This world class resort offers so many amenities from an upscale spa to a challenging and beautiful golf course and everything in between, making it the perfect summer retreat for family and friends alike. But, travel writer, Andi Perullo, doesnt stop there. For those that love spending the dog days of summer in Appalachia, she also shares four more mountain town musts.
Spring is finally in the air, giving way to warmer weather, blossoming flowers, and most importantly, the desire to finally leave the house and take a weekend escape somewhere special. Whether soaking up sunshine by the pool, receiving a relaxing massage in a spa, or going for a long hike in the mountains is your ideal vacation, you are guaranteed to find travelers bliss at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. Cradled in the heart of Highlands, North Carolina, this award-winning property is a must-visit destination. It was even voted #1 Hotel Spa in North America by Condé Nast Travelers readers in 2010.
Highlands, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, feels as though it has been preserved in time. Walk outside the hotels front door and you will find yourself amidst first-class shopping, dining, and culture. Since it is surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and a temperate rainforest, you will also encounter some of the most beautiful natural attractions that the Unites States has to offer ranging from pristine lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. This rural community deserves its reputation as being one of Americas prettiest small towns.
Balancing urbane sophistication with rustic quaintness, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa puts guests minds at ease and lifts their spirits with its casual elegance, luxurious amenities, and impressive service. This five-star retreat is an excellent setting for romance, individuals, girlfriend getaways, and family trips. In your stunning room or suite, you will be enveloped by period antiques with European bedding and linens, and many are accompanied by terraces that offer sweeping views of downtown Highlands.
If you are looking to really splurge, the newly built Falls Cottages are the best accommodations on the property. In the center of them, you will find an outdoor heated mineral pool specifically designed for children, since it has splash fountains and an easy entry platform. Next to it, on the flagstone patio, is a hot tub and a double-sided fireplace, geared more towards adults. A new walk-up service window will provide food and beverage service to the pool area. Perhaps, what make the Falls Cottages even more exceptional are the spacious en-suite bathrooms, which provide an extraordinary experience: The temperature of the marble tiled floors can be adjusted specifically to your liking and the Molton Brown bath products complement the lavish towels perfectly.
There are many thoughtful touches to be discovered throughout the hotel including: champagne upon arrival, an all-day Butlers pantry with complimentary drinks and Dove Bars, Keurig coffee machines in the accommodations, and a lovely evening turn-down service that comes with a surprise treat and a note with the weather forecast for the following day. It is specifically because the property goes above and beyond for their beloved guests, that The Farm at Old Edwards, a thirty-three acre pastoral setting on the grounds, has now become a popular destination-wedding venue. In fact, the entire property is a wedding photographers dream-come-true backdrop it is so gorgeous that you can imagine a bride and groom posing everywhere!
Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a glimmering jewel in North Carolinas lure. No matter what the season, though spring is particularly charming, their phenomenal, award-winning health spa will pamper you in a style that you could easily get accustomed to. You can instantly feel city stress dissipating as you walk through the spas doors and into the tranquil fireside lounge where you will await your unforgettable treatment. If you prefer even more privacy, the locker rooms are equipped with saunas, Jacuzzis, and twelve-headed Swiss showers. After your treatment, make sure to stop by the Spa Boutique for a collection of products you will definitely not be able to find back home.
True to Highlands reputation as being a foodie destination, Madisons is a AAA Four-Diamond awarded restaurant located in the hotel and is renown for having the best dining in Western North Carolina thanks to its incredibly talented culinary team that specializes in hand-crafting each dish that is ordered. They cook with farm-to-table and local ingredients in order to bring out the abundant flavors that the surrounding nature has to offer. For an intimate setting, the Wine Cellar can be reserved for up to twelve guests. Alfresco dining is another option during the warmer months at the Wine Garden or Rooftop Terrace. There is no better way to end your trip to the Old Edwards Inn and Spa than with a delicious meal that will inspire you to already plan your return before you have even left. For more information on Old Edwards Inn or to reserve your stay visit www.oldedwardsinn.com.