By Emily Crisman via Times Free Press
Photo by Derek Olson
Asheville is known for its craft beer and earthy vibe, but there’s much more to the North Carolina mountain town than hippies and hops. With its spectacular mountain views, culinary options and cozy hotels, Asheville also makes the ideal destination for a romantic weekend getaway.
What to do
Get in a romantic mood with a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, starting at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center about 15 minutes from downtown. Or take a trip to the North Carolina Arboretum, where you can choose from more than 10 miles of hiking trails. Difficulty levels range from easy, paved trails to strenuous hikes on rough terrain. One of the easier ones, the arboretum’s 1.2-mile Carolina Mountain Trail, passes through three types of forest and includes a scenic overlook with a view of Bent Creek.
One of the city’s biggest draws is the Biltmore Estate, the former home of railroad heir George Vanderbilt II located at the edge of town. Over the years, the picturesque estate has served as the backdrop for scenes in many popular movies — The Last of the Mohicans, Forrest Gump, Hannibal and Patch Adams, to name a few.
A special exhibit at the Biltmore running through July 4 features costumes from films based on books found in avid reader George Vanderbilt’s extensive library of more than 22,000 volumes. As part of the exhibit, his collection is displayed — including original copies of novels such as Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and James Graham’s Finding Neverland, many of which have never before been seen by the public.
The rooftop tour of the house offers panoramic views for an especially romantic experience, and the grounds — designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, famous for his role in designing Central Park in New York City, Golden Gate Park in San Francisco and more — are an ideal setting for a romantic walk, bike or horseback ride. End the day by stopping by the estate’s winery for a tasting.
On the way back to the downtown area, you’ll pass Asheville’s River Arts District, where hundreds of working artists have studios. It’s a good place to while away an hour or two checking out the mountain crafts for sale or on display, or watching the artists at work.
Chocolate and romance go hand in hand, so be sure to get your chocolate fix at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge, which allows you to tour the factory where its treats are made.
Where to eat
Asheville is known for its culinary scene, with dozens of options packing the small city center. It’s hard to go wrong, but some stand out more than others, especially when it comes to ambiance.
Bone & Broth features English pub-style offerings such as fish and chips or bangers and mash, fitting the bar’s cozy atmosphere. The location is tucked a bit off the beaten path on Charlotte Street, adding to the romance.
Foodies looking for an elevated culinary experience can share authentic Spanish tapas at Asheville hot spot Cúrate, but be sure to make your reservations a few days in advance or you may be out of luck. Alternatively, get your small-plate fix Southern-style around the corner at Nightbell, Cúrate chef and Asheville native Katie Button’s other restaurant. The elegant decor, intimate feel and excellent food presentation make this a perfect destination for couples.
Where to stay
The Omni Grove Park Inn is a historic hotel that oozes romance with its beautiful mountain views, huge spa, and grand fireplace in the warm and inviting lobby. Even if you don’t stay here, you can get a day pass for the spa Monday through Friday, giving you access to its 43,000 square feet of underground pools with waterfalls, scented steam rooms, saunas and more. Be sure to indulge in a couples massage, and follow your spa day with a sunset dinner at the hotel’s Sunset Terrace, which offers a prime view of the western mountain ranges.
The Windsor Boutique Hotel is a gem in downtown Asheville within walking distance of lots of great restaurants. Rooms are comfortable with eclectic, elegant décor, exposed brick walls and hardwood floors. Suites feel more like one-bedroom apartments than hotel rooms, as they are equipped with full kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms, and washers and dryers. However, the rooms also boast luxurious hotel touches including premium Sferra bedding, as well as Asheville-centric extras such as locally roasted coffee and local chocolates on your pillow at turn-down.
Nothing spells romance quite like your own cozy cabin for two, away from it all in the mountains. Greybeard Rentals offers a special romance package that includes a bundle of firewood, fresh flowers and a couples massage in Biltmore Village along with a stay at one of the company’s 175-plus cabins in the area.