With Asheville’s serene winter weather and so many things to do, it’s the most magical time of the year to visit! Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway or a family reunion, there’s no better time than winter in Asheville! So, if you’ve never experienced our beautiful city in the wintertime, allow us to show you how it’s done!
Candlelight Christmas Evenings
Your winter Asheville getaway won’t be complete until you visit the historic Biltmore Estate. Each year, thousands travel to explore America’s largest private home. But we have to admit that winter is our favorite time to visit the Biltmore. The grounds are drizzled with holiday lights and ornaments, and it feels like something out of a storybook!
This year, the Village has been noted a must-see part of your holiday experience. Throughout the Village restaurants, shops, and Winery, the trees, buildings, and pathways are illuminated with a glittering cascade of lights. Our favorite part of the Biltmore’s Candlelight Christmas Evening: the champagne bubble ornament display that adorns the Winery’s Tasting Room ceiling. If you’re looking to light up your winter in Asheville, we recommend putting the Biltmore Estate at the top of your list!
More info on Candlelight Christmas Evenings can be found
here
.
Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
We are beyond lucky to have the North Carolina Arboretum here in our beautiful city! Just like the Biltmore, The NC Arboretum knows how to prepare for winter in Asheville! So this season, don’t miss their elaborate Winter Lights Show, where the gardens are transformed into a nighttime wonderland with more than 500,000 lights! For those of you who have visited the NC Arboretum in the daylight, this is a totally new way to experience its beauty!
We recommend buying tickets in advance, and more information on the Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum can be found
here
.
Explore Asheville’s Great Outdoors
Did you know that our winters are actually rather mild? For those who enjoy the crisp mountain air, we recommend picking at least one day during your winter in Asheville to take a day hike!
We’ve talked previously about how gorgeous the peak color of
fall foliage
is in Asheville… but at this point, the leaves have fallen and most would expect the views to be lack-luster. But we couldn’t disagree more! During winter in Asheville, you can experience some of the best views as the leafless trees create a totally different landscape amongst the deep blue sky.
Our favorite path this winter has been the Lover’s Leap Loop Trail
! It’s a moderate 1.6-mile trail with a steady climb that ascends Lover’s Leap Ridge in Hot Springs, NC – about 45 minutes north-west of The Carolina Jewel Luxury Properties. What we love most about this trail? The panoramic view you’ll experience the Fresh Broad River and the town of below is absolutely breathtaking!
No matter what trail you take, we have to remind you that it is still winter in Asheville… put on a couple of layers, a pair of gloves and a hat!
Indulge in Downtown Asheville
When we think winter in Asheville, we think warm food and a cozy atmosphere. If you’re planning your trip this season, we’ve got you covered! We actually have a few favorite spots for dinner and dessert…
Who doesn’t love dessert before dinner? Sipping chocolate, ice cream, and chocolate cake… YUM! So, if you also have a sweet tooth, we’ll point you in the direction of the
French Broad Chocolate Lounge
. They offer a variety of delicious handcrafted artisan chocolates and pastries. And what’s their sweet secret? The French Broad Chocolate Lounge features all local and organic ingredients!
Our favorite French Broad Chocolate treat:
Quintessential chocolate cake and Buddha ice cream (which is made with coconut milk!)
P.S. There always seems to be a line, but we assure you it’s worth the wait!
Want a quick bite after your chocolate adventure? Just a few streets over you’ll find
Farm Burger Asheville
… a hip counter joint for grass-fed burgers! With vegan and gluten-free options, this place is fast but hearty! And for all of our craft beer lovers, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find a fantastic selection of exclusively local drafts!
Our favorite Farm Burger meal:
A No. 6 (grass-fed beef, local bacon, farside farm sunny side up egg, pepper jack cheese, and salsa verde) on a gluten-free bun and a side of sweet potato fries!
But maybe you are searching for a romantic dinner spot this winter in Asheville… If you want amazing food with an unbeatable atmosphere, then you must make reservations at
The Red Stag Grill
. Here you will be effortlessly transported back in time with its emanating old-world ambiance. Hand-hewn beams and tables, walnut wood flooring, and intimate lighting are just a few of the Red Stag’s charming features. They offer some of Asheville’s finest gastronomic choices made with the freshest local ingredients, and an extensive wine list to go with it!
Our favorite Red Stag Grill dish:
The Herb-Crusted Halibut is absolutely mouthwatering! Accompanied by parsnips, forest mushrooms, wilted spinach, preserved tomato, and our favorite – black truffle vinaigrette! And may we also recommend finishing your dining experience with a slice of their famous Pecan Carrot Cake!
Reserve Your Stay For A Winter in Asheville
There truly is no better place for a winter holiday getaway than our great city of Asheville! If you are looking for an unforgettable holiday this year, consider any of the Carolina Jewel Luxury Properties! Tucked amongst the Reems Creek Valley, our cozy luxury properties are only about 20 minutes from downtown Asheville!
To book your stay at one of the Carolina Jewel Luxury Properties,
click here
.