spa at the Grove Park Inn, which includes therapeutic waterfall pools, saunas, inhalation rooms and private men’s and women’s contrast pools. The coed room includes both warm and hot pools. Experienced masseurs await your visit.
• Sports center. Guests at the Grove Park Inn enjoy access to the Sports Center, which includes instructor-led fitness classes, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a weight room and an indoor swimming pool.

At the Grove Park Inn, you can enjoy a truly magical experience with quiet meditation by a roaring fire or activities such as a ride on a horse-drawn carriage or a rousing game on the legendary 18-hole Donald Ross championship golf course. And don’t forget to spend some time visiting the many unique gift shops at The Marketplace and Grovewood Village.

Which Historical Figures Have Stayed at the Grove Park Inn?

Walk the halls in the footsteps of an array of trailblazers and historical figures. From movie stars and country singers to first ladies and grand dames, the Grove Park Inn has been a constant in the celebrity world for decades. The hotel’s history includes visits by presidents, authors and other luminaries such as:

• Helen Keller
• Henry Ford
• Thomas Edison
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt
• Dwight D. Eisenhower
• Barack Obama
• Billy Graham

Author F. Scott Fitzgerald lived there for about a year while struggling with alcoholism and tuberculosis. His wife Zelda was hospitalized nearby for schizophrenia.

Can I Visit the Grove Park Inn if I’m Not a Guest?

As an Inspired Getaway guest, your visit to the Grove Park Inn can be arranged to suit your schedule with dining reservations at one of the hotel’s exclusive restaurants, or ELDR in the nearby Grovewood Village, golf dates and shopping excursions to fill your free time. Some of the things you can enjoy when you’re not an overnight guest include:

• Free parking for up to three hours
• Cocktails and dinner
• Browsing in shops
• Walking Trails
• Watching the gorgeous sunset from the terrace

Whether you’re looking for stunning views, history, comfort or convenience, you’ll find it at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Contact Inspired Getaway to book your upcoming stay in one of our modern, green-home rentals today, complete with special days and evenings at the Grove Park Inn.

Feature Image photo credit via Facebook: @omnigroveparkinn, The Omni Grove Park Inn

When you come to Asheville, North Carolina, in September, you can look forward to local festivals, touring farms or viewing the first fall colors. While peak leaf-viewing season changes year to year, you’re sure to find activities in Asheville that inspire excitement and yes, even love.

Inspired Getaway Partners with local vacation rentals to make your fall visit to Asheville unforgettable. They partner with the region’s top experience-based businesses. When you stay at a vacation rental that uses Inspired Getaway, the best of Asheville is at your fingertips.

What Asheville Festivals Happen in September?

Festivals are designed to bring people who’re interested in the same thing together. Several fall festivals near Asheville include:

• NC Apple Festival. Labor Day Weekend in Hendersonville, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. No admission, so expect crowds.
• Flock to the Rock Birding Festival. September 17 to 18 at Chimney Rock, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free with park admission, although there’s an additional charge for the Early Bird Walk at 7:30 am.
• Carolina Mountain Cheese Fest. September 25 at the Oak and Grist Distilling Company in nearby Black Mountain, NC. Buy your tickets in advance, as admission and activities at the event fill up fast.
• Smokey Mountain Elk Fest. September 30 to October 1, 10:00 am to 9:00 pm in Maggie Valley. While no elk are expected, this family-friendly festival marks the beginning of elk rutting season. Five dollars per person.

There are always events in and around Asheville during the month. Plan your visit in advance to include one or more of these activities.

Are There Food-Related Events in the Area?

If you’re interested in one particular kind of food, check out a food trail to sample the variety that the area offers, such as:

• ASAP’s Farm Tour. September 17 to 18. Choose to visit four or five of 17 farms that aren’t usually open to visitors. The tour route is free to all, but bring cash to purchase local products.
• WNC Cheese Trail. Experience the handcrafted cheeses of Western North Carolina.
• Apple-Picking Fun. September is the prime apple-picking season in Western North Carolina, and the area has many orchards you can visit, pick apples and taste some cider as well.
• Wine-Tasting Tours. If you enjoy wine, visit the area’s excellent vineyards, open for tastings and sales.

Where Can I See the Fall Colors?

Typically, the fall color season lasts from the end of September to early November, but it changes from year to year. Check ahead of time for the best dates and places, if that’s your goal. The higher reaches of the Blue Ridge Mountains turn color earlier. Color also changes earlier with sun and cooler weather; it lasts longer with rain and warmer weather.

Many overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway let you view the glory of autumn in Western North Carolina. If you’re athletically inclined, follow some local hiking trails for fabulous views with or without waterfalls. Several spots worth viewing include:

• Linn Cove Viaduct
• Chetoa View
• Mt. Mitchell
• Mills River Valley Overlook
• Mt. Pisgah
• Pounding Mill Overlook for migrating monarchs
• Waterrock Knob
• Rough Ridge
• Fryingpan Lookout Tower
• Black Balsam Knob Hike
• Devil’s Courthouse

Start making plans to fall in love with Asheville. Book a vacation rental and decide which activities you prefer. Welcome to Asheville, the vibrant mountain hub of Western North Carolina.

Asheville offers some memorable vacation experiences. The mountain scenery and cool summer temperatures are simply icing on the cake because the Western North Carolina region offers so many things to do. Your options include sightseeing, hiking and ziplining.

The North Carolina Arboretum, located just south of Asheville, provides well-groomed trails and beautiful gardens of native species. Educational programs, seasonal events, biking trails, photography, winter lights and garden exhibits make your visit worthwhile as you commune with nature. Other enticements include:

• Art exhibits
• A gift shop
• A Bonsai tree exhibit
• An on-site bistro

What Are Some Specific Features of the Arboretum?

This park sits within the Pisgah National Forest. It features easy hiking paths that include Bent Creek Road, Old Mill Trail and Wolf Branch Road, all of which are shorter than 1.5 miles. The Arboretum also has tougher hiking trails if you’re up for it. You can also find biking trails of various levels of difficulty.

ArborEvenings, a weekly event, includes live music, performances by numerous regional and local artists, and delicious food. It’s free for Arboretum Society members and for visitors who pay the standard parking fee. The parking fee runs from $16 for a passenger car to $100 for a large bus. Except for certain events, there’s no extra entrance fee to visit the Arboretum. Parking discounts include:

• AAA members receive $1 off personal vehicle parking.
• Members of the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program can park for free.
• Buncombe County and Henderson County Library ZOOM pass holders receive free parking.
• Active/retired veterans park for free on Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day.
• On the first Tuesday of every month, the Arboretum offers a 50 percent discount on personal vehicle parking.

What Else Does the NC Arboretum Offer?

The NC Arboretum has 65 acres of maintained gardens to delight your senses. Wildflowers at the Arboretum and Bonsai Exhibition Garden always attract a crowd. The gift shops, educational sessions and guided programs offer something for every nature lover.

The Arboretum sits within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest, also part of the Pisgah National Forest. The nearby Bent Creek area is 6,000 acres of recreational forest that doubles as a research center. Broaden your nature experience in Western North Carolina with a visit to Bent Creek for:

• Hiking, biking and horseback riding are only permitted on established pathways within the forest’s boundaries
• Hunting and fishing, but only with the precautionary and necessary measures
• Camping and swimming in the Lake Powhatan Recreation Area, located in the heart of the Bent Creek Experimental Forest

Why Choose Inspired Getaway in Western North Carolina?

Inspired Getaway has concierge services for short-term vacation rental properties. Bringing together the best quality rental properties into one easy-to-access and easy-to-rent website, Inspired Getaway provides an exclusive experience and discounts for guests. The company includes rentals near Asheville and the Arboretum, making you feel at home with:

• Renter benefits
• Individualized services
• A memorable guest experience

Whatever your reason for visiting Western North Carolina, Inspired Getaway properties suit your budget and taste. They help you find the perfect vacation home, from a rustic cabin to a luxurious downtown condo. For an experience of a lifetime, contact Inspired Getaway. 

 

Escaping the heat and hitting the mountain rivers of Western North Carolina is one of the best ways to beat the heat during the sometimes-sizzling summer months. Starting in June, the water is beginning to warm up just enough, making it a perfect time to make new memories in this mountain area that has something for everyone.

When you escape to Asheville, you’ll enjoy cool summer breezes, breathtaking views and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s the ideal destination for a healthy and active vacation and the knowledgeable team at Inspired Getaway is here to help you get settled in your rental and find your way to your great river adventure. 

What Are Some Rafting Rivers in the Asheville Area?

The North Carolina mountains are home to several rafting rivers. Whether you’re looking for a river that’s quiet and peaceful or one that offers exhilarating whitewater rafting, you’ll find what you’re looking for in one of these rivers:

• French Broad River. This wide river is the world’s third oldest river and a popular destination for anyone who enjoys either exciting whitewater rafting or calmer river trips.
• Nantahala River. If you’re looking for cold water to relieve the intensity of hot summer days, this iconic mountain river is a great option for a river adventure.
• Green River. There are plenty of river activity options for all levels along the Green River including tubing, canoeing, kayaking and more.
• North Toe River. This meandering river is a great destination for river enthusiasts who enjoy kayaking, canoeing and tubing.
• Pigeon River. The Pigeon River is about 50 miles from Asheville. The Upper Pigeon is filled with continuous waves for an exciting river experience while the Lower Pigeon is gentler and a better option for kids or those unfamiliar with whitewater rafting.
• Tuckasegee River. The calmer rapids of the Tuckasegee River offer the perfect location for tubing, kayaking, paddling and fishing.

Get in touch with nature on the rivers in the Asheville area. Western North Carolina is known for its beauty, and a river adventure may be just what you need to renew and refresh your spirit, while having a whole lot of fun.

Where Are the Best Outfitters in the Asheville Area?

There are various different outfitters in the Asheville area that can provide tours and supplies to meet your needs. Some options include:

• Asheville Outdoor Center.  Select a raft, kayak or canoe, and enjoy a seven-mile trip down the French Broad River floating along with the Biltmore Estates property. This is a calm rafting trip that’s perfect for beginners.
• Wai Mauna Asheville Sup Tours.  Standup paddleboarding is a great way to enjoy the river. This company offers self-guided rentals or guided paddleboard tours.
• French Broad River Outfitters.  This company provides recreational trips as well as outfitting for rafting and whitewater kayaking. Enjoy slow-flowing tubing, canoeing, standup paddleboarding and more.
• Nantahala Outdoor Center.  Experience guided family-friendly whitewater rafting or paddling at your own pace with a raft or ducky rental. Nantahala Outdoor Center offers quality gear and guidance for all ability levels. 

Start planning a river adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime and experience all the best life has to offer in the Asheville area. Be sure to check out all the properties on Inspired Getaway and book your upcoming stay today.