Asheville is the largest city in western North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains at the juncture of the Swannanoa and French Broad rivers, it is spectacularly located. While the surrounding interstates detract from its beauty, tourists flock to its arty downtown core of the ‘Paris of the South’ by the thousands every year.
The most famous tourist attraction in Asheville is Biltmore Estate. Surrounded by first class gardens, Biltmore House is the largest private house in America, boasting over 250 rooms. The Blue Ridge Mountains are also extremely popular, particularly during fall when leaf lovers flock here for the splendid foliage. Downtown offers a great contrast with its Art Deco buildings, museums and artisan shops galore, giving it a bohemian feel.
Only 40 miles (64kms) away are the Great Smoky Mountains where fantastic walking can be enjoyed and plentiful vistas are on offer. Many visitors combine this trip with a visit to Cherokee, where you can not only experience the life and culture of the Cherokee people, but you can try your luck in the casino too. Once you’ve had your fill of fast food and moccasins, pay an obligatory visit to the town’s museums.
Highlights
Biltmore House: one of the finest examples of the Gilded Age, this French Renaissance inspired house was built between 1888 and 1895.
Botanical Gardens at Asheville: designed by Doan Ogden, these gardens are set in 10 acres of land that is lush in plant life native to the Appalachian Mountains, boasting over 700 different species.
Asheville Art Museum: fine examples of 20th and 21st century American art is housed here with many world-class exhibitions on show.
Basilica of St Lawrence: a magnificent architectural pearl dating from 1909 boasting the largest freestanding elliptical dome in the US.
Biltmore Winery: under the guise of a French wine maker, this winery is producing some outstanding wines, making a cellar door tasting a must for visitors.
Downtown Biltmore: a real treasure in itself, with over 150 bespoke shops and plenty of funky cafés to refresh at while enjoying the shopping.
Museum of the Cherokee Indian: for a fascinating insight into the life and history of the Cherokee Indians, this museum is packed with over 10,000 artifacts that will stir even the dullest of imaginations.