Few experiences are as romantic as a stay in the scenic Western North Carolina mountains during peak fall foliage. Considered one of the best weekend getaways in the South, this region is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, offering the perfect break from the rush of everyday life. With sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a couple’s getaway near Asheville combines breathtaking scenery with endless opportunities to explore, making it an ideal destination for a fun and memorable escape.
There is an incredible variety of things to do in Western North Carolina year-round, but the region is awe-inspiring in the fall. Spend your days wandering through charming small towns like Saluda, filled with unique shops, art galleries, and welcoming cafés. For those who love the outdoors, the region is rich with opportunities for adventure, from hiking trails that showcase the brilliant fall foliage to scenic drives that wind through the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. Seasonal festivals add even more to the experience, celebrating everything from local crafts to mountain music.
With its blend of culture, nature, and small-town charm, a weekend getaway from Atlanta to Western North Carolina is one of the best ways to enjoy the season. That’s especially true when you book the opportunity to unwind at one of the most luxurious Saluda Hotels. Our location is close to the area’s best attractions while still offering the privacy of a peaceful mountain retreat.
With top-tier amenities and warm, thoughtful hospitality, we’re proud to be one of the most memorable weekend getaways in the South. Let us be your home base as you enjoy all the romantic experiences of these stunning mountains. Book your romantic retreat today!
Things to Do in Western North Carolina This Fall
It’s no surprise that our area is considered one of the best weekend getaways in the South. Western North Carolina has it all. Whether you’re on the hunt for vibrant fall foliage, looking to get outdoors, or are ready to explore the food culture of the surrounding towns, including foodie hot-spot Asheville, there are so many great things to do during your fall weekend getaways in the South.
From scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway to evenings spent enjoying live music in charming mountain towns, every moment offers something new to discover. For a couple’s weekend getaway, the quiet mountain views and intimate experiences make this region one of the most romantic fall destinations in the South. It doesn’t matter what brings you to the mountains, but here are a few of our favorite things to do in Western North Carolina in the fall.Â
Fall Activities in Western North Carolina
- One of the best parts about weekend getaways in the south is taking the time to explore quaint mountain towns, including those like Saluda and nearby Hendersonville. These charming communities offer a variety of activities rich in local flavor. Walk the Saluda Art Stroll or attend Hendersonville’s Forest Festival this fall bit a bit of local flavor.
- In just over 30 minutes, you can be in the charming, food-focused city of Asheville, NC. During their fall festival season, you’ll find live music, farmers’ markets, fall art festivals, and their popular beer festival, Highland’s Clawtoberfest. Talk about fun ways to spend weekend getaways in the South!
- If you are looking to get outside during your weekend getaways in the South, the Western North Carolina Mountains are the place to be. With some of the best hiking in North Carolina, including those to the top North Carolina waterfalls, this area is chock-full of the best outdoor activities near Asheville. One of the most popular hikes in Pisgah National Forest is the Graveyard Fields Loop, where you’ll be rewarded with mountain views and a picturesque waterfall. If you’d rather explore on two wheels, the Greenville Watershed offers a scenic ride surrounded by vibrant fall foliage.
- Visiting an apple orchard is a romantic way to take in the cool, crisp air and experience the change of seasons during your weekend getaways in the South. There are many places to go apple picking near Asheville, NC, all of which offer the chance to experience quintessential fall in the mountains!
- Planning to see the vibrant Western North Carolina fall foliage during your time here? While hiking is a wonderful way to experience the season, scenic drives near Saluda can be just as rewarding. Our local stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway is especially stunning in autumn, with fiery reds, oranges, and yellows painting the mountainsides, but just about any mountain road you take will be breathtaking at this time of year.
- The Gorge Zipline is an exhilarating experience for couples who love the outdoors during weekend getaways from Atlanta. Soaring high above the trees, you’ll be surrounded by brilliant fall foliage from a breathtaking perspective.
- One of the most romantic ways to spend time on a couples getaway near Asheville is by sharing an intimate fine dining experience. We’d be remiss not to start by highlighting our own upscale restaurant, Newman’s Restaurant, where farm-to-table cuisine takes center stage. Beyond the inn, the area offers plenty of romantic dining options to explore. Asheville itself is home to several James Beard Award–winning restaurants, including unique Chai Pani, known for its flavorful and authentic Indian street food.
- For the ultimate romantic experience during weekend getaways in the South, spend a relaxing day at our on-site spa. Set on our peaceful property, you and your partner can take it easy with a soothing couples massage or rejuvenating facial.
However you choose to spend your time while visiting Western North Carolina, you’ll find endless opportunities to relax, explore, and reconnect.Â
Stay at One of the Most Romantic Saluda Hotels
If you’re looking for a romantic mountain retreat, our historic Saluda Hotel is the perfect escape. Surrounded by mountain beauty, our hotel has long been recognized as one of the best weekend getaways in the South. Here, you’ll enjoy stunning views, luxurious yet comfortable accommodations, and convenient access to all the wonderful things to do in the area. Whether you choose to relax in our on-site spa or savor a meal in our upscale restaurant, we’re the perfect place to unwind together and reconnect away from the demands of daily life.
Our property features sixteen comfortable guest suites, rooms, and cottages, each individually decorated with antique and modern touches. Soft robes, top-tier bedding, and custom-made bath products help you relax and get cozy in your room. Our delicious breakfast is the best way to begin your day, as you set out to enjoy one of the best weekend getaways in the South. Start your morning with our special blend coffee, followed by a hearty breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients like eggs, bacon or sausage, Austrian crepes, and fresh fruit. For an elevated touch to your morning, don’t miss our Sunday brunch. It’s an experience that can’t be topped.
If you don’t feel like you need to experience the many things to do in Western North Carolina this fall, you don’t have to. Relax and unwind on our property instead. Stroll hand in hand along our private walking trail or curl up by the fire pit and take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. With several common areas to enjoy and views that stretch for miles, we offer the comfort of a true mountain retreat, and certainly one of the most restful weekend getaways in the South.
Let our romantic Saluda Hotel take care of you with warm, friendly hospitality and a peaceful property designed for relaxation. Book your room for your fall getaway from Atlanta today!
