We chose Highlands, NC as our annual fall trip, and what a great decision it was! We drove up on a Sunday, which allowed us to take a few short hikes, which was nice to get out in the fresh air.
Day 1 | Saturday, November 06
Driving into North Carolina, we stopped and hiked at Silver Run Falls (Nantahala National Forest). When made it to Cashiers, which is about 20 minutes east of Highlands, and had lunch at Whiteside Brewing Co, and took advantage of the weather and sat outside. Afterwards, that 20-minute trip took a little longer due to us stopping to hike at Whiteside Mountain National Trail (Nantahala National Forest) in the area, plus coming across Reclamations on the outskirts of Highlands (this store in adorable, and makes me think of SEVERAL shows on HGTV).
Once we arrived in Highlands, we checked into our room at 200 Main, which included unpacking and getting ready for dinner at Midpoint Highlands.
I’m very glad we made reservations this night, as the restaurants seem to get busy for dinner. But all I can say is “WOW”, the food was fantastic, and the ambiance there was very down-to-earth. This restaurant was a great spot for our first night; great atmosphere while still maintaining a casual setting. Plus their deserts are fabulous!
Day 2 | Sunday, November 07
We started off our day hiking of course; we made a quick trip around Dry Falls Trail (Nantahala National Forest, NC), and then hit up Sunset Rock Trail just outside of Highlands, before grabbing breakfast at the Mountain Fresh Grocery, and let me tell you, their breakfast platters are substantial (their mimosas are well worth it as well). I’m very glad our breakfast was more of a brunch. My look consisted of hiking boots, active-style leggings from Old Navy, along with this Simple Solutions Navy Blue Plaid Button Down Top from the Mint Julep Boutique. And this puffer vest was great for hiking in the fall; you can never go wrong with too many layers!
After we finished breakfast, we parked back at the hotel, which wound up being a perfect spot to walk and explore the town. Since I was so full from breakfast, it was nice to be able to window shop at a lot of them (Most of the shops run on hours of 10-17:00). I was fortunate to find some Holiday gifts as well! We also did a short walk to Crystal Pond, where we encountered a Black Bear, which slightly surprised us to see roaming through a neighborhood.
We ended our day with drinks outside at the Wine Tasting Garden, which is part of the Old Edwards Inn & Spa (sister Resort to where we are staying), followed by dinner at Tug’s Proper. Fortunately, we were able to walk in as it seemed to be slower, but I’m also glad to have brought something a little nicer (Loving My Life Pocket Tunic of the Mint Julep Boutique, with black leggings, and Sorel boots. And can’t forget this infinity scarf).
Day 3 | Monday, November 08
This was unfortunately our check-out day. It was nice to get out and enjoy the weather by walking to a breakfast was at a cute spot called the Blue Bike Cafe, before packing up the car to drive home.
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