Hi!
I am planning a trip to Asheville, North Carolina for a week at the beginning of October. I am from the US originally, but now live in Costa Rica. First timers to North Carolina, my brother will be attending college in Mars Hill and I would like to see him for his fall break.. Asheville is the closest town.
We love outdoorsy activities - rafting, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, visiting waterfalls etc. Any suggestions on tour companies to use would be greatly appreciated! What are the "must-see" things to do and see in Asheville? I read about a natural water slide, is anyone familiar with that? My boyfriend is a rafting guide here in Costa Rica, and so we would like something that has Class IV or V rapids, does that exist here?
Does anyone have recommendations of places to stay, something nice and close to activities, shops, restaurants, etc but not too over the top expensive? We plan on renting a car, does anyone have recommendations of a good company to use? Since we will have a car, are there any places that you recommend going outside of Asheville for a day trip that aren't too far away? Would it be best to fly into Charlotte?
Thank you in advance for all of the help!
Asheville, North Carolina - Where to Stay, What to Do????
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There are a jillion threads about Asheville here. That will be a busy time with fall colors so get reservations soon.
Hi mangoemily. Since you will have a car, I recommend heading over to Brevard/Transylvania County area. There are many beautiful waterfalls and the Pisgah National Forest there. Natural water slide - perhaps you are talking about Sliding Rock? You should be able to google that and have it pop up.
I have stayed at Country Inn and Suites on Tunnel Rd. in Asheville - not far from downtown area and good pricing.
Asheville does have an airport. You could check the pricing and see if it will be more advantageous for you to fly in to CLT or Asheville.
An obvious must see in Asheville is the Biltmore House - plan on getting tickets ahead of time - it is truly beautiful and there are several nice restaurants there as well.
Have fun!
Where to stay: Sourwood Inn or you might consider a rental through vrbo
Where to fly: Coming from Costa Rica, go with CLT and drive from there. The closer airports have very limited service and generally higher fares.
Outdoor activity: Hike the Blue Ridge mountains or contact
http://www.noc.com/whitewater-rafting/nantahala-river/?gclid=CPPevazEl7ECFUFV4AodmWWheg for lots of options.
Natural Water Slide:
http://www.exploreasheville.com/listings/Sliding-Rock-A-Natural-Water-Slide/284/default/
Have fun, but book now. You are visiting during our busy season.
Check out my trip report.
I visited Asheville for 4 days recently. Stayed at the Applewood Manor -- short walk to the Visitors' Center and walked into town (10 minutes?). Quiet area. Three course breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese. Beautiful, beautiful B&B, gracious innkeepers. You may also want to look at tripadvisor.com for ideas.
Thank you for all of your help! We will be flying into CLT and we still haven't booked a hotel. I'm trying to decide between staying in the downtown area, close to shops, restaurants etc or somewhere further out in a cabin through VRBO. Can't wait!
Hi, Our State Magazine here. I agree with the previous poster, check out the Nantahala Outdoor Company at
www.noc.com
They have a zip line adventure park in addition to rafting guides which you might enjoy.
Also, while you are visiting Asheville, you may want to download the free travel North Carolina app. This free app will provide you with lots of information on Asheville and the surrounding areas such as restaurants, hotels, and state parks.
www.ourstate.com/app/
Enjoy your trip!
Our State
**The above post is provided to visitors to help share our love of travel in and around North Carolina.