Small Mountain Towns

Historic Nu Wray Inn Reopens On The Square In Burnsville

The historic Nu Wray Inn, which has hosted guests ranging from Elvis Presley to Jimmy Carter, has re-opened under new ownership.

The husband-and-wife team of Bob Cohen and Lisa England purchased the property in April and spent four months updating the bed-and-breakfast before reopening August 5.

"We learn each day from visitors – and community members – how special this place is and how strong people’s connections are to the Inn," says England. "The Nu Wray is a significant part of Burnsville’s history and a place that has contributed to the fabric of small-town America."

Located on The Town Square in downtown Burnsville, the three-story clapboard colonial was established in 1833. It has 16,500 square feet of space encompassing 26 guest rooms, 12 of which are currently available. The remaining rooms are slated to reopen as well.

The first floor features three deluxe rooms with antique furnishings, custom draperies, luxury linens and terry-cloth robes, while nine standard rooms are available on the second floor.

The Inn provides guests with wireless Internet service, as well as a bountiful family-style breakfast served daily with fresh ingredients from local farms.

"We want the guest experience to be unique and memorable," England says. "A step back in time, yet comfortable and functional."

England is a Winston-Salem native who graduated from UNC Asheville and lived in Burnsville in the 1990s before moving to California. There she met Cohen, a Southern California native, who became captivated by the Blue Ridge Mountains during numerous summer visits.

"I fell in love with the people, the Southern hospitality and the mountains. The timing was perfect to move here full-time," Cohen says. "For years, we have appreciated the Nu Wray Inn and its value to the community, and we feel honored to preserve this treasured landmark."

In addition to Jimmy Carter and Elvis, other famous Nu Wray guests over the years include: Christopher Reeve, Thomas Wolfe and Mark Twain.

The Nu Wray Inn is open year-round with room rates ranging from $125-$150 for double occupancy, with breakfast included. The Inn can also accommodate weddings.

added: September 28, 2010

updated: September 30, 2010