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Highlands/Bridal Veil Falls Tour
Highlands/Bridal Veil Falls Tour
Submitted by Lee Davis of
Flow Mini
As with most of the "best drives", the destination isn't really the main point here. It's more about being in the right car, on the right road, and with the right traveling companion. After all, the joy is often more in the going than in the getting there, especially if you happen to be driving a BMW, Mini or Z.
The fun begins when you leave I-40 West and head South on the Blue Ridge Parkway. You'll pass through at least six tunnels before turning South again on Highway 275. Along this winding eight mile stretch in the Pisgah National Forest, there are two very unusual waterfalls nestled along the bi-way. Visitors can literally slide down the face of Slick Rock Falls or walk behind Looking Glass Falls. They're easy to miss but worth the stop, if only to watch others enjoying nature at its finest.
When you find yourself entering Brevard, don't miss O.P. Taylor's Fine Toys. It's located right in the center of downtown and is surrounded by unique specialty shops and antique stores.
The trek from Brevard to Highlands is both scenic and challenging with lots of overlooks and switchbacks. The town of Highlands may be one of the best kept secrets in the North Carolina mountains. It's known among collector car enthusiasts for the Highlands Classic Vintage Car Festival that departs from downtown each year on its week long rally through the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia.
The accommodations in Highlands are first rate, with everything from quaint bed and breakfasts and historic inns to luxury suite hotels. located in the middle of town, Old Edwards Inn is a must see. Honored on the National Registry of Historic Places, the original building, constructed in 1878, has just emerged from a $10 million renovation and expansion, placing it among the word's elite and most luxurious inns. Recommended lodging, in addition to Old Edwards Inn, is the Mountain High Inn with fireplaces and jacuzzis, and the rustic elegance of Michel's (reserve a honeymoon cottage).
Favorite places to dine? Highlands has long been noted for unique nationally acclaimed restaurants. Try Louis Michaud's, Lakeside, or On the Veranda for Sunday champagne brunch.
It's been said that Highlands is where nature spends the summer. I can't imagine another place with more waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Cap off the trip by returning on Highway 64 towards Franklin. A pleasant walk form the highway is Dry Falls with a path behind the falls or you can literally drive your BMW, Mini or Z under the 120 foot Bridal Veil Falls. Highway 23 takes you back to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The round trip makes a great weekend get-away.
© 2007 Triad Z Club
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