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Summer is here, and that means it’s time to finally make an attempt at relaxation! For those of us looking for an unexpected, off-the-beaten-path vacay spot, look no further than the great Tar Heel and Palmetto states of North and South Carolina! Nobody knows how to have fun the way the South can, and with its incredibly geographically diverse landscape of mountains, lakes, and more, both North and South Carolina have an unlimited amount of incredible things to experience this summer.
From Lake Toxaway to the Sea Islands, the travel experts at Natural Retreats have created a fully comprehensive list of the Top 4 Towns in North and South Carolina, along with everything to do while you’re there, from delicious local restaurants to once-in-a-lifetime activities! Check out the list below for some fun finds:
1. Highlands, NC: where refined elegance works in harmony with the natural beauty of the southern Appalachian Mountains.
Where To Stay: 5th Street Cottage
Located on nearly three acres of secluded beauty, this farm house comfortably sleeps eight, making it the perfect retreat for your family getaway. It offers private baths, a spacious living room, flat screen television, dining room, and stone fireplace. It boasts other necessary amenities such as free wifi, a washer and dryer, and a fully equipped kitchen. After a long day exploring, head outside to the wrap-around porch and show your skills on the outdoor grill. Or, if relaxing is what you’re after, ease yourself into one of the rocking chairs and sip a cold glass of your favorite drink. If you want to get out and explore, the cottage is located within walking distance to downtown Highlands, making the shops and restaurants easily accessible to you during your stay.
While You’re There:
For the art critics in the making, why not head over to The Bascom? It’s a non-profit museum that offers visual art exhibitions and educational programs. There is also the local Highlands Art Gallery, which showcases pieces both from Highlands residents and artists abroad. If you’re more of an explorer, there’s a few options for you: Check out the Jackson Hole Mine Gem, a family-owned mine giving travelers to opportunity to search for treasures -- rain or shine! Other one-in-a-lifetime opportunities are the Dry Falls and the Cullasaja River Gorge. You can walk behind the 75-foot tall waterfall in the Nantahala National Forest, and take a spectacular scenic drive along the Waterfall Byway (located between the towns of Franklin and Highlands, North Carolina.) And if you’re an adrenaline junky, look no further: stretching 40 miles within the heart of western North Carolina, thrill seekers can try their hand at the Nantahala River and face Class II and III rapids with white water rafting.
2. Lake Toxaway, NC: Surrounded by the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests of Western North Carolina, Lake Toxaway has 14 miles of pristine shoreline, making it the largest private lake in the state.
Where To Stay: Coursey Toxaway Mountain Resort
Experience mountain luxury in the Coursey Toxaway Mountain Retreat. This home sleeps a total of twelve, so it’s perfect for a large group of friends or family reunion getaway. The home boasts rustic decor, exposed ceiling beams, a fireplace, a flat-screen television, and huge windows to allow in all the natural light you’d want on this trip. There is also a kitchen is with stainless steel appliances, and a gas grill outside on the deck. While you’re outside, admire the serene seclusion of the mountains, or enjoy the clear, starry night.
While You’re There:
For the serious hikers out there, we have your day plans already figured out with a trek to Tuckaseigee Falls & Thurston Hatcher Falls. This 4.2 mile moderate hike near Cashiers, just under the Lake Glenville Dam, is definitely a beauty in the springtime. The canopied, woodland trail is lined with wildflowers: bluets, violets, white violets, star chickweed, squirrel corn and hundreds of trillium, both white and purple. There’s less than a 100 foot elevation change for most of it, except for the rocks at the base of the falls, so everyone of all ages can join in on the fun! Pro tip: The rocks surrounding the pool at the base of the waterfall is a soothing and beautiful spot to rest and eat your trail lunch. Before you get out on the trail, check to make sure you aren’t forgetting anything at Bear Tracks Trading Co, the local one-stop shop for all of your travel, shopping and adventure needs. Another hotspot for outdoor exploration is the Pisgah National Forest - 500,000 acres of protected land. For the animal-oriented, try your hand at fly fishing or falconry. There’s even horseback riding at the Whitewater Equestrian Center. For the learning-oriented, check out Mountain Treasures Gem Mine: it’s great, because both adults and children alike can hunt for amazing treasures. Or, visit the Mountain Heritage Center, which showcases the cultural and natural heritage of the southern Appalachians. For Whitewater Equestrian Center - Pilot your horse through a bevy of Native American trails and historic logging roads while learning interesting local history.
Visit part two of this article
Juy 24, 2016
