Things to do / Travel Guide
The chief attraction for lovers, that draws so many of them to the cities and towns of western Virginia and North Carolina, are the southern Appalachian Mountains. Whether you're searching for quaint Victorian beauties or isolated rustic secrets, you're in for quite a treat, as it's precisely that blend of history and rusticity that gives this area such a high romantic potential. Charlottesville and Asheville, for example, boasts a delightful mix of Federalist and Victorian architecture, making for quaint bed and breakfasts (B&Bs).
Another advantage to this area is that while some places might claim to have Southern charm, manners, and hospitality, in the southern Appalachian Mountains you'll find the real thing. The nicest, most helpful owners grace the establishments, and they are blessed with impeccable taste. You can plop a Victorian house down anywhere in the world and call it a B&B but, for a real B&B experience, the owners and hosts are part and parcel. In this regard, the B&Bs and inns of this region excel in all ways.
Furthermore, the surroundings, be they an historic downtown, or the wilderness, surrounded by deer, play a significant part in setting the tone. You'll see!
Romance in Western Virginia
The best B&Bs “for lovers" in this part of the state, are clustered Around Shenandoah National Park. You may find the downtown and neighborhoods of the little local city of Staunton recognizable to you from movies such as “Hearts in Atlantis” and “Evan Almighty.” In the heart of this downtown is Miller House, which was built by a master of Victorian architecture in the late 19th century. It's a huge house, sitting atop a hill, and with so many oversized windows it looks just like a crown.
The rooms in Miller House accurately capture upper-class living in turn-of-the-century Virginia, and are fully furnished with canopy or post beds, couches, mirrors, ornate rugs, and more. A big plus here is the free wireless internet. The hosts are also acclaimed chefs, and the four-course gourmet breakfasts are widely hailed as perfect to the last crumb.
In addition to the mountain scenery, Luray Caverns is also a large draw to the Shenandoah region. It contains some of the best caves in the country, and is a perfect day activity, easily reached from anywhere in the area. Vast arrays of columns, stalagmites, and stalactites populate this underground lair, and whether you come in winter or summer, the temperature stays a cool 54 degrees belowground.
Back aboveground, another day activity can be a tour of the local wine scene. Thomas Jefferson experimented with growing grapes here, well over 200 years ago, but the local wine scene only really got started in the 1970s. Two of the best wineries in the area, which oenophiles should definitely visit, are Shenandoah Vineyards and Veramar Vineyards. Veramar's Chardonnay is celebrated as a truly Virginian interpretation of the variety.
In Charlottesville, be sure to explore its history-rich downtown, the campus of the University of Virginia, and Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's estate. Jefferson built his home gradually; adding portions after being inspired by things he saw on trips abroad, while knocking down other portions he wanted to change. There are also lovely gardens surrounding the house.
Where should you stay in Charlottesville? How about a different place every time you go! There are lots of B&Bs in, and adjacent to, the Historic Downtown Mall area, and most are above par. The Dinsmore House is one such example. It was built in the early 19th century by Thomas Jefferson's principle builder. The suites are all appointed in period pieces, while still retaining an unmistakable air of modernity.
Romance in Western North Carolina
If you're looking for a grand historical place to stay, Asheville, and nearby Biltmore Estate, will suit you like a glove on George Vanderbilt's hand. Asheville itself is enjoying a renaissance, making the whole city worth an extended vacation. Walking the streets, sampling the cafés, discovering the perfect restaurant by chance; all are great ideas for a romantic getaway. With its lovely collection of Victorian homes, classy B&Bs, and Art Deco-stocked downtown, this is a place that will provide you with plenty of activities.
Just outside town, you'll find Asheville's number-one attraction: Biltmore Estate. This is the largest private residence in the US, and has been since it was completed in the late 19th century. The house itself is a gigantic castle, while the grounds and gardens were designed by by the same architect who designed New York City's Central Park. The gardens are awe-inspiring, and are, by themselves, worth the trip. There are many convenient lodgings nearby. One such place is the Queen Anne mansion Biltmore Village Inn, which is also fully furnished with antiques and surrounded by gardens.
Also located on the grounds Biltmore Estate is Biltmore Village. The village originally was created to accommodate the estate's many workers; now, it houses an assortment of shops and restaurants. Speaking of restaurants, an excellent restaurant, known for its ambiance, found between Asheville and Biltmore Estate, is the Fig Bistro. The menu changes seasonally; you can get quiches with lots of exotic cheeses, soups, and seafood, and the wine list is quite respectable. The desserts here are sure to be the highlight of your dining experience, with such unique dishes as bread pudding and celery tart.
If you're looking for rusticity, North Carolina's got that in abundance. Head to the small town of Black Mountain for its antique shops and coffee houses. Just outside the city is Arbor House, situated on a lake, and with a front porch overlooking the seven peaks of Black Mountain. The rooms are sunlight-filled, and include such modern amenities such as a DVD player, wireless internet, and a spa tub. A short and easy hike from the hotel, you can find Looking Glass Rock and Falls, which is a great stroll for a romantic afternoon outing.
Ballooning in the Southern Appalachian Mountains
What better to wrap up a romantic getaway than with a hot-air balloon ride?! Ballooning up above the Shenandoah Valley, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, you can discern the colors playing together in the mountains. Pass over farms, the Shenandoah River, the local cities and towns, and the scenic countryside. Gaze down on the White-tailed deer flitting among the trees, and the local vineyards. If you happen to be in town for one of the balloon festivals in the Shenandoah, then you're really in for a treat.
The experience of a romantic vacation in the Southern Appalachians will stay with you long after you've returned to the daily grind. The best way to preserve those memories is with a return trip. Maybe next time you'll choose to spend more time in the charming old cities, or perhaps see more of the awesome mountains. Fortunately, there's a wide range of romantic outings available, from which to choose.
Romantic Vacation Ideas in Roanoke, Asheville, Smoky, Blue Ridge, Shenandoah and Southern Appalachian Mountains
Romantic-Vacations-Getaways
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