Family Travel Guide: Highlands, North Carolina

During my college days in North Carolina, one of my favorite places to escape to was Highlands, North Carolina (and the surrounding Cashiers area). In the fall, the mountains surrounding Highlands felt like home with the gorgeous fall foliage and during the spring, I couldn’t pass up the chance to visit while all the azaleas and mountain laurels were in bloom.

Many years and two kids later, I have been dreaming about bringing my family back to one of my favorite mountain towns for a long time now. Highlands has been on my family travel bucket list since my youngest was born, and we finally got the chance to escape to the Blue Ridge mountains so my kids could experience the magic of Highlands and Cashiers for themselves.

Family Travel Guide: Highlands, North Carolina

If you are looking to book a trip to Highlands or are in the planning process of your trip, I hope this family travel guide helps you plan the perfect mountain getaway!

Where to Stay:

If you’re looking to stay right in the heart of Highlands, I recommend staying at any of the following hotels/inns:

  • Old Edward’s Inn: If you have the means, I highly recommend staying at the Old Edward’s Inn for the full Highlands experience. Nestled right in the heart of the town, the iconic Old Edward’s Inn provides a beautiful experience that includes delicious in-house restaurants, a beautiful pool and spa, and a curated room that will keep you dreaming about visiting again the moment you leave.
  • 200 Main: Just outside of the town, the sister property to Old Edward’s Inn provides a bit more privacy and a mountain/romantic vibe at a slightly more reasonable price point. Guests also have access to all the restaurants and amenities at Old Edward’s Inn.
  • Outpost Inn: A fun and funky place to stay just a skip out of town that includes a fun wine bar and coffee shop.

I also recommend the following that are a few miles out of town (closer to Cashiers) that are a bit more private and perfect for families:

  • Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley: A wonderful family-friendly resort that is home to tri-level townhouses that give a ski cabin aesthetic that overlooks a beautiful lake. By staying at Foxhunt you gain access to Sapphire Valley resort amenities that include restaurants. indoor and outdoor pools, mini golf, gem mining, a high ropes course, and even skiing in the winter.
  • High Hampton Resort: If you are looking for a luxe mountain getaway, High Hampton Resort is a must. With beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and wonderful facilities and activities (if you love to golf, this is your spot) this resort is the perfect place for a cozy retreat.
  • VRBO: The houses on VRBO in Highlands and Cashiers are breathtakingly beautiful and can house a large family if needed. I often dream about a Thanksgiving where my whole family flocks to Highlands and stays in a large VRBO house together.

Where to Eat:

breakfast:

Lunch:

Dinner:

desserts & Drinks:

  • Highlands Wine Shoppe: buy a bottle or try a glass with their fun wine pouring system. I love their patio area for a fun place to relax.
  • Kilwin’s: my kids’ favorite after-dinner spot-try their praline pecan ice cream. Thank me later!

Family Friendly Things to Do:

hiking:

Activities:

shopping:

Family Friendly Guide to Highlands, North Carolina:


Highlands is truly a special place to escape to regardless of the time of year. If you are looking for a place that your family can spend slow-paced quality time together, this is your spot. I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect mountain getaway to one of my favorite places to visit!

Family Travel Guide to Highlands North Carolina, Cashiers North Carolina, Blue Ridge Mountains

Posted In: Family Trips, Travel

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