Highlands, NC

A little over two hours outside of Atlanta, in the Appalachian mountains, lies the town of Highlands, North Carolina. With a permanent population of less than 1,000 (it can swell to upwards of 20,000 when you throw in a few tourists) this tiny town is huge on mountain charm.

Kyle and I were lucky enough to escape the Atlanta heat and head to Highlands with some of our very best friends in early August. Thanks to that cool mountain air, we made sure to get outside and enjoy all that Highlands has to offer.

Highlands Country Club is situated directly off Dillard Road and, along with croquet courts and a golf course, offers some pretty spectacular views. As it turns out, croquet, a true gentleman's sport in the sense that one must don their head to toe icy whites, can get a bit ugly. After Kyle and I were hustled by our croquet "novice" friends, we headed downtown for drinks and a delicious lunch at the Old Edwards Inn Wine Garden.

There are many great things to do in Highlands, from shopping on Main Street, to the hikes and waterfalls in the surrounding woods, to a little last minute tree climbing before you have to return to the real world. I highly recommend Mountain Fresh for lunch, drinks, coffee, groceries, etc. And, my favorite little spot in Highlands is The Bistro on Main, part of The Main Street Inn Bed & Breakfast, for a delicious dinner! Kyle and I have even stayed here before when we were in town for a wedding and loved it. *Tip: Sit on the patio and enjoy a pitcher of the Berry Lemonade...maybe even spring for the vodka sidecar!