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Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Falling for the mountains of Asheville
Are you planning a trip to southwest NC?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It has been awhile since I took a trip to Asheville, but lately the mountain city has been calling me. A massive ASHEVILLE NC billboard near my grocery store might have something to do with it. Still, I prefer to think my wanderlust stems from a desire to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge at its most picturesque time of year, instead of a confirmation that outdoor advertising does indeed work.
The city itself mixes an artist colony vibe with plenty of shopping, historical touring, great dining and sidewalk coffee-sipping. But what I like best about Asheville is that it serves as a great jumping off point for so many outdoor activities nearby.
As autumn rolls round, Asheville and its environs really kick into gear. Over the next few weeks, you can participate in numerous heritage festivals in the southwestern corner of North Carolina, including the 96th annual Cherokee Indian Festival. Or head to the Chimney Rock Park southeast of Asheville to climb the 315-foot tall Chimney and watch hundreds of broad-winged hawks fly over as they migrate south for the winter.
A fan of colorful autumn leaves? You can get up close on many guided hikes in the area. Or see the beauty of the leaves from the comfort of your train car on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s leaf-viewing train trips.
Back in Asheville…if you’ve ever wondered what wine you should pair with your Gran’s best pot likker or fancied a taste of homespun bacon cotton candy, head to the Biltmore Estate for its annual Field to Table Festival (Sept. 19-28).
Another good thing about Asheville is that it’s only about 200 miles away, making it an easy weekend trip for Atlantans. (Click here for a full listing of things to see and do around Asheville.) As soon as I can find an open weekend, I’m packing the car and taking the family on a trip up there. With any luck, we’ll make it before the last leaves fall.
Let us know what you think about Asheville as a travel destination. How often do you go there, and what would you recommend fellow travelers see or do on their trip? Do you go for the atmosphere? Outdoor activities? The shopping? The Biltmore Estate? Where do you stay? Do you stick to town or take day trips out from Asheville? When is your favorite time to go? When is the best time to beat the crowds?
• MORE: Deals in Asheville, Asheville travel guide
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