The 10 Best Mountain Resorts in North Carolina

North Carolina is a popular tourist destination that contains some of the most exquisite beaches in the US as well as a lovely rolling countryside that takes away the breath of anyone who visits. In addition, the state contains several mountain resorts that you can visit for incredible sights and staycations.

The resorts are the best places to be, away from the usual hustles and bustles of the cities. Not only do they offer many activities to choose from, but they also have a serene environment that will leave you refreshed.

We have compiled a list of ten of the best mountain resorts in North Carolina that will give you the stunning hiking retreat that you have been yearning for or amazing spa vibes and unforgettable magical views.

10. Omni Grove Park Inn

Asheville, North Carolina, is a historical and culturally diverse city. It’s also the perfect place to visit during ski season. The Omni Grove Park Inn is a historic resort with a rustic charm, worldly dining experience, and year-round activities.

The three features truly make it one of the best mountain resorts in North Carolina. The natural beauty surrounding the resort is enough to make you want to stay put for a while.

However, there are so many activities within the resort that you won’t have time for boredom. There are indoor and outdoor pools, which are heated year-round. The mountain views alone make your trip to this resort worth it. Once you think about all of the amenities offered at this resort, very few alternatives can top it.

9. Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant

Chimney Rock, North Carolina, is home to one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the south. The Lake Lure area has miles of hiking trails and blue water, making any outdoor enthusiast fall head over heels for it.

Esmeralda Inn features various services, including shuttle transportation, concierge service, game room, computer room, bicycle rentals, and Chimney Rock Park & Fitness Center access.

Esmeralda Inn is also located on the edge of Lake Lure, which allows for great kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and fishing trips. Don’t worry if you missed out on getting your fishing permit; Esmeralda has a permit service that will get you the fishing license in a heartbeat.

8. Etowah Valley Golf & Resort

Etowah Valley Golf and Resort is the premium mountain golf resort in North Carolina. If you’re an avid golfer, visiting Etowah Valley Golf & Resort, you need to consider taking a trip to this resort where you can play your favorite game in a championship 27-hole golf course as you enjoy the magnificent views and incredible amenities that the resort has to offer.

7. Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Highlands, North Carolina, is a small town with a big heart and is arguably one of the most romantic towns in all of North Carolina. Several festivals and events throughout the year, such as The Highlands Wine Festival, features over 50 wineries from across the state and live music.

Another favorite is the Highland Games, which is a day full of athletic and cultural competitions. You can also indulge in several activities, such as trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River. Old Edwards Inn and Spa are some of those places that will make your trip to Highlands not only relaxing but memorable as well.

6. Hot Springs Resort and Spa

Hot Springs, North Carolina, is located in the scenic valley between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town has numerous gift shops, antique stores, art galleries, wineries, and restaurants that will make your visit one to remember.

There are also several festivals throughout the year, such as The Annual Spring Vintage Market on May 18th, which features over 100 juried vintage vendors from all over the region.

Hot Springs Resort and Spa are located in the Appalachian Mountains of Western North Carolina along scenic Hwy 25, just outside Hot Springs Village. The resort offers guests a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms, condos, golf course homes, or even a farmhouse.

5. Appalachian Ski Mountain Resort

Appalachian Ski Mountain Resort is a popular ski resort located in the town of Blowing Rock, NC. It has been around for years and is known as one of the best ski places between Georgia and New York State.

They have trails that are great for beginners and fun for the more advanced skiers. The resort has excellent snow conditions, great ski lifts, and friendly staff to help that will add to your already magical experience.

4. Beech Mountain Resort

Beech Mountain is another popular mountain resort in North Carolina. It is not as big as Appalachian Ski Mountain, but it still has about 91 trails that you can use for skiing which is excellent for beginners and advanced skiers. The ski area has a summit elevation of 5,506 ft with a vertical drop of 2,214 ft. They have 20 trails that are designated as most difficult and 18 most accessible trails.

3. Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort is located in the town of Pineola, NC. It is an excellent place for beginners because all of their trails are designated as green circle trails, which means they are more accessible.

The resort has 23 easy trails and 15 difficult ones. If you want to learn how to ski, they have a teaching center where you can get lessons. If you are an advanced skier, Wolf Ridge Ski contains tons of places to find trails that will challenge you.

2. Historic Tapoco Lodge

The Historic Tapoco Lodge has given numerous visitors, lifelong memories of the lush Nantahala Mountains since 1930. The resort offers several adventures such as hiking, rafting, fishing, and mountain biking with its winding roads which are in plenty.

At the end of a day full of adventure, you can experience the sanctuary in one of their historic rooms which offers the most modern conveniences. The lodge is perched on the banks of the roaring Cheoah River which offers unmatched environmental views of Western Carolina.

1. Sugar Mountain Resort

The Sugar Mountain Resort in western North Carolina is truly a winter wonderland. The elevation of 3810 feet ensures plenty of white powder for skiers.

Guests at the resort are treated to free bus service to Appalachian Ski Mountain, so they can enjoy both mountains without switching equipment or losing time with their group.

Located just three miles from Sugar Mountain’s slopeside guest accommodations, Appalachian Ski Mountain has 42 ski trails for all skill levels as well as a terrain park for snowboarders.

The resort’s base elevation is 3300 feet, making it easily accessible year-round to guests of all experience levels. Appalachian has 14 downhill slopes and four lifts. The longest run at Appalachian Ski Mountain is 2.8 miles long.

You can also read:

• 20 Awesome Day Trips To Take In North Carolina
• The 20 Best Hiking Trails in North Carolina
• 10 Awesome Glamping Campgrounds in North Carolina
• The 20 Best things to do In Outer Banks, North Carolina