With Pendleton School of Craft nearby, theres also a thriving community for local art and handicrafts here. This incredibly deep lake (327 feet) has beautiful vertical rock cliffs on both sides. There are also many cute shops, including the famous toy store, O.P. Popular events in the town include the French Broad River Festival and the Bluff Mountain Music Festival. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Best Things To Do In Maggie Valley And Nearby. The Tuskegee River runs right through town, offering ample opportunity for tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Also, make sure to visit Beanstalk Ziplines, Catawba Meadows Park, and Freedom Park. Twitter Another North Carolina waterfall hike near Brevard is Moore Cove Falls. Its easy to relocate to North Carolina and youll be convinced of that after talking to our. Set on a high plateau, some of its surrounding peaks boast breathtaking views. Facebook. Located on the banks of the French Broad River, many pop in while rafting or backpacking. "@type": "BlogPosting", Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. Below are the best North Carolina mountain towns for your next gorgeous getaway. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. Hot Springs Flickr / David Wilson This cool mountain town is home to the Appalachian Trail (literally straight through the town). It includes some of the top wild places in western North Carolina, such as Catawba Falls, Andrews Geyser, and Point Lookout. The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum is a testament to this moniker, set in a 19th-century jailhouse. Lining the banks of Fontana Lake, the train ride takes travelers throughout the forest with majestic mountain views, changing with the season throughout the year. Imagine waking up each morning to stunning 360-degree mountain views, the rushing sound of nearby waterfalls and in close proximity to some of the nations top hiking trails, prize fly fishing and a list of other pursuits. The area is also known for its vineyards, including Burntshirt Vineyards, which is one of the state's best wineries, and Saint Paul Mountain Farms, which is a working orchard and vineyard offering tastings and live music. Enchanting Emilia-Romagna, Italy: Itinerary for 7 Food-Filled Days. The restored downtown area has a great selection of dining and shopping options, including an adorable Mast General Store to buy souvenirs and candy. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This includes checking out The Bascom: Center for Visual Arts, the Highlands Botanical Station, and the Highlands Playhouse. Cherokee is a scenic town thats actually the ancestral home of the Cherokee Indians. High Rock Lake Lake Glenville and Lake Toxaway in Western North Carolina offer NC residents small town charm, privacy and the type of serenity that only comes with a mountain lake on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. } We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! The Jackson County Courthouse is located on Main Street in Sylva and is one of the most photographed courthouses in all of the state. What makes Morganton a unique and charming town in North Carolina is its historic buildings and lovely architecture. 1. Beech Mountain. As an Amazon Associate, Our Escape Clause earns from qualifying purchases. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Lake Gaston is perhaps one of the most accessible lakes in the state. Youll find many places to visit here, including the Appalachian Womens Museum, Dillsboro Chocolate Factory, and the artsy Craft Circle street. The attraction to Highlands is the ability to get outdoors on area trails, browse the Highlands Historic Village, or just explore downtown. There are museums, an arts center, a variety of shops, and over 30 restaurants, all quite impressive for their small stature. Valdese was settled by 19th-century Waldensians from Italy, giving it a unique identity apart from its neighbors. 1. ), How to Eat Pizza in Italy: 13 Practical Tips (+ Toppings Guide! Once a mining hub has now become a top vacation destination as part of the Plateau region of western North Carolina. The whole town is quite authentic, with many local mom-and-pop shops, live local music, and historical sights and galleries for travelers and locals to enjoy. Bay Tree Lakes. Stacker used 2020 data from WalletHub to determine the 46 best U.S. lake towns to live in, evaluating each on six factors: affordability, weather, safety, economy, education and health, and quality of life. Close by; visitors can get lost on the Road to Nowhere, soak up scenic vistas at Fontana Lake, or go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River. A quaint town in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern North Carolina, Highlands is ideal for a romantic getaway with accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to tucked-away cottages. After a day of taking in the sights, stroll downtown Highlands along Main Street to discover a number of boutiques, specialty shops and make reservations at any of the fine dining options in this mountain town. 1. Were ending this list of beautiful mountains towns in NC with perhaps the most well known Asheville. West Jefferson is also home to some exceptional restaurants, coffee shops, and bars. Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. Be sure to spot their most famous residents as well, the thriving population of White Squirrels. Some links throughout this site are affiliate links. There is a small beach area and three impressive waterfalls to explore. Lake Norman, North Carolina. This mountain town is home to a natural hot spring, which is the only known spring of its type in North Carolina! How does a day of boating, jet skiing, tubing, kayaking, swimming and fishing sound? Listing information last updated on July 29th, 2023 at 8:24pm EDT. While fall is a peak time to visit for its beautiful foliage views, this-year round getaway offers easy access to golf, fishing, skiing, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Boone is a popular base to explore the suspension bridge at Grandfather Mountain in the summer, and the Appalachian Ski Resort in the winter, making it a perfect year-round destination! Hendersonville Main Street, Hendersonville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Highlights: A lively main street, nearby apple orchards, great dining Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Lake Glenville, NC While high in the mountains in North Carolina's western region, Lake Glenville has evolved into a paradise for anglers, especially those looking to reel in bass. Some of the most popular spots include the Shelton House, Haywoods Historic Farmers Market, and Winchester Creek Farm. Its the perfect home base for exploring Grandfather Mountain, Elk Knob State Park, Pisgah National Forest, or hitting the slopes of Appalachian Ski Resort in winter, while surrounding areas also include scenic hiking trails and various lookout points. For those not interested in adventure activities, you can go horseback riding or visit the Artisan Gallery and Cafe. Its a perfect home base for immersing oneself in the great outdoors and for taking part in a wide variety of outdoor activities. North Carolina is home to over 250 waterfalls with a number of them located in the Plateau region. The statue, which is carved from Italian marble, was mentioned in Thomas Wolfes first novel, Look Homeward, Angel.. Whether youre looking to head out on some hiking trails, get involved with the local culture, or taste delicious food theres something for everyone here. Located between the popular skiing destinations of Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, the small town of Banner Elk is a destination all on its own. Related: 10 Most Scenic Towns Closest To The Smoky Mountains. If you want to look like a local, hit up the popular watering hole, the Daily Grind & Wine. If you prefer something more relaxing, there are plenty of things to do within Waynesville. Sylva is a special little destination of the North Carolina mountain towns that makes for a romantic trip in the state. Art festivals are held here year-round and an impressive array of galleries and funky shops to browse. Over 350 miles of shoreline encompasses 20,300 acres of exceptionally clean water that reflects some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the state. In addition to the natural beauty surrounding the town, the area has a lot of charm. For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. There are some fantastic eateries and breweries here, so you wont be short of dining options. These are the towns in North Carolina landed a spot on the list. Its home to sections of the famous Appalachia Trail, in addition to other hiking paths leading into the park. For any theology or history buffs, the Field of the Woods is a massive monument representing the 10 commandments. It has just enough diversity within its quaint downtown to attract plenty of visitors, from eclectic eateries to art studios to specialty shops. Taylor, and the charming Rocky's Grill and Soda Shop. There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. Youre also in for a real treat if you visit during the summer months. Check out Toe River Arts, the Design Gallery, and the Quilt Block Trails. Big Bear Lake. Jackson County is home to some of the best-hidden lakes in western North Carolina, some of which you didn't know existed until reading this. Lake Glenville is more than a typical lake town. At over 5,000 feet above sea level, you can expect some of the most breathtaking views from this mountain town. Stop into Myras 1950s style diner for a taste of the good old days. Head here for one of the most romantic weekends in North Carolina. Theres no other place in North Carolina where youll be surrounded by small towns and charming locales. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. The Lovers Leap Trail offers sweeping views over the entire town. Sun, July 23rd 2023, 2:39 PM PDT. Hike Distance: 1.5 miles roundtrip. One of the best things to do here is chase waterfalls, as there are so many! When it comes to the best lake living in North Carolina, there are a few of the best lake communities in North Carolina: Lake Glenville and Lake Toxaway in Western North Carolina offer NC residents small town charm, privacy and the type of serenity that only comes with a mountain lake on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Often called the crown of the Blue Ridge, it boasts both the oldest tourist attraction and a current vibrant visitor scene. There are a plethora of charming small towns nestled among the majestic Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina. Were full-time travel bloggers who have been exploring the world since 2016, visiting 50+ countries across 5 continents along the way. Are you looking for a lake house destination thats near a large metropolitan area? Come in the summer to experience the cool refreshing mist of any of the breathtaking waterfalls in the area or grab some skis to hit the snow-covered slopes in the winter. Nature lovers can enjoy the various hiking and biking trails, fishing opportunities, and other lake and water activities. Its surrounding landscape makes it one of the prettiest mountain towns and also one of the most popular. The famous Appalachian Trail also winds through Hot Springs, making it a wonderful stop for hikers. Bryson City, otherwise known as the Gateway to The Smokies, is a small mountain town that sits right on the border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Every Friday and Saturday during the summer, Cherokee storytellers gather around a fire and tell traditional stories from their culture. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. It is perfect for boating, scuba diving, jet-skiing and rock climbing. Our aim is to help you get the most out of your travel around the Carolinas. Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. If you like cold temperatures, make sure to take a trip to the quaint town of Beech Mountain and the famed Beach Mountain Resort. Hendersonville is the apple capital of North Carolina and hosts the annual NC Apple Festival. In the beautiful state of North Carolina, there is no shortage of amazing lakes worth checking out. Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). What Kinds of Fish Can I Catch on Lake Glenville? If youre a big foodie, make sure you head to the Barber Orchard Fruitstand for its delicious apple pies. With the smallest population of all, the town consists of just a few quaint shops. Favorite toppings are then added to the sweet dessert. Sylva is most famous for its magic around the holiday season. Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. The best lake living in North Carolina is in Lake Toxaway and Lake Glenville. Mount Airy is a tiny town at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and one of my favorite North Carolina mountain towns. Close to downtown is Jumping Off Rock, which offers incredible scenic views over the mountains. 3. Nearby . This is an isolated outpost at a high elevation and a hidden gem of the high country. In the main square, various musicians play every Friday night free concerts. Its conveniently located close to Pearsons Falls and the Green River Gorge and provides a perfect place to unwind after a long day of hiking. North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. (+ Tips! This small mountain town sits right on the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, one of the most popular family attractions in North Carolina that offers majestic mountain views year-round. Not only is Hendersonville famous for its apple orchards but also for its breweries, cideries, and wineries as well. Here are the Top 10 best lake towns to live in. There's plenty of hiking in the area, a zip line, and boating rentals. It is also a perfect base for summer vacations, just 30 minutes away from Linville Falls and close to the spectacular mile-high swing bridge at Grandfather Mountain. The Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone has popular wellness retreats due to its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Morganton is situated within the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so travelers are surrounded by breathtaking scenery no matter where you look! The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. We have been writing about travel for the last decade. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors can swim or boat on the lake while soaking up the scenic vistas. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. Its located at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the French Broad River, making it a great jumping off point for some excursions into nature. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. Some links in this post may be affiliate links. Aside from outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do within the center of Highlands. Keep reading to learn more about these lake towns and more about the best lake living in North Carolina. The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. Retail shops and restaurants can be found on Sylva's Main Street. 2. Its home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, the majestic Mt. Whether youre looking to explore some of the nearby hiking trails or a relaxing getaway, Waynesville is an attractive option. Nestled up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is a lovely small-town alternative to bustling Asheville. The main street is home to 4 local breweries, which are some of the citys biggest attractions. Although its only made up of five square blocks, Dillsboro is home to plenty of quirky stores, restaurants, inns, and art galleries. This vacation destination is located on the eastern edge of the Plateau region near Sapphire Valley. The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need. The population is larger than most of the area, and as such, the downtown provides plenty of quaint amenities without any of the hustle and bustle of bigger city crowds. The state is home to the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forest, dozens of beloved NC State Parks, the beaches of the Outer Banks, and famous scenic routes such as the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway and Blue Ridge Parkway. Its easy to spend a week here at a coxy Asheville cabin and never get bored! Festivals are a big deal in Highlands, especially those hosted in the fall which feature arts & crafts, the annual Halloween celebration, and the Culinary Weekend. Come explore the best . X-Large 2.5M+ Large 1M - 2.5M Medium 500K - 1M Small 50K - 500K. Lake Norman Source: Jon Bilous / Shutterstock Lake Norman Lake Norman is the largest manmade body of fresh water in the state. When it comes to lakefront living, nothing else compares. 5. Powered by Mai Theme, 7 Best Beaches in Hilton Head (and Nearby) You Must Visit. ), How to Take the Perfect Day Trip to Lake Como From Milan (By Train or Tour!). The Terrace at Lake Junaluska is located right on Lake Junaluska. By subscribing I agree to the terms and privacy policy. The town is small, and in its history, it was home to the Cherokee for its many hunting and fishing opportunities. Cataloochee Valley is another great spot for elk viewing . Whether Cashiers is the ideal location or an elegant private estate on the shores of Lake Toxaway beacons, contact any of our Landmark real estate brokers to help you explore the area and find your next North Carolina dream home. Lake Louise Park and Main Street Nature Park are beautiful spaces to explore and enjoy the local wilderness here. Its been a retreat for tourists since the 1890s and continues to be as refreshingly retro as ever. Each year, they hold several celebrated events, like the Carolina Mountains Literary Festival and the Mt. After you can dine at one of the many downtown eateries! Well send you our newsletter with travel destinations, You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. Various markets and shops cater to the holiday season, and there are glistening lights and festivities all over town. Aside from its prime location, the scenic mountain town offers a variety of accommodation options, from campgrounds to cabin rentals. You can even get scuba certified at Sarge's Dive Shop. Whether drawn to the fresh mountain air, top dining, award-winning art galleries and unique shopping boutiques all and more can be found in the mountains of North Carolina. Trust us, we will find it here in one of our great mountain towns. You can find many cultural things to do like visiting the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual Inc. Take it from someone who knows. You can tour exciting educational museums and villages and browse many locally hand-made arts and crafts. For a nature escape, you can walk behind the cascading waters of the 75-foot-tall Dry Falls, just 10 minutes away. The towns quaint Main Street has an old-school charm that will slow down your pace and make you feel like youve gone back in time. Thank you Daddy for the Wonderful Memories. Each village brings its own delightful draws and unique allure. If youve got time, then make sure you head to Norma Wilder Forest, as its just a quick five-minute drive from the town center. More Unique Mountain Towns In North Carolina. 2. Keep reading to learn more about these lake towns and more about the best lake living in North Carolina. Among its many quirky independent storefronts, its downtown is teeming with independent and adorable book stores, and charming restaurants. With its very own beach, you can relax on the sandy shores of Lake Lure and enjoy a refreshing dip into the cool, shimmering waters. Highlands attracts those looking for a quaint atmosphere, in this hidden mountain gem. Highlands Best Places to Stay Nestled in the far southwest corner of North Carolina sits Highlands, a beautiful mountain town near the South Carolina border. The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. Our research is editorially independent but we Stay a little longer and see its famous Blocking Rock formation that sits 4,000 above sea level over a gorge, as well as its walkable downtown area dotted with shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries. Set right alongside the Green River, Saluda is a hotspot for water adventures, such as tubing, kayaking, and rafting. Climb to the top of Chimney Rock nearby or stroll over the Rocky Broad River through the blooming flora of Flowering Bridge. Blowing Rock is another popular mountain destination close by to Boone and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Its also home to New River Brewing for the finest craft beer and pub grub. The water also calls anglers to cast their lines in a variety of streams great for fly fishing. If you visit this majestic settlement during July and August, then make sure you visit Geneva Hall. "url": "https://www.tripstodiscover.com", During your trip to Little Switzerland, walk up to Wisemans View. Its not so much a town, and is definitely a city in North Carolina. Saluda may be a tiny town, but what its lacking in size, it makes up for in charm. For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. There are many opportunities for phenomenal hikes, waterfalls, climbing, watersports, and winter sports to engage in here. { Youll get to take an underground tour of Bon Ami Mine and learn about the history of mining in this area by visiting the North Carolina Mining Museum. Its striking downtown is a picture-perfect image of a mountain town, filled with outdoor cafe patios and big trees lining the main streets. Please see our, The Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Asheville Itinerary, 13 Epic East Coast Cities for Weekend Getaways, 17 Spectacular Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas, USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US, Hiking the Epic Rainbow Falls Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, 17 Incredible Things to Do in New Bern, NC, 25 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the USA (For All Couple Styles! Median Home Price. With either boat access points and plentiful fishing, this lake is an angler's dream. There are numerous trails in the area for hiking and biking, a nine-hole public golf course, and plenty of shopping and restaurants at Chimney Rock Village. Just outside the town, you can find the famous Grandfather Mountain and its Mile High Swinging Bridge. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. Mount Shasta. Awesome Read . Bryson City is the last town before theNantahala, 32 BEST North Carolina Mountain Towns To Visit, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 50 BEST Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia, 20 Blue Ridge Parkway Drive Stops You Have to Make. Feel free to browse the available properties on our website and contact us if you see something you love. Hendersonville, North Carolina, is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just south of the city of Asheville. Lake Norman Lake Norman is one of the best lakes in North Carolina Lake Norman's size and central location have made it a local favorite, and now it's known as one of the best lakes in North Carolina. The sparkling North Carolina lake of the same name is the main draw for this mountain town. Population Size. Located near the Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway (just a short drive from Maggie Valley), the views in Waynesville are pretty special. Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is a quaint mountain town that sits on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and is named after the nearby rock formation. Then there is The Cullasaja Falls, about nine miles outside of Highlands, which is only visible by car. Highlands is also surrounded by one of the only temperate rainforests in North America, so there are many excellent hiking trails in the area. Or give us a call! Families like the Rockefellers, Fords and Edisons have vacationed on the lake to breathe the fresh mountain air and soothe their soul. Maggie Valley NC is one of the most popular mountain small towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has been for many years. It's no surprise that Transylvania County, of which Brevard is a part of, is known as the Land of Waterfalls.
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