The south-eastern state of North Carolina stretches from the heights of the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the narrow, sand-spit beaches of the Atlantic coast. In between, there are cool cities with cutting-edge industries, charming historic towns and thousands of farms. From sleek skyscraper-hotels to intimate inns, boutique hideaways and mountain lodges, there's plenty of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, too. This is definitely a state of contrasts, with the best places to stay in North Carolina offering a fantastic array of experiences for visitors from across the world.
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If it’s a stylish city break that you’re after, Charlotte — the state’s largest city — is the place to start. Charlotte grew wealthy during the Gold Rush, and is now a brilliant spot for couples, families or business travellers in search of great museums, trendy restaurants and an epic NASCAR experience. Head to historic Asheville, home of the magnificent Biltmore Estate, for an insight into US history, or to Durham to marvel at the illustrious Duke University and see the famed Blue Devils basketball team in action. Raleigh also boasts excellent state museums — including the North Carolina Museum of Art — whilst Wilmington brims with heritage buildings and a lively, laid-back vibe. Greensboro, near the centre of the state, is ideal for families, with everything from amusement parks to impressive galleries.
Beyond North Carolina’s towns and cities lie its wonderfully peaceful 300 miles of coastline, much of which is under-developed and appealingly family-friendly. For real solitude, venture to the Outer Banks, a series of windswept, barrier islands — more like sandbars — separated from the mainland by lagoons and waterways, and linked by bridges and ferries. A drive down Highway 12, which links many of the Outer Banks islands, is a must on any North Carolina road trip! Admire spectacular views from isolated lighthouses, climb the coast’s highest sand dune at Jockey's Ridge State Park, and stop at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where a boulder marks the launching place of the world’s first air flight, in December 1903.
To the west, striking trails snake through the cool, refreshing air of the Appalachian Mountains. Cloaked in hemlock, pine and oak trees, the mountains are a magical region for climbing, hiking, wildlife-spotting, rafting and fly-fishing. Clamber to the top of the highest mountain east of the Mississippi in Mount Mitchell State Park, and look out for deer, black bears, owls and cougars in the wilderness. The Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway are pretty spectacular, too — and Waynesville is an attractive base for a trip.
Whether you dream of discovering historic buildings, kicking back in buzzing eateries, watching top-notch basketball or embarking on scenic mountain hikes, the best places to stay in North Carolina promise the ideal starting point for an adventure to remember.
