Ashville, North Carolina

Ashville's history is a rich and varied as the people who have called this fantastic destination home. Once a remote outpost at the crossroads of local American Indian trade routes, the area around Ashville was frequented by the likes of Daniel Boone, Davy Crockett, and other well-known frontiersmen who called these North Carolina mountains home. In the late 1800's the railroad came to Ashville and changed the region forever. Bringing visitors from throughout the United States to this majestic mountain getaway, Ashville grew rapidly and became a popular escape for persons of all backgrounds.

Along with the railroad, wealthy philanthropist George Vanderbilt made his way to Ashville and quickly purchased more than 100,000 acres of beautiful mountain property to build his estate. Six years of hard work and imagination culminated in the completion of the most popular of America's castles. The Vanderbilt estate is one of the top tourist attractions in Ashville drawing thousands of guests each year.

Other notables who called Ashville home include American author Thomas Wolfe. The son of a boardinghouse owner, Thomas Wolfe is responsible for some of the greatest works in American literature. His most famous work, "Look Homeward, Angel", even uses Ashville as its setting. Another popular attraction in Ashville is the historic home of American poet Carl Sandburg. His home is open daily to visitors.

Of course, Ashville is known for more than just its famous philanthropists and authors. With the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding this pristine location, Ashville has many activities for visitors of all ages. The town proper is filled with art galleries, mom and pop shops, and plenty of restaurants. Visitors who enjoy the great outdoors will find solace on one of the many hiking trails and recreation parks. With a variety of terrain for enthusiasts of all ages, the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a great escape from the bustle of city life.

The weather in Ashville changes with the seasons. With summer days struggling to reach the mid-70's, a fall that provides beauty and cooler weather, enjoyable, snow filled winters, and budding springs, Ashville has great weather for all seasons. It is a sure thing that visitors will find no shortage of activities to top off this fantastic vacation.