Asheville -- looking for relaxing itineraries
 

My husband gave me a trip to Asheville for several days, as a surprise, and I've just hurt my knee, so will be limited in what I can do. I am able to get around slowly, but nothing too strenuous. I don't want to miss getting up into the Blue Ridge Mtns., but will need very easy walks, and I'm sure there will be no problem finding beautiful spots. Are there any particular favorites that will also be easy to navigate?

In addition, if there are favorite spots in town, I'd appreciate hearing about them, as I didn't get enough notice to plan for this myself.

Thanks!

TTT - I am hoping to get the same info. Anyone?

I don't have the books w/me here at work but there are several out there that will give you the detail you need to determine what may or may not be a doable hike. I have used them in the past when my kids were small (particularly if I was carrying one of them). I would recommend hitting the bookstore when you arrive or better yet an REI or other 'gear store' & they should be able to point you in the right direction. Many easily accessible places on the Parkway as well.

I can't answer your questions about hiking, but I can give some recommendations for restaurants. In town, I'm a fan of Salsa, Early Girl Eatery, and Tupelo Honey. In Biltmore Village, La Paz and the Corner Kitchen.

Short distance down the parkway from Asheville is Moses Cone Memorial Park which has a visitor center and number of carriage trails which you can walk. Nearby is Julian Price Memorial Park which has a nice mostly flat trail around the lake. www.nps.gov/blri for additional info.

Grandfather Mountain has a number of hiking trails, wildlife habitats and a mile high swinging bridge. www.grandfather.com for more info.

The highest point east of the Mississippi River is Mt Mitchell State Park which is accessed off the parkway.

If you like old fashion shopping check out Mast Store in nearby Valle Crucis www.mastgeneralstore.com/valle_crucis.cfm

Thanks for the info. Our trip was wonderful. We were fortunate that the weather cooperated. I found some artwork in a gallery in Biltmore Village, and loved Corner Kitchen, which is where we had my birthday dinner. Applewood B&B provided a pleasant stay, and I was happy to discover some local history nearby. We visited O. Henry's grave which was just a few blocks from our B&B. In addition to Corner Kitchen, we loved our lunch at Twelve Bones. The ribs there were incredibly moist and tender, literally falling off the bones. We did make it to the top of Mt. Mitchell, ,which provided some beautiful views, as did pretty much the whole drive along the Blue Ridge Pkwy. Before heading for home, we did stop in the Mast store, which brought back some childhood memories.

Thanks again for the suggestions.