NC Trout Fishing: The WNC Fly Fishing Trail

The first and only fly fishing trail in the United States, the WNC Fly Fishing Trail, is located in Jackson County and features some of the best trout waters in the Great Smoky Mountains. Follow the Trail to find 15 excellent spots for catching each type of trout. Complimentary maps are available from the Jackson County Tourism Authority. Get a link HERE.

1). SCOTT CREEK
The Stretch: Roughly 10 miles from headwaters near Balsam down to Sylva.
Access Point(s): Parking and access available via several pull-off areas along U.S. 23/74
Type of Water: Hatchery Supported
Available Fish: Brown, Rainbow
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Stretch also includes North Fork Scott Creek and Buff Creek, which are very scenic

2). SMALL STREAMS: Moses Creek, Mull Creek, Rough Butt Creek, Chastine Creek, Piney Mountain Creek. The Stretch: Collection of small streams in eastern Jackson County, below Blue Ridge Parkway
Access Point(s): Via Moses Creek Rd (SR 1740) & Caney Fork Rd (SR 1737), avoid posted land
Type of Water: Wild Trout
Available Fish: Brook, Rainbow
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Mountainous terrain, includes several large waterfalls

3). CANEY FORK   The Stretch: Roughly 10 miles from East Laporte Park to headwaters at fork of Mull Creek and Piney Mountain Creek
Access Point(s): Access via Caney Fork Road (SR 1737), avoid posted land
Type of Water: Undesignated
Available Fish: Rainbow, Brown, occasional Brook
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Respect private land owners

4). TANASEE CREEK   The Stretch: Roughly 2-3 miles from Tanasee Creek bridge up to headwaters
Access Point(s): Parking and access available at bridge on Tanasee Creek Road (SR 1762)
Type of Water: Wild Trout
Available Fish: Brown
Numbers or Size?: Both
Noteworthy: Very scenic stretch in the Nantahala National Forest

5). PANTHERTOWN CREEK   The Stretch: Entire stream, roughly 3 miles
Access Point(s): Parking and access at end of Breedlove Rd (SR 1121), with 2-mile walk to creek Type of Water: Catch & Release Single Hook Artificial Lure
Available Fish: Brook
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Located in Panthertown Valley, which is known as the “Yosemite of the East” because of its bowl shape and rocky bluffs

6). RAVEN FORK (Cherokee Trophy Water)   The Stretch: Starts at Blue Ridge Parkway bridge near Cherokee and goes north for 2.2 miles
Access Point(s): Parking & access via several pull-off areas along Big Cove Road; paths run along stream
Type of Water: Catch & Release Fly Fishing Only
Available Fish: Golden, Rainbow, Brown, Brook & Donaldson trout
Numbers or Size?: Both
Noteworthy: This stretch is also called Cherokee Trophy Water and fish of 20-30 inches are common; Cherokee annual permit and daily permit required

7). WHITEWATER RIVER   The Stretch: Roughly 2-3 miles from Hwy. 107 down to the South Carolina state line
Access Point(s): Parking and access along N.C. 107, a few miles south of Cashiers
Type of Water: Wild Trout
Available Fish: Brook, Brown and Rainbow
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Flows into Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi

8). SCOTSMAN and FOWLER CREEKS into CHATTOOGA RIVER   The Stretch: Roughly 2-3 miles of each stream flowing down into the Chattooga River
Access Point(s): Access available via Whiteside Cove Rd (SR 1107) or Bullpen Rd (SR 1100) in Nantahala National Forest
Type of Water: Wild Trout with Natural Bait
Available Fish: Brown, Rainbow
Numbers or Size?: Numbers (creeks), Size (Chattooga)
Noteworthy: The movie Deliverance was filmed on the Chattooga River

9). WEST FORK TUCKASEGEE RIVER   The Stretch: From small reservoir at Thorpe Power House upstream several hundred yards
Access Point(s): Parking and access available both sides of N.C. 107 near Thorpe Power House
Type of Water: Hatchery Supported
Available Fish: Brown, Rainbow
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Although hatchery supported, this has nice concentration of stream-raised fish

10). TUCKASEGEE RIVER (East Laporte Park to NC 107 Bridge)  The Stretch: Roughly 2-3 miles from park to bridge
Access Point(s): Parking and access available at East Laporte Park and pull-off areas along Old Cullowhee Road
Type of Water: Hatchery Supported
Available Fish: Rainbow, Brook and Brown
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: East Laporte Park has picnic tables and public restrooms

11). SAVANNAH CREEK   The Stretch: About 10 miles from headwaters in Pumpkintown into Tuckasegee River
Access Point(s): Parking and access available via several pull-offs along U.S. 23/441
Type of Water: Hatchery Supported
Available Fish: Rainbow, Brown
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Access limited the closer you get to the Tuckasegee River

12). TUCKASEGEE RIVER (NC 107 Bridge to Dillsboro park)   The Stretch: Roughly 4-5 mile stretch from bridge to the riverside park in Dillsboro
Access Point(s): Parking and access available via numerous pull-offs along North River Road
Type of Water: Delayed Harvest
Available Fish: Brook, Brown and Rainbow
Numbers or Size?: Both
Noteworthy: Best place to achieve the Tuckasegee Slam (catch all three species in one spot)

13). GREENS CREEK   The Stretch: About 3-4 miles from Macon County line to Savannah Creek
Access Point(s): Various places along Greens Creek Road (SR 1370)
Types of Water: Wild Trout, Undesignated, Hatchery Supported
Available Fish: Rainbow, some Brown
Numbers or Size?: Numbers
Noteworthy: Portion of the creek flows through the Nantahala National Forest

14). TUCKASEGEE RIVER (in Dillsboro)   The Stretch: About 1 mile from Dillsboro park through town
Access Point(s): Various places between park and Best Western River Escape Inn
Type of Water: Hatchery Supported
Available Fish: Rainbow, Brown
Numbers or Size?: Size
Noteworthy: Includes two lodging options: Best Western River Escape Inn and Dillsboro Inn

15). LOWER TUCKASEGEE RIVER (Barker’s Creek Bridge to Whittier)   The Stretch: Roughly 8-10 miles from bridge to Whittier
Access Point(s): Parking and access via pull-offs and businesses along U.S. 19/74 freeway
Type of Water: Hatchery Supported, Undesignated
Available Fish: Rainbow, Brown
Numbers or Size?: Size
Noteworthy: The stretch is also home to smallmouth bass

Take a Hike: Spring for Free Guided Hikes: Hickory Nut Falls in Chimney Rock Park

March 3  -  Spring for Free Guided Hikes: Hickory Nut Falls    Forget those winter blues and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine at Chimney Rock.  Enjoy a free guided hike to the tallest waterfall on the east coast, Hickory Nut Falls, at an incredible 404 feet. Along the way, see how spring’s approach is changing the Park’s diverse scenery.

Note: If Hickory Nut Falls trail is closed due to ice melt at the falls, hike will be held on the Four Seasons trail. Meet the trail guide for the hike in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts at 1 PM.  Get information for Chimney Rock NC HERE

Southern Conference Basketball Tournament this week in Asheville

March  2-5     Southern Conference Basketball Tournament  Watch your favorite SoCon team on the court this week in Asheville, a city with a special love of B-ball. While you're in Asheville plan extra time for some R&R  at great restaurants, galleries and downtown nightlife.

The Tournament promises to be a great experience for athletes, faculty, students, parents, alumni and all the visiting  fans. Men and Women's games will be played at the Asheville Civic Center and UNC - Asheville Sports Arena.

25th Anniversary Heritage Classic DanceSport Championships

February 28 - Mar 3   25th Anniversary Heritage Classic DanceSport Championships 2012   This dance competition offers $112,000 in cash awards and scholarships. The Heritage Classic is a World Pro/Am Dancesport Series event. The Heritage Classic has been voted "Competition of the Year" for three successive years. General admission tickets are available.  Get a link for the DanceSport Championships here.

The event is held at the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa in Asheville NC.  The spa and spa services are renowned and the Resort facilities include:  scenic golf course, sports complex with pool - tennis - racquetball - training, on site restaurants, lounge, bars. The Inn offers a large variety of rooms and suites, varying stages of updates with some original Inn antiques.    Get the best rates for the Grove Park Inn Resort HERE 

Take a Hike: The Birds of Paddy's Creek at lake James Park

February  26   The Birds of Paddy's Creek  Join Park Ranger Earl Weaver and hike to identify birds found around Paddy’s Creek and Lake James. Easy hike, 1 mile. Bring binoculars if you have them. Meet at the Paddy’s Creek bridge parking lot of Lake James State Park at 10 a.m. For more information, call 828-584-7728.

Fire on the Rock Chef's Competition in Blowing Rock

February 28    Fire on the Rock in Blowing Rock NC - Chefs from local restaurants will battle head-to-head in exciting single elimination battles every Tuesday and Wednesday at Crippen's Restaurant. You, the diner, judge a six course "blind" menu created around a secret ingredient. Prepaid reservations are required.

"Grill or be Grilled" is the slogan in this annual diner-judged food competition that began in 2005 during the inaugural year of the Blue Ridge Wine and Food Festival in Blowing Rock, North Carolina with just six chefs. This year's competition includes sixteen chefs who vie for the grand prize of $2500 and the coveted "Red Chef Jacket".

The competition is waged in brackets, with winners meeting winners every Tuesday and Wednesday until the grand final on April 11. Weekly winners as well as voting statistics are posted online. The event has become exceptionally popular and advanced reservation are recommended. Get a link for Fire on the Rock and other Blowing Rock events and information HERE.

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, February 23 2012

Feb 25-26   Third Annual Yadkin Winter Reds Event sponsored by the Town of Yadkinville and Yadkin County Tourism Development Authorities. Yadkin Winter Reds Event 2012 will include 7 wineries  featuring their 'Winter Red' (2 oz. pour) paired with a small serving of a tasty food item. Ticket prices for the weekend are $20.00 per person. Each ticketholder will be assigned to a starting winery where they will receive their souvenir glass and a map. New to this year's event will be a Sunday Brunch offered at the Third Branch Cafe inside the Yadkin Cultural Arts Center. Tickets are $10.00 per person. Lodging packages are available, please see www.visityadkin.com to see all the specials available at this time. Tickets are available at the Yadkin County Visitors Center (The Chamber office), on-line at www.visityadkin.com or by phone at 1-877-4YADKIN.

February 25-26 -  RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC -Tthe second half of the 2012 Yadkin Reds event -  RagApple Lassie is pairing its Zinfandel, the only North Carolina estate grown Zin, with Tenderloin Spears dipped in a blue cheese cream sauce and chocolate dipped bacon for dessert!   Plus, the Blue Ridge Chocolate shop will also be available with their divine Belgian chocolates for your tasting.
RagApple Lassie's wonderful wines are available for tasting Noon to Six DAILY; The Back Door Café serves divine lunches on Sat and Sun, Noon to Four

Feb 24, 5 - 7 PM Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC - Free Sierra Nevada tasting and pint night - Be the first to sample new canned products from Sierra Nevada, soon to open a location in WNC. These beer are fresh in from their Chico brewery and there should be a keg of SN Hoptimum Imperial IPA on draft. Can Conditioned Sierra Pale Ale; Tropedo IPA : Hoptimum Double IPA     Feb 25, 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Italian Wines from the Piedmont and Tuscany - Beni Di Batasiolo Gavi 2009: This classic dry white wine comes from Italy's critically acclaimed Piedmont region located in northwestern Italy; Monte Antico Toscana 2007: This baby Super-Tuscan is a blend of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Merlot, which are organically grown on prime Tuscan hillsides; G.D Vajra Langhe Rosso 2008- Also from the premier Peidmont region of Italy, this organic red blend is made by Barolo producer G.D Vajra.

Feb 25, 1-6 PM at  Appalachian Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place, Asheville NC - Asheville's "best Pot Luck" - All natural hot dogs and veggie burgers will be provided and you bring own accoutrement, serving/eating utensils and plates. Pre-moving wines sale and the Great American Wine Spectator give away.

Feb 24 , 7-10 PM,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC -  Dinner and live music with Marshall Ballew and a special Spanish Tappas menu and Mable Alice Rum Cake.  Feb 27,  7-9 PM - Ukulele Night: Enjoy the Ukulele Tour

Feb 24,  4-7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC - "545" tasting - You get to sample 5 wines for $5, free for Grapenuts. Full bodied, rich red wines that don't break the bank. Feb, 25, 5 PM - Winedown with Steve Mills: some of the best Spanish wines  - FREE tasting.

Feb 24,  4 PM - 7 PM  LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday.  Feb 25 - The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.


Feb 25,   2 PM - 5 PM  The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. Sample 4 to 6 new wines. Light hors d’ oeuvres will be served and all wines poured will be specially priced.

Feb 25, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Closed for the winter - re-open March 22, 2012Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

Rennie Harris Puremovement's this Weekend in Asheville

February 23-24, 8 PM at the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 Pack Square in Asheville NC.    Under the direction of Dr. Rennie Harris, hip-hop dance ambassador to the world, Rennie Harris Puremovement travels to Asheville this week on its 20th anniversary tour before heading to Egypt, Israel, the Palestinian Territories, and Jordan this spring.

Puremovement is one of only four dance companies selected to represent 2012 DanceMotion USA, a tour designed to share the USA's rich dance culture with international audiences. Don't miss the movement, music, and magic of this revolutionary modern dance company this week.  Get  tickets here.

 

Read a feature article about Rennie Harris Puremovement in the Asheville Citizen-Times.

 

Back to the 80s at Beech Mountain this Weekend

February 24-26  Retro 80s at  Beech Mountain NC. Enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the 1980's including:

-Lodging specials from $80.80 per night

-$19.80 restaurant dinner deals

-80's DJ for Saturday's Railfest

-Facebook 80's ski garb contest

-Live 80's bands each night!

Daily Ski Rental Specials:

*$19.80 adults, $10.80 children, $27.80 snowboards at Fred's General Mercantile (828) 387-4838 (Fred's also has bandanas 3 for $8.80)

*Friday 24th - $10.80 Skis, $15.80 Snowboards at Beech Meadows Ski Shop (828) 387-4777

*Saturday/Sunday 25-26 - $16.80 Skis, $24.80 Snowboards at Beech Meadows Ski Shop (828) 387-4777

Find Beech Mountain Lodging at:

The Pinnacle Inn - suites, or one and two bedroom condominiums - complete with full kitchens, cozy living rooms, fireplaces, cable TV, and telephone (some with washer/dryer). Facilities: indoor heated pool, 2 hot tubs, steam room, dry sauna, exercise room, recreation area with ping pong, pool table, electronic games, 2 tennis courts, miniature golf, shuffleboard, playground, meeting room.  Get rates and check availability

Archer's Mountain Inn - 15 guest rooms with complimentary breakfast, fireplace, porch (some with mountain view), some with microwave and mini fridge. 5 vacation cabins. On site restaurant and lounge. Seasonal packages offered.  Event facilities.  See lowest rates and availability

Get more Beech Mountain Lodging and ski information HERE

Take a Hike: Hike Paddy's Creek Trail in Lake James Park

February 25   Hike the Paddy's Creek Trail   Join Park Ranger Earl Weaver for a nature hike on the Paddy’s Creek Trail. Moderate hike, 2 miles roundtrip. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Meet at the Paddy’s Creek Area office of Lake James State Park at 10 AM. For more information, call 828-584-7728.

Get a link for this hike and more Marion NC area events HERE

National Truffle Fest in Asheville this Week

February 23-25     National Truffle Fest - Experience a variety of truffle taste treats, presentations and seminars and a benefit auction. From gourmet truffle and wine dinners to the Chef's Gala you can immerse yourself in everything truffle. The event is held at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Asheville NC. 


The Grand Bohemian Hotel - guest rooms and suites. On site restaurant and lounge, room service, fitness center, business center, ballroom, WIFI, Pet Friendly. Located in Biltmore Village near the entrance to Biltmore. Get the best current rates for the Grand Bohemian Hotel HERE

Small Plates Crawl in Asheville

February 21-23, 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM - the Asheville Independent Restaurant Association (AIR) presents the Small Plates Crawl. It's always difficult to choose among the many remarkable restaurants in Asheville, so the small plates crawl helps ease the dilemma with an opportunity to enjoy multiple meals in miniature versions.

participant Tupelo Honey Cafe

Dozens of Asheville's finest restaurants will be serving up small portions of their best cuisine with menus, priced from $3 to $8. This is the perfect opportunity to sample taste treats from Asheville eateries that you may have missed in the past. If you haven't experienced the Foodtopian Society, then this is a perfect time to do so.

Two contests will be offered as part of the Crawl - one for the most restaurants sampled and the other for photographers. . The lucky person with the most restaurant validations at the end of the weekend will win a Grove Park Inn Getaway. For photographers there are two different categories to enter with 3 cash prizes for each.

Participating restaurants are located in downtown Asheville, Biltmore Village and North, South, East and West Asheville. A map and list of restaurants is available on the website. Get a link for the Asheville Small Plates Crawl and other Asheville NC information HERE

President's Day Weekend on the NC Ski Slopes

Feb  17-20,  Calatoochee Ski Area   -  President's Day Weekend at Cataloochee Holiday rates in effect 2/17/12- 2/20/12. In addition to the regular twilight and night skiing schedule of Tuesday through Saturday evenings, there will also be twilight and night skiing on Sunday, February 19. Maggie Valley NC

Feb  18 , Beech Mountain Ski Resort -    Snowman Building Contest Strut your frosty stuff at our Annual Snowman building contest. Your creativity is the limit (family friendly), just bring your own accessories. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative and superlative snowman/woman.  Beech Mountain NC

Feb  19,  Sugar Mountain Resort -   High Country Junior Race Series Giant Slalom - Championship. A Giant Slalom competition for all High Country junior racers. Registration is from 7:30am-8:30am. Race start is 9 AM on Big Red. Sugar Mountain NC

Feb  20,  Appalachian Ski Mountain   -  50th Celebration Family Days Special “Family Days” continue ASM's 50th year celebration with a Live 60’s Band; Every “Elvis” skis free (Sideburns & Costume Required;  Tethered Hot-Air Balloon Rides 1:30 – 3:30; 50th Celebration Golden Scavenger Hunt Parts 4 & 5 (Items 31-40); The Sanctuary Massage Stations 1-4pm; Free Professional Family Ski Portrait 10am – 3pm; Pig Pickin’ 11am – 3pm; Free Junior Ice Skating (ages 12 & under) with paid adult / limit 4 Juniors per family, Offered at special morning session 9 – 11am.  Blowing Rock NC

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort will have 10 of 23 slopes open with two lifts on a base of  23-29 inches of groomed surface. Ridge Lodge will be re-opened, along with the Ridge Runner slope and lift, for the Holiday weekend starting at 5 PM today. Marshall NC

Sapphire Valley Ski Slopes is planning to be OPEN Saturday, Feb. 18, 9am to 9pm, Sunday 9am to 6pm and Presidents' Day, Monday 9am to 9 pm. weather permitting. Confirm the slope status at 828.743.1169. Sapphire Valley NC

Need Lodging?
Get available NC Ski Rentals near the slopes HERE

Live at the Arcade Tonight in Asheville

February 17 from 5-8 PM  - Downtown buskers Blind Boy Chocolate and the Milk Shieks will perform at Live at the Grove Arcade, the new series featuring free local music taking place the third Friday of January, February and March.

The band describes themselves as “a dirty street-performing band that is occasionally allowed inside to do our little diddely-dee on a stage.” The group features Dwight “Sawman” Hawkins on wood saw, tenor banjo and vocals; Nicky “The Squirrel” Marshall on mandolin, harmonica and vocals; Antone “T-Bird” Costa on guitar, kazoo and vocals; and Alex “Spiders Nest” Brady on washtub Bass.

The band performed at Merlefest 2011. The repertoire is largely drawn from a bank of early American music consisting of both black and white string and jug band music and draws on the pre-war blues, ragtime, early jazz and songster traditions.

The Grove Arcade Merchants Association sponsors the Live at the Grove Arcade evenings of music, food and drinks and most stores are open late. Beer and wine are available for purchase and attendees get free popcorn with each drink purchase.

Get more information about Asheville NC HERE

President's Day Weekend at Cataloochee Ski Area

February 17-20   President's Day Weekend at Cataloochee Holiday rates in effect 2/17/12- 2/20/12. In addition to the regular twilight and night skiing schedule of Tuesday through Saturday evenings, there will also be twilight and night skiing on Sunday, February 19.  Cataloochee Ski Area is located in Maggie Valley NC.

Take a Guided Hike through the WInter Wonderland at Chimney Rock Park

February 18 Off the Beaten Path Guided Hike: Winter Wonderland.  The Park’s beauty changes with each season. Bare tree branches sparkle with frost and clear views reward wintertime hikers. Enjoy the serenity of Chimney Rock during the off season and learn how to recognize trees and shrubs without their leaves.

Participants will see about 30 different trees along this easy 2-hour woodland excursion. Meet the trail guide for the hike in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts at 1 PM. Get a link for this guided hike and other Chimney Rock Park events HERE

17th Annual Bluegrass First Class in Asheville this week

February 16-19    17th Annual Bluegrass First Class  Enjoy some of the best bluegrass acts in the country rocking out all over the hotel, all weekend. Lineup includes - Friday: Dailey and Vincent (2  days), Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, The James King Band. Saturday: Dailey and Vincent, The Seldom Scene, Lonesome River Band, Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice featuring Wyatt Rice on guitar.

The event is held this year at Asheville's Crowne Plaza Resort, a year around facility with 274 rooms and suites on 125 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Facilities include onsite dining and room service, convention facilities, golf, tennis, indoor pool, fitness and business centers, some pet friendly rooms and WIFI. Specials and online discounts are offered - get details here. 

What to do on Valentine's Day

February 14  Valentine's Wine and Chocolate Event The Wine Studio Asheville

February 14  The Lettermen in Concert Franklin

February 14  4-course Valentine Dinner at the Orchard Inn, Saluda

February 14  Valentine's Dinner at the Saluda Grade Cafe

February 14  Valentine's Special for 2 ribs, Green River BBQ, Saluda

February 14  Valentine's Chimney Rock Park BOGO Tickets  Chimney Rock

Valentine's Day Event: Wine and Chocolate

February 14, 5 PM - 8 PM:  Valentine's Wine and Chocolate Event   Begin your Valentine's Day celebration with wine, chocolate and other goodies, hosted by Jessica and Carah of The Wine Studio of Asheville and Slow Food Asheville. Drop in as a prelude to your evening or while waiting for those reservations to sample great wines and local Raw Shakti Chocolates.The Wine Studio is located at 169 Charlotte Street in Asheville, NC

Last Minute Romantic Mountain Getaways for Valentine's Day in Bryson CIty

Soak your cares away with the magic of the mountains - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 5-7. Hot tub with mountain view, game room with ping pong, pool, foosball. Deck with gas grill, picnic table and fire pit. Pets considered. Located near Almond SW of Bryson City.   $125-$60 night, $1750-$960 week.  Go to cabin photos and availability calendar


180 degrees of beautiful mountain views - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 6. Deck with hot tub, dining and gas grill. Covered porches, fireplace, jetted bathtub, hammock, pets considered. $160-$200 night, $960-$1200 week.  See photos and cabin availability



Log cabin by the creek - 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, sleeps 4. 3 cabins to choose from. Fireplace, hot tub, charcoal grill, HGTV, WIFI. Secluded location only 2 miles to Bryson City. $95 - $150 night, $570 - $900 week.  SPECIAL  - Book two week nights and get a third FREE, good through 4/30/12.      get availability and rental photos


Spectacular view and all the extras - 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps up to 8. Amazing views from inside and out. Hot tub, game room with pool table, gas log fireplace, gas grill, Internet. $160 - $200 night, $960 - $1200.   see cabin photos and availabilty

Get more Bryson City cabins and vacation rentals HERE

Mountain Dulcimer Concert Today in Bryson City

February 12 , 3 PM - 4:30 PM:  Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer Concert -  Free concert.  Featuring two of the country's finest players of the Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer, Lois Hornbostel and Ehukai Teves performing a spirited traditional Southern Appalachian, Celtic, Hawaiian, and other World Music performed at the Swain County Center for the Performing Arts, 1415 Fontana Rd. in Bryson City.

Annual Chocolate Cook-off Today in Bryson City

February 11    Annual Chocolate Cook-off   Feel good inside and out! Taste samples of the area's chocolatiers best chocolate confections and help support the local library. $6 admission with children under 6 free. Held at the Bryson City Presbyterian Church on Everett Street. Vote for the People's Choice Award for Best Overall Chocolate Dish. Get a link and more Bryson City NC information HERE.

Mountain Inn Winter Specials $69-$79 per night

Mid-winter Specials $69 Sun-Thurs, $79 Fri-Sat until 3-31. Spacious King or Queen rooms, - or suites that offer a microwave and mini-fridge.

Mountain view rooms available. FREE hot breakfast, indoor pool, exercise room, meeting & laundry facilities. Cashiers / Sapphire Valley NC.

Call 828-743-4545 and ask for the Winter Valley Special.   See Inn photos and details here

At The Hampton Inn and Suites- Sapphire Valley you'll find beautiful, comfortable rooms and suites with all the modern conveniences. Inn amenities include: a choice of standard king or queen rooms,  king and queen studios, and suites with microwave and mini-fridge.

All accommodations have free WIFI Internet access, coffeemaker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board. Enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast and beverages; an indoor pool and whirlpool; exercise room; Business Center and meeting facilities; and, of course, beautiful mountain views!  

There are also year-around Activity Packages available.

 

8th Annual Beloved Miniatures Show at American Folk

February 10 -  8th Annual Beloved Miniatures Show at American Folk   Opening Reception. Just in time for Valentines Day, 12 of American Folks artists and potters will present work no bigger than 8 x 10 for painters, no bigger than 6 inches tall for potters. “Our folks create small works for this show all year long, and begin sending them in January. We love those little containers coming our way in the dark days of winter….it warms & excite us” says Betsey-Rose Weiss, owner of American Folk.

Get a link for the Miniatures Show and other Asheville NC events HERE

Last Minute Romantic Mountain Getaways for Valentine's Day

It's not too late to treat your Sweetie to a romantic mountain getaway for Valentine's Day. Whether you choose a weekend getaway or a Valentine's Day weekday holiday, you can still find a variety of rentals from secluded mountain cabins to exciting downtown lofts to mountain view ski condos.

At the time of posting these rentals indicated at least 3 consecutive days availability for Valentine's Day or the weekend before Check with the individual owners or property managers to verify up-to-the minute availability.
Find a complete list here

 

Valentine's Day Weekend Events: Classic Romance at the Grove Park Inn

February 10-12   Classical Romance for Valentine's 2012 at Asheville's  Grove Park Inn offers a romantic getaway including an evening of stargazing on the terrace of this historically romantic resort at the Starlight & Chocolate Party. You'll also enjoy dinner in one of the Inn's restaurants, a "Spicy" cooking seminar, dance instruction and a Valentine's Dance, which offers the perfect place to fall in love all over again (or for the first time). Lodging packages available.
The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa - The spa and spa services are renowned.  Resort amenities includes a scenic golf course, a sports complex with pool - tennis - racquetball  and training. Enjoy onsite restaurants, lounge, bars. Choose from a  large variety of rooms and suites, varying stages of updates with some original Inn antiques.

Romantic Mountain Getaway for Valentine's Day: View of Grandfather Mountain

Log home rental with spectacular view from Elk Ridge - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 6. Warm and welcoming inside and out with beautiful sunsets on the deck and starlit skies from the hot tub. Stone fireplace with gas logs, plush king bed, porch swing and rockers, gas grill, WIFI. Gated community with seasonal pool, trails, horseback riding, tennis. Pet Friendly.. $179 - $200 night, $1,074 - $1,200 week. Located between Boone and Wilkesboro.    See cabin photos and get availability

Do Tell StoryFest in Hendersonville this Weekend

February 11-12   Do Tell StoryFest   3rd annual Festival Held at the Flat Rock Playhouse Downtown Theatre, listen to stories from rhymes to folk tales to history to modern personal stories from the region's best performers.

The Saturday festival concert features renown storyteller and singer Michael Reno Harrell.Harrell is an award winning songwriter, as well as a veteran storyteller and entertainer from the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Michael's  stories are familiar and razor sharp with a point. His brand of entertainment appeals to a diverse audience.

Other StoryFest participants include:

David Novak is a remarkable speaker with a background in theatre arts including Shakespeare, clowning, creative dramatics, playwriting, and directing.
Sherry Lovett has been a storyteller for twelve years starting when she was a middle school teacher.Karen-Eve is an international storyteller, Henderson County native,  former General Manager of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and is the creator and director of Do Tell festival.
Vixi Jil  known as Sister Silly Goose has been reading, writing, and telling ancient Celtic faerie tales, as well as old timey mountain Jack tales for over 27 years.Candler Willis is a multi-talented renaissance man who time shifts between the 19th and 21st century!Elena Miller a winner of the prestigious national Freeman Tilden Award, began performing at age 12 and continues on to today.
Ronnie Pepper has 22 years experience working as an educator of young children and is now Director of Henderson County Head Start Centers.
Gwenda LedBetter has taught and told stories for fifty years, beginning her work in Asheville’s  Pack Library and in "Tales from the Red Rocker "on WLOS-TV.

Get a link for StoryFest and other
Hendersonville NC events and Attractions HERE.

Valentines Specials at Westglow Resort and Spa

Experience the romance of Westglow as you rekindle your love for Valentine's Day. Named "best for Romance and #1 Romantic Restaurant in Western NC by Open Table, this luxury boutique resort is the perfect setting for love and romance.

Come for your romantic dinner or indulge in a Valentine's all-inclusive romance package. Choose from:

*Romantic Valentine's Dinner for 2

*Overnight all-inclusive romance package for 2

*15% off mid-week day luxury spa packages

*An instant gift Card for your Sweetie

Westglow Resort and Spa offers guest rooms including the use of all luxury spa resort amenities and a complimentary breakfast. The all-inclusive spa vacation packages include accommodations, 3 gourmet meals daily, access to all health spa amenities including the fitness center and fitness classes, and morning nature hikes with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Westglow Resort & Spa is a top-rated luxury destination spa where personal service is an honored tradition. Our elegant Greek Revival mansion, once the home of renowned artist and author Elliott Daingerfield, is a perfect place to find renewal of the mind, body, and soul.

Get lowest current rates and make reservations HERE

Valentine's Day Weekend Events: Chimney Rock ParkValentine BOGO Tickets

February 8-14 -  Valentine's Chimney Rock Park BOGO (buy one get one free) Tickets.  Nothing says "I love you" like a romantic day at Chimney Rock with breathtaking views and pristine trails.  The good folks at Chimney Rock Park are offering a sweet deal to buy one regularly-priced adult ticket and get one free for Valentine's Day from Feb. 8-14.

Walk hand-in-hand on a beautiful hike to the base of the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls. Top off the perfect day with a tasty lunch at the Old Rock Cafe. Click here to download this special coupon. Coupon must be presented to the Ticket Plaza at the time of purchase.

Diana Wortham Theatre New Dinner Deal

Enjoy a golden opportunity to treat yourself to a three course dinner before the show. Indulge in a 3 course, prix fixe menu for $30 by showing your Diana Wortham Theatre ticket on the day of the show.

Posana Cafe is the perfect start to a sparkling night on the town! Enjoy our daily wine special, a $5 glass of red or white wine, our made-to-order sodas with homemade syrups and organic sweeteners, or relax with one of our unique specialty cocktails. Come before the show and dine from a menu that hits all the right chords, starting with our famous Kale Salad, to our delectable dessert menu.

Upcoming Wortham Theatre Performances

• The Importance of Being Earnest • Aquila Theatre Company, Friday, February 3
• Macbeth • Aquila Theatre Company, Saturday, February 4
• Solas • Friday, February 10
• Cosi Fan Tutte • Asheville Lyric Opera, Friday & Saturday, February 17 & 18
• Rennie Harris Puremovement • Thursday & Friday, February 23 & 24

For tickets and more information, call the box office at 828.257.4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.com. The Diana Wortham Theatre is located at 2 South Pack Square in Asheville NC

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, February 2

Feb 2 , 5 - 7 PM, Brusin' Ales, 66 Broad Strteet, Asheville NC - New Belgium Brewing Fort Collins, Colorado: Trey from New Belgium Brewery, Fort Collins, CO serves up  a special line-up, including the new seasonal, Dig Pale Ale, with Sorachi, Nelson Sauvin, Cascade and Centennial hops, and two beers from the Lips of Faith Series, Biere de Mars and the new (and yummy) Cocoa Mole - Dig Pale Ale "Unearth your bottle-opener because this Pale Ale is something you can Dig;  Belgo IPA "When we set out to brew, we use imagination and salvation to guide us- not necessarily style guidelines. It's the Belgian way.  Lips of Faith: Biere de Mars "Again in 2012, we are pleased to offer one of our favorite harbingers of spring, Biere de Mars.  Lips of Faith: Cocoa Mole "Say Hola to a spiced up ale full of cocoa and ancho, guajillo, chipotle peppers.

February -  RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC - SUPERBOWL SPECIAL: Stock your cellar with RagApple Lassie wines for Super Bowl XLVI and if the total score is less than 40 or greater than 65, bring your original receipt dated before kick-off time, and get your original purchase duplicated FREE! For case purchases only, 7 points in either direction wins one bottle of wine!

Feb 3, 5 - 7 PM Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC -  Free beer tasting and pint night - Foothills Brewing Co. Winston-Salem, NC: Torch Pilsner; Hoppyum IPA; Peoples Porter; Sexual Chocolate.   Feb 4, 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting:  South African Deals - Felicite Pinot Noir 2011- Made by Newton Johnson family run Vineyards, and produced naturally with respect for the environment, Felicite Pinot Noir is a great wine at a great price;   The Wolftrap Red 2010- This South African take on a Rhone style red is a blend of 65% fruity, juicy Syrah, 32% spicy Mourvedre, and 3% Viognier which is added for balance and brightness. The Wolftrap White 2009- This lovely white wine is a blend of Viognier, Chenin Blanc, and Grenache Blanc.

Feb 4, 4-8 PM at  Appalachian Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place, Asheville NC - Asheville's "best Wine Tasting" Dan Davidsen from Millennium Beverage will be pouring at the wine bar: Post House Blueish White; Van Duzer Vintner's Cuvee Pinot Noir; Anglim Winery Cerise; Anglim Winery Central Coast Syrah; Post House Blueish Black; Free wine tasting.

Feb 3 , 7 PM until,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC - Friday Night Live music with GReg Kidd and Chris Minick, tow local favorites performing favorites as well as originals.

Feb 3, 4 - 7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC - "545" tasting - You get to sample 5 wines for $5. The  focuse is on the Portugal this Friday - there are more incredible wine values coming out of this country than any other these days.   Feb, 2-5 PM - FREE Weekly Wine Tastings: Sample Four Artisan Wines - a "Try Before You Buy" tasting featuring 4 great and affordable wines.  February 9 - There are 2 spots left for the wine and chocolate tasting, featuring six wines (average retail of $30) paired with six different handmade truffles from Blue Moon Chocolatier.  RSVP and pre-payment are required, and this one is filling up fast, so call  at 828.505.8588 to reserve your spot for this seated tasting.

Feb 3, 6 PM - 8 PM, at Divine Wine, 1011 Tunnel Road East Asheville NC . Friday Wine Tastings - It’s not just a tasting, it’s a party and you’re invited. Complimentary tastes of special wines, along with an assortment of hors d’oeuvres. Be sure to try the weekly special wines by the glass, or a cold, frothy, draft brew from the bar.

Feb 3,  4 PM - 7 PM  LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday. The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.


Feb 4,   2 PM - 5 PM  The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. Sample 4 to 6 new wines. Light hors d’ oeuvres will be served and all wines poured will be specially priced.

Feb 4, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.

Feb4  , 11 AM - 5 PM  PM at Falderal Winery, 131 3rd Ave, Hendersonville NC.  Free tasting -  Regular Saturday Wine Tasting with all wines made on the premises.

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Closed for the winter - re-open March 22, 2012Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier