My Friday Favorite Things Newsletter - March 6th Edition
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Carla Agnini
Carla has a wide range of experience in the real estate realm...
Carla has a wide range of experience in the real estate realm...
My Weekly Favorite List...
This week is all for those who may be spending a "stay-cation" at home for the upcoming spring break. For most of us, it's a bit early this year but there's a good chance there will be at least a few days of sunny skies. I normally highlight places close to Lake Norman (check out my previous favorite lists www.lakelifegrp.com/blog) but this week I am going to share our favorite spot just a few hours drive away. Blowing Rock, North Carolina has been a long time favorite spot for a day trip, overnight and especially a weekend away. There are a ton of little motels, Air bnb's, and bed/breakfast options to choose from. I truly believe there is a bit of something for everyone near Blowing Rock. Hiking, biking, breweries, shopping, fishing and so much more. Whether you're new to town or want to show off a favorite NC spot to a spring break visitor, you can't go wrong with a trip Blowing Rock.
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1.)Flat Rock View
Not far from the center of town is one of my favorite hikes. I would certainly say this is a more advanced trail due to the changes in elevation, which totally gets your heart pumping, but it's not a technically difficult hike. We actually extended this hike several miles further but it's a wonderful out and back if you choose to stop at Flat Rock which is about 4 miles total. Unfortunately we missed the rhododendron in full bloom, but I can imagine that this would make this hike even more spectacular.
2.) The Village inn of Blowing Rock
This cozy little inn takes me back to another era. There isn't anything fancy, just nice clean cozy rooms in the absolute best location! A perfect blend of southern hospitality and rustic charm will keep me coming back to stay here for years to come. The staff are very friendly and they have two other sister properties if you find that this one is full. Parking is limited throughout the town so it was nice to have a parking space at the hotel.
3.) The Village Cafe
Such a unique part of Blowing Rock's history, this quaint cafe serves the best breakfast and lunch that I have ever found. It's ideal location and scrumptious menu mean that a reservation will likely be needed to find a seat. The Village Cafe closes at 2pm so it is better suited for an overnight, but I would certainly get an early start to enjoy another wonderful meal here. Some of our other favorite spots are the six pence pub where I had the most amazing pot roast and a family favorite is always the mellow mushroom which is located next to The Village Inn. Absolutely don't forget to get some ice cream in a home made waffle cone from Kilwins and head to the village park across the street to enjoy.
4) Grandfather Mountain
If hiking isn't quite your thing but you'd still like to enjoy some fresh air and gorgeous views, then Grandfather Mountain should be on your list. It can get quite busy and I'd certainly call beforehand for a weather forecast; but I think it's worth the entrance fee to go at least once. For those of you that are scared of heights, the swinging bridge is a bit daunting, but completely safe! We have enjoyed the day at Grandfather Mountain many times over the years, and the environmental trail is another section that you won't want to miss. I imagine with the cooler temperatures, the animals will be more active. After leaving the park, you are once again just a short drive back to the center of town in Blowing Rock.
Grandfather Mountain
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