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Brevard, NC: An Underrated Gem and Basecamp to Asheville
The Perfect Basecamp: A Guide to Brevard, NC
Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and DuPont State Forest lies the charming small town of Brevard, North Carolina. Located about 30 minutes south of Asheville, it makes for the ideal home base to explore all that western North Carolina has to offer. Follow this guide to get the most out of your Brevard getaway!
Outdoorsy Bliss
Brevard’s location within Pisgah National Forest provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Davidson, French Broad, and Mills Rivers offer world-class trout fishing, tubing, and kayaking. Families splash around Sliding Rock, a natural 60-foot slick rock waterslide emptying into a deep pool.
Hikers and mountain bikers delight in nearly 500 miles of trails winding through meadows, along waterfalls, and up rugged terrain. Highlights like Looking Glass Rock, John Rock, and Cedar Rock Mountain deliver breathtaking Blue Ridge views.
Pack a picnic and spend a day in DuPont State Recreational Forest to marvel at waterfalls like Triple Falls, High Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Or enjoy scenic walks around the shores of Lake Toxaway. Whether you love adrenaline-pumping pursuits or leisurely strolls surrounded by nature, Brevard is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Charming Downtown
Between outdoor adventures, be sure to wander the streets of downtown Brevard. Quaint local shops sell everything from home decor and art to outdoor gear and clothes. The charming courthouse square comes alive on Saturdays from mid-March through December during the bustling Transylvania Farmers Market.
Several microbreweries like Oskar Blues Brewery, Brevard Brewing Company, and Ecusta Brewing Company offer craft suds in relaxed taproom settings. And don’t miss a stop for merlot, pinot, and chardonnay at Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards tasting room.
The cozy downtown also offers live music venues, cafes, and restaurants serving up everything from bricks oven pizza to premium steaks. Grab a cone at Dolly’s Ice Cream Shoppe for the sweetest treat while strolling tree-lined streets dotted with historic buildings and murals.
Lodging for Relaxation
Adventure seekers love camping within Pisgah National Forest. Or opt for a restoration-focused stay at many local spas, like The Fields of the Wood or Nantahala Village Spa & Resort. Those traveling with dogs or horses will find pet-friendly accommodations like Connestee Falls Resort.
We’re partial to RV camping and always stay at the Pisgah Forest RV Park and Campground. They are close to everything, offer friendly service and have the most stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Brevard combines the quaint appeal of a mountain village with endless options for outdoor recreation. It’s the perfect home base to experience all of the culture, cuisine, and natural splendor that western North Carolina offers – without being too far from the amenities of bigger cities like Asheville. Plan your next getaway in this charming mountain respite!
