Spring is coming, but it’s not quite here yet so there’s still a few weeks to enjoy winter cocktails at Headwater’s Pub at Chetola Resort!
Whether you’re coming to see us at Headwater’s Pub in the next few weeks or want to enjoy one last wintry cocktail at home, we’ve got you covered with the Hornet’s Kiss.
Hornet’s Kiss Cocktail
Ingredients
▪︎ 1.5 oz Tanqueray gin
▪︎ 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
▪︎ 0.5 oz Jalapeno Honey Simple Syrup
Instructions
Combine ingredients and stir lightly.
Strain into a fresh rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with a lemon twist.
Cheers! We hope to see you soon for a drink at Headwater’s Pub!
The High Country is known for its delicious food, elegant wines, and tasty beers but if you know where to look, it also has some amazing dessert spots. After a day full of adventures, if you’re craving something divine to slice into, check out our favorite spots around the High Country to enjoy a treat.
And, if you’re curious what spots our in-house pastry chef, Abby recommends look for a star * next to the name!
*Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort
If you haven’t been to Timberlake’s Restaurant to enjoy one of Pastry Chef Abby Tetterton’s amazing desserts, your tastebuds are missing out! With dessert specials changing every few days, there’s always something delicious to devour like Banana Pudding Cheesecake, French Toast Bread Pudding, Lavender Crème Brûlée, and more!
*Reservations are always recommended for dining at Timberlake’s Restaurant.
Flavia’s Blowing Rock
Though only open May – November, life is better because their desserts are some of the best. With mini personal cheesecakes, eclairs, opera cakes, cannoli’s, and so many more mouth-watering treats to choose from, you can’t visit Blowing Rock without enjoying a dessert from Flavia’s.
Photo courtesy of Stick Boy Bread Co
*Stick Boy Bakery
A staple of the High Country, it isn’t a true trip to the area unless you stop by Stick Boy Bakery for a magic cookie, a cinnamon roll with cream cheese, or anything in their pastry case. End your adventurous afternoon with a sweet treat from Stick Boy Bakery or stop by and pick something up to enjoy during your day out
Photo courtesy of Blue Deer Cookies
Blue Deer Cookies
Blue Deer combines two of your favorite desserts (cookies + ice cream) into one with their creamy + crunchy ice cream sandwiches. With unique seasonal ice cream flavors like strawberry, lemon, peach, and classics like chocolate, cookies ‘n’ cream, and a whole array of cookies to compliment them, this is the perfect treat for any day.
Photo Courtesy of The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge
The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge
Craving a dessert, you can just dive into? Then look no further than The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge. With delectable and classic options like NY Cheesecake, a Pecan Bar, or a Flourless Chocolate Torte you’re sure to find something to quench your sweet tooth.
The Penny Path Blowing Rock
Enjoy the pastries of France right in the heart of Blowing Rock at The Penny Path. With classic options like Nutella or Plain & Fancy and elaborate options like Crepe Tiramisu or Bananas Foster, a crepe for dessert will more than satisfy your sugar craving. And though this blog is all about dessert, The Penny Path also has some delicious savory crepes.
Troy’s Diner
Troy’s Diner, a 50s style retro diner, is known for their delicious milkshakes that truly make you feel like your transported back in time. Offering 11 different flavors, like banana, strawnana, chocolate, and more, be sure to take a trip to the past to Troy’s Diner.
Photo courtesy of Proper Boone
Proper
Every ingredient put into the food and dessert at Proper is sourced locally and that means you know it’s yummy. With desserts like peach cobbler, raspberry shortcakes, chocolate peanut butter pie, and so much more, be sure to check out Proper’s local dessert selection on your next visit to the High Country.
Coming Soon! Locally made treats will soon be available in our new fly shop, The Wading Room!
You’re on vacation, be sure to treat yourself to a bakery tour of the most delectable desserts the High Country has to offer. We can’t wait to see you for a sweet treat soon.
We love spending days outside enjoying the beautiful mountains but some days call for indoor adventures!
Whether traveling with family, friends or even solo, sometimes it can be difficult to find activities for all interests – especially on a rainy or snowy day. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of fun activities for all interests! Read on for a few of our favorite indoor activities around the High Country!
Whether you’ve been climbing for years or want to try out bouldering for the first time, Center45 is the perfect spot for the entire family to experience bouldering. Along with its bouldering walls, Center45 also has a fitness area and a variety of climber training resources. Center45 offers day passes to climb and shoe and chalk rentals.
Explore art and discover the history of Blowing Rock at the BRAHM. With various art, history, and sometimes special exhibits for kids, the BRAHM is the perfect indoor activity where the whole family will find something to enjoy. And be sure to check their upcoming events calendar during your visit for things like Yoga at BRAHM, Doodlebug Club, or Afternoon Art.
Have you ever wanted to learn about the historical geology of the Appalachian mountains and mine for fascinating gems? Then Docs Rocks is the perfect spot for you and your family to experience during your visit to Blowing Rock! In addition to mining for gorgeous gems (that you get to take home), at Docs Rocks, you can also explore their fossil museum (if your kiddo loves dinosaurs, they’ll really like this), and their new indoor paleo putt-putt course! With 3 activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a winter day at Docs Rocks Gem Mine.
A day of fun and wonder awaits you on a trip to Mystery Hill in Blowing Rock. With 10+ activities like Tomahawk Hill, Prospector Hill Gem Mining, Bull Riding Challenge, Bubblerama, and more, there is an experience for everyone in the family to have fun! With so many fun activities in one stop – Mystery Hill should be added to your indoor fun itinerary!
Experience a subterranean world and the history of the Linville Caverns with a tour of these age-old mountains from the inside! Linville Caverns is open year-round and is always a balmy 52 degrees F (a perfect indoor winter adventure). The caverns are an ideal adventure for everyone as they are accessible for all visitors of any age. Go explore the splendor and wonders nature created "inside a mountain" at Linville Caverns!
The Turchin Center engages visitors in meaningful experiences with visual arts. With two wings and six different galleries with changing exhibitions of contemporary artwork and local artists, whether you’re an art connoisseur or just a casual observer, there will be something for you to admire. Be sure to check their events schedule for special workshops or talk series during your visit! And if it’s a nice day see if you can spot all the Turchin outdoor sculptures around Appalachian State University’s campus.
Enjoy 16 lanes of family fun! Take your family, friends, or colleagues and get bowling at High Country Lanes! With food and drinks available onsite, an afternoon or evening of bowling at High Country Lanes is the perfect way to spend the day and have fun with the whole family.
Boone’s first & only indoor Axe Throwing Tavern, Elmwood’s Hatchet House has 8 axe throwing targets, 2 corn hole lanes, a giant connect four, a pool table, air hockey, pinball, drinks, great food, and fun for everyone! Whether you’re looking for your next favorite snowy day activity or something entertaining for the whole family, an afternoon at Elmwood’s is sure to be a hit!
Discover the only interactive escape in Boone, North Carolina, Mysterium Escape Room! Mysterium’s Escape Room is made from scratch and the rooms are built in-house which means you’ll have a totally unique experience that you’ve never had anywhere else. Whether you’re an escape room fanatic or looking to try something new, the Mysterium Escape Room is sure to be a fun indoor experience for all!
No matter what kind of activity you and your family are looking to enjoy on your next trip to Chetola, this list has lots of fun for everyone to enjoy (and add to your itinerary) for years to come! We can’t wait to see you on your next trip to Blowing Rock!
5 Awe-Inspiring Spring Adventures that are Perfect for the Whole Family
Finding time for a family escape can seem like a daunting task, but when you have endless opportunities to get outside and explore the great outdoors, we believe that it is easier to make it happen, as creating unforgettable memories is a must! Spring in the mountains is an exciting time, as winter’s glistening glaze has receded, yet the views remain unobstructed and the trails relatively unexplored. We have compiled 5 of our favorite and lesser-known adventures that are perfect for the whole family. Do a little stretching, grab your favorite boots, and the rest of your favorite people, and head this way!
Horses, boots, and your favorite pair of Wranglers
Many horseback riding enthusiasts truly believe that experiencing the world from the back of a horse feeds the soul. There are very few natural ways to explore the trails in and around the High Country and horseback riding allows all experience levels to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. There are trails in the adjacent Moses Cone National Memorial Park, nearby state parks, as well as private trails with outfitters like Dutch Creek Trails. Whether you are just wanting a quick escape with a short trail ride or wish to bond with your new favorite steed on an epic adventure, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and ride horses in the mountains this season.
Clay Pigeons, Wide Open Spaces, and Archery for the Kiddos While many people may think of gun clubs when they think about target practice, did you know that one of the fastest-growing sports among women is clay shooting? And, did you know that there is a family-friendly sporting reserve that offers a 5-stand & 12-station course (clay pigeons), as well as archery and bb guns for the kiddos with NRA-Certified instructors? The Chetola Sporting Reserve even has a Lodge to enjoy small bites, drinks, and a cozy fireplace after your family has enjoyed a little time on the range. The 5-stand is also covered and heated in case Spring turns back to Winter and ushers in some cool weather. To top it off, the adventure starts even before you arrive, as guests enjoy a ridgetop drive through the Blue Ridge Mountain Club overlooking miles and miles of the Blue Ridge before descending 800 feet to the sporting reserve. This is quintessential awe-inspiring fun! For those looking for a little less excitement, there is another access point with less dramatic terrain (be sure to talk to the Sporting Reserve for directions). https://chetola.com/recreation/sporting-reserve
A River Runs Through Our Majestic Mountains Guided fly-fishing has become one of the most natural ways to immerse yourself in the natural world. There are hundreds of miles of pristine blue-ribbon trout waters that flow throughout the High Country of North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. As the first Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge in North Carolina, Chetola Resort offers families both walk-wade and float trips to learn the sport of fly-fishing. Not only is it awe-inspiring to watch your kids catch their first fish on a dry fly, but guides teach you about entomology, river health, and fish species. This is certainly an unforgettable experience. For kiddos 12 & under, we recommend a half-day to start. https://chetola.com/recreation/fly-fishing/
Photo by Judi Sawyer | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
Up Close and Personal with Wildlife Have you ever wondered what is involved in caring for wild animals? At nearby Grandfather Mountains, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the wildlife and their habitats throughout the spring and summer months. Families can learn where the cougars, bears, and elk sleep at night, as well as what they eat, and even some of the training methods used in the operation. You will also get to see Bald Eagles and River Otters while enjoying the views from above 5000ft elevation. While these behind-the-scenes tours are only offered over the weekends, the park itself is open daily and offers plenty of trails for all abilities, a museum, the mile-high swinging bridge, as well as places to grab a snack or simply take in the view. GM also has specialty programs in the evenings, so be sure to check out their website (link) for more information. https://grandfather.com/visit/experience-the-wonder/animal-habitats-vip-tours/
Photo courtesy of Mountain Warriors UTV
Exhilarating Rides Through the Blue Ridge Mountains Riding over varied terrain in a 4-seater while enjoying breathtaking views might be a bucket-list activity, however, at Mountain Warriors UTV, this experience can be replicated as often as you like! They offer guided tours through the mountains with some of the nicest UTVs available. This experience is a must for any thrill-seeking family looking to get the most out of a mountain getaway. There are miles and miles of trails, expert guides, unmatched equipment, and plenty of opportunities to breathe in the fresh mountain air. You will certainly be sharing this experience with others! https://www.offroadmountainwarriors.com/
Whether you are looking to fill your bucket-list adventures all at once or you simply want one epic adventure on each trip, there are plenty of exciting things to do in North Carolina’s High Country. Make Chetola Resort your family’s basecamp for an awe-inspiring Spring adventure and create some memories the kids will never forget.
When going on a trip with your family, it can be hard to plan activities that will appeal to everyone’s interests.
We want you to have the best Chetola Resort and High-Country experience possible. To ensure an amazing trip, we’ve put together a few sample winter itineraries to help you and your loved ones plan the best trip ever – no matter your interests.
For the adventurous family:
Go for a winter hike together to see beautiful mountain views. See our favorite winter hikes here
Book an experience at the Chetola Sporting Reserve and choose from archery, clay shooting, or all of the above! Read about a CSR experience here
Enjoy a waterfall hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains. See our favorite waterfall hikes here
Create wonderful memories with Chetola Fly Fishing! Prepare for your fishing experience here
Play in the snow and go skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing with your favorite people. Plan your perfect ski experience here
Get your adrenaline pumping and go for a mountain bike ride on one of our favorite High Country Trails. See our favorite trails here
Enjoy a cozy drink or snacks in our new Orvis Shop Lounge
Go for a walk around Chetola Lake. Explore our favorite walks in Blowing Rock here
Warm-up in the hot tub as a family after spending time outside
Ditch the screens and grab a board game to play in the lodge, in your room, or in our new Orvis Lounge
Go for a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. See our favorite winter overlooks here. Check Blue Ridge Parkway closures here
Experience a walk-through fine art and history at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. And enjoy a kid-specific exhibit, “Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites” now through February 26, 2022.
For the foodies:
Enjoy a delicious meal and dessert at Timberlake’s Restaurant. We are family-friendly; we do highly recommend reservations in advance.
On Saturday mornings, visit the Boone Winter Farmers Market for seasonal fresh vegetables, storage crops, locally raised meats, eggs, honey, homemade jellies, jams, baked items, handcrafted skincare, candles, unique crafts, and more!
Taste the Chetola’s Staff Favorite High Country eats (besides Timberlake’s Restaurant). Check out all our other top restaurant picks in the area here.
Have a “fancy” night in your lodge room or condo with a gourmet dessert and a charcuterie + artisanal cheese board from Timberlake’s Restaurant along with a movie
For those who like to shop til’ they drop:
Explore Chetola Resort’s *NEW* Orvis Fly Shop & Lounge for all your fly-fishing and outdoor needs
Take a short walk or drive to Downtown Blowing Rock to find unique antiques, art, jewelry, clothing boutiques, and home décor
Shop all your favorite designer brands and a few shops unique to the High Country at the Tanger Outlets located right next door to Chetola Resort
Take a trip back in time and shop for everything you can think of at the Mast General Store. Explore the one in Boone or the original in Valle Crucis
Experience unique shopping in Downtown Boone where they offer antique stores, craft venues, specialty shops, and more
For those who like a little bit of everything:
Enjoy s’mores by the lakeside firepit every Friday & Saturday night (weather dependent)
Take a trip to The Blowing Rock – experience the towns namesake and breathtaking views
Explore Linville Caverns and enjoy walking through an unusual series of underground rooms and passages
Climb to new heights and experience bouldering at Center45 in Boone
Enjoy a meaningful experience with visual arts at the Turchin Center
Become a kid again and play on the outdoor playground
Test your frisbee skills on our 9-Hole Disc Golf Course
Enjoy kid-friendly movie night on Thursday evenings in the Camp Room
No matter what you and your family are hoping to do on a trip to Blowing Rock, we’re here to help you have the best winter getaway possible. We can’t wait to welcome you to Chetola Resort this winter!
No matter your age, there’s nothing quite like a cup of hot cocoa (or another delicious cozy beverage) to warm up a chilly winter’s day. The High Country is full of adventures, and after a day full of fun, hot chocolate can make a good day great.
Here are a few of our favorite spots in the area (just a short walk or drive from Chetola) to cozy up with a warm cup:
Camp Coffee Roasters
Just a short drive or walk from Chetola Resort, Camp Coffee is known for their yummy coffee and delicious pastries, but their cozy hot chocolate will make any cold winter day better. And if you ask, they’ll top your toasty drink with whipped cream and cinnamon!
Photo courtesy of Bald Guy Brew
Bald Guy Brew
Another great spot right in the heart of Blowing Rock is Bald Guy Brew. Offering delicious hot chocolate, a variety of warm coffee brews, and a cozy spot, Bald Guy Brew is a place you’ll want to experience.
Photo Courtesy of Hatchet Coffee
Hatchet Coffee
A favorite spot for locals, students, and visitors, Hatchet Coffee, located in East Boone is a must-stop if you’re craving a delicious warm cup of cocoa. Aside from their mouth-watering hot cocoa, Hatchet also has amazing specialty drinks, classic coffees, and yummy snacks.
Photo Courtesy of Local Lion
Local Lion
Although Local Lion is known for its amazing donuts and coffee, they also have heavenly hot chocolate, espresso, and tea for guests to enjoy. And you can enjoy all their drinks inside their wonderful space or take it on the go by picking it up in their drive-thru.
Photo Courtesy of Espresso News
Espresso News
Espresso News is located in the heart of Downtown Boone and in addition to a cozy atmosphere and tasty hot chocolate, Espresso News has a full espresso bar, smoothies, and pastries made in-house daily.
Photo Courtesy of Talia's Espresso
Talia Espresso Boone
Located on King Street in Downtown Boone, Talia’s Espresso offers 3 different varieties of delightful hot chocolate to choose from. And sometimes they have a special seasonal flavor! Besides yummy cocoa, Talia’s has a wide variety of specialty drinks, hot & cold drinks, cozy spots to sit, and serves smoothies and pastries.
Photo Courtesy of Kovu's Coffee
Kovu’s Coffee
One of the newest coffee shops in the High Country, Kovu’s Coffee offers a delicious cup of Kovu’s Hot Cocoa which is hot chocolate and caramel with whipped cream. In addition to their delicious hot chocolate, this adorable spot, just a short walk from Appalachian State University also offers coffee, specialty drinks, and a selection of baked goods.
Photo Courtesy of Higher Grounds
Higher Grounds Coffee Shop
Whether you’re in the mood for a normal cup of hot chocolate or an extra rich Ghiradelli Hot Chocolate, you can’t go wrong with any choices you make at Higher Grounds. In addition to these two amazing hot chocolate options, you can also indulge yourself in one of their espresso creations, specialty beverages, coffee basics, or when it finally gets warmer a cold and refreshing drink.
Photo Courtesy of Mountain Grounds
Mountain Grounds Coffee & Tea Co.
Located at the base of Grandfather Mountain in Banner Elk, Mountain Grounds not only serves delish cups of hot chocolate but also an array of specialty drinks inspired by the season. You can accompany any of their drinks with an array of delicious pastries.
Photo Courtesy of Fred & Larry's Coffee
Fred & Larry’s Coffee
A Banner Elk staple, Fred & Larry’s Coffee offers a white hot chocolate and a classic hot chocolate for visitors to enjoy. If neither of those choices entice you, they also offer espresso, lattés, smoothies, kratom, and kava to drink plus live music and local art to enjoy!
Photo Courtesy of Banner Elk Lodge & Cafe
Banner Elk Café
Known for their gourmet hot chocolate, the Banner Elk Café has its own espresso bar that in addition to their hot chocolate, serves freshly roasted coffees, hot teas, smoothies, specialty coffee drinks, and fresh-baked bagels and pastries. Feeling a bit peckish? Be sure to also enjoy a delicious breakfast or meal while you’re there.
Photo Courtesy of One Shot Cafe
One Shot Café
Another new coffee spot in the High Country, One Shot Café is located between Foscoe and Banner Elk and serves up yummy, warm hot cocoa as well as other specialty coffees and teas. To make it even more inviting, they have a cozy seating with local goods, pastries, and ice cream.
Photo Courtesy of Little Deer Cafe
Little Deer Café
Located in Linville, Little Deer Café is a quaint little spot that offers heavenly hot cocoa alongside fresh, homemade pastries, other specialty drinks, delicious breakfast bites, and savory lunch options.
After a winter day full of fun hot chocolate is the perfect winter drink to warm you up and satisfy your sweet tooth. With so many hot chocolate spots AND fun activities, you’ll never be bored or un-cozy on a trip to Chetola Resort. We hope to see you with a cup of hot cocoa in hand soon!
*If you’re looking for a delicious adult hot chocolate to enjoy, visit us at Headwater’s Pub at Timberlake’s Restaurant for a Toasted Marshmallow cocktail!
