If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway wrapped in vibrant color and cool mountain air, fall in North Carolina is the perfect excuse to pack your bags. The western part of the state, with its rolling hills and scenic overlooks, sets a breathtaking stage for couples to reconnect and recharge. From early October through mid-November, the region comes alive with spectacular displays of North Carolina fall colors across the Blue Ridge Mountains. This season invites you to slow down, explore the outdoors, and enjoy everything that makes autumn in the mountains so unforgettable.
There are countless ways to take in the beauty of fall in NC, whether you’re winding through the Blue Ridge Parkway fall colors, wandering through charming mountain towns like Saluda, or heading out on one of many fall hikes in North Carolina. Places like Graveyard Fields, Looking Glass Rock, and DuPont State Forest offer incredible trails paired with sweeping views and waterfalls. Scenic drives and invigorating mountain hikes are just the beginning. Local apple orchards, craft breweries or wineries, fall festivals, and cozy boutiques offer plenty to explore when you’re not on the trails.Â
The only other thing that can make your fall in North Carolina an unforgettable adventure is a stay at The Orchard Inn and Spa, the best mountain retreat near Asheville for couples. Perched above the valley with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, this historic inn offers a private and peaceful place to unwind. Guests enjoy cozy rooms and private cottages, an onsite spa, a forested trail perfect for morning walks, and unforgettable meals at Newman’s Restaurant, the inn’s fine dining experience. For anyone looking to enjoy the magic of North Carolina in the fall with the one they love, our Boutique Inn is the place to be. Book your fall getaway today!
Experience the Best of Fall in North Carolina
There’s no denying that fall in North Carolina is one of the most beautiful times to explore the western mountains near Asheville. This corner of the state delivers unforgettable views, and mountain towns like Saluda offer just the right mix of charm and adventure to help you enjoy the best of this colorful season. If you’re wondering when does fall start in North Carolina, expect to see the first pops of color in late September at higher elevations, with peak foliage typically arriving by mid-October and lasting into early November.
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the magic of North Carolina’s fall colors. From the moment you arrive at our romantic mountain getaway, you’ll be surrounded by rich autumn hues and crisp mountain air. Whether you’re sitting on the porch with a glass of wine or taking a walk on the inn’s private trail, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of fall in NC. The views stretch across the valley and up toward the ridgelines, giving you a front-row seat to the season.
Of course, if you’re looking to take in even more of the stunning fall colors in North Carolina, there are plenty of scenic spots nearby worth visiting. The western North Carolina mountains are filled with unforgettable ways to enjoy this short but spectacular season, and below, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite recommendations to enjoy North Carolina in the fall.
- One of the most memorable ways to experience fall in North Carolina is by heading out on a hike. There’s something grounding about walking through the woods as leaves crunch beneath your feet and golden light filters through the trees. There are endless fall hikes in the Western North Carolina mountains, but some favorites include Craggy Gardens, just north of Asheville; Pearsons Falls in Saluda; and the Dupont State Forest, filled with gorgeous waterfalls and unbeatable scenery during the fall in North Carolina.Â
- If you’d rather take in the views from behind the wheel, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a classic choice. Known for its dramatic overlooks and scenic pull-offs, it’s one of the most beloved routes for catching North Carolina fall colors. Other scenic drives near Saluda include the Pacolet River Scenic Byway, the twisting climb up White Oak Mountain past Shunkawauken Falls, and the quiet, curving roads of the Green River Gorge.
- For couples looking to add a little excitement to their leaf-peeping, Green River Adventures in Saluda offers a high-flying treetop zipline tour that lets you glide through a canopy of colors this fall in North Carolina. You can also paddle through the Green River Gorge for a more immersive way to see the landscape shift into peak fall glory.Â
- Prefer something more grounded? Visit one of the most stunning waterfalls in North Carolina. From the popular Pearson’s Falls to other hidden gems, you’re sure to love these unique views of fall in North Carolina
- Stroll hand-in-hand through historic Main Street in downtown Saluda, discovering quaint shops and intimate cafes, all surrounded by the unbeatable beauty of fall in North Carolina.
- North Carolina in the fall also offers fantastic opportunities for wine tasting. Head into the Tryon Foothills Wine Region and enjoy a day sipping and swirling your way through the area’s best wineries.
- Participate in fun fall events, such as the Hendersonville Apple Festival, a seasonal celebration that features apple picking, local crafts, live entertainment, and an abundance of vibrant fall colors.
- Head to the Tryon International Equestrian Center for one of its many fall events, from live music to signature equestrian events. The center is also a wonderful place to enjoy fall in North Carolina. Don’t miss the chance to walk through the fall colors on its trails!
- Head into Asheville for the day and tour the incredible Biltmore Estate. It’s always a magnificent destination, but it’s truly breathtaking when surrounded by fall colors.
- Indulge in a great dinner at Newman’s Restaurant in Saluda. Our restaurant sits in the heart of the North Carolina mountains and offers an unparalleled opportunity to surround yourself with the best of North Carolina in the fall, all while indulging in one of the best farm-to-table dining experiences near Asheville.Â
The Most Romantic Mountain Getaway Near Asheville
There are far more things to do in Western North Carolina in the fall, and you can experience the best of it by staying with us at our secluded mountain retreat near Asheville, NC. Set high above the valley in the peaceful mountain town of Saluda, this historic inn provides couples with a refined yet relaxed retreat to unwind and reconnect. With the Blue Ridge Mountains fall colors stretching out in every direction and cozy accommodations designed with comfort in mind, the setting feels tailor-made for autumn escapes.
The guest experience at The Orchard Inn goes far beyond just a beautiful view. You can take a quiet morning walk on the private trail, book a couples massage at the spa, and enjoy an incredible dinner at Newman’s Restaurant, where seasonal flavors and mountain scenery come together in one unforgettable evening. Whether you’re watching the leaves turn from the porch or heading out for a day of fall activities near Asheville, every moment feels intentional and unhurried.
This fall, let the magic of North Carolina come to life at one of the state’s most romantic mountain getaways. With exceptional hospitality, scenic beauty, and a location that puts you close to the best of fall in North Carolina, there’s no better place to stay near Asheville. Book your stay today!
