nancdb

Hello, I'm planning a surprise birthday trip for my husband to the Lake Lure area for 5 days starting May 22. Last year was his 60th birthday and I had big family plans made at a chalet with all our children and other family members, but instead I ended up spending a month in the hospital. My husband was my true savior and without him, I wouldn't be here today. I just had another surgery last week, but feel well enough to take him away this year. He loves North Carolina so I've rented a vacation home, but am not familiar with the area. I'm looking for restaurant suggestions within a 40 mile range and also ideas as what to see, what cute towns there are to visit, natural places to see, just any ideas at all. I'm still napping a lot, so haven't done much planning yet. I'd like a special place to take him to dinner with a lake view, if possible. There will be just four of us this year. Thank you. Nancy

cmcfong

That is great news you are feeling better. YOu are coming to a lovely part of North Carolina and there are many regular posters who know the area well. Take a look at the threads on Asheville, Hendersonville, and Black Mountain to get some general ideas about your options.

SAnParis

The best restaurant nearby is the Point of View (located at the end of the Lake & fairly close). For lunch there is a good little deli in Chimney Rock as well. Make sure you meander through Chimney Rock (thetown & the park). We typically pack a picnic lunch and stop alongside the road (anywhere you please), haul everything out to a boulder in the creek & have at least one lunch there. Check out www.chimneyrock.com, www.chimneyrockpark.com & www.townoflakelure.com. Also make sure & take the evening cruise on the boat around the lake. I believe they also have a deal where they will boat you to The Point of View for dinner & boat you back. Black Mt. is also a favorite of ours but you should be able to keep busy in the area you are in. Black Mt. is probably a good 45 minutes away depending on traffic. Since you are pre-Mem. day, it should be pretty good from a traffic standpoint.

nancdb

Thanks so much for the information. I'll make reservations at Point of View. Also, is Saluda a neat town to see? Nancy

SAnParis

Been to Flat Rock & Hendersonville but never Saluda. If I were going to venture that far however, I would hit Asheville or Black Mt. unless you are coming from that direction.