There are so many amazing places to see around the world that we sometimes forget what's right in our backyard. The U.S. offers incredible diversity for the luxury traveler and active adventurer alike. Erin, our Family Travel Advisor, has just returned from Ashville, North Carolina and shares her expereince.
Asheville, NC was a perfect getaway for me and my daughter this summer. With numerous outdoor activities to choose from and a city full of unexpected surprises, it was easy to fill our days with new adventures. A four-night getaway proved to be just the thing we needed to refresh and reconnect with the joy of travel.
A cabin rental only ten minutes from city center allowed for contactless entry, grocery delivery and room to explore without a need for social distancing. Quiet mornings with coffee on the deck and afternoons exploring the hiking trails and streams was a welcomed break from our day to day back home. Tubing down the French Broad river with friends and lunch at one of the many restaurants and microbreweries along the banks of the river provide a perfect day safely spent outdoors. Evenings were spent exploring the history of this great city with a small group walking tour or with a cocktail on the verandah of the historic Grove Park Inn. Restaurants all throughout the city were offering spacious outdoor seating or take out in line with new safety guidelines.
Our last night was spent at the Asheville Grand Bohemian hotel in the historic Biltmore Village area. This unique hotel is located just across from the gates to the Biltmore Estate. This made it easy to spend the day exploring the estate and return in the late afternoon in time for an early dinner. The Biltmore Estate was an amazing experience with stunning architecture and breathtaking grounds to explore. With new safety measures in place, we were able to explore the house in a timed pace that separated each family/friend group. It was like having a private tour! The staff made sure everyone was following safety protocols and we felt very comfortable discovering Biltmore’s grounds. Lunch at the Stable Café located next to the main house was another fun discovery. The old stables have been converted into a restaurant with each stall holding a table or booth. Original floors and ironwork throughout gave it a rustic yet elegant charm and our spacious “stall” provided a private dining experience.
Returning to the Grand Bohemian after a full day was a delightful respite. Unique art and features such as a petrified wood bar in their acclaimed restaurant makes this hotel a destination all its own. Luxurious rooms and exceptional customer service made our last night extra special. Asheville and the Grand Bohemian made us feel safe and well cared for on our vacation. It was a wonderful vacation that rejuvenated us and filled us with enthusiasm for our future travel adventures!
