5 Reasons to visit Asheville during Christmas

Are you need of a quick winter getaway for a little holiday cheer? Here are five reasons why you should visit Asheville, North Carolina this Christmas season.

5. Christmas decorations

Downtown Asheville is always cute, but you can't beat this town during Christmas. Think traditional small town meets Appalachian charm! There are lights and garland and wreaths strung up all along the town. Biltmore Village specifically is about as charming as it gets.

Oh and while you're here, why not get the ultimate Christmas decoration- a fresh cut Christmas tree!

4. All the chocolate goodness

No stop in Asheville would be complete for the chocolate-lovers dream: The French Broad Chocolate Lounge. Whether you're in the mood for gelato, cake, macaroons, cookies, or a drinkable truffle...there is soemthing for every chocolate lover here. Grab your mittens and be prepared to wait in line but oh it's oh-so-worth the wait.

Extra bonus: they have gluten free and dairy free options! Yes!

3. Gingerbread galore

The National Gingerbread Competition is held at the Grove Park Inn every year (going on 25+ years now). It's an amazing competition where talented artists from across North America showcase what they can do with gingerbread and boy, is it mind blowing. It's a spectacular showcase of talent and imagination.

Stop by the 10ft x 10ft gingerbread house in the lobby of the Grove Park Inn for a cup of ooey gooey hot chocolate and your own gingerbread man to munch on!

2. A time to reflect and unwind

As this holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the holiday hustle and bustle and miss the true meaning of Christmas. Asheville offers some great places to stop, relax, reflect and unwind. Whether you want to bring a book and sit by a roaring fire, take a yoga class, sip a cafe in a quiet coffeehouse, or take a refreshing nature walk, Asheville is the spot for you.

Bonus: Liberty House Coffee and Cafe is a cute little spot to read a book and sip an almond milk latte

1. The Ultimate Christmas tree

Probably my most favorite part of Asheville during the Christmas season: The Biltmore. I'm a sucker for all things European influenced, old fashioned and charming and the Biltmore Estate takes the cake for all three! The immaculately decorated rooms, the flickering candlelight, the romantic music that drifts from room to room... it is the most exquisite experience. Of course, the shining star in her Christmas display is the live 30+ ft. fraser fir tree that adorns the dinning room like a proud father.

Bonus: Looking for a taste of Christmas? Book a Christmas tea at the Biltmore Inn. Have a lovely four course tea while overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains and inhaling the fresh aroma of pine and cinnamon. You won't be disappointed!