Romantic Retreats

Cut Loose In Blowing Rock

Why It's Hot: Tucked in the northwestern mountains near Boone, Blowing Rock is a storybook village filled with unique attractions such as The Tweetsie Railroad, Grandfather Mountain and Linville Caverns as well as an abundant array of adventure, from golf to horseback riding, whitewater rafting to canoeing and hiking to biking. There is something for every avid outdoor enthusiast to help you leave the pressure of work and family at home.

Where to Stay: The Inn at Ragged Gardens is the perfect place to lay your head with rooms filled with art, antiques and Oriental rugs. Traditional arts and crafts-style furnishings, chestnut beams and handsome granite fireplaces offer the perfect setting for chatting into the night. Or, snuggle up at the Chetola Resort which covers 87 magnificent acres and neighbors a 3600-acre National Park surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Awaken to the casual elegance of the Azalea Inn Bed & Breakfast, a beautifully restored inn with no two rooms alike and complete with a picket fence. (It’s the most photographed property in town).

Shop Till You Drop: Spend a day shopping in the Village Shoppes on Main and find sensible pricing, great sales and upscale clothing. Shops offer Provencal linens, pottery, home accessories and more.

Insider's Tip: Located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Westglow Spa is a full-service European-style spa specializing in pure pampering. Travel + Leisure named it one of the top 10 destination spas in the world in 2006. The elegantly restored Greek revival mansion creates the perfect venue for revitalizing your mind, body and soul.

Good Eats: Visit Crippen’s Restaurant for fine dining with a daily changing menu featuring homemade breads, soups, creative appetizers, fresh seafood, prime meats, homemade desserts and ice creams. The wine list is an eclectic selection from boutique American wineries. Catch up with friends while sipping a new wine.

added: December 18, 2008

updated: June 18, 2009