Best Places For A Fall Getaway Near Charlotte
One Lodge St.
Asheville, NC 28803
(828) 225-1333
www.biltmore.com
The Biltmore Estates are arguably one of the world's favorite tourist sites. Completed in 1895, George Vanderbilt's 8,000 mountain estate remains America's largest house. A getaway to the Biltmore at any time of year would not disappoint, as the natural beauty of the gardens is astonishing. During the fall months, even the drive from Charlotte is spectacular. The dazzling decor at Christmastime recalls days when the Vanderbilts lived there. Plan to spend more than one day to give yourself enough time to take in the wonderful food, products from the winery and any special entertainment.
301 Bay St.
Monroe, NC 28112
(704) 283-4208
www.treehousevineyards.net
While driving towards Asheville or past Albemarle to Troy, there are signs indicating several options for impromptu winery tours. Close to Charlotte are the Treehouse Vineyards in nearby Monroe. The tour features a tasting, free wine glasses as souvenirs, a walk through the wine-making rooms and a view of rolling hills planted with grapes. Friday and Saturday nights are dedicated to live music and other fun events through late November. As for a getaway, there are two functioning tree houses. "Papa's Dream" is available for an overnight stay; "Date Night Treehouse" is rented on an hourly basis. Heat, air conditioning, showers and television are but some of the accoutrements up in the trees. Book the accommodations well in advance.
80 Carolina Vista Dr.
Pinehurst, NC 28374
(855) 235-8507
www.pinehurst.com
One of the world's most revered golf destinations, Pinehurst was created as a health retreat for middle class patrons. It is the perfect place for a memorable getaway for the spa as well as the famed golf courses. Entering the spa facility, one sips infused water and waits by a heated whirlpool or the standard-size swimming pool to be called for their session. Luxurious spa treatments for the face, hands, back, feet and more are designed for men as well as women. Couples may book tandem massage sessions. Kid spa services are also offered. Exit glowing and feeling relaxed enough to float back to your room.
Seagrove, NC 27341
www.discoverseagrove.com
The Seagrove potters have been at it since the 1700s. Their work with the potter's wheel and kiln continues to turn out both decorative and fanciful pieces as well as utilitarian jugs, all popular with collectors. There are so many potters' studios in Seagrove proper and the surrounding rural area that a good way to maximize your browsing is to attend the "Celebration of Seagrove Potters." This event is organized by the Seagrove Area Potters Association, and takes place on November 22 and 23, with a Gala Preview Party at 6 p.m. on Friday, November 21. Several studios are spotlighted and this would be a good time to consider your holiday shopping list. For a self-guided tour, contact the association by email for a free map to show how to get to the pottery studios and suggested bed and breakfast locations.
789 NC Hwy 24/27
East Troy, NC 27371
(910) 576-6391
www.forestcamping.com
Anyone who would love a camping getaway should consider the less than two-hour drive out Albemarle Road (NC 24/27) to the Uwharrie National Forest, which is open all year. It captures the imagination to consider the fact that these half-a-billion-year-old mountains were once as tall as the Rockies, with dinosaurs roaming the terrain. The Uwharrie National Forest has several campsites for very reasonable fees: Arrowhead, Badin Lake, Canebrake Horse Camp, West Morris and the Uwharrie Hunt Camp. Call well ahead of time to discuss your reservations with the camp rangers. Zeno's Italian Restaurant is straight up the road just on the other side of the mountain.
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Jacquelin Celeste Peters has produced award winning radio programs at WPFW Pacifica-Washington. She is a Culture and Events Examiner in Charlotte, North Carolina, which she calls home. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
