MOUNTAIN MEMORIES

A trip to the up-and-coming Blue Ridge town of Hendersonville, NC we won't soon forget.

Hendersonville NC, nestled in the mountains of North Carolina, is a hidden gem that is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Asheville. However, this charming town has a personality of its own and is bursting with unique experiences and activities that are worth exploring. From enjoying delicious food and beer at Sierra Nevada, to taking in the stunning views at Jump Off Rock, there is something for everyone in this picturesque town.

Our trip began with a stop at Sierra Nevada, where we indulged in the delectable beer cheese and pretzel before taking a tour of the brewery. After seeing the sheer expanse of this brewery and where the magic is made, we headed out to the beer garden. Here, we sipped beer and enjoyed the live music outside. Instantly, we knew we were in for a treat. Our next adventure took us to the Riveter, where we enjoyed mountain climbing and bike riding. This outdoor experience summed up the unique mountain vibe that is Hendersonville. After our first afternoon of adventure, we headed to our home away from home for the weekend!

The Bed & Breakfast On Tiffany Hill is a stunning bed and breakfast located in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. As we checked in, we were warmly greeted by the owner and amazing host Selena Einwechter, who immediately made us feel at home. The attention to detail at this B&B is evident from the moment you arrive. Each room is beautifully appointed, with comfortable beds and luxurious linens, as well as thoughtful amenities like fresh flowers and local chocolates. One of the more thoughtful ideas, each of the rooms here is named after Selena's favorite cities in the south, and each are beautifully decorated with elegant furnishings and soft, inviting colors.

The views from the porch are simply breathtaking, with rolling hills and mountain vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. The world-class hospitality at the Bed & Breakfast On Tiffany Hill is unparalleled, with no detail spared in ensuring that guests have a comfortable and memorable stay. The lovely garden on site is meticulously maintained, with colorful flowers and fragrant herbs adding to the already picturesque setting. We especially enjoyed the beautiful area called the Circle of Trees, where we could sit and enjoy peace and quiet in Adirondack chairs, surrounded by the beauty of nature. And the secret garden walk was a delightful surprise, with hidden nooks and crannies to discover around every corner.

After exploring the lovely property we headed out for dinner at Shine Restaurant. We loved the diverse menu here, especially the roasted cauliflower and the fried chicken sandwich. And the lamb lollipops…they truly shine! Seriously though, they are absolutely delicious. Following dinner, head to the rooftop for a tasty cocktail and views of downtown. After a busy day it was back to the B&B for some stargazing and a good night's sleep.

The next morning, we indulged in the delicious breakfast at Tiffany Hill, which included mouth-watering French toast that left us craving for more. Owner, Selena wishes everyone a good morning and makes sure breakfast is served to perfection. It’s a wonderful way to start the day.

We then headed to the historic Flat Rock Playhouse. Flat Rock Playhouse is a renowned theatre in Hendersonville, NC, and visiting their facilities is a unique experience in itself. We were able to take a tour to see the behind the scenes and explore the various aspects of theatre production, from costumes and set design to lighting and sound. It was such a great way to see the historic site and how much goes into each performance.

Our tour guide then took us to the Carl Sandburg House, a beautiful historic home that once belonged to the famous American writer and poet, Carl Sandburg. Today, the house has been preserved as a museum and national historic site, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and works of this iconic figure. As you approach the house, you'll be struck by its stunning beauty, with its charming architecture and sprawling grounds. Inside, you'll find a wealth of artifacts and exhibits dedicated to Sandburg's life and work, from his early days as a struggling poet to his later years as a celebrated author and public figure. And, of course, no visit to the Sandburg House would be complete without a stroll through the beautiful gardens and pastures that surround the property, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, countryside, and pond (for wildlife lovers and kids you can see the fish and even snakes sunning from the bridge on site). The highlight of the visit was seeing the goats on the property, which were so adorable and entertaining.

We then stopped at Hubba Hubba Smokehouse, where we savored the succulent pork and brisket. A great patio, good barbecue, and tasty sides were a wonderful break from the busy morning. Now, to the wineries.

No trip to Hendersonville is complete without visiting the wineries, and we thoroughly enjoyed our visits to three amazing ones.

Marked Tree Vineyard is a beautiful family-owned vineyard that offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They produce a variety of wines, including Cab Franc, Chardonel, Petit Verdot, and Gruner Veltliner. Visitors can enjoy their tastings on the patio overlooking the vineyard, surrounded by the picturesque mountains.

Stone Ashe Vineyards is another charming family-owned vineyard that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The vineyard produces a selection of traditional Bordeaux wines including Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and

Chardonnay. The cozy tasting room and outdoor seating area provide the perfect ambiance for sipping on some wine and taking in the views.

Burntshirt Vineyards is a lovely vineyard that offers a unique experience with its beautifully restored 1930s barn tasting room. They produce a variety of wines, including their popular Rock Bottom Red, and their refreshing Sunset Sippin. Visitors can enjoy their wine tastings on the outdoor patio or in the cozy barn, surrounded by the vineyards and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

After a late afternoon nap at the Bed & Breakfast it was time for dinner at Season's At Highland Lake.

Our dining experience at Season's at Highland Lake was nothing short of divine. From the moment we stepped into the restaurant, we knew we were in for a treat. The ambiance was sophisticated yet cozy, with warm lighting and elegant décor that set the stage for an unforgettable meal. And let's talk about the food — it was simply out of this world.

Starting with the caprese salad, we were blown away by the fresh, juicy tomatoes, velvety mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the tangy balsamic vinaigrette tying everything together perfectly. But that was just the beginning.

The shrimp dish was cooked to perfection, with succulent shrimp that practically melted in our mouths. The rich, buttery sauce was perfectly seasoned, with just the right amount of garlic and herbs to give it a depth of flavor that left us wanting more.

And let's not forget about the salmon toast: it was both beautiful and delicious. My favorite dish though, and to my surprise, was the mushroom appetizer which was an absolute delight. Each bite was bursting with umami flavor, with juicy, meaty mushrooms and a creamy, indulgent sauce that we could have eaten by the spoonful.

Overall, our dining experience at Season's at Highland Lake was a feast for the senses, with each dish expertly crafted and bursting with flavor. It's no wonder that this restaurant has earned such a stellar reputation—the meal really was memorable, and one that any foodie would be lucky to experience.

After dinner we headed to sunset at one of the best views in the entire state: Jump Off Rock. Jump Off Rock is a popular tourist destination and it's easy to see why. The rock itself is a large outcropping that juts out from the side of a mountain, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, visitors can see for miles in every direction, with rolling hills and lush forests stretching as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, it's even possible to see three different states — Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee — from the top of Jump Off Rock.

With another busy day in the books it was time to retreat back to the B&B. Overall, our stay at the Bed & Breakfast On Tiffany Hill was nothing short of magical. From the warm welcome to the beautiful surroundings, every detail was perfect, and we felt truly pampered and cared for during our time there. We highly recommend this charming B&B to anyone looking for a relaxing and luxurious getaway in the mountains of North Carolina.

Our final day, we ate another delicious breakfast and then said our goodbyes to our new friend Selena at Tiffany Hill. Then it was time for one last stop to explore the downtown a little more and snap some photos!

Downtown Hendersonville is a charming and vibrant area, with a bustling main street lined with cool shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Strolling through the streets of downtown is like taking a step back in time, with historic brick buildings and quaint storefronts that harken back to the town's early days. Our favorite stops were Mast General, Woodlands Gallery, Willow Hill Soap Company, O.P. Taylors Toy Store, and the Appalachian Pinball Museum. There are so many unique boutiques and antique shops to peruse and pick up handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans. There’s also a variety of restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. Mike’s On Main, Postero, and the Blue Ridge Beer Garden were places we enjoyed.

Hendersonville is not just a town that you simply visit as an aside on your trip to Asheville or any other nearby destination—it is the destination all on its own, and one that is well worth savoring. From the moment you arrive in Hendersonville, you'll be struck by its friendly locals, vibrant culture, and picturesque scenery. Whether you're visiting the quaint shops and cafes that line Main Street, taking in a show at the historic Flat Rock Playhouse, exploring the many trails, peaks, and waterfalls nearby, or simply relaxing on the porch of your cozy bed and breakfast, you'll find that Hendersonville offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.