Asheville makes a marvelous destination any time of year, but
summers are especially wonderful. How this city in the mountains conveys
the feeling of a haven for the senses and yet is so stimulating remains
a paradox to which Asheville has exclusive title. That's why it's the
perfect weekend getaway, for you can do everything or you can do
nothing. My suggestion? How about a medley of pretty music, terrific
food, great lodging, and much-needed "me" time. Friday's Finds
July brings lots of
people to this area-- people looking both to escape the heat and to
attend all the festivals taking place this month. I'll present several
lodging options, just in case there are no rooms at the inn(s), so to
speak.
First is the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa (rates start at $195;
1-800-438-0050), a Southern Living Readers' Choice favorite for
several years. This legendary hotel debuted its fabulous $40 million spa
earlier this year. Three words describe the spa: "Oh my goodness." I'll
talk more about the spa in a minute.
The newly opened, posh Inn on Biltmore Estate (rates start at $229;
1-800-922-0084) has become a bright star in the galaxy of Asheville
accommodations. You can't beat the majestic location on a hillside of
the picture-perfect estate, just up from Biltmore's Winery and the
Bistro restaurant.
One of the best country inns is the Richmond Hill Inn (rates start
at $195; 1-888-742-4536), which sits on a hill close to downtown.
Another Southern Living Readers' Choice winner, this inn is
surrounded by sumptuous gardens.
Now that you're settled in, head downtown for dinner at Pack Place.
If you're lucky, you can get an outdoor table at La Caterina Trattoria,
a great little Italian cafe on the square. Sit out, sip wine, catch a
cool evening breeze, and watch the world go by. Life is good.
