A Return To Paradise
Our favorite destinations in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina, plus some amazing coastal escapes you'll want to experience in 2025.
3288 Sherman Drive, Lancaster, SC $1,100,000.
Exclusively offered by Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. Listing Advisor - Ashley Horton
works of renowned artists and brothers Einar and Jamex de la Torre on display at the Mint
Palm Beach Lunch 48x48 Oil on Canvas
Rosemary Rendezvous 48x48 Oil on Canvas
Banana Daiquiri Kinda Day Oil on Canvas 48x36 in
Home & Design
A Cottage-Style Kitchen
A gorgeous space designed by Michelle McKoy. 62
A Soothing Sitting Area
Beautiful neutrals and an expansive outdoor view combine at this Arcadia home. 64
A memorable dining room from Cate Gutter.
A glam interior by Beth Keim.
Lowcountry Getaway
Tasteful vacation rentals on Kiawah and Seabrook Islands.
A Spring Getaway In Sylva What to do, where to stay, and where to eat in a wonderful mountain town.
Sand, Sea, and Sky
A beloved North Carolina resort, The Sanderling, unveils a luxury transformation this spring. ACCOMMODATIONS • TOWNS • ADVENTURES
WE DRIVE CHARLOT TE
Carolina Comeback
Your guide to visiting some of our favorite Western Carolina towns in 2025. 90 Healing WAters
Your guide to chasing beautiful waterfalls in the Carolina mountains. 94 A Slow Drive In The Lowcountry
A journey through coastal South Carolina from Murrells Inlet to Bluffton.
Segrelles Barcelona, Spain
55” X 43”
Craig Alan, Motivo, oil on canvas, 48” x 60”
No. 111
PUBLISHER'S
NOTE
Mint Museum Uptown at Levine Center for the Arts | 500 South Tryon Street | Charlotte, NC 28202 704.337.2000 | mintmuseum.org | @themintmuseum
There’s something extra special about putting together our annual Travel Issue— an edition dedicated to celebrating the places and experiences that make the Carolinas so unforgettable. From vibrant art scenes to must-visit restaurants and stunning design, this issue is packed with fresh inspiration for your next adventure.
In our Arts & Culture section, we showcase the bold, dynamic work of artist Tina Alberni, an inspiring exhibition at ANFA Gallery, and the creative energy coming out of Charlotte Studio Artists. Plus, we explore heath and wellness at Mint Hill Orthodontics.
When it comes to Food & Drink, we taste the bold and playful offerings at Pie.Zaa and the refined cocktails at Chief's Cocktail Bar. Then, we savor standout dishes from Spice and Marina's Tapas, and raise a glass to the artful cocktail creations from The Jimmy and MaBi — two places making their mark on Charlotte’s culinary scene.
Our Home & Design section is all about inspired spaces, featuring the thoughtful craftsmanship of Westwood, beautiful spaces from Arcadia, the fresh perspective of Cate Gutter, and a stunning design led by Michelle McKoy.
In our Travel section, we take you beyond the city to explore exceptional escapes. We spotlight the luxury vacation offerings from ESPM Vacation Rentals, discover the mountain charm of Sylva, NC, and visit the iconic Sanderling Resort, where the beauty of the Outer Banks meets true relaxation.
And don’t miss our travel Exclusives. This issue takes you on a journey back to the breathtaking landscapes of Western North Carolina, explores hidden waterfalls, and much more. We wrap the issue up with a Lowcountry coastal tour filled with unforgettable views and timeless small towns.
This edition is a celebration of creativity, adventure, and the spaces that inspire us to explore more deeply. We hope it leaves you ready to pack a bag — and discover the Carolinas. Enjoy every page, and until next time… PEACE!
Sincerely,
Jon-Paul Grice, Art Director
Brett Barter, Publisher
ANNIE LEIBOVITZ / WORK is generously presented in Charlotte by Truist. Individual sponsorship is kindly provided by Jennifer and Alex Bauer, Mary and Walter Beaver, Hillary and Fairfax Cooper, Laura and Mike Grace, Jill and Mark Kelly, Noelle and Mark Mahoney, Staci and Jeff Mills, Mary and Dick Payne, Beth and Drew Quartapella, Mary Anne (M.A.) Rogers, Kati and Chris Small, Leigh-ann and Martin Sprock, Ann and Michael Tarwater, and Charlotte and John Wickham. The Mint Museum is supported, in part, by the City of Charlotte and the North Carolina Arts Council. ANNIE LEIBOVITZ / WORK is organized by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas. IMAGE: Annie Leibovitz, Bruce Springsteen on tour, Paris, 2016. Photo courtesy of the artist ©Annie Leibovitz.
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CULTURE
ARTISTS
• GALLERIES • STYLE • WELLNESS
Art to Embody
Tina Alberni’s upbringing spanned oceans. Born in New York, she moved with her family to Puerto Rico before later settling in Bogotá, Colombia. “Growing up in Bogotá was a colorful, multifaceted experience shaped by the contrasts of joy and tragedy, beauty and ugliness, privilege and poverty,” recalls Alberni.
words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos courtesy TINA ALBERNI
Artist Tina Alberni gives form.
WWhen she was six, her mother set up an easel outside and carefully poured the vibrancy of the surrounding flowers, trees, and mountains onto a canvas, transforming it from blank to brilliant, empty to alive. Alberni watched, fascinated, until her mother handed her a pint-sized canvas and some oil paint. At that moment, she created her first painting. Thus began her exploration of art making, which would give her the means to process, occupy, and express the contrasts and complexities of life that she first witnessed during her childhood abroad.
Alberni moved back to the U.S. to attend college, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education with a focus in printmaking, all the while learning valuable lessons on “trusting the process, exploring layers, and appreciating repetition” that would continue to resonate throughout her artistic career. After graduating, she taught middle and high school art classes for 15 years, running a
small graphic design business on the side while also dabbling in abstract figurative mixed media drawings in her spare time.
When she and her husband relocated to Charlotte in 2007, she devoted herself to making and curating art full time.
A Diverse Portfolio
Pivotal projects in Alberni’s portfolio include a series of vibrant geometric paintings exploring the contrast between technological connectivity and human disconnection that she created over the course of six years. Soon after, Alberni began to combine organic, abstract, nature-inspired imagery with glass mosaics. Then, in 2018, she started the work that she continues today: paintings, collages, and installations informed and inspired by contemporary issues. “Art’s ability
to inspire reflection and dialogue is unmatched,” claims Alberni. “It reminds us of our shared humanity and the need for empathy, action, and responsibility.”
She classifies herself as a multidisciplinary intuitive artist, which to her means “engaging in a fluid dialogue with materials, embracing versatility, and approaching each project with fresh eyes.” She folds a certain amount of physicality into her process, tying body movement to mark making and, in doing so, grounding the abstract in the corporeal. As such, she often gravitates toward larger scale projects, where this style of creative expression works best.
Regardless of what she’s working on, her creative process typically starts with research that elicits an emotional response. She channels that emotional energy through her body and into her work so that shapes and forms begin to emerge. She layers in texture via pastes,
fibers, and found objects, before finally adding final marks and carving into the underpainting.
Her process and her ever-evolving creative interests yield a diverse portfolio. Nevertheless, her work is unified by an underlying theme: resilience. Alberni suffers from a life-threatening congenital connective tissue disorder called Marfan Syndrome. Throughout the surgeries and the health struggles, she has had to learn how to celebrate her body and embrace its ebbs and flows, allowing it to inform the pace of her life and the nature and volume of her work.
“My artistic rhythm,” says Alberni, “mirrors life’s natural flow — sometimes steady, sometimes unpredictable, but always moving forward.” info colordesignstudio.com @tinas_art_beat
Collidoscope
The works of renowned artists and brothers Einar and Jamex de la Torre on display at the Mint.
words SUNNY HUBLER / photo courtesy MINT MUSEUM
TThis summer, don’t miss Collidoscope, a playful fusion of the words "collision" and "kaleidoscope," at the Mint Museum Uptown.
This show is a celebration of the 30-year creative journey of internationally renowned artists and brothers Einar and Jamex de la Torre.
Collidoscope blends art and culture with themes of identity, religion, politics, and pop culture, offering an immersive experience organized into five thematic sections: Histerical Vignettes, Hybrid Dislocations, Systems and Cycles, Retracollage, and Other Works.
According to the museum, the exhibition is “further enhanced by a curated soundtrack inspired by their creative process, inviting visitors to explore the playful yet profound layers of their work.”
The artists were born in Guadalajara, Mexico and moved to California with their Danish-Mexican mother in 1972, where they began experimenting with glass and later expanded to mixed-media works.
info mintmuseum.org / @themintmuseum
Live Your Story.
Meet Storied Real Estate. With unmatched expertise of Blue Ridge Mountain Club (BRMC)— a private mountain community minutes from Boone and Blowing Rock—the Storied team is committed to reimagining luxury living, curating a real estate experience that creates lasting memories in the High Country. Specializing in homes and homesites at Blue Ridge Mountain Club, we’ll ensure that you will find your perfect escape.
Let us help you craft your story.
Nick Presnell
Ean Faison
NoDa Reincarnated
TThere was a stretch at the turn of the 21st century that many regard as the heyday of the NoDa arts district. The neighborhood was a little rough around the edges, so the cost of housing was just right for scrappy, young artists. Loose communities of local artists grew into an art collective, which produced one of Charlotte’s first (if not the first) bimonthly gallery crawls. Slowly, two blocks on North Davidson Street became NoDa: a grassroots arts district teeming with raw, loosely curated, local creative expression.
In the decades since, the neighborhood (like all neighborhoods) has continued to change: a little less scrappiness and a lot less scruffiness, more polish and palatability, an increase in production and a decrease in oddities. It remains eclectic. And it retains many of its original performance venues, such as the Neighborhood Theatre and the Evening Muse. But its studio spaces have transformed into restaurants, and the
neighborhood’s resident artists have found more affordable places to live.
Enter: Charlotte Studio Artists. Tucked into a one-story building on the Johnston YMCA campus, Charlotte Studio Artists opened its doors in January, providing an art studio and exhibit space by and for the Charlotte area. Stroll down North Davidson Street on a Saturday, and you’ll see a sidewalk sign at the start of the two blocks that comprised the old arts district, inviting pedestrians to visit the CSA.
Inside, art lines a narrow hallway, available for purchase or just appreciation. Each piece ties to a unifying theme, although the artist and the medium very widely. To ensure the gallery space stays fresh, the theme changes every month or so and is announced alongside an open call for submissions, which are judged by a board, which seeks to showcase a diversity of styles and media.
words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos JAMEY PRICE
CSA embodies the spirit of an older arts district.
Doors punctuate the hallway, leading to workshop rooms for community programming, as well as bright studio spaces shared by CSA’s resident artists. Each studio nook displays the work of its artist, so that a viewer might find the oil, acrylic, charcoal, and pastel work of CSA founding member Walter Sanders alongside the chilling doll part assemblages crafted by artist Stephanie Gainer. The juxtaposition is a delightful reminder of the spectrum of creative expression, all the more striking when you stop to consider that this artwork represents just a sliver of creators in the
Most resident artists make a point of being present during public gallery hours on Saturdays. The artists themselves are as different as their artwork; catch them compromising on the music that pipes through the studio’s speakers (the middle ground for a jazz fan and a classic rock enthusiast turns out to be a custom Spotify playlist). Or find them connecting with one another over local lore: a box of bones discovered
The energy and color the artists’ presence brings to the studio space is invigorating, but the connection forged between viewers and artists during open hours on Saturdays is where the CSA really shines. Artists gain unfiltered access to the effect their work has on its audience, while viewers enjoy the singular experience of unpacking the link between creator, creation, and themselves. It’s an intimate, immediate, and deeply personal
A Beautiful Smile Has Never Been Easier
MA visit to Mint Hill Orthodontics.
SUNNY HUBLER / photos DEMI MABRY PHOTOGRAPHY
Mint Hill Orthodontics, conveniently located in downtown Mint Hill, makes having a beautiful smile easy, no matter your age.
You don’t have to limit your lifestyle to have a great smile, either. Dr. Jared Little of Mint Hill Orthodontics has dedicated his practice to guiding patients through their journey for happy, healthy smiles and ensuring you get treatment that travels with you. And for the team at his practice, that starts right at the front door — with making each patient feel comfortable and safe.
Once a patient arrives at their first appointment, Dr. J will answer questions about a myriad of options to find out what works best for each individual. Whether a patient needs Invisalign, tra-
ditional braces or something in between, the care team will be there to walk you through it all.
Dr. J, as he’s affectionately known, often suggests Invisalign for patients that are busy and on-the-go because it’s the most travel-friendly treatment option.
In addition to keeping appointments minimal, the Mint Hill Ortho team can actually customize the appointment interval around long or frequent trips so patients can make continuous progress toward their dream smile.
“There’s no risk of that broken bracket or pokey wire while overseas,” Dr. J explains. “And, there are no food restrictions
words
with Invisalign treatment so you can enjoy the local cuisine without worry. The Invisalign trays simply come out for meals and go back in afterwards. Complimentary travel cases and cleaning tablets help keep our travelers' trays clean and stored safely.”
And, were anything to go awry, Dental Monitoring technology lets patients check in with Dr. J and the team remotely.
Mint Hill Orthodontics takes a patient-centric approach and relies on state-of-the-art treatments. The ability to improve your smile while juggling a busy lifestyle is just one more way they achieve this for patients.
If you want to get started, call the Mint Hill Orthodontics office or reach out via their website to schedule an appointment.
info minthillortho.com @minthillortho
FOOD & DRINK
RESTAURANTS
Cocktail In Chief
New NoDa bar honors family legacy.
“My parents taught me everything I know about hospitality,” says Bob Peters, a Charlotte native and acclaimed mixologist who knows how to make a guest feel at home.
Now, Peters has an opportunity to pay homage to his parents, Chief and Marmee, at Chief’s Modern Cocktail Parlor, which he opened alongside the Built On Hospitality group earlier this year. Peters’ team operates out of a 121-year-old mill home located in the NoDa neighborhood next door to Goodyear House (which is also owned and operated by Built On Hospitality). Inside, guests will find hardwood floors, wood trim, upholstered and leather seating, marble top tables, and table lamps. The design, curated by Delgar Interior Design, evokes the warm aesthetic of Peters’ parents’ home with a few added modern flares. The bar offers indoor seating for 36 guests, in addition to a patio, “Marmee’s Garden,” which is open seasonally.
words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos BLAKE POPE courtesy BUILT ON HOSPITALITY
AAt Chief’s, cocktails take center stage. The drink menu prominently features craft cocktails created by Peters, who has won multiple Best of the Best awards. For example, try his Clarified Malted Milk Punch with Southern Star Bourbon, apple spiced tea, winter spices, orange, lemon, and malted milk. Or, taste his take on espresso martini — the Rise & Grind — which combines espresso-washed Southern Star White Whiskey with sherry and simple syrup. In addition to Peters’ creations, the drink menu also includes classic cocktails for the libation purists.
Alongside beverages, Chief’s offers a snack and dessert menu. Designed by Built On Hospitality partner and executive chef Chris Coleman (whose name may sound familiar from stints at The McNinch House, The Asbury, and Stoke), the snack menu includes playful small plates like Tinned Oysters Rockefeller, Churched Up Chex Mix, and Marmee’s Popcorn with “Tickle Your Throat” BBQ seasoning. Borrowing talent from next door, Chief’s tapped Goodyear House’s pastry chef, Becca Rankin, to develop the cocktail parlor’s dessert menu. Expect sweet tooth indulgences like warm cookies, root beer float, and homemade fudge.
THE QUEEN CITY’S BEST KEPT SECRET
All told, the Built On Hospitality team sees a bright future for Chief’s, which they expect will fill a niche in the neighborhood, much like Goodyear House.
“We think Chief’s will be a welcome and needed addition to NoDa — an elevated yet comfortable space to experience Peters’ delightful cocktails paired with playful small plates, with the charm and history that a restored mill house brings,” says Coleman.
Visit Chief’s Monday through Wednesday 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Thursday and Friday
5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. for an afternoon quench, a pre-dinner indulgence, or an end-of-evening night cap.
info chiefscocktailbar.com / @chiefs_noda
For 19 years
Nestlewood has been specializing in historic urban neighborhoods in and around Charlotte-Plaza
Midwood, Chantilly, Cherry, Cotswold and Myers Park.
Representing buyers, sellers, investors, builders, and developers.
Boutique firm with an emphasis on customer care and consultation, professionalism, and expertise of the entire sales process.
Now, NESTLEWOOD brings that same care and expertise to the mountains, as well as the North and South Carolina coastline.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Paul@nestlewoodrealty.com
SLate Night, Good Pies
New York Style pies in South End at Pie.Zaa.
Step into Pie.Zaa near Wooden Robot in South End and the first thing you’ll notice is the music (it’s loud), and then the vibes (they’re good), and then the smells (mouthwatering) — all in quick succession. What you’re smelling is classic New York City style pizza—thin crust, crunchy mouthfeel, and giant slices—whipped up by a casual eatery with character and counter service.
Owner Tyler Kotch first opened Pie.Zaa in Asheville in 2020. At the time, he was a medical sales professional with no
background in the restaurant business. He put faith in his marketing degree and built a brand that now has a strong following in two cities — Asheville and Charlotte. “Our OG location is in Asheville, NC. After becoming Asheville's premier late-night pizza shop, not only for locals, but also visitors, we decided to start expanding the brand,” explains Kaitlyn Burton, Director of Operations. “Charlotte was the best place to do that because it is still close to our headquarters, but also far enough away that our Charlotte family can enjoy our pizza essentially in their backyard.”
words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos JAMEY PRICE
Both Pie.Zaa locations serve four pizzas at any given time: cheese, pepperoni, sausage and garden, and a rotating monthly special. No matter which pie you order, expect high quality ingredients. Pie.Zaa makes anything they can in house, including their dough, marinara, and dipping sauces. Whatever they can’t make in house, they try to obtain locally. For example, Pie.Zaa partners with The Chop Shop in Asheville to make a signature blend of sausage sourced from pigs in the region. Additionally, they partner with Sweet Girl Cookies based in Charlotte to stock giant cookies, the perfect pairing to a giant pizza slice. And, of course, when you’re operating out of Asheville or Charlotte, local craft beer is a must.
The best part about this edgy eatery might be its hours. Pie. Zaa’s Charlotte location is open until 1 a.m. every night (2 a.m., in fact, on Fridays and Saturdays). Kotch, who worked late hours in his previous jobs, lamented the dearth of late night dining that actually served good food. With Pie.Zaa, he bridged night owl hours with quality nosh, and he did so with a hyperlocal focus. Order at the counter or online for lunch, dinner, second dinner, or something in between.
info piezaapizza.com / @pie_zaa
SPICE'S
Roasted Corn
SPICE Charlotte, an upscale tapas-style restaurant and cocktail lounge in Uptown, has lots of fun small plates inspired by different global cuisines. All are beautifully plated and surprisingly unique, and the restaurant is open late-night to accommodate diners and drinkers who are just getting done
/
with any of Uptown’s offerings, from sports games to theater. I recommend ordering a wide variety of smaller dishes, and including this crowd-pleaser for the table: SPICE’s roasted corn with spicy feta aioli. It’s a lighter bite, with just the right amount of heat and tons of flavor.
— info — spicecharlotte.com / @spice.clt
words SUNNY HUBLER
photo JAMEY PRICE
In 2025, our firm proudly celebrates our 50th anniversary. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey with us. Helen Adams Realty is more than a company—it’s a family, a community, and a legacy. Here’s to the next 50 years of serving you with the same trust, care, and excellence that Helen envisioned in 1975.
MARINA'S TAPAS
Tarta de Queso
SUNNY
Marina's Tapas, Spanish tapas food stall in Optimist Hall, comes from the owners of Customshop. In addition to traditional Spanish tapas, sangria, and Spanish beers, there are a few noteworthy dessert options. Not least among them is the tarta de queso, or Basque cheesecake.
/ photo RYAN
A Basque cheesecake (from the Basque region of northern Spain) is a bit flan-like, lighter than a New York cheesecake and with an intentionally “burnt” top giving it a caramelized flavor. It’s a lightly sweet, creamy dessert that’s hard to find elsewhere in Charlotte so when you see it, scoop it up.
— info — marinastapas.com / @marinastapas
words
HUBLER
ALLEN
VILLAGE life
The Village on Morehead has ushered in sophisticated retirement living in the Queen City. Surrounded by the heritage neighborhoods of Eastover, Myers Park and Dilworth – its impeccable finishes, Aspenwood service detail, dining and resortstyle amenities make it the premier urban address. Impressive, spacious residential floor plans, floor to ceiling windows, expansive terraces allow a new level of indoor-outdoor living. Spaces designed for entertaining, fitness, relaxation and a dedicated team provide a secure, lock and leave lifestyle for members.
Our approach to customized living continues by partnering with an accredited home care provider that serves you in the comfort of your residence. Making things easy, private and reliable when you need on-site health and wellness services. From personal care to therapy – nursing to companionship services, you can rely on a care plan that fits with your needs and schedule.
AN ASPENWOOD COMPANY COMMUNITY
THE JIMMY'S
Tea’s Knees
The Jimmy Pastaria and Pizzeria is the sixth Charlotte restaurant spearheaded by Noble Food & Pursuits. This group is known for its dedication to not only providing a range of excellent cuisine, but also to supporting those in need throughout the community.
As good as the fresh Italian fare is at The Jimmy, the cocktail program is equally robust. One of my favorite orders for an after dinner sipper is the “Tea’s Knees,” a gin-based cocktail with Italicus (a floral Italian liqueur), earl grey tea, and finished with a bit of honey.
thejimmyclt.com / @thejimmyclt
words SUNNY HUBLER / photo THE PLAID PENGUIN
Gerrard Builders Carolina Design Associates Amanda Swaringen Frank Smith
Photographer Michael Blevins
M a B i 'S
Santo Swizzle
MaBí, a new authentic Dominican restaurant in NoDa, serves an array of tropical dishes like empanadas, chicharrones, coconut rice and beans, and more. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly spot with a cocktail program led by talented lo-
cal mixologist Larry Suggs. The Santo Swizzle is a great beverage to start with: It leads with a Brugal Añejo rum, fresh guava and lime and then is finished with mint bitters to round off the fresh flavors.
— info — mabitropical.com / @mabitropical_noda
words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE
HOME & DESIGN
PROFILES • SPACES • FEATURED HOMES
Foundational
Custom homes by Westwood.
Most homeowners who have built a custom home will probably mention how stressful the experience was. There are, after all, a lot of things that can go sideways: ballooning budgets, delayed deliveries, moving timelines. But when a home builder has their team dialed in, their process defined, their standards high, and their priorities service-oriented, the process can be seamless and the product unmatched.
words ELEANOR MERRELL
photos courtesy WESTWOOD by MB PRODUCTIONS, LAURA SUMRAK, DEMI MABRY, CHARLOTTE REAL ESTATE PHOTOS
AAt Westwood, the leadership team — Myles Gordon, Chris Rich, and Brian Fanning — have built over 200 homes in the Charlotte area. As a result, they have the experience and knowledge needed to provide this level of quality to their clients. Gordon started Westwood in 2007. In those early years, he built a handful of homes in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood. Soon, Westwood expanded and, though it remained focused on the Charlotte area, took on all sorts of custom build projects. As the team continued to grow and the projects became increasingly complex, Westwood remained committed to one core tenet of the business: making the process as easy to navigate for clients as possible.
“Our team-focused approach keeps the process organized, simple, and professional from searching for a lot to designing and then closing on the house of your dreams,” explains Chris Rich, Vice President of Development at Westwood. “There's someone to walk you through every step, making the process straightforward and easy.” The team pairs this approach with a dedication to communicate clearly and listen carefully, as well as an online system where clients can track the status of their projects. The effect is an uncommon ability to make the complex feel simple, which is an invaluable advantage in the home building industry.
“If I could drive around with a huge Katherine Hickman bumper sticker on my car, I would. Katherine is hands down the best of the best. From beginning to end, Katherine was incredibly knowledgeable and responsive to our every question and need, and knows this market better than anyone else. She made us feel comfortable and confident and was able to get us above ask with all the terms we had hoped for. Our experience with Katherine and Helen Adams blew us away, and we can't thank her enough for all she has done for us over the past several months.”
EASTOVER HOMES SOLD OVER THE PAST YEAR
Trust is another signature element at Westwood. Among its internal team members, as well as with external partners like vendors, designers, and clients, Westwood cultivates trust by meeting deadlines, delivering outstanding work, and exceeding expectations. They seek the same standards among their associates, as they pursue not only a seamless process but also the highest quality homes.
One particular project where every element of the build process aligned — and a Westwood favorite — was a custom home in the Pellyn Wood area. The client pursued a design filled with unexpected details. For example, the home features two living roofs. Living roofs, also known as green roofs, offer a number of environmental and economic benefits; however, they require careful structural reinforcement given the added weight, which presents a fun puzzle for builders. The architect, at the client’s request, found additional opportunities for originality in the home’s shape, layout, and features, which Westwood then brought to life.
The build was engaging from start to finish and produced a tasteful home of superior quality — so it’s no wonder this project sits near the top of Westwood’s portfolio. It was also quintessentially Westwood, marked by the efficiency, professionalism, and teamwork that is the bedrock of all their builds. info westwoodcharlotte.com / @westwoodclt
A Cottage-Style Kitchen
Designer Michelle McKoy, of Michelle McKoy Designs, brought this sixty-year-old lake cottage in Mooresville to life with a much-needed kitchen remodel. Here, all of the cabinets, appliances, countertops and plumbing were removed to start fresh. While she kept the layout relatively the same, the refrigerator and coffee bar were moved to the opposite side of the space.
To maintain a balance between modern needs and an older home aesthetic, Michelle chose cabinets with
knobs and oversized cap pulls all made of rustic aged brass. The hood and interior of the cabinets are stained in a rich walnut, while the board and batten on the walls and the shiplap and beams on the ceiling add a more modern, custom touch.
The stone is from A Cut Above Stoneworks, the appliances are Ferguson, kitchen cabinets are DCI Resources, and the kitchen hardware is from Bird Decorative Hardware.
words SUNNY HUBLER / photo SERENA APOSTAL
A gorgeous space designed by the talented Michelle McKoy.
A Soothing Sitting Area
Beautiful neutrals and an expansive outdoor view combine at this Arcadia home.
Arcadia Homes is the brainchild of Jeremy Schumacher, the president and managing partner of this Charlotte-based custom home builder. Along with partner AJ Foard, and original founders Mike Salamone and Robby Bowers, Arcadia has been creating stunning custom homes all across the greater area since 1994. This stunning living area is part of a larger project built
by Arcadia with Chris Phelps serving as the architect and Kris Franz of Kristine Designs leading the interior design. Expansive windows, high ceilings, and soft neutral tones create an inviting, soothing atmosphere that can easily accommodate the whole family. The open floor plan helps multiple spaces blend seamlessly together, and the outdoor views are unbeatable.
arcadiahomesinc.com / @arcadiahomesinc
words SUNNY HUBLER / photo MICHAEL BLEVINS
Worldly Design
A memorable dining room from Cate Gutter.
Cate Gutter of CWG believes in working with spaces to guide the design — especially when it comes to making everything beautiful yet practical. She has a multistep process that helps dive deep into clients’ tastes and goals, and this Cotswold project was no different.
The primary goal was to have the home functionally work for the family as well as visually reflect who they are and the memories they have created.
“With two young kids under four and one parent working from home, we focused on creating a space that balanced function and style,” Cate explains. “We used practical, stain-resistant fabrics, cheerful wallcoverings, and elegant lighting to make the home both beautiful and durable. Their
unique art collection adds a personal touch throughout.”
In this dining room, for example, there’s an oil painting of their favorite bar in Paris, La Palette, and a female figure painted in wine from Tuscany.
This beautiful dining room is a blend of traditional southern style layered with surprising contemporary elements, and artfully incorporated decor that speaks to the family. Throughout this project, Cate notes, she and her team blended high-end custom pieces with budget-friendly and family-friendly items to create a space that feels both stylish and practical.
Custom Window Treatments did all the window treatments, painting is by Dehaan Painters and G&L Wallpaper installed the wallpaper here.
words SUNNY HUBLER / photo BAXTER MILLER
Sparkle & Metallic
TThis 4,600 square foot custom build in Davidson has three bedrooms and four baths. An open floor plan fosters a seamless flow between the living room, kitchen, and dining room. Additionally, two home offices, a spacious media room, and a home gym give this house all the trappings of a post-pandemic home: one space where all the essential activities of a busy life can occur.
Owners Chris and Christa Davy built the house at a stage in their lives where the design could foreground their desires and preferences. With older, self-sufficient kids, there was less need to consider stain-resistant fabrics, ultra-durable carpets, or kid-friendly play rooms. The couple contacted designer Beth Keim, owner of interior design studio Lucy and Company to design the interior of this new custom build.
At their initial meetings, Christa Davy brought samples of Keim’s past projects that approached the aesthetic she wanted to introduce into her own home. “What Christa really wanted,” said Keim, “was, as she called it, ‘glam throughout.’” Keim rose to the challenge and, among other things, sprinkled sparkle and metallic elements around the home. “The client was very trusting,” Keim said.
Along the back of the house, a tranquil view of a pond and the Davys’ pool adds natural beauty to the interior. Not wanting to compete visually with those views, Keim strategically exercised restraint in the kitchen, primary living, and dining spaces. She leaned into casual color combinations and simple furnishings.
words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos MEKENZIE LOLI
A glam interior by Beth Keim.
“When the rooms were all installed, they were just as we all had hoped for: cozy, collected, and unique.”
However, in the smaller spaces, Keim pushed the drama. Consider, for example, the geometric wall coverings in the foyer by the front door. Or look to the unique plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, and wallpaper in the half-baths, where Keim’s bold playfulness really stands out. Or consider one of Keim’s favorite rooms: Christa Davy’s office. Here, every element was meticulously selected in order to incorporate a range of patterns that nevertheless feel cohesive, as well as a space where each piece was carefully curated for both its function and its visual interest.
Throughout the home, Keim’s team selected and sourced all the lighting; custom furniture by Josh Utsey and Terry’s;
and wallpapers from Phillip Jefferies, F. Schumacher, and Romo. Other vendors include Made Goods, Arteriors, Noir, and Bernhardt. Many of the home’s biggest statements are driven by artistic selections. Keim worked alongside art curators Jennifer Shreero and Julie Bramble, owners of Collected, to acquire several pieces that either completed or started key room designs.
According to Keim, “When the rooms were all installed, they were just as we all had hoped for: cozy, collected, and unique.”
info lucyandcompany.com / @lucyandcompany
TRAVEL
Lowcountry Getaway
Tasteful vacation rentals from ESPM on Kiawah and Seabrook Islands.
Fwords ELEANOR MERRELL / photos courtesy ESPM VACATION RENTALS
For over 25 years, ESPM has been managing some of the most elite properties in three of the Carolinas’ dreamiest coastal locations: Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island.
Kiawah is one of the Lowcountry’s finest gems. Located just 25 miles southwest of Charleston, this barrier island is home to ten miles of pristine beach; unique habitats teeming with wildlife such as tidal creeks, salt marshes, maritime forests, and the Kiawah River; luxurious spas; and world-class golf courses.
Isle of Palms is one of Charleston’s most beautiful beaches, just about 12 miles from the peninsula. It’s a barrier island with six miles of white, sandy beaches and stunning homes. It’s a peaceful retreat that perfectly embodies vacation vibes.
Seabrook Island is Kiawah’s southwestern neighbor, separated by only the thinnest waterway. Like Kiawah, Seabrook is known for its world-class amenities, lush ecosystems, and uncrowded beaches. Unlike Kiawah, Seabrook is a gated community, accessible only to the island’s property owners, club members, and vacationers renting property. As a result, ESPM provides a key not only to charming rental properties but also, when located on Seabrook, access to the island itself.
ESPM is a premier property management company operating out of the Lowcountry. With an impressively low property to staff ratio, ESPM is able to deliver its three core tenets to both renters and property owners time and time again: reliability, accessibility, and responsiveness.
When a guest arrives at an ESPM property, they will find every detail has been considered- from comprehensive property instructions, helpful area guides, to a welcome package with starter quantities of the stay’s essentials: dish soap, dishwasher detergent, paper towels, laundry detergent, shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Mid-stay housekeeping can be booked directly through ESPM. Plus, the company provides thoughtful concierge services, pointing guests toward the best vendors for beach rentals, grocery delivery, golf tee time reservations, spa services, in-home chefs, and more.
The ESPM property portfolio has been cultivated to suit a range of preferences. Properties range from one to seven bedrooms. Guests can select properties with ocean views or scenic views. Or, they can choose between proximity to the beach and proximity to town. Many properties have private pools and luxury features such as gas cooktops, floor-to-ceiling windows, and jacuzzi bathtubs. Yet other properties are
pet friendly, which helps to ensure that every member of the family is able to enjoy vacation. One of ESPM’s most luscious properties is 38 Surfsong. Located on Kiawah, this seven bed, seven-and–half bath modern palace is a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean, separated from the saltwater and sandy beach only by sand dunes and a private boardwalk. Three stories of balconies face the ocean, bordered by two turrets with wraparound windows. Five of the seven bedrooms enjoy seaside breezes and views. Throughout, the interior is tastefully designed and appointed with amenities of the highest caliber. And the cherry on top? Guests gain access to five championship golf courses and the Kiawah Island Resort Tennis Center.
To find the property that matches your needs and to take the first step toward an unforgettable vacation in the lowcountry, browse ESPM’s rental portfolio at espmvacationrentals.com.
info
espmvacationrentals.com / @espmvacationrentals
Chetola
A Spring Getaway in Sylva
What to do, where to stay, and where to eat in the wonderful mountain town.
JJust east of where the Great Smoky Mountains National Park meets the Nantahala National Forest and a stone’s throw from the lesser-known Panthertown Valley, lies the town of Sylva. Picture a charming downtown nestled in a valley veined by creeks, offshoots of the Tuckaseegee River, where the town’s main street leads straight to a stately two-story public library perched on a hill. That’s Sylva.
The town is home to a small, tight-knit community of people with diverse interests and viewpoints. From outdoor recreation enthusiasts, to artists, to intellectuals attracted by the town’s proximity to Western North Carolina University, to folks who
have called the valley home for generations, Sylva residents have diverse hobbies and views that contribute to a colorful mountaintown culture.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway in a hospitable small town or a charming basecamp for a weekend of outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of reasons to pay Sylva a visit.
What to Do
Embark on a self-directed gallery crawl to Gallery 1 Sylva, JAM Glass Gallery, and Freedom Pavilion to view Sylva creativity at
words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos by JP GRICE
its finest. In the summertime, spend a Friday evening at the Bridge Park for the town’s weekly, seasonal Concerts on the Creek series. Or, if the weather is wet, brewery hop through downtown. Try Innovation Brewing for its covered patio overlooking Scott Creek, Balsam Falls Brewing for its tasty food pairings, and Lazy Hiker for the vibes.
If you’re seeking an outdoor adventure, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re hiking, camping, fishing, tubing, or paddling, you have options. The Tuckaseegee River offers a gentle float by kayak or tube. Tackle the strenuous climb up Pinnacle in Pinnacle Park for gorgeous views, or opt for an easier but no less beautiful destination by driving to the top of Whitewater Falls, which is the highest waterfall east of the Rockies. Reach out to Dillsboro River Company or Tuckaseegee Outfitters for a whitewater rafting adventure you won’t soon forget.
Where to Stay
No matter whether your day is a high-octane whirlwind of outdoor adrenaline rushes or a laidback mosey through downtown, a comfortable place to retreat for the night is a must. The Hotel Sylva offers a simple, clean, comfortable stay right in the heart of downtown Sylva.
Alternatively, the Whistlestop Inn in neighboring Dillsboro offers country elegant rooms in a farmhouse first built in 1878. Or, try a riverfront suite at the Dillsboro Inn. Here, picturesque patios showcase the natural beauty that makes this area so special.
As is the case in many of western North Carolina’s most inviting mountain towns, there are VRBO and Airbnb properties throughout Jackson County for every budget and every family configuration.
What to Eat
Both Sylva and its neighbor Dillsboro have healthy downtowns dotted with local businesses, including restaurants with the kind of charm, character, and heart you can’t find anywhere other than a small town’s main street. Start your day or end your night at White Moon Cafe and Dark Moon Cocktail Bar. For upscale Italian and great cocktails in a thoughtfully designed interior or on an inviting patio, visit Ilda. For a breakfast that will power you through the most strenuous morning, stop by Lucy in the Rye. And for the best Khao Soi maybe in the state, head to Dalaya! Lastly, for Southern classics in a creekside setting, check out the Forager’s Canteen.
Make a trip to Sylva this summer and discover all that makes this western NC town a getaway destination.
info discoverjacksonnc.com @discoverjacksonnc
Sand, Sea, and Sky
The beloved North Carolina resort, The Sanderling, unveils a luxury transformation this spring.
TThe Sanderling Resort, in Duck, is the only full-service resort in the Outer Banks. The resort first opened in 1985, and this spring, during the property’s 40th anniversary celebration, will unveil a transformative redesign.
The transformation includes fully reimagined interiors by Ward + Gray, a restaurant by acclaimed local chef Vivian Howard, a new venue to host premier gatherings and luxury weddings, and engaging experiences for guests to enjoy year-round.
“For decades, The Sanderling Resort has been a cherished haven for generations of families, couples, and adventurers seeking a serene beachside getaway,” said Shai Zelering, Managing Partner, Head of Hospitality at Brookfield’s Real Estate Group. “This evolution reflects our commitment to preserving the resort’s legacy while reimagining its offerings for today’s discerning travelers and future generations.”
The Sanderling Resort's new Sunset Ballroom will debut this spring as one of the region’s most coveted event spaces. Located across from the main resort, this 8,500-square-foot waterfront venue will set the tone for elegant social celebra-
tions and group events in the Outer Banks. Vaulted ceilings, hanging lanterns, and a clean, classic design by Ward + Gray frame stunning views of the Currituck Sound through a striking wall of windows.
The Sunset Ballroom adds to The Sanderling’s already extensive offering of resort-style meeting and event spaces, including the refreshed Lawn — an oceanside setting for outdoor weddings and celebrations.
Ward + Gray implemented understated elegance throughout The Sanderling Resort’s 123 guest rooms and suites. The design highlights the natural beauty of the Outer Banks with layered textures, curated patterns, refined furnishings, and thoughtful outdoor spaces.
The Residences at The Sanderling Resort — a collection of six 3-, 4-, and 6-bedroom vacation homes accommodating between eight and 16 guests — offers travelers a refined option for extended stays or large family get-togethers. With expansive living rooms and full kitchens, wraparound decks, easy beach access, sunset views of the Currituck Sound, and more, these
words SUNNY HUBLER rendering WARD + GRAY photos courtesy THE SANDERLING
multi-story houses combine the comforts of home with the luxuries of a full-service resort.
Guests and locals will also now be able to enjoy New York Times best-selling author Vivian Howard’s latest culinary concept, Theodosia. Theodosia, with a waterfront location, is projected to open this summer, and will draw inspiration from the culture and history of the Outer Banks.
According to the team, Theodosia will welcome guests to a dining room “dressed in rich, feminine textures, where views of the horizon meeting the Currituck Sound feel endless, and soft lighting invites quiet conversation.” The menu is a mix of fresh seafood and Howard’s penchant for innovative Southern fare.
The resort’s collection of restaurants and bars also includes the historic Lifesaving Station for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; casual pool and beachside fare at The Sandbar; and Beach House Bar for fresh coffee and pastries in the morning and cocktails and bites in the evening.
One of the biggest efforts is to offer a variety of new experiences for visitors to enjoy the property year-round. While the Outer Banks tend to clear out in the off season, The Sanderling is positioned as a sophisticated destination to visit in summer, fall, winter and spring. From floral arranging workshops to cocktail classes and book clubs, stargazing, ghost crab hunting, art exhibitions, beach picnics, holiday celebrations, and more, visitors can expect endless ways to enjoy their vacation.
And, of course, the Outer Banks provide a beautiful backdrop for everything from swimming to biking, peaceful nature walks, off-roading with wild horses, hang gliding and bi-plane tours.
Now, more than ever in its fortieth year, The Sanderling Resort is one of the Carolinas most must-visit destinations in one of the states’ most beautiful settings.
info thesanderling.com / @sanderlingresort
THE EXCLUSIVES
TRAVEL FEATURES
Carolina Comeback
With summer right around the corner, it's time for us to get back to the mountains.
This is your guide to visiting some of our favorite Western Carolina towns in 2025.
words
JP GRICE
photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE
TThere’s a certain toughness in these hills. The kind that doesn’t crack easy. Hurricane Helene tested it.
The storm didn’t just take down trees and block a few trails. It ripped away whole sections of road, flooded downtowns, washed homes clean off their foundations. And then winter came— long, cold, and heavy—pressing down on towns that were already holding on by their fingernails.
Rebuilding hasn’t been quick. It’s been slow, steady work. The kind of work that doesn’t make headlines but keeps people moving forward. There are still scars if you know where to look. But spring is pushing its way back in. Wildflowers are blooming along old landslides. New leaves are stretching out where the hills were stripped bare.
The beauty never left. It just went quiet for a while.
Now, it’s coming back stronger than ever, and these towns are ready for you to come see it for yourself.
Old Fort
Where the Mountains Begin
Old Fort in McDowell County is the first real exhale when you leave the highway behind. It’s small, scrappy, and proud of it. The downtown’s stitched to-
gether with murals that tell its story — Catawba and Cherokee roots, railroad grit, mountain stubbornness.
Start your morning with a cinnamon roll at GoGo’s that’s almost too big for one hand. They have amazing flavors from peanut butter to chocolate, lemon, and caramel pecan. Then grab an oat milk latte (my drink of choice) at Seeker. If you’ve got time to wander, Davis Country Store feels like stepping into another era — where Coca-Cola comes in glass bottles and the staff is friendly as all get out.
The real show here is outdoors. Catawba Falls has reopened and offers both easy and challenging aspects. The hike consists of three big payoffs. The first is a simple walk to Catawba Falls, an amazing cascading, tiered waterfall. Then, the real challenge starts. Walk up 300 or so steps to the observation deck and get aer-
ial views of the river below plus long range mountain views too. Then, it's another 250+ steps to an idyllic swimming hole and the magnificent Upper Catawba Falls.
If that’s not enough cardio for you and you’re still looking for a real leg-burner, Kitsuma Peak will make you work for the view, but it’s worth every step.
When you’re ready to call it a day, the Little Mountain A-Frame is as good of an Airbnb as you can get in the mountains. Quaint, cozy, stylish, with all the amenities in a wonderful location that feels like home.
Little Switzerland A Town In The Sky
Little Switzerland feels like a place time forgot — in the best way.
Perched high on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s all winding roads, and big views, with a European flare.
The Switzerland Inn is the hub here, and the perfect place to spend a weekend. It’s both close to so many wonderful natural areas and has incredible unmatched long range views itself. The service and hospitality here is topnotch. Grab coffee at Little Switzerland Books & Beans, or take your time over lunch at the Chalet Restaurant where the views don’t seem real, a repeating theme in this town.
If you’re looking for something a little different, nearby Emerald Village offers a peek into the mining days — old tunnels, gem panning, and history is thick in the air. This place will get you some viral Instagram views too if you’re into that sort of thing.
Nights here are quiet. The stars come out early. And the only thing you’ll hear is the breeze moving through the trees.
Black Mountain Home in Appalachia
Black Mountain doesn’t feel like a tourist town. It feels like a hometown — even if it’s not yours yet.
Start at Dripolator, a stylish, popular coffee shop serving up delicious drinks and snacks. Cousin’s Cuban Cafe is a favorite as well. They have wonderful Cuban and South Florida flavors. The cortado is delightful, the empanadas are out of this world, and their bowls for lunch are so tasty too!
When you're ready for some fresh air, the Lookout Trail in nearby Mon-
treat is an awesone, albeit steep, hike that rewards.
And suppers don’t get much better than The Pure & Proper. Seriously, this place is one of the best restaurants we’ve experienced in the state. If you want to stay close to it all, the Peri House is a cozy spot — an old home turned into the kind of inn that feels more like staying with family.
Asheville Mountain Soul
Asheville has a pulse all its own. It’s music in the alleyways, murals splashed across brick walls, the smell of good coffee (or tea…shout out Dobra Tea Room), amazing beer, and, in my opinion, a foodie town in the same realm as Charleston, SC. Biscuit Head serves biscuits the size
of your head (they’re not kidding), Botiwalla’s Indian street food hits the spot, Jargon in West Asheville has my favorite chef’s table. Hole Doughnut is spectacular. Bull And Beggar just reopened and it’s wonderful. Their sister restaurant Baby Bull has some of the best burgers we've had. I’m over here writing and drooling, but truly, this isn’t just a town with good beer and amazing trails. There’s worldclass food here.
In the evening, grab a drink at the Restoration Hotel’s rooftop bar and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge. Then hit their basement game room bar. Soveriegn Remedies and Battery Park Book Exchange are also great evening destinations for winding down, and every — literally every — brewery is good. Cheers to getting back to Asheville asap.
Banner Elk
High Country Charm
Banner Elk wears the seasons on its sleeve. Epic amounts of snow in winter. Wildflowers in spring. Cool green summers perfect for chasing waterfalls and views and the occasional rising trout.
It’s ski country in the cold months, but when the snow melts, the trails open up. Rough Ridge offers one of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes — a quick climb for a long view across endless ridges.
Grandfather Mountain with its swinging bridge and challening trails (with ladders) is a wonderful park. There’s a zoo that’s a must-visit also. Just down the road, the Wilderness Run Alpine Rollercoaster is a fun stop as well.
Hot Springs
The Healing Waters
Hot Springs doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. It’s a tiny dot on the map where the French Broad River bends wide and slow, and the Appalachian Trail cuts right down Main Street.
Most people come for the springs. Both the Hot Springs Resort and Spa and Broadwing Farm offer access to naturally heated spring waters. At the Resort, you can reserve a private tub by the hour, while Broadwing Farm provides private hot tubs exclusively for guests staying in one of their mountain cabins.
Then there’s the trails. Max Patch is a short drive away, a bald mountaintop with 360 degree views and a perfect
place to catch a sunset. Rich Mountain Fire Tower is just off the Appalachian Trail here and has some of the most epic views in North Carolina.
It’s a wonderful area with so many natural qualities and a slower pace. Nothing moves fast here. That’s the point.
Brevard
Land of Waterfalls
The Brevard area has more waterfalls here than just about anywhere else.
Looking Glass Falls spills wide and loud just off the roadside. Sliding Rock dares you to take the plunge down a natural waterslide. And if you want a quieter moment, hike out to Moore Cove and walk behind the falls . Then there’s the hike to Triple Falls, High Falls, and
Hooker Falls in Dupont State Forest, a fantastic way to spend a Saturday!
Newland
A Hidden Mountain Gem
Newland sits tucked in a quiet corner of the High Country, the kind of town you don’t stumble into unless you mean to. This town can sometimes take a back seat to its popular neighbors like Banner Elk and Linville, but it has a lot to offer and a near perfect location if you like the outdoors.
Elk River Falls thunders just outside town, an easy hike with a serious payoff. The wildnerness of Pisgah is nearby too.
If you need fuel, Kaye’s Kitchen serves the kind of hearty, no-nonsense meals that mountain towns are built on.
If you’re after something a little fancier, Eseeola Lodge feels like stepping back into a slower, older kind of summer. And Linville Falls Winery is a must, from the amazing atmosphere to the music on the patio, and of course, some of the best wine in the state.
The Parkway Is Calling Again
There’s no denying that the Blue Ridge Parkway took a beating in the storm. But little by little, it’s coming back. From Asheville to Cherokee, some of the best stretches are open again. The mile between 382.5 and 393.6 lets you slip out of Asheville into wide overlooks and quiet trails near the Folk Art Center. Pisgah to Graveyard Fields — open again — offers hikes through high meadows and lazy afternoon stops at the Pisgah Inn.
Farther south, from Beech Gap to Cherokee, the Parkway runs clear— Black Balsam’s open balds call are prime for a sunset. Likewise at Cowee Mountain Overlook and Waterrock Knob.
Craggy Gardens, Mount Mitchell, and Crabtree Falls among other areas are still closed for now. But time, as always, will take care of that.
For full details on what areas are open or still closed simply visit the Parkway website at blueridgeparkway. org or give them a follow on Instagram at @blueridgenps.
It’s been a tough six months for our neighbors in Western North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, North Georgia, and Tennessee. Helene didn’t just change the landscape — it changed lives. While the worst of the storm has passed, and a full recovery will take years, so much progress has already been made. Bridges have been rebuilt. Trails have been cleared. Roads have been patched. Towns have dusted themselves off and opened their doors again. These communities rely on visitors— from the hotels and restaurants
to the outfitters, the breweries, the shops, and the guides who help share these mountains with the rest of us. Every visit matters. This year the mountains are truly calling, to welcome us all back, and I hope you’ll go.
info discoverthecarolinas.com @discoverthecarolinas qcexclusive.com @qcexclusive
Healing Waters
Your guide to chasing beautiful waterfalls in the Carolina mountains.
words JP GRICE photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE
DDays spent on a blue line chasing native brookies has taught me many things, from patience to discovery. Out here along the creek, under a shadowy canopy of green, if you follow the water long enough, it’ll more than likely take you somewhere unexpected and magical.
Often times that means gin clear pocket water, a unique cascade, and a lonely swimming hole with your name on it. Some are right off the road, others take a little effort. But all of them remind you to slow down, look around, and then, jump in.
If you’re ready to cool off, wander off, or find your way back to something quieter, here’s where to begin.
BOONE
& BLOWING ROCK
Blowing Rock might be all charming shops and mountain views at first glance,
but just a few blocks from Main Street you’ll find yourself stepping into another world. Glen Burney Falls is the destination, but the real treat is the way the trail winds down into the Globe — steep, shaded, and steady with the sound of water getting louder as you go. Start with coffee, end with a cascade.
In the other direction, on the west side of Boone out near Tennessee, the locals head to Trash Can Falls — don’t let the name fool you. This is a classic swimming hole, framed by smooth boulders and fed by a cold, clean cascade. Get there early if you want it to yourself. Or bring a towel and make a day of it. This place has changed a little since Hurricane Helene, but it sure is beautiful still.
At Hebron Rock Colony you can boulder hop, soak your feet, stretch
out on warm rocks, maybe a see a cool northern watersnake, and even fly fishing on the upper section. This place is a choose-your-own-adventure of current and stone.
In Seven Devils, Otter Falls is more subtle, but no less worth it. A quick hike brings you to a tucked-away cascade perfect for catching your breath. Then there’s Elk River Falls, west of town. This is a wide, dramatic drop into a deep pool that’s perfect for a dip, if you are a capable swimmer of course. If the water is high, it isn’t advisable to get in. Instead spend your day sunbathing and enjoying the sound of the falls. The perfect summer day in this area starts off with a hike at nearby Roan Mountain, nestled right on border of the Old North State and Rocky Top, and then finished with a relaxing afternoon at the falls.
WILSON CREEK AREA
This is Pisgah’s wilder corner — and it feels like it. Trails are tougher. Rewards are sweeter. Harpers Creek Falls is a two-mile trek that ends in a massive plunge pool worthy of the effort.
Gragg Prong. Hunt Fish. North Harper. All different. All worth it. These are the kinds of trails where you won’t see many folks, there’s no cell phone service, and you can enjoy nature how it was meant to be enjoyed.
OLD FORT
Catawba Falls is one of those rare trails that’s both easy and difficult. Yeah, that doesn’t make any sense right? Well, let me explain. To get to the base of Catawba Falls is a fairly short, casual walk on a wide trail. After 20 minutes or so hikers
arrive at the base of the cascade. Here, you’ll take in the beauty of the tiered waterfall. It’s very picturesque and made up of so many details and smaller cascades. This is where you encounter the new upgrades—a massive metal and wood staircase rising hundreds of feet — built for access to the astoundingly beautiful Upper Catawba Falls. There are 500-andsome-odd steps worth climbing, but take your time, enjoy the views and perspectives on the way up, and then stick around for awhile at the upper falls to make the adventure truly worth it.
Another one to not miss in this area is Tom’s Creek Falls, an easy walk to a pretty epic waterfall!
BREVARD & DUPONT STATE FOREST
Welcome to the land of waterfalls. Start with Looking Glass Falls, which
feels like it was made to be admired — and it kind of was. Visible from the road, but even better up close. Get here early, this is roadside and isn’t a secret. It will be packed after 10am.
Next up: Moore Cove Falls. You can walk behind this one—which is always a win—and the half-mile forest trail is easy and rainforest-esque. If you can plan a trip here after a rain, the flow is much better.
In DuPont, it’s a trilogy: Triple Falls, High Falls, Hooker Falls. Think of them like stair steps in a dramatic story. First is Hooker, a single drop into a massive plunge pool perfect for swimming (or catching trout). Then there’s Triple Falls, which turns and plateaus several times allowing for some cool perspectives. Then there’s High Falls, a powerful 120-foot high waterfalls. All three are wonderful in
their own right, and together make for a pretty magical day.
PANTHERTOWN VALLEY
This place is wild and rugged. There’s dense woods, and a handful of waterfalls with their own stories to tell. Schoolhouse Falls is definitely the headliner. A gentle drop into one of the biggest pools you will ever see, perfect for wading, swimming or simply enjoying lunch with a view. Greenland Creek Falls is a little further out and usually a little quieter. Bring snacks. Bring friends.
HIGHLANDS & CASHIERS
Highway 64 is literal waterfall heaven. Heading out of Highlands towards
Franklin you’ll first run into Bridal Veil Falls, then Dry Falls which you can walk behind. Seeing this 75-foot wall of water from the backside is the kind of experience you don’t forget.
Further down is Bust Your Butt falls which is more known for its large swimming hole. And then there’s the top dog in my opinion. Cullasaja rages after rain and glows in the fall. You can see it from the road or scramble (carefully) down to its base if you’re feeling brave.
Silver Run in Cashiers is perfect for families — it’s a short trail to a beautiful swimming hole. Secret Falls takes more effort, but pays you back with solitude. Glen Falls is also a nice, easy one in the area.
And then there’s Whitewater Falls— the tallest east of the Mississippi — and
one you can either glance at quickly or make a day of and truly explore.
ROBBINSVILLE, SANTEETLAH & JOYCE KILMER
Out here, it’s quieter. Wilder. Yellow Creek Falls is a perfect example—30 feet of rush and calm in a fern-covered forest. Usually, you’ll have it to yourself.
Falls Branch Falls off the Cherohala Skyway makes you work for it, but it’s worth every step. Same goes for Slickrock Falls along Santeetlah Creek. These spots don’t get much traffic — just the determined kind of traveler who knows that the best things take a little effort.
And then there’s Joyce Kilmer. No massive waterfall here, but ancient trees, creekside trails, and a sense of stillness
that lingers longer than most views ever could. Hopefully this area stays wild!
UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA
In the hills near Walhalla, tucked against the edge of the mountains, three waterfalls remind you why the Upstate is just as wild and wonderful as anywhere else. Issaqueena Falls is the first — an easy walk leads you to a broad, lacy cascade spilling over a rock ledge. Legend says Issaqueena was a young Native American woman who leapt over the falls to escape capture and lived to tell the tale. Standing there, with the sound of water trickling into the woods, it’s easy to believe a story that old.
Just a few minutes down the road, Yellow Branch Falls offers a little more of a hike—a shaded forest trail that winds to
a wide, terraced waterfall spilling down a stepped rock face. Then there’s Twin Falls which, true to its name, splits into two cascades. The trail is short and family-friendly, and after a good rain, comes alive.
ADVENTURES FOR THE BOLD
Some waterfalls don’t make it easy — and that’s part of the appeal.
Bonas Defeat near Sapphire is an otherworldly slot canyon where sheer rock walls rise on either side of a rushing gorge. It's not for the casual hiker and anyone that ventures here needs to know the dam release schedule, prepare, hike with friends, and really take it seriously. There are boulders and cliffs and cascades and giant potholes and pools. Do your research before attempting.
Entrance and Exit Falls of Whitewater Slot Canyon are as intense as they sound — remote, technical, and spectacular. Water funnels through a narrow gorge that looks like it belongs out west, not in Carolina.
And finally, Sols Creek Falls and Flat Creek Falls in Bear Creek Scenic Area. These are towering, remote, and thunderous after a rain. These require paddles to access.
All these places are simply reminders. That slowing down isn’t the same as stopping. That solitude is something you can actually find. Here in the forests of Western NC and Upstate SC, magic awaits.
info discoverthecarolinas.com @discoverthecarolinas
A Slow Drive In The Lowcountry
A journey through coastal South Carolina from Murrells Inlet to Bluffton.
words JP GRICE
photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE
SSmells like Lowcountry. I’ve said this exact phrase for nearly 25 years every, single time I cross the Cooper River or the Intracoastal, and that unique scent hits the nose. It’s that brackish water, salt air, and sunbaked spartina grass. Sure, it’s a little funky—thanks to the heat and pluff mud—but for me, it’s like the smell of gasoline: oddly comforting. A memory trigger.
But it’s not just the salt in the air that I love. It’s the lushness. The way the roads seem to stretch a little longer beneath canopies of live oaks and Spanish moss. It’s the gas lanterns. The front porches painted haint blue. The quiet hum of history. And yeah—maybe even that touch of eeriness that lives here.
Whatever it is, you don’t rush through this part of South Carolina. You roll the
windows down. You let it soak in.
This road trip isn’t about hitting all the landmarks—it’s about finding a slower tempo. The kind that feels like home, even if you’ve never been. This is where our journey starts.
MURRELLS INLET, PAWLEYS ISLAND & GEORGETOWN
Just twenty miles south of the neon buzz and boardwalk chaos of Myrtle Beach, things start to shift. At Huntington Beach State Park, there’s room to breathe again—wide, quiet beaches, marshes alive with birdsong, and the occasional gator sunning. Nearby Atalaya Castle ’s quirks wait behind wrought-iron gates—stately but strange, with a unique history and beautiful palmetto trees.
Nearby, Brookgreen Gardens offers a different kind of wonder, where bronze and marble sculptures rest beneath live oaks as if nature grew up around them. Their lights in the summer and during the holidays are truly unmatched.
Just down the road, Pawleys Island isn’t just a beach town—it’s a way of life. The mornings move slow, the dress code is barefoot, and the air smells like sunscreen. The beach here is fleeting and the pier is beautiful. The backside of the island is spartina grass green almost as far as the eye can see, and truly lovely.
For a taste of the local scene, grab dinner at Bistro 217 or Chive Blossom, both known for creative takes on Lowcountry fare. Or keep it casual at Rustic Table or Caffe Piccolo. Whether you're paddling through the marsh, biking along Ocean
Highway, or lingering over a meal, Pawleys invites you to take it easy. Next is historic Georgetown. Seems like a forgotten town rarely mentioned, but it has many of the same features as its cousins to the south. A beautiful waterfront, old historic homes, and plenty of charm. The Harborwalk runs along docks that have seen centuries of tide and trade. Antique stores and seafood joints share space with stories—rice, indigo, and the deep roots of the river. Between the Antlers and the River Room are musts.
MCCLELLANVILLE & FRANCIS MARION
McClellanville is the kind of place you could miss if you blink. Don’t. Shrimp
boats still rest at the dock. Old porches still creak here, the rocking chairs still rock, and there’s quite a few hammocks tossing and turning in between towering trees. Then there’s the lonely tire swing at the Deerhead Oak that sways in the breeze. This is one of my favorite places to truly slow down. When you visit you have to see the Saint James-Santee Parish Episcopal’s Chapel of Ease built in 1890. Its sister church, The Brick Church at Wambaw, built in 1768, is also just down the road. Outside of town on the way to Awendaw, Buck Hall feels like a secret spot—perfect for fishing, camping, or boating in nearby Cape Romain, home to some of the most pristine and abandoned beaches on the east coast. Behind it all, the Francis Marion National Forest spreads out like a living memory,
wild and waiting. Dirt roads and pine trees and winding creeks. For the outdoorsman, it is truly hard to beat.
CHARLESTON & THE SEA ISLANDS
Charleston is a city that doesn’t need an introduction. But skip the itinerary. Let the city happen to you—in the sound of your footsteps on cobblestone, in the breeze off the Battery, and in the tastes of the Peninsula. Some of our favorite restaurants and cocktail bars include Wild Common, FIG, Da Toscano Porchetta Shop, Southbound, Bar Vaute, and The Living Room at Dewberry. Then go where the locals go. Sullivan’s Island for a sunset over the Holy City. Or Isle of Palms for a long weekend. Or Folly for a more laid back beach
experience and some surf too. And don’t leave without standing under the Angel Oak on Johns Island— its limbs stretch like time itself.
EDISTO & THE ACE BASIN
Once you hit Edisto, you’re in it deep. Botany Bay is haunting and beautiful. It's dirt roads, driftwood shores, crabs running amok in the mud, and history, like the Ice house. Then the quiet shores of Edisto beach and the campground offer a coastal vacation setting that’s hard to beat.
Inland, the ACE Basin is one of the last
great untouched places in SC. Bring a canoe or kayak. There’s peace here, and wildlife, and space to think.
BEAUFORT
Beaufort’s light is different. It’s softer, and older. Every time I visit I like to take my film camera and photograph all the old homes and cars. They are plentiful here and it reminds me of an era gone by. The downtown however is up-and-coming. The riverfront park is wonderful. The restaurants, like a favorite pizzeria of mine Hearth, are delicious, and there’s great shopping and art here too. Then
you must go to Hunting Island. It is wild and photogenic. There’s some remnants of a boneyard beach, plus lush forests, and a beautiful lighthouse.
And then there’s the drive out to Old Sheldon Church near Yemassee, where crumbling Greek Revival columns rise from the forest floor. A canopy of live oaks and Spanish moss hangs overhead, casting quiet, dappled light across the ruins.
Tucked among the trees is one oak with a trunk filled with bricks—an old method once used to strengthen aging trees, now a strange and beautiful reminder of how the past abides here. In the summer, just
around the corner from the ruins on Huspah Creek, if you’re lucky, you can find Roseate Spoonbills feeding on crabs and shrimp in the shallow water.
BLUFFTON TO HILTON HEAD
Bluffton has grit and charm in equal measure. Oyster shells crunch underfoot. The May River moves slow and steady. There’s art, food, history all wrapped up in a place that’s both been discovered but also still feels a bit hidden. If you visit you have to see the Church of the Cross built in 1857 and you’ve got to eat at Farm, one of the best
restaurants we’ve ever experienced.
Then, there’s nearby Palmetto Bluff. This 20,000 acre community is where stillness meets luxury. It truly looks and feels like a movie set, with giant oaks, white cottages, treehouses with marsh views, winding bike paths, churches with steeples, and wooden boats on the May River. Here, there’s wildlife all around. Egrets, dolphins, alligators, blue heron. It’s truly wonderful.
Hilton Head finishes the ride, where some of the best beaches in the South await. Coligny Plaza's got the buzz and Harbour Town’s got the view. A perfect
combo to end the road trip on a really high note!
This ride doesn’t follow a strict line. It meanders. It doubles back. It stalls. But that’s the point. You don’t just visit the Lowcountry. It washes over you— and leaves you wanting to return very, very soon. As for me, I’m headed there this weekend…and yeah…it smells like Lowcountry.
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