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Escape to Asheville for views and brews
Ask any NCer—during the fall, Asheville is the place to be. A year out from Hurricane Helene, the WNC city is on the up, ready to welcome fall foliage chasers and brewery bums back to the Land of the Sky. But don’t just take it from me—Reader’s Digest just named Asheville the “Nicest Place in America.”
Flashing back, after floodwaters parted, Asheville gem Grand Bohemian Lodge—located in the then-devastated Biltmore Village—got right to work revamping and renewing the iconic hotel, and is now ready to tuck in tourists and locals alike. The rustic 19th-century hunting lodge-inspired design and handcarved woodwork had me feeling as if I just kicked off my boots from a hunt in the European countryside. Not to mention the luxurious-yet-cozy ambiance serves up the perfect backdrop for a couples getaway, girls trip, staycation or even solo leaf-peeping excursion.
Here, a handful of highlights from my stay at the Lodge, plus some must-see’s in the “Nicest Place in America.”
Peak Week
Fall foliage tends to peak in color around the end of October, with higher elevations reaching full vibrancy a little beforehand. Regardless—if you head to the hills anytime during autumn, the vibrant views will not disappoint.
Take a Hike
Getting your hands (and boots!) dirty on a hike should be a top priority in the Land of the Sky. I’ve always been partial to the wide-open spaces of Bearwallow Mountain, which is just a ~40-minute drive from the Grand Bohemian. For other paradises found nearby, try Craggy Gardens, Black Balsam Knob (or any segment of the Art Loeb Trail, really) and Looking Glass Rock. And if you want to skip the elements but still bask in Appalachian glory, try a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or a glass of wine at Stone Ashe Vineyards.
Eye for Art
Asheville art is a must-see, and in the Lodge and city alike, it’s not hard to find. Paintings, paper sculptures (think the likes of Jean Claude Roy and Charles Clary) and jewelry adorn the walls of the Grand Bohemian Gallery—windowshopping is encouraged, but all the work is up for grabs if you fall hard for a piece. To boot, colorful canvases across the entire Lodge will line your walkabouts.
A Little R&R
Switch on Do Not Disturb and indulge in a day of self-care at the in-house spa, where you can laze the day away with a facial, massage (don’t sleep on the drying brushing op) or a full body ritual. You are on vacay after all!
Eat Your Heart Out
Don’t fret about reservations or whether to Uber or drive to a nearby resto. The Grand Bohemian levels up locally at on-site Red Stag Grill, serving up steakhouse faves and Appalachian eats for breakfast, brunch and dinner in a suave, hunting-inspired atmosphere. Waffles, avocado toast and acai bowls graced my breakfast table, and for dinner, the tartare and scallops paired with wine (pregamed with an Aperol spritz, natch) was a no-brainer. Pro tip: Any steak on the menu is well worth the splurge.
While Red Stag Grill has delish ops for days, the local restaurant scene calls—and you should answer. Find foodie heaven at Neng Jr’s, Chai Pani and Mother—and if you’re willing to commit to a drive a little further away, West First Wood-Fired in Hendersonville is unmatched for its pizza and salads.
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