Quietly nestled in the mountains northeast of Asheville is a retreat unlike any other we've encountered in the Tar Heel State. A cross between Narnia and Tolkien's Mother Earth, the Mountain Light Sanctuary offers peace and solitude in a most unusual and natural surround.
The facility has a central lodge with traditional, albeit rustic, accommodations; however the lodge may not be where you want to sleep once you see the outrageously popular outposts on the property.
The retreat is as unique as the setting in which it rests within. Shown below is a stunning cluster of bamboo creating a forest in which you can wander, or just admire from afar.
And while the setting and the views are striking and add 100% to the charisma of Mountain Light Sanctuary, the kitschy and rustic sleeping outposts are, in our opinion, the real allure.
Perhaps the most primitive of them all is a grouping of basic shelters, called the Banana Patch Huts. They're unique and awesome and may be ideal for a group with teenagers along.
Another fun place to stay at the retreat is the renovated Gypsy Wagon. It's completely off the grid, but has solar-powered lighting and a 3/4 bed, perfect for a couple who really likes to snuggle all night.
One stone cottage, appropriately named "Frodo's Cottage," is tiny, but has electricity and a view of the cascading river. Many of the outposts have electricity, but some are so rustic they simply have solar lighting.
You may be wondering about facilities... There is no restaurant at the Sanctuary, but there is a group kitchen anyone can use. You just need to bring your own food. Pots, pans, dishes and silver are provided. The photo below shows a view from the kitchen's Haiku Cafe to the sanctuary's garden suites.
About the other facilities available to guests... the main lodge, which has 7 guest rooms, has two restrooms and a shower. The outposts also have access to tasteful portable potty sites. Certain rooms in the lodge, like the library, are open to all guests. Further info reveals that linens and towels are provided to guests staying within the lodge; however, outpost guests should bring their own linens, blankets, sleeping bags, etc.
Mountain Light Sanctuary is located approximately 25 miles northeast of Asheville, and six miles from Barnardsville, North Carolina. Exact directions to the retreat are provided after reservations are confirmed. Learn more (and see images of the other outposts we didn't show here) on the official website for the sanctuary, and on their Facebook page.
Asheville, North Carolina has been on my list of places to visit for years. Living about 5 hours away in Northern Kentucky, it's an easy destination for a short getaway and my friends and family are always raving about it. When I realized we had a few free days at the beginning of June, I began to look for the best hotels in Asheville, NC. I wanted a central location, walkable to restaurants, but not far from the incredible attractions and hiking throughout the area. The Foundry Hotel Asheville, from Hilton's Curio Collection, topped my search, so we packed a bag for our Asheville, NC weekend getaway.
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Welcome to The Foundry Hotel. I was able to bring my two children along for this North Carolina adventure and we checked into the hotel after a fairly uneventful drive. Right after we pulled into this driveway, we were immediately greeted by friendly staff and our car was taken care of by valet services.
The Foundry Hotel is located within a repurposed industrial building that was once a part of the city's steel production. There are signs of its past throughout the property and they blend seamlessly with the modern, yet welcoming furnishings within the hotel.
I'm a sucker for a cool hotel and The Foundry Hotel is about as cool as they come. Even my nine and 11-year-olds noticed the attention to detail throughout the lobby and hallways of the building.
To be honest, the rooms (and the location) are what sold me on a stay at The Foundry Hotel. Our room was spacious, extremely clean, and so comfortable. I loved the industrial meets southern aesthetic - the perfect respite after a day of exploring both the city and the mountains.
After checking in and settling into our room, we set out to walk around the property and see what all The Foundry Hotel had to offer. A good fitness room is always an unexpected plus in a hotel and we discovered what may be the best hotel gym I've ever seen. Check out that wall!
The rest of the hotel was just as chic, yet somehow still homey and inviting. If I didn't have two children with me, I could've spent several hours in one of these chairs with a good book.
We were in Asheville at the beginning of June and the weather was just lovely. This courtyard area, completely private from the bustle of the city, was ideal for grabbing a drink from the bar and enjoying the fresh air. We saw many adults take advantage of this area and we also saw other family with children of all ages. While it's definitely not an over-the-top, kid-focused hotel, I felt very welcomed with my two and it seemed that other families felt the same.
After exploring, it was time to finally experience the city I had heard so much about. This "secret" door and walkway led to the streets of downtown Asheville and it was a just a few-minute walk to reach the heart of the city. No car needed, but if you would like a ride, The Foundry Hotel offers a complimentary Tesla car service within 10 miles of the hotel. Just check to see if it's available!
After wandering around downtown Asheville for a bit, we got a table at Tupelo Honey. There are many options for a great meal in Asheville, but I had always wanted to try this restaurant and the ambiance and food did not disappoint. Be sure to order the fried green tomatoes!
Given that I was traveling with children, dessert was a must. The friendly staff at The Foundry Hotel recommended Sunshine Sammies, which was only about 5 minutes from the hotel. Their ice cream sandwiches hit the spot after a day of travel.
Back at the hotel, the kids hung out in the courtyard for a bit while I sat in one of these chairs with a drink to celebrate the end of a wonderful first day in Asheville.
The next morning, before setting off on our adventures, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast at Benne on Eagle, the restaurant that is connected to the hotel. This is not your average hotel eatery as I am still day dreaming of this breakfast.
We called The Foundry Hotel home base for two nights, which allowed for two full days of adventure. Within 30-45 minutes, we hiked to waterfalls (in the rain!), slid down rocks, swam in creeks, tried more local restaurants, and spent time on The Biltmore property before heading home. And while heading home, we all agreed that we enjoyed our time at The Foundry Hotel just as much as the adventures we were able to have.
I would return to Asheville just to enjoy another relaxing stay at The Foundry Hotel. I would love to visit with my husband, enjoy a drink in front of one of the cozy fireplaces and experience all Asheville has to offer, just minutes from this inviting hotel. And if you're looking for the perfect time to visit The Foundry Hotel and Asheville, look no further than this gorgeous view of Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall. And plan your own fall getaway after you take a look at this map that shows when Asheville will experience its peak foliage.
Blue Ridge Parkway winding through the woods in fall near Asheville, North Carolina
If you're looking for places to stay while visiting The Old North State, we've got some fantastic selections for accommodations for you to see. Whether you're looking to stay in a resort in the Outer Banks or a lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains, we'll help you narrow it down. So, follow along and check out the best hotels in North Carolina for your next getaway.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in North Carolina
If you're looking for unique accommodations, check out these hotels. They'll make for a memorable trip and provide a different experience than your average North Carolina hotel.
Amenities: Free wifi, air conditioning, and laundry service.
Ratings: 4.7 stars
This prestigious hotel dating from 1924, is located on the University of North Carolina campus and is just a short walk from downtown Chapel Hill. The Carolina Inn has guest rooms with free wifi, flat-screen TVs, and mini fridges. The suites have separate sitting areas that can be used for relaxing or working. Amenities include a fitness center, in-room spa services, and a restaurant famous for its afternoon tea service.
Address: 2000 Fearrington Village Center, 230 Market Street, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Price: $468/night
Amenities: Free wifi, breakfast, parking, and an indoor and outdoor pool.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
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The Fearrington House Inn in Pittsboro is an upscale hotel set in elegant clapboard houses on 60 acres of grounds. It is a short walk from Camden Park and seven miles from Jordan Lake. The individually decorated posh rooms feature free wifi, flat-screen TVs, and lux toiletries. Upgraded suites offer fireplaces and secluded gardens. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, an onsite restaurant, and a spa.
Best Hotel Pools in North Carolina
There's nothing like relaxing poolside at your hotel - it sets the tone for a great stay. This list has a gorgeous outdoor pool and a luxurious indoor pool, perfect for anyone looking to take a dip while relaxing on vacation.
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, and laundry service.
Ratings: 4.7 stars
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The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a luxury hotel on 12 acres of grounds, including a lake. It's only a short distance from William B. Umstead State Park and five miles from the North Carolina Museum of Art. Your stay at the resort will include complimentary loaner bikes and access to the luxury spa area. Other amenities, like a seasonal outdoor pool with cabanas and a poolside cocktail bar, are there to enjoy. There's also a restaurant, room service, and a 24-hour gym.
Located just 14 miles south of downtown Charlotte is where the upscale hotel, The Ballantyne, is located. Relax in their elegant rooms with marble bathtubs. Indulge in the spa services, take a dip in the two pools (indoor and outdoor), and burn a sweat at the fitness center.
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Best Luxury Hotels in North Carolina
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in some pampering by staying at a luxury hotel. With many options available, let us help you find comfortable accommodations that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Amenities: Free wifi, indoor pool, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
The Ritz-Carlton in Charlotte is a 5-star hotel and the perfect spot for a luxurious getaway. It's conveniently located near Spectrum Center arena and the NASCAR Hall of Fame and provides guests with 24-hour room service and marble bathrooms with soaking tubs. The property also has five restaurants, a high-end spa, an indoor pool, and a fitness center to enjoy.
Address: 704 Green Valley Rd, Greensboro, NC 27408
Price: $344/night
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, and outdoor pool.
Ratings: 4.8 stars
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Proximity Hotel is in a picturesque neighborhood just three miles from downtown Greensboro. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with beautiful views, wifi, coffeemakers, and microwaves. There's a fantastic European-style restaurant with a great terrace and bar. It also has a pool, gym, and bike rentals for guests to borrow. The lobby lounge is especially inviting with its comfortable chairs and lush plants in the garden.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa is an upscale spa resort that features several properties in the mountain village of Highlands. It is a great location to take it easy after a busy day of catching waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains. The rooms include Italian linens, rainfall showers, and heated tile floors. Take a soak in one of the mineral pools, relax with a massage with the offered spa services, and dine at the many onsite restaurants and bars.
Best Boutique Hotels in North Carolina
Boutique hotels are the perfect places to take a break after touring the sights. They are trendy, stylish, and in great locations, making them a good choice for travelers who like to be in the center of the action.
Amenities: Free wifi, air conditioning, and laundry service.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Check in to this mid-century modern-style boutique hotel within walking distance of Durham Central Park and just two miles from Duke University. Amenities at The Durham Hotel include complimentary breakfast served in a bright, spacious lobby. There's also a hip restaurant and a trendy rooftop lounge with city views. You'll also appreciate the 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, and wake-up calls.
Amenities: Free wifi, breakfast, parking, and pet-friendly.
Ratings: 4.7 stars
The Horton Hotel is in a 1920s redbrick building close to popular tourist destinations in the heart of downtown Boone. Modern rooms, complimentary parking, and a breakfast buffet will make for a comfortable stay. Other amenities include a cocktail lounge and a rooftop bar with a toasty fire pit for cooler nights.
Amenities: Free wifi, breakfast, parking, and kid-friendly.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
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The Everett Hotel is a family-friendly boutique hotel in a 1908 redbrick building in Bryson City's historic district. Rest your head after a fun-filled day in cozy, chic rooms with amenities such as free wifi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. Dining options include an onsite restaurant and bar serving tasty organic seasonal fare. Take advantage of the free parking too!
Best Resorts in North Carolina
Stay at any of these resorts, and you will not be disappointed. They offer mountain or ocean views and cozy accommodations, making them the perfect options for the quintessential North Carolina experience.
Amenities: Wifi, Breakfast, paid parking, and an indoor and outdoor pool.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
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Built in 1913, The Omni Grove Park Inn is a resort two miles from downtown Asheville with spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The luxe rooms and suites at the hotel feature free wifi, flat-screen TVs, and garden or mountain views. The spa on the property has a variety of amenities, including a sauna and steam room. There is also an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Enjoy a great meal at one of their five restaurants. Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or prefer a more casual experience, there's a choice for every occasion.
Amenities: Free wifi, free parking, outdoor pool, and air-conditioning.
Ratings: 4.3 stars
Instead of staying at the Hilton or Marriott, why not opt for a little southern hospitality by lodging at the oceanfront Sanderling Resort? Cozy rooms feature balconies with fantastic amenities like two outdoor pools, spa services, and multiple restaurants and bars. You will also have the option to rent bikes, paddleboards, and kayaks for all your outdoor activities.
Have you stayed at any of these beautiful hotels in North Carolina? Do you think they are some of the top hotels in the state? Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you! Are you looking for more top hotels in North Carolina to plan your next vacation? Check out this list of historic hotels that have stood the test of time.
Looking for even more travel inspiration? Check out this stunning footage of Clingmans Dome on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee:
