Texan Magazine
By Nancy Foster
Are you thinking of ways to escape the sizzling Texas summer – even for a little while?
Many families are split on the perfect solution. While some prefer the cooling waters of the beach, others find their respite surrounded by cool mountain air.
If you happen to be the mountain type, consider visiting Asheville and Blowing Rock, two of my favorite North Carolina escapes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you haven’t discovered that scenic region yet, here are reasons to consider it. Cool mountain air, lush green foliage, winding roads, icy mountain streams and charm everywhere you look all add up to a memorable holiday, and it’s perfect for all ages.
You may have an immediate thought about Asheville, relating to the devastating September 2024 flood when Hurricane Helene roared through North Carolina and caused catastrophic damage. Flash floods, power outages, road washouts and record rainfall crippled much of the area…but, North Carolinians are strong, resilient, resourceful people – just as Texans are – and with help from outside, they worked feverishly to recover, not only for the residents who live there but because tourism is a vital part of their economy. Tremendous strides have been made, and although some visible scars still remain, for the most part, these beautiful communities are ready to welcome you – with friendly people, unparalleled beauty, and tons of things to do.
So, how do you get to Asheville from Texas? It’s a matter of choice. Air service does fly into Asheville Regional Airport or, if you prefer driving, it’s about 1200 miles, and if you’re into RVs or camping or aren’t limited on time, that may be the way to go.
The Charm and Beauty of Asheville
Asheville has a population of 94,500, and an elevation of 2,134 feet. For many centuries, the Cherokee people called this area home and following settlement it was officially incorporated in 1797. This vibrant community has historical, natural and cultural charm.
While nature lovers might thirst to explore the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is deserving of at least two nights, so let’s suggest a few proven highlights.
Several scenic RV and campgrounds are within a 10- to 20-minute drive of downtown Asheville, or, if you prefer something with more creature comforts, consider the novel Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins with its 16 tiny A-frame cabins and tranquil views of the French Broad River. Maybe you love lodging that is unique and memorable. If so, definitely consider Asheville Earth & Sky Dwellings. This charmer, once featured on the TV show The Treehouse Guys, is a family-owned hideaway that features 20 eclectic structures including treehouses, underground hideaways, a spaceship and a magical tent. Will you choose Wizards Hollow, Alchemy with its 12’ indoor spiral slide or maybe the Windswept Castle?
Downtown properties you’re bound to like are the beautifully appointed historic Haywood Park Hotel. Housed in the iconic Bon Marché building, it pampers guests in luxury amid touches of the past and modern upscale comforts. And…pet-friendly retreat packages are available. A delightful add-on special is a history tour in an authentic Model A or Model T auto through Mountaineer Motor Tours. How fun!
If the glamour of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald enchants you, book yourself into Zelda Dearest, an award-winning 20-room hotel centered around four clustered and beautifully restored houses, each named for one of Zelda’s sisters. A third option is the ultra-trendy The Radical in the River Arts district. Its early 20th-century architecture blends beautifully with modern industrial design and a delightful artistic flair. Request a riverfront room and see why this haven was rated No. 2 in USA Today’s 10 Best New Hotels. Extend your evening with a stop at The Roof for craft cocktails and stunning sunset views.
The Biltmore
How can we possibly describe the amazing Biltmore? Start with sprawling, historic, grandiose and unique, all rolled into one. Built as a country home for George Vanderbilt, grandson of famed industrialist Cornelius Vanderbilt, the French Renaissance chateau is considered the largest privately-owned residence in the U.S. Poor George lived there less than 20 years, having died in 1914 of complications from an emergency appendectomy, but descendants have maintained the 250-room manse in an opulent yet tasteful manner.
Visitors today can choose between daytime tours of the estate and grounds or an overnight stay on the magnificent property. The self-guided daytime tour offers visitors a comprehensive look at the home’s architectural details, distinctive art and furnishings, and sheer opulence of the estate. The Biltmore sits on 8,000 acres, so allow a minimum of two hours to stroll through manicured formal and informal gardens, tour the towering glass-ceilinged Conservatory, or visit the winery and sample Biltmore’s award-winning varietal wines.
Three choices for on-site lodging are offered and all bring touches of elegant sophistication – the Village Hotel, the Inn on Biltmore Estate and the Cottages. And for starry-eyed travelers, consider the captivating Luminere™ package (available only until October 18) that combines spectacular nighttime lighting with a signature musical score. And trust us on this one – the more you explore biltmore.com, the more convinced you’ll become that this belongs on your “gotta go” list.
As for Asheville’s dining scene, it’s eclectic and jammed with fabulous choices. A must-try Asheville favorite is Zambra (reservations recommended), known for its intimate atmosphere and Spanish-inspired tapas. Here’s where you’ll go to relax, unwind and indulge against a backdrop of century-old stone walls while you sip an exotic Spanish wine and savor small plate favorites such as Yellowtail Ceviche, Belgian Style Mussels and Ossetra Caviar.
Another Asheville favorite is Early Girl Eatery. Head to its downtown location for hearty breakfasts and farm-to-table ingredients sourced from area producers. A must-try is their cinnamon battered biscuits, baked fresh daily. Yum.
Of course, you’ll want to see other Asheville attractions, so take time to visit the River Arts District, named one of the Best Arts Districts by USA Today. This vibrant cultural hub bursts with shops, eateries and galleries, all locally owned and staffed by friendly merchants. Also consider a side-trip to Montgomery Sky Farm, a James Beard Foundation 2026 semifinalist. This culinary adventure on a 50-acre working farm combines regenerative farming, private dining experiences and animal rehab and rescue programs. Sign on for the farm tour and picnic combo for an experience you won’t soon forget.
Blowing Rock
The 90-mile drive between Asheville and Blowing Rock stretches along some spectacular parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most travelers leaving downtown will access the parkway from MP 382 or 384. Expect a slower drive than you’re used to in Texas.
Blowing Rock, population about 1,400, elevation about 3,500, sits astride the Eastern Continental Divide and is the quintessential charming Appalachian town with plenty of things to do.
Here’s a valuable tip: Internet service and GPS can be sketchy on those mountain roads, so take heed of the parkway’s mileposts.
Most of the parkway is 35 mph because of the geography, but that’s just fine. You don’t want to miss the sights of the green canopy of trees lining the winding roads, or colorful coneflowers, Turk’s cap lilies and black-eyed Susans that burst forth in summer.
Along the way, optional side stops tempt you to linger. Craggy Gardens on MP 364 yields sweeping mountain views while the “don’t miss” Linville Falls and Gorge near MP 316 will astonish you with the falls that flow over the steep-walled gorge. View the spectacle from four equally amazing lookout points and take pause to enjoy hiking trails, have a picnic, or even try your hand at trout fishing. And, if you’re looking for a well-appointed campground or RV park, you’ve found it.
Near MP 304, the Blue Ridge Parkway curves around the mountains on the sweeping Linn Cove Viaduct, one of the parkway’s most photographed stretches, highlighted by jaw-dropping S-curves. Near MP 305, Grandfather Mountain State Park invites visitors to cross its Mile High Swinging Bridge, a 228-foot suspension bridge spanning an 80-foot chasm that stretches above rocky peaks with panoramic mountain views. Nearby Julian Price Park offers canoe and kayak rentals, earthy-scented trails and excellent camping options.
Lodging in Blowing Rock
Plan to spend two nights here and soak up the mountain beauty and warm friendliness that’s always evident in this tight-knit community. Among the inviting lodging choices are two that are so unique you may have trouble choosing. The in-town Chetola Resort is a former estate property with historic touches. Ask for a room overlooking Chetola Lake, indulge with an Equani Rock Hot Stone Massage and stay long enough to get out on the water with a float trip or guided fly-fishing trip along a meandering country stream.
Another fine choice is the early 1890s-built Inn at Ragged Gardens, located downtown. The amenities in this 12-room property definitely come with a wow factor in the Tree House room with its double-sided fireplace or the English Rose Suite with its separate sitting room. Their onsite Best Cellar restaurant features dining space inside the wine cellar and wine cave. Maybe your first dinner in Blowing Rock will be their pan-seared North Carolina mountain trout!
Since we’re talking dining choices, if you’re an adventurous foodie, try out the intimate Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2024 that proudly features farm-to-table cuisine. Another to try is The Gamekeeper where hearty menu items include grilled elk striploin and sumac roasted duck breast.
The town of Blowing Rock is very walkable and features the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum plus tons of galleries and shops to tempt you. A few you might like are Bent Tree Furniture, Gaines Kiker Silversmith, and Appalachian Outfitters. But you no doubt want more of the outdoors, so if you’re into hiking or getting out on the water, Julian Price Park, (MP 296.7 on the parkway) offers kayak and canoe rentals plus a restful scenic campground.
Of course, Grandfather Mountain is the frosting on the cake and serves up challenging hiking trails — 13 different ones — adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway. (Note: At press time, some trails remain closed due to storm damage so check their website for availability.) Don’t miss the thrilling 228-foot suspension footbridge that spans an 80-foot chasm at the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Take time to visit the Wilson Center with its nature-themed interactive exhibits, all in Grandfather Mountain State Park. Keep an eye out for critters – you might see eagles, bears, cougars, elk and more.
Want something unique? Take a guided Grandfather by Night twilight hike. Going in September? Maybe you’d like to join the hawk watch as naturalists count these fascinating birds.
For man-made, wild west fun, North Carolina style, head to the Tweetsie Railroad theme park where you can pan for gold, visit the Deer Park Zoo, and catch a ride on a historic steam locomotive taking a three-mile loop through the mountains. This family-friendly theme park includes exhilarating rides such as the Bullwhip, Chair Lift to Miner’s Mountain, a carousel and Tilt-A-Whirl.
If you like to plan your getaway around local special events, equine enthusiasts should target one of the oldest horse shows in the country, the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show that runs July 21-26 and July 28-August 2 with a focus on hunters and jumpers.
The Welcome Mat Is Always Rolled Out
Now that you’ve had a teaser of the wonders of two picturesque towns in the Tar Heel State, maybe you’d like to learn more – and maybe stay longer. Other area towns are worth extending your stay such as the charming boroughs of Boone and Banner Elk. Or maybe you’d like to go later in the year. Fall brings with it a riot of color with vivid red maples, the golden-yellow leaves of hickories, russet-colored white oaks and the clear yellows of birch trees. Winter appeals with snow tubing, cozy picturesque cabins with fireplaces and seasonal comfort foods. And definitely something to think about is Christmas at Biltmore, held November 3, 2026 to January 10, 2027. During the estate’s magical Candlelight Christmas Evenings, visitors are immersed in the same holiday spirit that dates to 1895. Definitely unforgettable.
For destination info on most of the listings mentioned above, visit exploreasheville.com, blowingrock.com, and blueridgeparkway.com.
