"Haven of Rest" Surrounded by Appalachian Beauty

Tucked away in a quiet pocket of the Blue Ridge Mountains lies Chetola Mountain Resort, built in 1846 as a way station. Since then, the home has served as a post–Civil War family home and a Coca-Cola magnate's estate. Today, it's a rustic getaway that lives up to the name Chetola, a Cherokee word meaning "haven of rest." With a private lake and 87 acres of rolling hills, the property offers outdoor pursuits ranging from fishing to hiking, along with a restaurant, a full spa, and kids' play areas.

The resort's secluded location borders forests and waterfronts alike, leading Frommer's to call it "the grandest resort in the area." Hiking trails connect to neighboring Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. The resort sits along the banks of Chetola Lake, which you can navigate by paddleboat or plumb the depths of by renting a fishing rod.

In the evening, savor duck breast, Carolina trout, or another delicacy at Timberlake's Restaurant. The lakefront restaurant invites guests to sup in a hunting-lodge-themed dining room complete with a fireplace believed to be more than 100 years old. Afterward, retire to a rustically decorated guest room inside Chetola Lodge or the Bob Timberlake Inn.

The full spa's maple floors, sea-stone inlays, and wall fountain set the mood for a 90-minute Swedish massage with essential oils. Alternatively, fitness classes include yoga sessions to realign spines and mental equilibrium.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina: Scenic Hikes and Skiing in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Blowing Rock is located on the edge of the 500,000-acre Pisgah National Forest in northeastern North Carolina. The town, named for a rock formation, is a home base for outdoor recreation in the Blue Ridge Mountains—especially hiking, whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, and horseback riding. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, a historic estate on 3,600 acres of forests and meadows, has 26 miles of carriage roads designated for walking and horseback riding. To see the sights from a car, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic motorway through the Appalachians.

Aside from the parkway, there's plenty to do year-round here, from whitewater rafting and fly-fishing in the summer to cross-country and downhill skiing in the cooler months. About 10 minutes away is Appalachian Ski Mountain with skiing, snowboarding, and the best known ski school in the Southeast, French Swiss Ski College.

Back in town, Blowing Rock’s Main Street is lined with antique shops, boutiques, and upscale bistros. Bargain hunters might want to stop by Tanger Outlets, home to Banana Republic, Loft, and Polo Ralph Lauren outlet stores.

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