Dry Ridge Inn

The first thing you notice about the Dry Ridge Inn is how quiet and serene it is. The grounds welcome you upon arrival, the trees peeking out into the gravel parking lot and the vast grassy expanse invites you to sit down a spell. The Inn itself was built in 1898 and the house has excellent bones. The front sitting room is bathed in soft light and soothing classical music wafts in from the decorative wallpapered walls. The dining room opens onto a babbling Brook and small waterfall, and the splashing water calms even the most anxious soul. The Amanda Rose room, where we stayed, is a second-floor oasis, with the most comfortable king-sized bed I have ever had the pleasure to sleep in. There is reading material everywhere, comfortable armchairs, a settee, and of course modern conveniences like a refrigerator. But the clawfoot-type tub is a delight, and the wood floors are classic and rich with stories of previous travellers. What has this room seen and heard? Take a swing on the porch, as we did every evening, and listen to the birds. Or take a walk into Weaverville's Main Street, right out of a historical film about the joys of small town America. Have a luxurious dinner at the Glass Onion, or a heaping helping of bonhomie at Blue Mountain Pizza, while marveling at how welcoming and friendly, how down to earth and unpretentious everyone is. The peaceful vibe hums underneath everything, in the background, like a soft current. Then stroll back to the Dry Ridge Inn and spend time in the welcoming presence of Howard and Kristen, the innkeepers. Friendly in spades, they make you feel at home in their inn, while still allowing you time to discover Weaverville's many charms for yourself. The breakfasts are replete with fresh fruit, yogurt and sensible dietary choices - Kristen and Howard listen to your needs and requests, and the breakfasts get your day started right. The days in Weaverville unfurl into the best of small-town North Carolina, with the attractions of Asheville only a short drive away. Walk around Lake Louise, if you like, or simply gaze at the trees and the gentle breeze. Weaverville, as a mountain village, is cooler than the city and many times more quaint and quiet. Here you can actually hear yourself think. I have stayed at dozens of B&Bs over the years, always eschewing the ersatz flimsiness, the numbing, noisy mirage, of chain hotels. And yet, even among the rarefied air of historic bed and breakfasts, set in Victorian homes of all vintages, our four days at the Dry Ridge Inn were the most relaxing, picturesque and pleasant days I have had since, well, maybe ever. Have a stay at the Dry Ridge Inn, say hello to Howard and Kristen for me, and you'll see what I mean. This place is truly memorable - special in every way, like a treasure tucked in the western North Carolina mountains.

From the breezy porch to one of several tidy, appointed rooms, this inn has enough southern old- world charm to render anyone into a more relaxed state. Howard and Kristen are the consummate hosts, offering local travel tips, historical stories of the city and the inn itself, along with anecdotes on The Beatles if you ask. They waft in with 4-course breakfasts each morning that leave you satisfied until dinner, while you ponder the moment facing a view of trickling waters over rocks and foliage out the opened french doors. You remember the creaking timbers as you walk the floors, taking in the books, DVDs, photos and ornamentals on display.Tucked in corners and personal fridges you find complimentary drinks and snacks to indulge in. When it's time to go out into Blue Ridge adventures, you look forward to coming back at the end of day to this cozy nest retreat. When it's time to leave for a red- eye, you think how and when to go back! Gratitude.

We stayed at the Dry Ridge Inn May 19-24. What a find! Howard and Kristen are a lovely couple and have created a peaceful, comfortable inn in Weaverville. Kristen's breakfasts are to die for, combining fruit, juice, a main course, and coffee or tea. We never needed lunch after her breakfast! Howard is a wealth of information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Bil**ore, Asheville, and, of course, Weaverville. If you have a place you want to go in the area, Howard will get you there! Though the room (Ours was Allie) was comfortable, well-appointed, and quiet, the best thing I liked about the Dry Ridge Inn was the front porch. As the guests were coming back from a day of touring, they would linger on the front porch. There was plenty of seating, and over a nice glass of wine, we would talk. It was so nice to get to know all of the guests, especially after the two years we have had! Will we be back? Absolutely!

Travel back in time and stay in a historic home with a lovely ambience in Weaverville, NC (only minutes from Asheville.) Our room was very clean and comfortable. Breakfasts were delicious and beautifully presented. The hosts were friendly and helpful. I highly recommend The Dry Ridge Inn!

The Dry Ridge Inn is our favorite place to stay when visiting our son at college in Mars Hill. We can't wait for our next visit this coming fall. The rooms are warm and comfortable and the hosts are very hospitable.