20 Best Hotels in the Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a particularly beautiful and atmospheric part of the Appalachian Range, known for the blue haze that surrounds them when viewed from afar. And they’re a really easy part of the Appalachians to stay in, with a number of charming centres, the largest being the Asheville region in North Carolina, but also Charlottesville and Lynchburg, Virginia. This is where, by our Hotel Gurus’ reckoning, you’ll find many of the best hotels in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but they also have a handful of secluded lodges to recommend, and properties close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs sort of parallel to the Appalachian Trail, the great American walking route. Use our guide and start planning your next outdoorsy adventure.

For the Scrapbook

• The Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville is reminiscent of a Tudor hunting lodge, what with the vast fireplaces, chandeliers made from antlers, mounted and stuffed animals, animal oil paintings, dark carved wood and animal statues — it’s really something! The 100 odd rooms and suites are much milder in taste, with contemporary details and lots of light and space (plus some hunting lodge details!), and there’s a a large spa and gym and an impressive restaurant. There’s also a hairdresser and an art gallery.

For Views

• The Greystone Inn is a luxurious inn romantically positioned on a jut of land on the shore of Lake Toxaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The exterior has a New England feel, and inside the 30 rooms and suites are spacious and traditionally decorated, with wonderful views. There’s a spa, and a superb restaurant, but for the ultimate romantic gesture, borrow one of the inn’s boats and embark on a sunset cruise.
• The Andon-Reid Inn is a country escape with revitalising, unobstructed views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are just seven rooms, all offering incredible views of their own, plus comfortable, rustic decor and spacious bathrooms with stand-alone whirlpool tubs. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer a three course breakfast, which is included in the price.

For Explorers

• The Lodge at River Run is a proper traditional lodge, complete with wood cladding, fireplaces and bunk rooms, set by the Elk River, within the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are five rooms, all spacious, and fitted with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. And outside there’s a fire pit and an open air hot tub. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a gourmet breakfast, and you can opt to self cater.

For Families

• The Inn on Biltmore Estate is large and modern, and part of Asheville’s 8,000 acre Biltmore Estate. There are 210 rooms and suites, decorated in a classically luxurious manner, plus a heated outdoor pool, a gym and spa, and a choice of two restaurants, one fine dining. There’s so much to do here that you don’t need to leave the estate: you can hike, fish, ride a bike or a horse, kayak, clay pigeon shoot, try falconry, or visit Biltmore House, which has 250 rooms, and houses the art collection of the Vanderbilt family.
• A warm and welcoming, owner-run B&B, the Sweet Biscuit Inn is in a leafy Asheville suburb a couple of miles from the centre of town, and makes a comfortable base for exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains. The seven rooms are done in homely style and are split between the main house and the Carriage House, which has two separate bedrooms and self catering facilities. Plus there’s a lounge and library, and an expansive front porch overlooking the pretty garden.

For Romantics

• The Gideon Ridge Inn is a secluded mountain hideaway outside Blowing Rock, with a stone terrace running all the way around the property which offers incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The inn has ten rooms and suites, all with open fireplaces and french doors leading out onto the terrace. The restaurant is gourmet, and offers alfresco dining on the terrace when the weather permits.
• The Yellow House is an historic inn in a peaceful spot in Waynesville. Its ten rooms and suites are decorated with well chosen antiques, art, and luxurious linens and drapes. The suites have fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. The verandah is a lovely place for a sit and a contemplate, possibly at the end of a day exploring the local national parks. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a three course breakfast, served in the dining room or on the verandah.

For Relaxation

• The gorgeous little luxury spa resort of Westglow is just minutes from Blowing Rock, housed in a Greek Revival mansion. There are just 11 rooms and suites, all decorated in keeping with the building’s original features, and an impressive full service spa. There’s also a gourmet restaurant.
• Bridgewater Hall is an historic B&B set on five acres of mature gardens close to the Old Catawba River. There are just three elegant suites available to guests, all spacious, and decorated in pale green and cream, with antiques and cosy fireplaces. This is a good place to escape to, especially to the riverside hammock.

For a Countryside Escape

• Lazy Bear Lodge is a secluded, five bedroom guesthouse lodge in a picturesque spot in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each room is spacious and cosily decorated, and has a large bathroom with whirlpool tub. The common areas are really charming, with stone fireplaces, balconies and terraces, and incredible views. There’s no restaurant, but they offer breakfast.
• A charming inn nestled into the heart of the Cashiers Mountain Plateau, the Hotel Cashiers is probably the most modern pick on our list, with 19 minimalist chic rooms and suites — with original artworks and custom designed, handmade furniture. The large windows ensure incredible mountain views, and the elegant decor doesn’t get in the way. It’s only small, but still has a choice of three restaurants on site.
• The Mast Farm Inn has been welcoming guests to its charming mountain site since early 1800, and its southern hospitality has seen it become something of a local institution. Anticipate beautiful original features, like fireplaces and wood panelling, and look forward to the incredible views and award-winning cuisine.

For Walkers

• The Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast is just a half mile from downtown Waynesville, yet has incredible views of the Smoky Mountains. The six, traditionally elegant rooms and suites, feature original fireplaces and carved wood mantles, and are decorated with antiques. The breakfast is an organic farm-to-fork affair.
• Applewood Manor is a charming, six room B&B in the Montfort Area Historic District of Asheville — which is just a short stroll from the centre of town. The rooms are all different, featuring an eclectic array of decor, including some inventively designed furnishings in amongst fabulous antiques. Our favourites have four poster beds, open fireplaces and private balconies.

For an Active Holiday

• The Esmeralda Inn is a rustic chic inn just outside Chimney Rock in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 17 rooms and suites have a chalet cosiness to them, with their abundance of pale wood and fireplaces, and most have fantastic views of the Rocky Road River and Chimney Rock. The restaurant is known for its seasonal, local menu, and there’s a lovely garden with a terrace and outdoor hot tub. This is a brilliant pick for an active holiday, with fishing, boating, biking, horseback riding and hiking all easily done from the inn door.

For Luxury

• The Foundry Hotel gets its name from the steel foundry which this hotel now occupies, and the industrial chic decor here is original in many places. The huge scale of the windows matches the spacious rooms with their high ceilings; all of the communal spaces are huge too, but cosily decorated so as not to feel cavernous. The hotel restaurant is known for its Appalachian soul food, and the whole complex is within a short stroll of four breweries and lots and lots of places to eat and drink.

For Great Value

• The Marshall House Inn is an historic, four room inn on a hill overlooking the town of Marshall, and the French Broad River. There’s a rocking chair on the verandah, several incredible fireplaces, and large, traditional sash windows. but the rooms themselves are contemporary in style, with fresh wood floors, walk in showers and abstract art. It’s a great mash up, well positioned for all sorts of adventures, and great value as well.

Best B&Bs

• The Bed and Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is an elegantly converted mansion in the mountains just outside Asheville. There are seven rooms and suites, some with four-poster beds and fireplaces, and the gardens surrounding the house provide charming views.
• The Black Walnut B&B Inn is a sort of turn of the century dream home turned four room B&B, with an eccentric turret, beautiful verandah and terraces and memorable antiques and materials. There’s certainly something opulent about the interiors; the rooms are all different, but they have fireplaces, pained murals, chandeliers, silk drapes and pink marble. And the Asheville location is convenient for many routes and trails, for both walkers and cyclists, and the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail is just nearby. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer breakfast and afternoon tea.

Still not sure where to book?

• You could refine your search to just the best places to stay in Asheville, or the best places to stay in Lynchburg or the best places to stay in Charlottesville
• Or expand your search to the best places to stay in Virginia or the best places to stay in North Carolina
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • The Foundry Hotel Asheville (North Carolina) 87 rooms from AU$346

    
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    City Style  -  A unique and characterful property that combines historical architecture, contemporary dining and spacious rooms

    Restaurant  -  The 'Benne on Eagle' restaurant serves authentic Appalachian soul food made up of fresh, local ingredients

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the city's River Arts District to experience local artist's studios and galleries

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    Stylish contemporary conversion of a former steel factory. Original materials combine seamlessly with paired-back glamorous & modern interiors. Rooms boast high ceilings, red-brick walls, floor-to-ceiling windows & snug sleigh beds. There's spacious grounds, vibey sit-out areas and romantic dining. See More

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  • Black Walnut B&B Inn Asheville (North Carolina) 4 rooms from AU$315

    
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    Active Holiday  -  With easy access to great nature spots from Asheville, there are good opportunities for trekking and cycling for active guests

    Romantic Break  -  The opulent feel of this heritage hotel is perfect for a romantic weekend away; book the Walnut Suite for added indulgence

    Local exploring  -  Asheville has a vibrant arts scene and there are lots of museums, galleries and boutiques to explore close to the B&B

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Biltmore Estate, a mansion that comprises a museum and gardens built for George Washington Vanderbilt

    

    Recommended by  -  Chambres d’hôtes de Charme CHC

    This B&B is located in a turn-of-the-century property in historic Asheville. Interiors reflect the inn's heritage, with antiques peppered throughout and plush linens in the suites. There is a focus on luxury materials, from silk drapes to pink marble and vintage velvet, making this an opulent stay. See More

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  • Grand Bohemian Hotel, Asheville Asheville (North Carolina) 104 rooms from AU$323

    
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    Business meetings  -  Host your function across 470 square metres of event space. Elegant rooms include a ballroom with Swarovski crystal chandeliers

    Local exploring  -  There is something for everyone; trek and bike in national parks, golf, take a food tour of Asheville or visit a local brewery

    Sights nearby  -  Explore the historic Biltmore Village. Key sites include the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Biltmore Village and NC Arboretum

    Full of character

    

    Characterful hotel just outside Asheville's historic Biltmore Village. The mock-Tudor exterior complements unique over-the-top interiors - think antler chandeliers & deep velvet sofas. Spacious rooms continue the modern hunting lodge theme. Excellent restaurant, spoiling spa & art gallery too! See More

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  • Marshall House Inn Marshall, North Carolina 4 rooms from AU$204

    
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    Active Holiday  -  With over 55,000 acres of National forest you’ll find lots of opportunities for whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing and biking

    Local exploring  -  Just steps away in Marshall, guests can discover live music, bars, art, shops, coffee, casual & fine dining

    Groups  -  The whole in can be booked for special gatherings and can accommodate at least eleven people

    Back to Nature  -  Experience the adventure of the Blue Ridge Mountains and French Broad river

    

    An historic inn on a hill overlooking the town of Marshall and the French Broad River. Four rooms offer contemporary style with nods to the building's history, walk-in showers and stunning mountain views. Plus there's a grand wraparound porch and sitting room with fireplace. An intimate pick. See More

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  • Andon-Reid Inn Waynesville (North Carolina) 7 rooms from AU$220

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Spend the day exploring waterfalls, hiking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding or playing golf

    Sights nearby  -  Nearby are the Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Pisgah National Forest

    Views  -  Enjoy the beautiful Smoky Mountain views from the wrap-around porch

    Restrictions on children  -  Children 16 and over are welcome

    

    A charming and elegant B&B, surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Rooms are comfortable with sweeping mountain vistas and spacious bathrooms with stand-alone whirlpool tubs. Enjoy a delicious gourmet three-course breakfast. Cosy up with a book by the fire. A super stay! See More

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  • The Esmeralda Inn Chimney Rock, North Carolina 17 rooms from AU$233

    
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    Active Holiday  -  With a fantastic range of fishing, boating, biking and hiking options, there is something for everyone

    Local exploring  -  Explore the local Ashville area with breweries, state parks and more to discover

    Fishing  -  Fishing and boating are also popular activities on Lake Lure, the Hickory Nut Gorge, and the Rocky Broad River

    Views  -  Rooms offer stunning views of Chimney Rock and the Rocky Broad River

    

    A rustic chic inn, set in the Blue Ridge Mountains just outside of Chimney Rock. Rooms are elegant and cosy with luxe linens, stunning views of the Rocky Road River and each with access to the outdoor whirlpool tub. Enjoy delicious, local and seasonal fare at the restaurant (best in town). Superb! See More

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  • Lazy Bear Lodge Vilas, North Carolina 5 rooms from AU$257

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Blue Ridge mountains with lots of State Parks nearby

    Local exploring  -  The lodge is only minutes from Boone, Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk

    Great walks  -  Climb the Grandfather Mountain, the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains

    Fishing  -  Elk Creek Outfitters offers a range of fishing lessons

    

    A secluded, elegant lodge set in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Five spacious and stylish rooms with cosy fireplaces, private balconies with gorgeous mountain views and large bathrooms with clawfoot tubs. Indulge in a relaxing massage or body therapy treatments at the spa. A charming escape to nature. See More

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  • Sweet Biscuit Inn Asheville (North Carolina) 7 rooms from AU$262

    
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    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located 2 miles from downtown Asheville and a mile from Biltmore Estate, with easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains

    Families  -  Families and friends will appreciate the self-catering two-storey Carriage House, a cottage with two bedrooms and full kitchen

    Restrictions on children  -  Children aged 12 years and above are welcome at the inn, with the exception of the Carriage House which welcomes all ages

    Sights nearby  -  America's largest home is close by; make sure to visit the 8,000 acre Biltmore Estate, its museum, gardens and winery

    

    Warm and welcoming owner-run B&B situated in a tranquil leafy suburb. Rooms are split between the main house and family-friendly Carriage House; all feature homely decor and fab creature comforts. Enjoy downtime in the garden, front porch, fireside lounge or library. Cosy home-away-from-home. See More

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  • The Yellow House Waynesville (North Carolina) 10 rooms from AU$262

    
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    Active Holiday  -  With Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby, there are plenty of outdoor activities

    Romantic Break  -  With in-room fireplaces and jetted bathtubs, this is a perfect hideaway for two

    Great walks  -  Hike along the miles of trails running through Blue Ridge Parkway or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 12 years old are always welcome while younger guests can be accommodated on prior arrangement

    

    A historic inn offering elegant interiors and peaceful surrounds. Spacious rooms are packed with well-selected antiques while suites come complete with fireplaces and in-room jetted tubs. Choose between getting out into the nearby parks or unwinding with a book on the verandah. A romantic stay. See More

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  • Gideon Ridge Inn Blowing Rock, North Carolina 10 rooms from AU$264

    
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    Great walks  -  Short scenic walk includes views of Grandfather Mountain, Table Rock, and Hawksbill.

    Back to Nature  -  Secluded setting with spectacular walks and views.

    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 12 years welcome.

    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.

    

    A secluded mountain hideaway. Rooms feature open fireplaces, 100% cotton Frette sheeting, feather down pillows and plush bathrobes which leave you feeling pampered. French doors lead out to stone terraces with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The gourmet restaurant is second to none. See More

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  • The Greystone Inn Lake Toxaway, North Carolina 30 rooms from AU$277

    
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    Back to Nature  -  The Greystone Inn is the place to experience the splendour of nature and feel the embrace of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains

    Active Holiday  -  Exclusively located on the largest private lake in North Carolina, the opportunities for outdoor activity are infinite

    Great walks  -  The Yosemite of the East” Panthertown Valley with over 25 cascading waterfalls and 30 miles of trails

    Swimming Pool  -  Located next to the Lake Toxaway Country Club, Greystone guests have access to a newly updated pool

    

    A luxury inn set beside Lake Toxaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Elegant and spacious rooms feature cream hues, cosy fireplaces and sweeping lake vistas. Borrow the inn's paddle-boards, kayaks and enjoy a sunset cruise. With superb seasonal cuisine and a spoiling spa - this is an indulgent stay. See More

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  • The Lodge at River Run Banner Elk, North Carolina 5 rooms from AU$352

    
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    Active Holiday  -  With skiing, tubing, rafting, biking and hiking plus more avaliable, there is something for every adventure seeker

    Great walks  -  Enjoy hiking on the nearby Profile Trail, Price Lake, Roan Mountain and Moses Cone Memorial Park

    Restrictions on children  -  Children over the age of 12 are welcome

    Whirlpool Bathtub

    

    A cosy and traditional lodge set in the Blue Ridge mountains. The five rooms are beautiful and spacious with warming fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and each has a stunning view of the Elk River. Stargaze by the outdoor fire pit and relax in the open-air hot tub. Delicious gourmet breakfast. Wonderful. See More

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  • Inn on Biltmore Estate Asheville (North Carolina) 210 rooms from AU$496

    
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    Families  -  Children will stay occupied for days with carriage-rides, river float trips, craft demonstrations and the Pisgah playground

    Riding  -  There is an extensive equestrian centre. The Blue Ridge Mountains are rated the 3rd best place for riding in the world

    Active Holiday  -  Hike, bike, fish, ride, kayak, try falconry, clay pigeon shoot or try the Landrover experience - all on the estate

    Back to Nature  -  North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains are an outdoor lover's paradise throughout the year

    

    A large modern inn located on Asheville's 8,000 acre Biltmore Estate. Traditionally styled rooms and suites are classical, elegant and luxuriously appointed. Plus there is a heated outdoor pool, gym and spa. Choose between fine dining or more relaxed atmosphere in the library lounge. See More

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  • Westglow Blowing Rock, North Carolina 11 rooms from AU$733

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Idyllic and tranquil location, top class spa, gourmet dining and luxury rooms for a complete relaxation experience

    Romantic Break  -  Scenic and secluded, this is an ideal choice for a romantic getaway

    Hills & mountains  -  Spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains

    Cooking classes  -  Cooking classes are available with the chef team at Rowland's gourmet restaurant

    

    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

    This luxury resort and spa is located just minutes from Blowing Rock in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Housed in a restored Greek Revival mansion, guestrooms are impeccably appointed, with heritage features like original fireplaces. A full-service spa guarantees total relaxation. See More

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  • Bridgewater Hall Morganton, North Carolina 3 rooms from AU$188

    
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    Hideaway  -  Escape from the city life on the covered deck overlooking the rushing river or relax outside on one of the hammocks

    Total relaxation  -  Walk along the river’s edge, relax in the gazebo or in a rocking chair found on one of the wrap around porches

    Groups  -  With just three rooms, the property is ideal for a small group to block book

    Great walks  -  There are 25 miles of trails to explore in Lake James State Park, which is walking distance from the inn

    

    A historic, idyllic B&B set on 5 acres of mature gardens, along the Old Catawba River. Three elegant suites feature light cream colour schemes, antique furnishings and cosy fireplaces. Relax riverside on a hammock or on the wrap-around porch. A simply beautiful and serene hideaway! See More

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  • Hotel Cashiers Cashiers, North Carolina 19 rooms from AU$204

    
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    Active Holiday  -  The Highlands offers hiking, golfing, fly fishing, cycling, river rafting and tubing, boating, horseback riding, and more

    Local exploring  -  Enjoy direct access to the Cashiers Ramble Walking Trail connecting guests to the centre of town

    Restaurant  -  3 restaurants: Zookeeper Bistro serves American fare, Slab Town Pizza offers local beers and pizza and Chili Loco serves Mexican

    Great walks  -  There are over 100 waterfalls and hiking trails to explore, all of which are accessible year round

    

    A boutique inn nestled in the mountains in the heart of Cashiers. Rooms and suites blend modern design with rustic chic and feature oak floors, original artworks and custom handmade furniture. With three restaurants, hair and nail salon and shops on-site, the inn is ideal for local exploring. See More

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  • Bed and Breakfast on Tiffany Hill Mills River, North Carolina 7 rooms from AU$403

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Adventure seekers will find plenty to explore in the "Land of the Waterfalls", with endless hikes and activites

    Back to Nature  -  Guests can visit the nearby Pisgah National Forest and the DuPont State Recreational Park

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Biltmore estate with its extensive history, architecture, gardens and grounds

    Great walks  -  Enjoy 6 acres of gardens and walking trails

    

    A casual and elegant B&B in the mountains near Asheville. Rooms are comfortable and luxurious with four-poster beds, fireplaces and walk-in showers. Explore the lush gardens and trails, relax on the Adirondack chairs and soak in the views. A homely (yet chic) base to explore the region from. See More

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  • Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast Waynesville (North Carolina) 6 rooms from AU$279

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Outdoor activities such as hiking, waterfalls, fly fishing, golf, white water rafting, biking are all just a short drive away

    Local exploring  -  The inn is perfectly located for exploring and discovering Western North Carolina!

    Sights nearby  -  The Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Pisgah National Forest are each a 30 minutes drive from the inn

    Views  -  Oak Hill overlooks quaint historic downtown Waynesville

    

    A luxury and cosy B&B located in the Smoky Mountains, just a half a mile from downtown Waynesville. Rooms are traditional and elegant with original fireplaces with carved wood mantles, oak floors, antique furnishings and stand-alone tubs. Enjoy a healthy, organic farm-to-table gourmet breakfast. See More

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  • Applewood Manor Asheville (North Carolina) 6 rooms from AU$345

    
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    Active Holiday  -  The B&B offers exclusive cycling tours including ride planning, on-ride guides, ride support including a follow vehicles, etc

    Local exploring  -  The Applewood Manor is only a 15 minute walk to the centre of downtown Asheville

    Back to Nature  -  The B&B is a short 10-minute drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway

    Cooking classes  -  Spend some time in the renovated kitchen with on-site chef, Robin Collins, learning how to bake

    

    A charming boutique B&B set in Montford Area Historic District just a short walk to the heart of downtown. Elegant rooms feature antique furnishings, cosy fireplaces and private balconies. Farm to table breakfasts, made with locally sourced ingredients, are a real treat. A homely choice. See More

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  • The Mast Farm Inn Banner Elk, North Carolina 7 rooms from AU$204

    
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    Local markets  -  Ashe County Cheese is North Carolina’s oldest cheese plant.

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    Opulent

    

    Welcoming guests since early 1800s this mountain boutique is something of an institution. The historic elements and southern hospitality create a unique atmosphere, with cozy rooms, modern facilities, flickering fireplaces and stunning views. Creative, award-winning dishes for all guests. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 15th December 2021