Hendersonville is known for many things year-round, apples in the fall, fairs and festivals throughout the spring and summer, and plenty of family fun during the holidays. But if you haven’t been to this Blue Ridge Mountain town in the winter, you’re missing one of its most peaceful and romantic times of year.
For a cozy, relaxing escape, hop in the car with your special someone and head for Hendersonville. Several bed-and-breakfast inns are designed with couples in mind.
Echo Mountain Inn overlooks downtown Hendersonville from its mountain perch. Four generations of the Bonnema family run this 1896 property with cozy rooms complete with fireplaces. Watch the sun rise as you enjoy breakfast in the window-walled dining room looking east across the mountains. For sunset, head two miles farther up the mountain to Jump Off Rock for one of the best views in WNC as the sun drops behind the Blue Ridge. The family recently opened a full-service restaurant on property. A multicourse wine-pairing dinner with Point Lookout Vineyards, also in Hendersonville, is planned for Valentine’s weekend.
Downtown Hendersonville has three bed-and-breakfast inns where you can park your car and leave it for your stay. Walk to shops, restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries and museums.
The Henderson is located just off Main Street in the middle of the business district. Couples can book the romantic getaway package, which comes with champagne, strawberries and daily cocktails. Co-owner and executive chef Michael Gilligan prepares daily gourmet breakfasts and a small-plates menu for dinner at Harvey’s, the inn’s restaurant. On Sunday, Feb. 14, enjoy a Valentine’s Day brunch.
On Main Street, the 1898 Waverly Inn and The Charleston Inn each operate bed-and-breakfasts in stately side-by-side mansions. For a romantic overnight at Waverly Inn, arrange for breakfast in bed, book a couple’s massage and purchase discounted tickets to tour nearby Biltmore Estate. At The Charleston, awake to a hearty Southern breakfast, curl up under a blanket in a rocking chair on the wide front porch and clink glasses during the evening cocktail hour.
If you’re not ready to take a trip, but still need a thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift, consider a gift certificate for a future stay.
