Exploring the Western NC Art Scene | Asheville & Beyond 29 Mar 2024, 8:07 am

Art and craft traditions run deep in the mountains of Western North Carolina, where artisans uphold age-old techniques while infusing their creations with modern sensibilities. Exploring the Western NC art scene is an afternoon, day, or week filled with variety and amazement at the sheer diversity of expression. Choose between vibrant graphic designs, woodworking, fiber arts, and glassblowing, to name a few!

View the region’s art and creativity at galleries, craft fairs, and studios. Visitors can even try their hand at various crafts through workshops and classes offered by local artisans. Here is a rundown of where you can start your journey:

River Arts District (RAD)

The River Arts District is a 2-square-mile area of converted industrial buildings about a mile from downtown Asheville. For two decades, artists looking for large, cheap spaces have converted these warehouses into studios, galleries, classrooms, and restaurants.

Take the free trolley to cover more distance. Choose the medium that interests you, from basketry and glass to bookbinding and sculpture. Watch artists at work or take a class! Check out the event schedule, or just wander!

Downtown Asheville

Downtown Asheville is home to several galleries and the Woolworth Walk. What is the Woolworth Walk? A historic building formerly a Woolworth’s Retail Store now exhibits local artists. They have even kept the old soda fountain open!

Traditional galleries include the Asheville Gallery of Art, the Momentum Gallery, and Blue Spiral 1. You can make the trip downtown just for art or add some shopping. There are over 200 shops, many of them independent.

Grovewood Village

Grovewood Village is the former site of Biltmore Industries, a weaving and woodworking company founded by Edith Vanderbilt, Eleanor Vance, and Charlotte Vale. The historic property is now dedicated to honoring American Arts and Crafts. Along with a gallery and artist studios, you will find an Antique Car Museum, a Homespun Museum, and a sculpture garden.

Blue Ridge Craft Trails

Combine visiting local artists with a drive through the countryside that inspires them by taking your pick of one of the Blue Ridge Craft Trails. Charming small towns and mountain hollers are replete with blacksmiths, glassblowers, quilters, and so much more.

Waynesville Drive

Take the Waynesville Drive and see a jeweler’s studio, a pottery artist, and a woodworker. Drive by Lake Jawaluska and downtown Waynesville. Visit the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts, and if you choose your dates wisely, take part in a downtown Mountain Dance.

Maggie Valley Drive

The Maggie Valley Drive showcases a chainsaw carver, a woodburning master, and a quilt trail. What is a quilt trail? Eight-foot by eight-foot blocks of traditional quilt patterns adorn historic buildings. Other choices? You can visit one of the many wineries in the area or a Motorcycle Museum.

Enjoy North Carolina Art Festivals.

There are dozens of Art Festivals throughout western North Carolina. No matter the season, you can find a festival to attend. These are just a few examples:

Spring

• Weaverville Art Safari occurs at the end of April. This self-guided tour allows visitors to see up to 75 participating artists.
• Art After Dark starts on the first Friday in May and continues on the first Friday of every month through December. Visit shops open late in downtown Waynesville.
• Lake Lure Spring Arts and Crafts Festival is the second weekend in May. Come to the town where many “Dirty Dancing” scenes were filmed.

Summer

• The Leicester Studio Art Tour takes place on the third weekend of August. It features varied mediums of local artists, including textiles, pottery, brooms, and woodwork.
• The Blue Ridge Heritage Weekend Arts and Crafts Fair is the second weekend in August at the Shelton House Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts.
• Asheville Art in the Park happens on Mondays in June. You can stroll through the park, meet local artists, and explore various art forms.

Fall

• Start the season with the NC Apple Festival on Labor Day Weekend. It’s a combination street fair, arts and crafts exhibit, music festival, and parade.
• Mid-October brings LEAF Festival, a celebration of global art and music in nearby Black Mountain.
• Visit downtown Asheville at the end of October for the NC Ceramic Arts Festival in North Pack Square Park.

Winter

• Second Saturdays in January through March host the River Arts District Second Saturdays. Stroll through artists’ studios and see special exhibitions.
• The National Gingerbread House Display is at the Omni Grove Park Inn from November 27 – January 2.
• During the first two weekends in December, the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway will host a special Holiday Seconds Sale.

Relax and Refresh at Wildberry Lodge.

Exploring the Western NC art scene stimulates your curiosity and excites your creative juices. After a day of adventures, relax in an atmosphere of natural beauty at Wildberry Lodge.  Wiggle your toes in our hot tub, then visit one of our favorite local restaurants. Hike in our backyard, or pick an outing from our suggested itinerary. If you are looking for other ideas of things to do in the Asheville area, just ask! We love where we live.

But if you came for the arts, there is still plenty more to see. Whether strolling through galleries, catching a live performance, or immersing yourself in nature-inspired art, you’ll find endless opportunities to be inspired and enriched by the beauty and creativity of this picturesque corner of the world. So come, explore, and experience the magic of WNC’s arts community for yourself.

Photo credits:
© hidesy via canva.com
© Frank VandenBergh via canva.com
© hillaryfox via canva.com
© Sketchify Egypt via canva.com

Uncorking Delight: The 5 Best Wineries in Western NC 16 Dec 2023, 11:07 am

You may be surprised to learn that the mountains of Western North Carolina are home to over 60 wineries, with more than a dozen within an hour’s drive of Asheville. To truly sample what the vineyards in our local hills can produce, we have narrowed it down to what we consider the five best wineries of Western North Carolina. We have included large wineries and some that are family-owned. There are urban choices and some with views that will have your camera snapping photo after photo.

Addison Farms Vineyard

4005 New Leicester Hwy
Leicester NC

Addison Farms Vineyard is a fifteen-minute ride from Wildberry Lodge. They have 10 acres planted and obtain grapes from several other local farms. They cultivate six grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Petit Verdot, and Petit Manseng. They recommend a reservation for the best experience if you plan on going for a tasting. In addition to the wines, they have several meads available.

Biltmore Estate Winery

1 Lodge St
Asheville NC

The Biltmore Estate Winery has the distinction of being the most visited winery in the United States. Visitors to the Estate have a complimentary wine tasting as a benefit of their ticket. The grandson of the original Vanderbilt, William A. V. Cecil, had the vision to carry his grandfather’s love of wine into the development of vineyards and a winery in the 1970s. The winery opened in 1985 and handcrafts both still and sparkling wines.

Some of the grapes are grown on the premises. The Biltmore selects grapes from other areas of North Carolina, even as far as California, if the grape varietal requires a different climate. There are red, white, and rosé selections that will suit the taste of any visitor.

plēb urban winery

289 Lyman St
Asheville NC

plēb urban winery has its production facility in downtown Asheville, in the River Arts District. They believe in using organic and biodynamic farming practices on proprietary property and encourage the same practices with partners. The owners choose grapes that flourish in the North Carolina growing areas. Come and enjoy the funky atmosphere of their Asheville location and taste still and sparkling wines made with minimal intervention.

Hendersonville Winery Trail

The 45-minute drive from Wildberry Lodge to Hendersonville is well worth it. There are seven total wineries to visit, but we have narrowed it down to two. If that isn’t enough for you, check out the other wineries on the Hendersonville Winery Trail.

Stone Ashe Vineyard

736 Green Mountain Rd
Hendersonville NC

Stone Ashe Vineyard is one of the newer vineyards, and the view is unsurpassed. The tasting room, with many glass windows and a modern façade, has indoor and outdoor seating. Their grapes are Bordeaux-based and include Meritage, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Because of their small size, they ask that you reserve a tasting time. You may also order charcuterie or cheese boards, hummus, and craft chocolates to pair with their wine.

Sawyer Springs Vineyard

124 Sandy Hill Ln
Hendersonville NC

Sawyer Springs Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard emphasizing the small batch of vintages more than a fancy tasting room. Grape varietals include cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, merlot, riesling, and muscadine. This six-generation farm family gives family names to many of its wines.

Before and After Your Wine Tour

There is so much more to do in Western NC during your visit! Before or after visiting the wineries of Western North Carolina, you can tour the Biltmore Estate, take a hike, or visit a local farm. If you need to unwind, relax in our hot tub or wander the grounds. Choose your perfect room or relaxing cabin, and plan your getaway today.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Frisbee/Addison Farms Vineyard

Fall Activities in Western NC | Extreme and Chill 7 Sep 2023, 7:10 am

No matter how you see it, the fall foliage makes autumn a gorgeous time of year. Hiking and driving are two of the most popular fall activities in Western NC to experience the changing season, but there are many other alternatives. Some will get your adrenaline pumping, and others will spark joy and soothe your soul.

Wildberry Lodge is fortunately located near many forested lands, mountain trails, and the Blue Ridge Parkway, which have the perfect opportunities for leaf-peeping. We are also the perfect base camp for those who crave adventure, even enjoying the leafy fireworks display.

Adrenaline Pumping Adventures:

Up, Up and Away

Book a flight in a beautiful balloon. Be mesmerized as you float above the trees, seeing the variation of golds and reds and the last of the greens. Asheville Balloon Company will take you soaring adjacent to Pisgah National Forest with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Ride the Rapids

Six rivers near Asheville make getting a view of the foliage from the water an easy possibility. Take in the fall foliage view from a raft, kayak, or canoe — if you dare let your eyes leave the water. You can take a leisurely float down a lazy river or a whitewater rush. You can even tube or paddleboard. However you do it, the glorious color of the trees will surround you. Asheville Adventure Company and other river wandering companies like French Broad Adventures will add a splash to your autumn.

Zip Over the Trees

French Broad Adventures and Navitat are among several companies offering zip-line tours through the trees for a kaleidoscope effect. What’s more, there’s a scenic walk on your way to the zip line, which will allow you a clear view of the reds, golds, and oranges. The ride that follows will enable you to zoom right above, and sometimes between, the trees.

On Wheels

Because the Flying Bike doesn’t have bikes that fly, maybe this isn’t too extreme, but it’s different and fun. The Flying Bike offers electric bike rentals and tours. Customize a tour with them and see fall at a different pace and from a different angle.

Motorcycle riders, usually adventurous, will find some great rides that will be extra special with the rich colors of western North Carolina’s foliage. Just remember to be careful on those curvy roads.

Find the Fly Zone

See the trees from the sky in a helicopter! Or, take a beginning flying lesson; you will feel comfortable enough to look away from the controls to the scenery below! If that doesn’t get your blood pumping, we don’t know what will!

Chill Activities in the Fall:

Visit an Orchard for Apple Picking

Did you know there was an area near us called “Apple Alley?” There is a four-day apple festival over Labor Day, but if you missed that, there is still plenty of time to visit one of the many apple orchards to pick your apples.  While at it, sample cider doughnuts and maybe some hard cider.

Get to Know Local Spooks on Haunted Tours

Do you love getting just a little bit scared? Our area has numerous tours, especially this time of year. If you want a history of Asheville’s strange, sometimes sordid past from ghoulish guides, along with some seriously bad jokes, take the Lazoom Comedy Bus Tour. For a more typical ghost tour, the Haunted Asheville Tour has been voted one of the best in the country!

Enjoy a Local Festival

Fall is the time of year when festivals abound! There are plenty of Arts and Crafts, live music, great food, and produce of the season. Here are some of our favorites; there is one almost every weekend.

Go Beer or Wine Tasting

Fall is harvest time, and that means grapes! Just a few miles from Wildberry Lodge is Addison Farms. We can help you reserve a tasting if you like. If you want more variety, try Blue Ridge Wine Tours. For those of you who prefer craft beer, don’t worry! Book a trip on the Asheville Brews Cruise for an introduction to our local beer.

Extreme Relaxation and Fun at Wildberry Lodge

Whether your heart rate is pumping or you’ve chilled out with your fall activities in Western NC, return to Wildberry Lodge and relax before your next big adventure. We are here for you. Wildberry Lodge offers comfortable luxury and beautiful views.

Our guest rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with large, plush beds, comfy chairs, and beautiful private baths. Many rooms have personal decks, but the huge front porch is open and offers spectacular scenery. Enjoy the hot tub with the mountain view if your room doesn’t have a Jacuzzi. At Wildberry, we offer you extreme relaxation. Reserve your room today. No matter your style, your adventure awaits!

Our Favorite Hikes with Swimming Holes in Western NC 31 Aug 2023, 6:02 am

The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains attract thousands of people a year to hike our majestic ranges, enchanting balds, and picturesque hillsides. On warm summer days, we still like to get outside, but with a cool reward, so here are our favorite hikes with swimming holes in Western NC. (WNC)

It is a common misconception that we do not see high summer temperatures due to our elevation (highest peak at 6,684 ft. with an average elevation of around 2,500 ft.). Oh, I am here to tell you that we do, indeed. We average in the 80s in the summer, but we definitely see the 90s too — although consistently low 90s, and it never stays long.  During our version of the “dog days,” hiking can understandably feel more like a chore than a fun day excursion. This is where our swimming holes come in!

Nothing beats plunging into a refreshingly cold swimming hole after a vigorous hike that gets your blood flowing and covers you in sweat. It’s such a great way to feel re-invigorated and get that reprieve from the summer heat.

Sliding Rock

Sliding Rock is by far the most popular swimming hole in WNC! It is family-friendly and costs $5.00 to go down the 60-foot natural water slide into an 8-foot deep swimming hole. Lifeguards are stationed from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Additionally, there are two observation towers. Be aware that it can get crowded, and plan for alternatives if you cannot get into the parking lot. After Labor Day, there is no fee; you may enjoy the slide “at your own risk.”

If it is too crowded when you get there, it is a quick two-mile drive to Looking Glass Falls, and an easy hike to the falls.

Harper Creek Falls

Harper Creek Falls rewards a 1.4-mile hike with a reward of two smallish waterfalls with wading pools at the bottom of each is one I highly recommend. You enjoy an easy breezy 1.7-mile hike to the swimming area, which is two small waterfalls with wading pools at the bottom of each. The water is some of the most pristine and healthy in North America. It is crystal clear and deceptively deep because of that. The hardest part of the trail is the beginning and the scramble down to the water (look for the rope to help).

Chestnut Cove Branch Falls

Chestnut Cove Branch Falls is one of our favorite spots to unwind. It’s a little smaller than the other swimming holes but more remote, enabling you to dodge the crowds. It is an easy 1.5-mile hike to get there too! The water depth depends on how much rain we’ve encountered lately, but even at its most shallow, the water still reaches waist-high. Chestnut Cove Branch is a part of North Harper Creek located in the Pisgah National Forest.

Slickrock Creek Trail to Lower Falls

West of Asheville, Lower Falls Slickrock straddles the state line. It is a great place to go for the more serious hiking enthusiasts. The 17,000 acres include 55 miles of remote hiking trails. Lower Falls and the swimming hole it creates are about 3 miles into the forest on the Slickrock Creek Trail, making for a moderate 6-mile there-and-back hike. There’s also a 6.4-mile loop option. The 15-foot-tall falls drop into a deep hole that benefits from a break in the forest canopy. Sun warms the mountain water and the rocks along the bank.

Cove Creek Falls and Whaleback Swimming Hole

Combine the Cove Creek Falls hike with a stop at the Whaleback Swimming Hole–not only do you enjoy a cooling dip, but you get to see another great waterfall. Our area of North Carolina is full of them! The hike is 2 miles but can be extended with another 2-mile loop. It is near the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in Pisgah National Forest.

Midnight Hole

Just four miles off I-40 is a 1.4-mile (each way) hike to Midnight Hole from the Big Creek Trailhead. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the large smooth boulders that surround the swimming hole. The trail is considered one of the most beautiful in the park.

Return to Wildberry Lodge for Cooling Breezes and Amazing Breakfast

After a day of hiking, paddling around the water, and snapping shots of waterfalls, come back to Wildberry Lodge and relax on our patio. On the way, stop at one of our many local farms for fresh produce, cheese, or wine. This time of year, there is always an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables–we use them for our amazing breakfasts! Plan now for a super summer getaway; before you know it, the leaves will be turning, and the smell of pumpkin spice will fill the air.

Your Guide for a Memorable Visit to the Biltmore Estate 26 Jun 2023, 4:24 pm

Just about anyone touring Western North Carolina or Asheville has a stop at the Biltmore Estate on their bucket list. With an admission price rivaling large theme parks, take a moment and read through this guide for your visit to the Biltmore Estate. The Vanderbilt Mansion and grounds are worth every penny, especially if you plan your visit in advance.

What makes the Biltmore Estate so popular? It is America’s largest home, with over 4 acres of floor space and 8,000 acres total. It is a 250-room French Renaissance chateau with 75 acres of gardens, the nation’s most-visited winery, shopping, dining, and hiking and biking trails.

A Quick History of the Biltmore

George Washington Vanderbilt II, the grandson of the famous Cornelius Vanderbilt, became enamored of the Asheville area after visits with his mother and decided to build a summer home. He purchased 700 parcels of land, which totaled approximately 125,000 acres, and began construction in 1889. Vanderbilt engaged the famous architect Richard Morris Hunt to design the mansion and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted the grounds.

Vanderbilt planned to make the property self-sustaining, so he created a village with cottages, a post office, shops, a school, and a church. There were also poultry, cattle, hog, and dairy farms. The Estate opened on Christmas Eve in 1895. Vanderbilts and their descendants lived at the property until the 1950s. The Biltmore was initially opened to the public in 1930 during the Depression but closed during WW2. During the war, dozens of paintings and sculptures were moved from the National Gallery in Washington DC to the Music Room of the Biltmore to protect them in the event of an attack.

When Vanderbilt died unexpectedly in 1914, his widow, stressed with the expenses of running the large property and the recently passed income tax, sold 87,000 acres to the federal government, becoming the heart of the Pisgah National Forest. The Biltmore remains privately owned by the descendants of George Washington Vanderbilt II. For a complete and fascinating history of the Biltmore, read Denise Kiernan’s NYTimes bestseller, “The Last Castle.”

Tickets and Logistics

You need a vehicle at the Biltmore, the distance from the front gate to the mansion is 3 miles. You cannot enter the property without purchasing a ticket. Rates vary by season, with the lowest rates from January to March.

• Buy your tickets in advance. You will save up to $8 by purchasing at least a week in advance. Details may vary by season. There are senior discounts on dates midweek and military discounts.
• Note that the time on your ticket is your entry to the house, NOT your entry to the grounds. If you arrive right at the opening time, there will be a line, but it will move quickly—plan on having your bag checked with a metal detector.
• Ticket choices include:
  • Gardens and Grounds ($70 – $100) includes complimentary wine tasting, parking, access to Winery, Antler Hill Village, and daytime access to gardens and grounds.
  • Audio-guided Visit ($79 – $109) includes everything in the Gardens and Grounds AND a daytime visit to the Mansion with an audio guide.
  • Audio-guided Visit Plus ($109 – $139) includes everything in Audio-guided Visit PLUS access to the multi-sensory exhibition and free next-day access to the gardens and ground.
  • Expert Guided Visit Plus ($344 – $374) includes everything in Audio-Plus Visit and a 90-minute Group Tour.
•  These options may change with the season, particularly from November through January, when Evening Candlelight Tours are also available.
• If you plan on visiting the Biltmore more than twice a year, consider purchasing an annual pass. If you work out the numbers, it is worth it.

The Biltmore is open 365 days a year. The House is usually open 9 am – 5 pm for tours (except for Candlelight Tours, as noted). Hours at other properties vary.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes; you will be doing a lot of walking!

For GPS, use 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803.

Suggestions on How to Plan Your Day

What’s the best time to visit? First, plan to spend at least one day at the Estate. Set up your House Tour for mid-morning or early afternoon. You can savor the entrance drive to the Estate and pretend you are one of the esteemed guests who have traveled this road over the past 125 years.

Get the car parked in one of the several parking areas and walk about 10 minutes to the House. If you have chosen an early afternoon tour, spend some time wandering around the gardens. The audio tour takes about 1 – 1.5 hours. Plan on spending equal time in the garden and the conservatory. Do make lunch reservations ahead of time! We suggest the Stable Cafe if you want to dine closer to the Mansion (who doesn’t want to eat in a converted horse stall!). If you are headed out to Antler Hill Village, then, depending on your taste, Cedric’s Tavern (named for Vanderbilt’s beloved St. Bernard) or the Smokehouse Food Truck.

In the afternoon, take advantage of your wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery (remember, it was part of your ticket package). The tasting does have to be reserved in advance, and the reservation can only be made on the day of your visit. Allot about an hour at the Winery. Then, spend some time shopping around Antler Hill Village. Visit the Farmyard and the animals.

Highlights of The Mansion

So you are ready to tour the mansion! Use the restroom BEFORE your tour; it will last about an hour and a half, and there are no opportunities during the tour. The audio tour that is part of the regular day passes gets high ratings for being both informative and entertaining.

You will see three floors and over thirty rooms during your tour. These will include all of the sitting rooms and dining rooms. Of particular note are:

The Grand Banquet Hall: Here is where the 35-foot live tree is brought in and decorated for Christmas (along with more than 100 hand-decorated trees throughout the estate). When it is not the holiday season, the star of the room is the 70-foot ceiling, triple fireplace, and pipe organ.

The Loggia: Get out your cameras for a spectacular panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains from this balcony outside of the Library.

The Library: An avid reader, George Vanderbilt kept track of all the books he read since he was 12. The library includes all the volumes he read, along with the antiquarian books in the library (the oldest being a 1561 Italian work). Once he finished reading a book, he would send it to a bookbinder to be bound in Moroccan leather with gilt lettering.

The Indoor Swimming Pool: Although the 10-foot deep pool is now empty, you can imagine the guests who enjoyed themselves in 70,000 gallons of water. This is one of the areas of the house that sees visitations from guests of long ago.

Of course, you also enjoy seeing the Vanderbilts’ bedrooms, the laundry, and the butler’s pantry.

Wandering The Gardens

After the wonders of the House, don’t skimp on the grounds! Frederick Law Olmstead’s landscape philosophy was that spending time in nature is good for health and well-being. He was a master of making an environment affect the subconscious positively. His genius helped create an environment at the Biltmore that was perfect for entertaining guests outdoors in a variety of pursuits: fishing, hunting, riding, and camping.

Many of these gardens are at their best display in spring, when the Biltmore celebrates Biltmore in Bloom.

Library and South Terraces are great places for engagement and wedding pictures or just spectacular views and selfies. There are places to sit down and enjoy a snack or drink.

Italian Gardens are formal water gardens where three ponds are filled with goldfish and koi.

Shrub Garden is a walking path featuring several types of large deciduous trees.

Spring Garden is another walking path with evergreen trees like hemlock, pines, and blooming shrubs.

The Conservatory is a large glass-roofed building full of exotic plants. There is also space for small gatherings.

Azalea Garden is fifteen acres of one of the largest displays of native azaleas in the country. It was not part of the original plan for the Biltmore but was a passion of Chauncey Beadle, a horticulturist hired to work at the Biltmore and who eventually became the estate superintendent.

Walled Garden features two arbors and seasonal plantings like tulips in the spring and chrysanthemums in the fall. This space can also be used as a wedding venue.

Rose Garden is another perfect backdrop for engagement photos. Gorgeous roses; what could be better?

Bass Pond and Boat House are considered one of the hidden gems of the Biltmore Estate. You will find it by walking (downhill on the way) through the Azalea Garden. The Pond was built to create an area (6 acres) for boating and fishing. It was created by damming a creek and enlarging the millpond.

Stop in at The Biltmore Estate Winery

Your day pass includes a free tasting at the Winery, but you will need a reservation for that tasting, which can only be made on the same day. The winery was begun in 1985 by George Vanderbilt’s grandson, and they serve wine made from vineyards on the estate.

If you would like more wine after the sampling, a Wine Bar and a Wine Shop are nearby. Although many of the vintages are available outside of the estate, the black label wines are only available on the property. Acclaimed varietals to consider are Rieslings, Chenin Blancs, and Gewurztraminer. A tasty Christmas Red is also available at certain times of the year. If you love our local wines, plan a day away from the estate to try others.

End Your Day at Antler Hill Village

Antler Hill Village is the manifestation of George Vanderbilt’s farming legacy, with opportunities for learning, shopping, dining, and exhibits. Visit the Barn with demonstrations of blacksmiths, woodworkers, and other craftspeople of the 1890s.

Should I Take a Guided Tour?

The Biltmore Estate offers a number of specialized guided tours that change seasonally. They are varied and include:

• Rooftop Tour at the House
• Backstairs Tour at the House
• Behind the Scenes Winery Tour
• Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting
• Guided Bicycle Tours

Depending on your schedule and your personal preferences, these are a special addition to an already amazing visit.

Exhibitions and Seasonal Events

The Biltmore also offers special art exhibitions, which may or may not be included with your ticket, and seasonal events, like outdoor concerts, Fireside Feasts, and Fall and Christmas special tours.

Relax in a Natural Setting after your Visit

Wildberry Lodge loves being just a dozen miles from the Biltmore Estate. We hope this guide to your visit to the Biltmore Estate helps you appreciate its true elegance in the middle of the mountains. It’s easy to believe it was modeled after castles, and the grandeur speaks to what gave the Gilded Age its name. It’s well worth putting on your to-do list, but at Biltmore, there’s always more, and once you have visited once, you will want to return.

While Biltmore is a must-see, Wildberry Lodge is a must-stay. Biltmore Estate provides unparalleled manmade beauty,  but Wildberry Lodge is in one of the most beautiful settings that nature can provide. With unparalleled views, we also provide personal attention in a rustic yet luxurious setting; our amenities help you relax and refresh. And an important part of the hospitality here is the gourmet breakfast that prepares you for a day at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, discovering hiking trails, or any other adventure you seek. Reserve your stay with us now!

Best Farm Tours in Western NC 30 May 2023, 7:27 am

You may be familiar with the term “farm to table” used in many restaurants over the past few years. If you really want to get an idea of a farmer’s life and how his products get to the market, come and visit some of our favorites with our list of best farm tours in Western NC. These include a wide variety of agricultural products, from vineyards to a goat dairy, honey bees, and hemp fields.

Western North Carolina is home to many family-owned and operated farms; many are organic.  These farms provide a local source of products for our community.  Some farms closest to Wildberry Lodge have partnered with us to provide farm tours for our guests.

Addison Farms Vineyard

4005 New Leicester Hwy., Leicester | 828-581-9463

Addison Farms Vineyard is the place to go for spectacular views. Not only do you get to enjoy the views, but you can sip wine while gazing and snapping photos. Depending on the season, there may be availability for a wine maker’s tour complete with details about vintages. Ask us about scheduling a tasting for you.

For sale on tour: Wine tastings, wines by the bottle, wines by the glass, and charcuterie products.

Mount Gilead Farm/French Broad Creamery

588 Green Valley Rd., Leicester | 828-515-0120

Mount Gilead Farm is a working goat dairy and farmstead creamery on about 50 acres. Tour the barns, milking parlor, and cheese house. You’ll also want to stop in the farm store. Hike up the hill into the upper pastures to visit our highly sociable goat herd or take an easier half-mile walk along the restored stream that runs through the farm. Every season brings a different experience.

For sale on tour: Farmstead goat cheese, cajeta (Mexican goat-milk caramel sauce), jams, local pottery, and art.

Franny’s Farm and The Utopian Seed Project

22 Franny’s Farm Rd., Leicester | 828-708-5587

Franny’s Farm has something for everyone: organic herb and vegetable gardens, honey bees, greenhouses, and fully operating composting. Learn about our hemp plants and their use for food, fiber, and medicine. Explore the diverse crops grown in The Utopian Seed Project’s experimental trials, and watch a seed-saving demonstration. Meet and greet with our rescue donkeys and our goat herd—and feed them treats! View our flock of heritage chickens and learn how we incubate, hatch, and raise them as a central force behind our sustainable agricultural practices.

For sale on tour: Produce, organic herbal tea blends, honey, preserves, and hemp and CBD products.
Enjoy a meal: Franny’s Pasta and Prana food truck with hemp pasta.

Davis Ranch 

Jason Davis | 147 Gilbert Rd., Leicester | 828-989-4046

At Davis Ranch, take a wagon ride tour through the farm to see our livestock and hay fields and learn about wholesale vegetable production in the region. Hear about the history of family farms (which includes North River Farms in Mills River, NC) and our best management practices for sustainability, natural resource management, and agritourism. Meet Julie from the Society of St. Andrews to learn the importance of gleaning and how they help the local community. Enjoy a hike along a one-mile trail or stop for a rest or a picnic along our creek.

Good Wheel Farm

 Michael Richarde | 293 Sandy Mush Creek Rd., Leicester | 828-231-2737

Good Wheel Farm has planted several acres of trees, most of them native species, to provide future food, improve and diversify our pastures, and provide shelter for our animals. Take a map-based self-guided farm tour to see our small hybrid grape vineyard, young hazelnut grove, a riparian zone filled with paw paws, persimmons trees, and aronia berries. Plus, see our 250 laying hens, turkeys, and a flock of sheep.

For sale on tour: whole chicken, eggs, lamb, or pre-order a Thanksgiving turkey

ASAP’s Work in the Southern Appalachian Region

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) is a nonprofit based in Asheville committed to assisting local farms in succeeding, linking local farms to appropriate markets, and connecting communities to healthy food sources. This includes offering support for farmers’ markets and creating an online local food guide resource allowing for searches by products, classes, and CSAs.

Every year ASAP sets aside a weekend in September for a widespread farm tour. Not only are there tours, but they also have hands-on demonstrations and tastings. Purchase a pass and visit multiple farms.

Start Your Day with From-Scratch Breakfast with Local Ingredients

As you visit one or two farms of our best farm tours in Western NC, you may wonder, “Where do all of the delicious and varied ingredients from these farms go?” Some of them are right in our kitchen here at Wildberry Lodge! Come and stay with us, and find out exactly how farm-to-table works. You will find the freshest ingredients in your breakfast and a peaceful and comfortable night’s slumber.

A Charming 3-Day Escape to the Blue Ridge Mountains 14 Mar 2023, 3:23 pm

Once you decide to take a 3-day escape to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western NC, the planning becomes increasingly difficult because there are so many choices. We will give you several options, depending on your favorite activities! Let us take the worry and the work out of your planning with our handy itinerary for your Blue Ridge Mountain getaway.

So, the first step is to take out your calendar and pick a date. Then, make your reservation, pack your bags, and prepare for as much rest, relaxation, and fun as possible!

Day 1 | Arrival

What you can do today largely depends on your arrival time. You can check into your room or suite anytime between 4 pm and 9 pm. If you come earlier, visit the nearby Biltmore Estate, where you can spend several hours exploring the grounds or taking a tour. No matter the season of your visit, there are always fascinating exhibits, perfect for a history buff, gardening whiz, or fan of all things of the rich and famous.

Once you check into your spacious, comfortable room and get settled, wander around the property for a few minutes. Introduce yourself to our menagerie of goats and Highland cattle, or stroll along our on-site hiking trails. Finally, if you want to wind down and relax, visit our sunken 7-person jacuzzi spa or relax by the fire pit.

There are plenty of choices for dining; if you want to ask us about specific restaurants, please don’t hesitate! After dinner, settle in your room with a cozy fire and talk about activities for tomorrow.

Day 2 | Activity Options

We serve breakfast between 8 am and 9:30 am. Our from-scratch breakfast often includes local and organically grown produce. Fueled and ready to go?

You may feel full now; take the guesswork out of lunch by ordering one of our cheese and charcuterie baskets or having a picnic lunch packed up for you by our friends at Grateful Roots Market and Deli. Ask me for a menu, and we can have it ready for you to pick up. Now for your suggested adventures for the day:

Option 1

Tour a Local Goat Dairy and Farmstead Creamery
Get an inside look at the workings of a local farm with about 75 goats and sheep, cows, and chickens. At the Mount Gilead Farm you can take a tour inside the barns, the milking parlor, and the cheese house. Depending on the season, you can bottle-feed some baby goats. If you want to visit the herd, there is a short hike to the paper pastures. Don’t worry; these goats love company! Visit the farm store before you leave, and taste the final products — fresh or aged goat cheese, jams, honey, and soaps.

Option 2

Take Some Hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains
If you are looking for more vigorous activity, we have easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, with dozens of trails for all levels of hiking. We have picked five of our favorite challenging hikes for the real enthusiast.

A site known for its panoramic views is Craggy Gardens. There is a large picnic area and several hiking trails. It is one of the higher elevations along the parkway, so bring your camera because the views are definitely Instagram-worthy. It is incredibly gorgeous in June, with large banks of blooming rhododendrons.

If you want some stunning views, try the Fryingpan Lookout Tower. This 1.5-mile hike follows a gravel road to the summit, with fabulous views of the Pisgah National Forest as your reward.

Option 3

Drive the Quilt Block Trail
You may be interested in seeing the area’s beauty from the comfort of your vehicle. Spend the day in a private scavenger hunt, finding all the quilt blocks on one of the nine trails.

What are the quilt blocks? They are large, colorful wooden boards painted with a quilt block pattern and installed on historic buildings, farms, and other sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Each quilt block represents a traditional quilt pattern with a special meaning to its peculiar community. The patterns range from simple geometric shapes to more intricate designs, often reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Trail was started in 2015 by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation in partnership with local quilt guilds and artists. More than 200 quilt blocks are spread across the region, accessible by either a map or a smartphone app.

Day 3 | Departure and Activities

Day 3 brings another fabulous breakfast and, sadly, checkout at 11 am. However, if you have time, you can choose one of the options from yesterday or one of these:

Option 1

Visit Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park is a 45-minute drive from us; you can either take the steps to the top or an elevator for some more amazing views. There is a small fee for this site.

Option 2

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
Take whatever time you have left, and drive for 10 or 50 miles. It’s easy to find specific sights through this interactive map! 

Your Getaway Isn’t REALLY Over

Even though it may seem that your 3-day escape to the Blue Ridge Mountains has come to an end, it has just begun! Not only do you have all of the spectacular pictures you took during your getaway, but now you also have an idea of all the adventures you didn’t have time to experience — but you can explore them on your next visit! We look forward to it and will have your room ready. Each season has its own special beauty and you’ll want to experience them all. See you soon!

Come and Enjoy the Best Breakfast in Western NC 28 Feb 2023, 12:37 pm

Is your favorite meal breakfast? You can certainly tell it is ours; your stay at Wildberry Lodge includes what we think is the best breakfast in Western NC. So what makes a spectacular breakfast? First of all, it is the care and love that is put into the preparation of all of our homemade courses. Second, we use only the freshest (local, whenever possible) organic fruits and vegetables. Can we tempt you with the details of this fabulous breakfast?

Essential Details

Our fantastic breakfast is served between 8 am and 9:30 am at a time of your choice. Unfortunately, the two cabin suites do not include breakfast in the room rate, but no worries! You need not miss out on breakfast, just request it when reserving the room or checking in, and you are welcome to join us for an additional $18.

Remember, if you cannot function without coffee when you first wake up, It is available in your room or suite. Each room has its own Keurig coffee maker.

Breakfast Components

The Wildberry Lodge breakfast is four courses. Each day you can expect the following:

• Glenda’s Granola
• Choice of three juices, hot tea, coffee, or hot chocolate (hot spiced cider is available from October through March)
• Fresh Fruit
• Hearty Entree (never the same during your stay)
• Grand Finale Dessert (yes, dessert with breakfast)

If you have special dietary considerations, please let us know in advance. We can easily accommodate Gluten-free, Vegetarian, Vegan, Lactose-free, and Low-carb, but we need to know when your reservation is made.

What’s in Our Entree

There are no powdered or frozen eggs in our breakfast! One of our favorite egg-based entrees is our Egg and Cheese Souffle–a delightfully light mix of eggs, two kinds of cheese, flour, eggs, and milk. It is served straight out of the oven and all puffed up and gorgeous.

Another favorite is our Smoked Gouda and Broccoli Casserole. Not only is it delicious, but it is gluten-free and full of healthy vegetables.

Eggs don’t make up all of our entrees; we love pancakes, too. One of our best-loved pancake recipes is not only super flavorful but vegan. You would never guess if we didn’t tell you that the Lemon Pecan Pancakes were vegan.

If the Lemon Pecan Pancakes didn’t get your mouth watering, then Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberry Sauce certainly will! Although we cannot guarantee it, these are a favorite on Sundays. Lemons and blueberries go together so well!

Dessert for Breakfast

So what have you imagined since we mentioned Dessert for Breakfast earlier? Well, in apple season, you will surely see my Best Apple Strudel recipe. But the smell that will definitely get you out of bed in the morning is the intoxicating scent of Cinnamon Bread Pudding, which is served with a créme anglaise.

The one recipe (not to mention treat) that is the absolute favorite both on the website and on Pinterest is our German Sour Cherry Coffee Cake recipe. Did I note that we share our recipes?

Where is This Amazing Breakfast?

Now that your mouth is watering and your stomach is rumbling thinking about this phenomenal breakfast, you will absolutely agree that this sounds like the best breakfast in Western NC. So how do you get to enjoy it? Book a stay at Wildberry Lodge; the more days that you stay, the more breakfasts you can anticipate!

If you need suggestions for activities, plan an afternoon tasting at Addison Farms or a quiet hike on the 5 miles of trails right on our property! That will certainly help burn off breakfast and prepare you for another exceptional meal the next day.

Winter Sports in Western NC 31 Jan 2023, 6:14 am

Winter outside of Asheville may not initially bring to mind thoughts of skiing or snowshoeing, but there are numerous opportunities for enjoying winter sports in western NC. Two ski areas also have tubing runs, winter hiking, snowshoeing, and even ice climbing!

Won’t it just feel good to get outside, breathe brisk air, and move your legs doing something? Another option (after booking your stay here at Wildberry Lodge) is to just take advantage of the hiking trails right on our property! These sports are easier to handle when it is not bitter cold (think the mid-20s during the night and climbing above freezing during the day).

Cataloochee Ski Area

Cataloochee Ski Area is just a quick 30-mile drive from Wildberry Lodge. There are 50 acres of skiable trails with 100% snowmaking. Beginner and intermediate trails predominate, with several black diamonds. There is a double, triple, and quad lift, as well as a moving carpet on the beginner slopes. All trails are lit for night skiing. If you don’t have your own equipment, rentals and lessons for skiing and snowboarding are available.

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort is 40 miles from Wildberry Lodge. Choose from 15 different slopes, mostly beginner and intermediate levels. They also light the trails at night for skiing. Ski and snowboard rentals are available.

Tubing Opportunities

If skiing or snowboarding don’t appeal to you, tubing can be lots of fun and more accessible than you might remember sledding as a child. Why? The tube softens the bumpiness of the ride, and there is a “Magic Carpet” to return you and the tube to the top of the hill. Make sure you check conditions before you go, and see if an advance ticket is needed. Hills are lit at night for night-time fun.

Wolf Ridge has a tubing area separate from the ski resort; check the directions, as there have been some reports of problems with Google directions. Tube World is Cattaloochee’s tubing area, and you can reserve passes up to 14 days in advance.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is, of course, dependent on the amount of snow on the ground. If you don’t have your own equipment, try a guided hike at Sugar Mountain. They take care of all equipment, directions, and you can even get a hot cocoa for the the way home! If you already have snowshoes, look below for information on hiking, as you can use those trails for snowshoes IF there is enough snow.

Winter Hiking

Wintertime can give you the unique experience of hiking areas otherwise closed to traffic. Start your hikes at the Blue Ridge Parkway entrances closest to us (Waynesville and Maggie Valley); enter through there and park where there may be elevation closures.

Other possible winter hikes are the John Rock Trail in the Pisgah National Forest, the Lovers Leap Loop Trail, which is part of the Appalachian Trail, and the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail. If you prefer a guided hike, you can book a tour or combine some yoga and meditation with Namaste in Nature.

Ice Climbing

If you are really up for some adventure and have some experience rock climbing, think about ice climbing. Fox Mountain Guides have some limited locations for guided ice climbing, weather permitting.

Come and Enjoy Winter with Us

As you can see, there are quite a few varied winter sports in western NC. The first step to experiencing them is to check your calendar and book a stay at Wildberry Lodge. Is your preferred winter sport sitting inside by the fire, and enjoying a cup of hot cocoa, and reading or snoozing or getting outside? We think either or both are fabulous.

2023 Fall Festivals in Western NC 29 Aug 2022, 6:57 am

Autumn doesn’t only mean eye-popping colorful fall foliage, but it’s also the re-emergence of all things pumpkin, apple, and cinnamon — and the return of our favorite fall festivals. Which is your favorite? Fine art, crafts, corn mazes, bluegrass, apples; we have them all! To plan your amazing fall getaway, here are 11 fall festivals in Western NC!

Don’t for a minute think that festivals are all we have to do here in Western North Carolina, there are many other fall activities as well as fall foliage drives and hikes! For now, let’s focus on these great fall festivals.

North Carolina Apple Festival
Labor Day Weekend, September 1-4
Friday – Saturday, 10am – 8pm, live music continues later
Sunday 10am until parade at 2pm
Main St, Hendersonville NC

Enjoy four days celebrating the apple crops of Western NC! There are more than 200 vendors, including many apple producers. There will be plenty of food vendors, music, and fun for this annual event. And since it is in the largest apple-producing county in NC, plan a day at a local farm, as well!

Maggie Valley Arts and Crafts Show

September 2 & 3 9am – 4pm daily
October 21 & 22 9am – 4pm daily
Maggie Valley Festival Grounds, 3374 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley NC

Don’t miss Maggie Valley’s largest gathering of artisans and crafters; with opportunities to visit in both September and October! There will be chain saw art demonstrations, along with all types of seasonal arts, yard art, furniture, hand-made soaps — just about any kind of craft or art. The usual yummy festival food will be available, too!

Art on Main Fine Art and Craft Fair

September 23 & 24, 10am – 5pm
401 N Main St, Hendersonville NC

This year will mark the 62nd anniversary of the fall Art on Main Fine Art and Craft Fair in Hendersonville NC. Known for its juried fine art selection; there will be more than 100 artists with their paintings and works in clay, metal, fiber, and jewelry.

Eliada Festival and Corn Maze

September 29 – October 29
Fridays 3pm – 7pm
Saturdays 9am – 7pm
Sundays 10am – 6pm
2 Compton Dr, Asheville NC

This is one of our favorite festivals because all of the proceeds go towards the programs for children at Eliada. Last year much of the huge corn maze was destroyed by a tropical storm, but it is back bigger than ever with even more fun — inflatables, corn cannons, and hayrides!

CiderFest NC

October 21, 11:30am – 3pm
McCormack Field, Asheville NC

Come for an afternoon and taste cider and mead from multiple vendors. Experience perfectly paired bites from local cheese mongers, bakers, and candy makers. Wander around the crafts vendors.

Apple Harvest Festival

October 21, 10am – 5pm
Downtown Waynesville NC

Spend a day in Waynesville, and enjoy all things apple! There will be a juried arts and crafts show, live music, and plenty of fun food to fill the day.

Autumn Leaves Craft Show

October 14 & 15, 9am – 4pm
758 Crabtree Rd, Waynesville NC

The Blue Ridge Artists and Crafters Association features about 50 of their members and their works of art in the Smoky Mountain Event Center. Come and support local artists and their hand-crafted creations.

Lake Lure Arts and Crafts Festival

October 21, 10am – 5pm
October 22,  10am – 4pm
119 Arcade St, Lake Lure NC

This amazing festival occurs both in the spring and fall, with 100 vendors for arts, crafts, and all the great food you would expect at an outdoor festival. The venue is perfect, with a view of the lake (and the fall colors), and expect some live music.

LEAF Global Arts Festival

October 19-22
Thursday, 4:30pm – 10pm
Friday, 10am – 10pm
Saturday, 9am – 8pm
Sunday, 9am – 3pm
377 Black Mountain Rd, Black Mountain NC

LEAF is an original festival tradition designed to bring together music, art, culture, and creativity from around the globe. There are multiple stages and activities with Lake Eden as a backdrop. Advance tickets are a must, as sizes are limited for performances.

NC Ceramic Arts Festival

October 28, 10am – 5pm
North Pack Square Park, Asheville NC

Come and see the works of more than three dozen ceramic artists. Some will be giving demonstrations. There will be tile work, jewelry, sculpture, as well as pottery. And, of course, there will be live music and food trucks.

Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival

October 28, 11am – 6pm
Maggie Valley Festival Grounds, Maggie Valley NC

An annual fundraiser for the Haywood County’s Arts Council Programs, come and enjoy award-winning bluegrass bands, along with music-themed vendors, food trucks, and playgrounds. This year’s bands include the Blue Ridge Girls and Balsam Ridge.

These 11 fall festivals in Western NC certainly pique your pumpkin spice cravings! Get out your calendars, and pick the festival (or festivals) that match your flannel and corduroy outfits. Book your stay early, as our fall foliage is spectacular! Plan a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway with your camera, and a spirit of fun and adventure.

Updated September 2023