There’s something so inspiring about the North Carolina Mountains. From the relaxing sound of the Tuckasegee River’s flow to the wind rustling through the trees – the NC Mountains provide a relaxing, safe haven from the city crowds and bustle of everyday life. Located only a few hour’s drive from the southeast’s major cities, the mountain town of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva that make up Jackson County offer a relaxing getaway for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

We’re ready to put this year behind us as we’ve all faced many challenges. There’s hope on the horizon that 2021 will be a better year, and there’s no better place to safely rejuvenate your spirits and reconnect with loved ones than in Western North Carolina. Here you can be as on or off the grid as you’d like, try new experiences, while safely creating new memories with the ones you love. We’ve been working hard for your arrival, enacting industry-leading safety protocols, including enhanced cleaning at our lodging facilities, contactless curbside dining, and much more to keep you and your loved ones safe. Make 2021 a year to remember in a good way and take a trip to a place that you’ll never forget.

Rejuvenate

We’ve all felt the strain of the pandemic. Staying safe and healthy has become a top priority paired with the nuances of remote work and homeschooling. Take some time to slow down and reset this year by focusing on your mental, emotional, and physical health. Our mountain towns offer a vibrant wellness scene including spa days, organic & locally-sourced cuisine, guided therapy hikes, and so much more.

Feel the stress of the world melt away at one of our mountain spas. At Fusions Spa and Wellness in Sylva, you’ll enjoy a nurturing and soothing environment focusing on your health and vitality. In Cashiers, Canyon Spa is located in the heart of Lonesome Valley’s iconic canyon, making for a scenic backdrop for this boutique spa. Signature therapies include the use of farm-fresh ingredients for facial and body treatments, as well as a wide variety of relaxing massage options. Become one with nature and reap its holistic benefits by booking a Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Therapy Tour). This deep and immersive experience will take you on a guided forest therapy walk through Sylva’s Pinnacle Park, allowing you to slow down and create a deeper connection with nature and your surroundings.

It’s no secret that we’ve all been spending more time online than ever before – it’s time to leave your worries and connected devices behind. In the North Carolina Mountains, you have the luxury of being as disconnected as you’d like. Trade in the TV for the relaxing warmth and sound of a crackling wood fireplace with a lakeside view or let your worries melt away in the warmth of a cabin hot tub.

Reconnect

Enjoy new shopping and dining experiences in our mountain towns. Check out the artisan village of Dillsboro for locally-made crafts or do some antiquing at Sylva’s five antique stores, all within walking distance of each other. If you’re ready to relax, check out our Wine and Cocktail bars, our Ale Trail, or if you need a pick-me-up try our cafés. When it’s time to eat, enjoy some tasty bites at our unique non-chain restaurants, safely serving up flavorful cuisine for dine-in or carryout. In Sylva, check out City Lights Café, Guadalupe Café, or Lulu’s on Main, to name a few (see the full carryout list here.) If you prefer preparing a more traditional meal, check out our farmer’s markets for the flavors of our region, with locally-sourced produce, meats, and more. Bring your food back to your vacation rental and cook your family’s favorites.

Adventurous families will want to check out our trails such as Whiteside Mountain in Cashiers, the Tuckasegee River Greenway in Sylva (which features a kids bike park), or the Oconaluftee River Trail in Cherokee. For families looking to kick it up a notch, Panthertown Valley, located between Sapphire and Cashiers, is known as the “Yosemite of the East.” With over a dozen waterfalls, 30+ miles of mixed-use trails, and over 6,300 acres of untouched landscape to explore. We always recommend grabbing a map at the Highland Hiker or online before exploring.

There’s nothing more magical than the glistening of a frozen waterfall. As the temps drop consistently below freezing, the stunning visual of a frozen waterfall comes to life. One of the easiest to access is Silver Run Falls in Cashiers. Located a few minutes from the crossroads, accessing the falls is simple, only requiring an easy quarter-mile stroll from the parking area. Other frozen favorites include Schoolhouse Falls, Whitewater Falls, and High Falls. Be careful, as the water at the base of the falls freezes as well, creating quite a slippery surface.

One of the best ways to reconnect is to try something new together. Jackson County is home to the WNC Fly Fishing Trail®, the first and only of its kind. Book a guided float trip with one of our world-class guides and reel in some adventure!

When the Time is Right

Whenever you’re ready to travel, we’ll be here. Book an Airbnb or Vacation Rental for the whole family;  they’re becoming more popular with enhanced cleaning protocols, the convenience of booking, and the comfort of having a home away from home. Sleep in, then spend the day unwinding with your favorite book by the fireplace accompanied by a scenic mountain view. We have the best stays for the best rates, especially on weekdays, and during our ‘Secret Season’ January-March. It’s then you’ll experience no crowds, no waits at your favorite restaurants, and the best rates in the region. When the time is right, check out our ‘Trip Planner’ to help you rejuvenate and reconnect with your loved ones.

Photo courtesy of @erin.coming.clean