Highlands, NC Attractions
Roam Outside the Lines
Dive into days of exciting outdoor adventure and starlit evenings of relaxed sophistication. Wander scenic trails, paddle across serene Apple Lake, and explore the local art galleries. Whether you stay in and enjoy a day by the pool or brave a zipline, every activity invites you to reconnect with the part of you that knows just how to let go.
Paddleboarding
Drift across peaceful Apple Lake on a paddleboard, soaking in the gentle sounds of nature right outside your front door.
Canoeing
Gently paddle across our serene pond, surrounded by lush forest views, and reconnect with tranquility just steps from your room.
Hiking
Discover peaceful, marked trails that invite leisurely strolls and energizing hikes through Highlands' lush forests and majestic mountain scenery.
Biking
Borrow a bike and explore winding trails that meander through scenic mountain landscapes, charming country roads, and picturesque forest paths.
Fishing
Fish off our private dock, glide quietly along Apple Lake on a canoe, or explore nearby streams filled with trout and teeming with serenity.
Serenity Spa
Indulge in restorative massages and luxurious treatments infused with garden botanicals, either in our cozy spa room or your own suite.
Fire Pit
& S’mores
Wrap up in a cozy blanket, sip your favorite cocktail, and roast marshmallows under the stars overlooking tranquil Apple Lake.
Board Games
& Puzzles
Gather by the fireplace in our charming Main House or at the Garden House to enjoy classic board games and puzzles, perfect for leisurely afternoons indoors.
Seasonal Pool
& Year-Round Jacuzzi
Relax poolside or join Saturday morning yoga amid landscaped gardens, cascading water features, and tranquil views of the surrounding woodlands.
Two Private Golf Courses
EXCLUSIVELY FOR MEMBERS & HOTEL GUESTS
Play the region’s most scenic rounds at Old Edwards Club and GlenCove, where impeccably maintained fairways and sweeping mountain views deliver a golf experience that’s consistently challenging and undeniably rewarding.
Whiteside Mountain
Hike to the top of this ancient peak in the Nantahala National Forest for a relaxing day trip highlighted by inspiring views.
Sunset Rock
Watch the sun go down and the stars come out at this beautiful outdoor destination that overlooks the village and mountains.
Highland Excursion
Adventure Awaits! Unique, back-country tours bring you to spectacular rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and mountain vistas on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Custom Tours and Group Discounts Available!
The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts
Explore galleries filled with world-class art, wander the sculpture and nature trail and enjoy hands-on arts programming.
Highlands Performing Arts Center
From live music and opera productions to family shows and dinner theater, this cultural center offers something for everyone.
Highlands Playhouse
During theater season, attend a play produced and performed by a local theater group, or catch a movie if you’re in town during the off season.
Waterfalls
Western North Carolina is home to numerous beautiful waterfalls. Some are visible from roadways, and some are so well hidden that few even know they exist.
Highlands Aerial Park
Zip through the Appalachian canopy with mountaintop zipline tours, the Brave Indian Zipline for the young ones, the Family Challenge Course, the Giant Swing, and more.