Mountains are calling, and it’s time to go

A view from the slopes of Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. (Dreamstime/TNS)
A view from the slopes of Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. (Dreamstime/TNS)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Some of us need an escape from our pandemic-style routines.

Charlotte, North Carolina, is located between several mountain towns just hours outside of city limits, such as Asheville and Blowing Rock. Could you use a getaway? Well, pack your bags and grab your mask; the mountains are calling, and you could use a breather. Read more to see five mountain getaways all within a few hours of each other.

Pro-tip: Before your trip, take a look at Count On Me NC to plan your outings more safely during COVID-19. Visit countonmenc.org.

UNWIND IN A ROMANTIC A-FRAME CHALET OUTSIDE OF BOONE

Chalet Shiloh is a romantic and modern Scandinavian A-frame chalet 10 minutes outside of downtown Boone. Watch the sun descend behind a view of Grandfather Mountain, unplug and unwind by the outdoor fire pit, take a soak in the jetted tub or hike along the famous Profile Trail nearby. Bookings are available through July and can be made using Airbnb.

Chalet Shiloh’s host is committed to Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process, according to Airbnb’s website.

Cost: $194/night (fees not included)

GET COZY INSIDE A RUSTIC TWO-STORY COTTAGE

Located in Asheville is Gashes Fluss Haus, a 100-year-old cottage. This cozy home features whitewashed stone walls and a wood-burning stove for a weekend of relaxation. Enjoy your getaway surrounded by nature or take a quick drive to downtown West Asheville for to-go beers at local favorites like One World Brewing. The Blue Ridge Parkway is also minutes away if your adventurous side needs attention. Want to book your next getaway at Gashes Fluss Haus? Head to Airbnb for booking information.

Gashes Fluss Haus’ host is committed to Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process, according to Airbnb’s website.

Cost: $120/night (fees not included)

FIND BIG ADVENTURES IN THIS 399-SQUARE-FOOT TINY HOUSE

Minutes away from adventure, Tiny House Big Adventures is located between Boone and Blowing Rock on Appalachian Ski Mountain. You can enjoy the outdoors and cozy up near the custom-made wood- burning fireplace chimney beside the home’s flagstone courtyard. Or kick back in the new outdoor hot tub with a local beer from Appalachian Mountain Brewery and enjoy a night under the stars. Guests can book any of Blue Ridge Mountain Rental homes on blueridgerentals.com or by calling 800-237-7975.

Cost: $105/night (fees not included)

SPLURGE AT THE OMNI

In Asheville is the well-known Omni Grove Park Inn. This spring, the Omni is introducing a new package called America’s Favorite Drive. This package includes overnight accommodations, breakfast and a Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner. Additionally, the Refresh Your Outlook package has day and overnight options to turn hotel rooms into an office for the day. Enjoy amenities like an 18-hole golf course, subterranean spa and award-winning food and beverage programs. Guests can book their next vacation online.

Cost: Nightly rates start at $219. The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville offers discounts and package deals online.

ENJOY PEACE AND QUIET AT THE BARN

The Barn near the Blue Ridge Parkway is a peaceful getaway in Weaverville. The farmhouse-style home features vibrant hardwood floors, live-edge furnishings and country- chic decor. The Barn is also about 10 minutes from quaint restaurants and shopping in Weaverville. To book, head to Airbnb’s site.

The Barn’s host is committed to Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process, according to Airbnb’s website.

Cost: $146/night (fees not included)

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