Western North Carolina
Winter getaways in North Carolina tend to involve things like ski slopes or mountain cabins. I’m a big fan of both, but lately, the idea of a little cozy pampering and a fire sounds like a better plan than a frigid hike. Do your winter-dehydrated skin a favor and indulge in a spa weekend instead. Here are three good options.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa
There’s a reason this one makes nearly every “best list” including Travel + Leisure. Nestled in the heart of Highlands, NC, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa is within walking distance of restaurants and shopping. There are even dedicated spa suites with a private jacuzzi, heated marble bathroom floors, and an elevator taking you directly to the spa. It all makes for a dreamy and luxurious Blue Ridge winter weekend.
The Spa at Chetola Resort
Just 15 minutes from Appalachian Ski Resort, this is the perfect place for you and your bestie to sneak off to while the rest of your group hits the slopes. The relaxation room has a cozy fireplace with a warm bar stocked with teas, hot chocolate, and coffees, including gingerbread and peppermint flavored. Winter aroma therapies and body scrubs are seasonally scented.
Hot Springs Resort and Spa
This isn’t your typical luxury spa, but it is sure to be a memorable experience anyway. The 100-acre resort features jetted hot tubs in private wood cabanas along Spring Creek and the French Broad River banks. Sound cold for winter? Not when a continuous flow of natural hot mineral water flows into the tubs. Each tub naturally stays between 98-100 degrees (Yes, they’re drained and cleaned between each session). It’s kind of like the Carolina’s version of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. The resort also has hotel-like suites, a tree-house cabin, and two houses to rent.
