Bold Rock is turning the taproom into the ultimate foodie and fun destination. Local food trucks will be serving up delicious eats in the parking lot, while July Turner takes the stage from 6 PM to 9 PM with live music. Guests of all ages can enjoy games, good times, and, of course, their favorite Bold Rock ciders on tap. Admission is free, so bring your friends, family, and your appetite for an evening full of food, music, and fun.
This lively summer event celebrates the sweet things in life with a honey-inspired menu, signature Bees Knees cocktails (gin, honey, lemon juice, lemon twist), and a hive full of fun. Guests can enjoy local honey tastings, browse artisan vendors, play yard games, and enjoy live music from the Showboat Band from 6-9pm.
Guests are invited to unleash their creativity at Bold Rock Mills River. No experience is necessary, as skilled instructors will guide participants step-by-step in recreating a fun and expressive landscape. Each guest will receive a 16×20″ canvas with a pre-sketched drawing and all necessary painting supplies. To support the venue, attendees are kindly asked to purchase at least one drink or menu item. Arriving early is recommended to get settled and enjoy some food and beverages before the event begins.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery brings its award-winning brews and deep-rooted community values to Mills River with a welcoming taproom and a passion for purpose.
Nestled in Mills River, Appalachian Mountain Brewery is a vibrant outpost of innovation, hospitality, and community spirit. Founded in Boone and now proudly serving Western North Carolina from a second home in Mills River, AMB continues to push the boundaries of craft beverages while staying grounded in values of hard work and connection.
“My name is Nathan Kelischek, I’m the president and owner of Appalachian Mountain Brewery. I was the brewmaster for a while, but now we have a great team in place. They help bring to life all the amazing beverages and experiences you’ll find at our Mills River location.”
With more than 40 in-house offerings at the taproom—from beer, cider, and mead to sodas and spirits—AMB stands out for both its variety and its passion.
AMB’s portfolio includes award-winning lagers, IPAs, and specialty ciders, all crafted with intention and pride. Nathan attributes their consistency and innovation to a combination of Appalachian hospitality and a deep-rooted work ethic.
“Our parents immigrated from Germany, and that background shaped our approach to brewing—simple, high-quality, and done right. Whether it’s a classic lager or a bold IPA, we want every recipe to reflect that mindset.”
Innovation remains a driving force at AMB, balanced by a willingness to experiment and iterate until everything on tap meets their standards.
“If we put something out and it’s not quite where we want it to be, we’ll change it. We’re constantly dialing in, tweaking, and making sure the product we serve is something we’re proud of.”
AMB is more than a brewery—it’s a destination. With a full kitchen serving Southern-style pub fare, a diverse drink selection, and a welcoming indoor/outdoor setup, the taproom invites guests of all ages to relax, enjoy live music, and soak in the friendly, mountain-town vibe.
“We have a full liquor bar, wine menu, and sodas for the kids. Our food is absolutely incredible. We usually have live music on the weekends, and if you’re visiting the area, we’d love to see you.”
The Mills River location, chosen after Nathan spent time mountain biking in the area, quickly became a hub for the local community.
“I was out riding trails and kept passing by this corner. It just called to me. The community here has been absolutely wonderful, and we always love seeing familiar faces and new friends.”
From the start, AMB has woven itself into the fabric of the places it serves. Whether through nonprofit partnerships, live local music, or monthly charitable programs, community is baked into every pint.
“We host nonprofit events, support artisans, and spotlight local causes through our Pint of the Month program. Each month, proceeds from a selected brew go to a different nonprofit.”
Now independently owned after regaining autonomy from Anheuser-Busch, AMB is proudly charting its own course, driven by a deep love for beverages and the people who enjoy them.
“We’ve been around for over 12 years, and we think of ourselves more as a beverage company than just a brewery. From beer and cider to soda and beyond, we’re always thinking about what we can create next.”
For those exploring Mills River and Hendersonville, AMB offers a chance to pause, connect, and enjoy.
“This area really is a gateway to the mountains, and we like to think of AMB as a place to stop, recharge, and get a taste of Western North Carolina. You never know what you’ll find—great food, live music, community events. There’s always something happening.”
The Cheers Trail Passport makes it easier than ever to explore and enjoy local breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries. Simply check in at participating locations like Appalachian Mountain Brewery using your phone and earn points to win prizes along the way!
Sweet dreams are made of cider and macarons! Join Bold Rock for a deliciously indulgent evening featuring a flight of four refreshing Bold Rock ciders perfectly paired with delicate, flavorful macarons—all for just $18!
Pairings:
PASSIONFRUIT MACARON- PARADISE ORCHARD
TIRAMISU MACARON- ROAST
CINNAMON MACARON- IMPERIAL AMBER
BLACKBERRY CHEESECAKE MACARON- BLACKBERRY
Bring your besties and treat yourself to the sweetest flight of the season—because nothing pairs better with cider than macarons and good company!
Hendersonville, NC, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails that cater to every type of adventurer. From experiential trails that invite you to explore our town’s local flavor to biking and hiking routes that showcase the beauty of our natural landscapes, our scenic trails provide something for everyone.
For a truly unique way to experience Hendersonville, our experiential trails offer a fun and flavorful way to explore the area. These trails let you “get a taste” of everything our town has to offer—whether it’s indulging in delicious local ice cream or savoring handcrafted beverages from our craft beverage scene. These trails aren’t just about the outdoors; they’re about enjoying what makes Hendersonville special, all while taking in the beauty of the surroundings. Perfect for families, foodies, and those looking for a little adventure with a side of local flavor.
Ice Cream Trail: Satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring Hendersonville with the Ice Cream Trail. With 13 unique stops along the way, each offering exciting and creative flavors, this trail is the perfect way to experience local ice cream while strolling through the charming streets of town. From classic favorites to seasonal specialties, there’s something to delight every ice cream lover!
Cheers! Trail: For those who enjoy a good drink, the Cheers! Trail offers a diverse selection of tasting experiences. Visitors can enjoy over two dozen tasting opportunities along the trail, including 11 breweries, seven wineries, three cideries, two distilleries, and a meadery. As you explore the beautiful landscape, you’ll also have the chance to savor handcrafted beverages and learn about the region’s growing craft beverage scene. Cheers to that!
For those looking to stretch their legs and immerse themselves in nature, Hendersonville is home to an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that promise breathtaking views and invigorating experiences.
High Falls Trail: High Falls Trail in DuPont State Recreational Forest is a moderate 1.2-mile out-and-back trail leading to one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls. The wide, gravel path winds through a scenic forest, gradually descending to a picnic shelter with an overlook of the 125-foot High Falls. For a closer view, a steeper side trail leads to the base of the falls. This trail is popular for hiking, photography, and picnicking, especially in the fall when the foliage is stunning.
Covered Bridge Trail: Covered Bridge Trail in DuPont State Recreational Forest is a moderate 0.5-mile connector trail that leads from the top of High Falls to the Covered Bridge crossing the Little River. The trail follows a gravel path with a gentle incline, passing through a beautiful forested area. It connects with Buck Forest Road and other trails, making it a great route for hiking, biking, and exploring the upper section of High Falls.
Triple Falls Trail: Triple Falls Trail in DuPont State Recreational Forest is a moderate 1.2-mile out-and-back trail leading to three stunning cascades along the Little River. The trail follows a wide gravel path with some steep sections, offering multiple overlooks of the 120-foot waterfall, which is divided into three distinct drops. A staircase leads to a large rocky area between the falls, providing a closer view. This trail is popular for hiking, photography, and picnicking, and it was featured in The Hunger Games movie.
Strawberry Gap Trail: The Strawberry Gap Trailhead is located in Gerton on Gerton Highway. The trail connects to the Trombatore Trail in the picturesque Blue Ridge Pastures after an approximately 2.8-mile hike, but sees about 800 feet in elevation change, making it a challenging hike. Please note, this trail is only open to human hikers, meaning no dogs, bikes or horses. The Strawberry Gap Trail is part of the Hickory Nut Trail Gorge trail system, one of 12 North Carolina State Trails.
Trombotore Trail: This strenuous 2.4 mile (each way) trail will get your heart pumping as it takes you through pastures up to a grassy bald with spectacular views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Bearwallow Mountain. Both the Trombatore Trail and Bearwallow Mountain Trail start from the same parking lot, at 4854 Bearwallow Mountain Road, Hendersonville. Parking is limited, please only park in designated parking areas.
Bearwallow Mountain Trail: Located in eastern Henderson County at an elevation of 4,232 feet above sea level, Bearwallow Mountain is an easy to moderate one-mile (each way) trail that features a grassy meadow at its summit, which often has cows grazing, along with a historic fire tower, breathtaking scenery and a 360° view. From atop the peak, see such area landmarks as downtown Hendersonville, Mt. Pisgah, Mt. Mitchell, the Hickory Nut Gorge and upstate South Carolina. As of fall 2020, this trail now connects to the Wildcat Rock Trail at the mountain’s summit. Both the Bearwallow Mountain Trail and the Trombatore Trail start from the same parking lot, at 4854 Bearwallow Mountain Road, Hendersonville. Parking is limited, please only park in designated parking areas.
Bell Park Trail: Bell Park offers 69 acres of tranquil forests on the edge of the Green River Gorge, with lush forests, waterfalls, and wildflowers including beautiful rhododendrons and mountain laurel. It extends from the High Bridge near Lake Summit, following the banks of the Green River, until it reaches the 14,000+ acre Green River Game Lands. Conserving Carolina acquired this land in 2015 and then worked with Henderson County to make it a public park. Trail length: 1.8 miles
Carl Sandburg Home Trails: Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is where Carl Sandburg, American poet, historian, author, and lecturer spent the final 22 years of his long and productive life at his estate, Connemara. The home, originally built in 1838, displays the Sandburg’s furnishing as they lived at Connemara from 1945-1968, including Carl Sandburg’s collection of 12,000 books. Tour the home for a small fee, and learn about Sandburg’s life as a writer, journalist, folk singer, social activist and Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and biographer. Visit the barn and descendants of Mrs. Sandburg’s champion dairy goat herd and hike over five miles of trails. Access to trails, grounds, barns and public areas is free.
Talking Trees at Holmes Educational State Forest: Holmes State Forest contains five miles of hiking trails. The popular Talking Trees Trail, an easy walking trail, features pedestals in front of a series of tree species. Visitors can push a button on the pedestal and listen to the trees “talk” about specific characteristics of that type of tree, the habitats where they are found and uses for their products. The forest also includes an interactive museum, picnic tables, restrooms, equipment for fighting forest fires and displays depicting the ecology of a managed forest. A spacious picnic shelter (with grills) is also available. The forest is located about 8-1/2 miles from downtown Hendersonville.
Jump Off Rock Trails: Known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the Jump Off Rock Trails offers easy to moderate hikes with an awe-inspiring reward at the summit. Choose from 3 trails varying in difficulty.
For those who prefer an easier, more accessible trail experience, Hendersonville features several greenways that connect outdoor spaces while promoting sustainability and community engagement.
Oklawaha Greenway: This multi-use trail winds through forests, fields, and wetlands, offering a perfect path for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The Oklawaha Greenway is a scenic route that showcases the beauty of Hendersonville’s natural environment.
Ecusta Trail: The Ecusta Trail, once a working rail line in the early 20th century, has been transformed into a scenic greenway stretching between Hendersonville and Brevard. As of summer 2025, over six miles of the planned 19.4-mile route are open, beginning at the renovated Hendersonville Welcome Center on Main Street and winding toward Horseshoe. This wide, flat, and paved trail offers an accessible outdoor experience for all ages and abilities, inviting visitors to walk, bike, or stroll through the natural beauty of Western North Carolina. Blending small-town charm with mountain views, the Ecusta Trail is a refreshing way to explore, unwind, and experience Gratitude at Altitude™
Exploring North Carolina’s outdoors comes with a responsibility to protect the places we love. Follow these Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the beauty and integrity of our wild spaces:
1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
Know before you go—research your destination, check regulations, and prepare for weather and safety concerns. Visit less crowded areas when possible, and always have a backup plan. Pack the essentials, including food, water, and the right gear.
2. Stick to Trails & Camp Right
Stay on marked trails to avoid trampling vegetation. Camp only in designated or already-used spots. Take breaks on durable surfaces and be aware of hazards like swift water or slippery rocks. Know your limits and stay safe.
3. Trash Your Trash
Whatever you bring in, take it out—including food scraps, cigarette butts, and pet waste. In remote areas, plan ahead for how you’ll properly dispose of human waste.
4. Leave It As You Find It
Admire wildflowers, shells, and rocks without taking them. Avoid carving into trees or disturbing natural features. These actions protect wildlife habitats and preserve the experience for others.
5. Be Careful With Fire
Follow local fire rules. Keep fires small, use a camp stove when possible, and only burn wood from the ground or local sources. Fully extinguish fires before leaving.
6. Keep Wildlife Wild
Watch animals from a distance and never feed them. Feeding wildlife changes their behavior and can be dangerous. Store food and trash securely when camping.
7. Be Considerate of Others
Share the trail respectfully. Keep noise down, yield appropriately, and announce your presence when passing. Let everyone enjoy the outdoors in their own way.
Whether you’re dreaming of cozy cabins, charming inns, or modern hotels, we’ve got you covered!
Head to our Lodging Page to explore all your options. Need a little inspiration? Check out our curated list of unique stays: Stay Your Way.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Hendersonville!
Bold Rock Mills River for an all-day celebration of sunshine, cider, and good vibes. We’re bringing the heat on Saturday with yard games, kid-friendly activities, and a rockin’ performance from The Showboat Band from 6-8pm.
Join for a deliciously indulgent evening featuring a flight of four refreshing Bold Rock ciders perfectly paired with famous Crumbl Cookies
Join on Mother’s Day for the Plant & Sip, where all moms will receive a complimentary plant (while supplies last) from our friends at the Mills River Fire Department.
No experience is needed. Our skilled instructors will help guide you through each step so that you can recreate this botanical mountain landscape. Everyone will receive a 16×20″ canvas with a pre-sketched drawing and all necessary painting supplies. We kindly ask that each guest buys at least one drink or menu item to support this awesome venue.
Join Grounded Boots Relief, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, for a family-friendly event at Bold Rock in Mills River on April 5th from 11 AM to 4 PM! This event highlights the importance of storm preparedness, search and rescue efforts, and outdoor safety. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just want to learn more about staying safe in emergencies, there will be something for everyone—including a possible helicopter demonstration!
You may have experienced the Cheers Trail Passport before, but now it’s gone digital! The new Cheers Trail Pass makes it easier than ever to explore and enjoy local breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries. No more keeping track of a paper passport—simply check in at participating locations using your phone and unlock rewards along the way.
Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in and around Hendersonville, the Cheers! Trail is the only trail in North Carolina showcasing five different types of craft beverages. Visitors can enjoy more than two dozen tasting experiences along the trail, including 11 breweries, seven wineries, three cideries, two distilleries, and a meadery.
From mountaintop vineyards to apple orchard cideries to one of the nation’s largest craft breweries, there are plenty of memorable experiences awaiting you along the Cheers! Trail. It’s the perfect way to explore the region’s finest craft beverages!
Now, to make your Cheers! Trail experience even more exciting, we’re thrilled to introduce the digitalized Cheers! Trail Passport.
You may be familiar with the physical Cheers! Trail passport—now, we’re making it even easier for you to check in and earn rewards! The Cheers! Trail is going digital, so you can track your visits, collect points, and redeem prizes all from your phone. No more keeping up with a paper passport—just sip, check in, and start winning!
With the new Cheers! Trail Passport, your adventures are more rewarding than ever. As you visit participating Cheers! Trail locations, you’ll check in via the Cheers! Trail passport, saved on your home screen and earn 100 points for each location you visit. The more stops you make, the more points you accumulate, and the closer you get to earning exclusive Cheers! Trail swag!
The best part? There’s no need to download any app! Simply sign up for the Cheers! Trail Passport for FREE above and save the pass to your home screen. Then, just visit your favorite local Cheers! Trail spots, check in, and start earning points instantly.
As you explore and check in at various Cheers! Trail locations, you’ll start collecting points that can be redeemed for a variety of fantastic rewards. You can even save up your points to unlock multiple prizes! Visit the Hendersonville Welcome Center to redeem your prizes, here’s a sneak peek at what you can earn:
Wine Stopper: Keep your favorite bottles fresh with this elegant, practical accessory.
Coasters: Protect your surfaces in style with custom Cheers! Trail coasters.
Corkscrew/Bottle Opener: Open your wine or brew with ease using this sleek tool.
Wine Goblet: Sip in style with a beautiful wine goblet.
Knit Beanie/Hat: Stay warm and stylish with the Cheers! Trail knit beanie.
4-Pack Pint Glasses: Enjoy your beverages in style with a set of Cheers! Trail pint glasses.
Cheers! Trail T-Shirt: Show off your love for the Cheers! Trail with a custom tee.
Ready to start earning points and collecting swag? All you need to do is sign up for the Cheers! Trail Passport and begin checking in at your favorite local spots along the trail. It’s the perfect way to explore, enjoy, and reward yourself for every visit.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the Cheers! Trail in a whole new way. The more you explore, the more you earn!
The Cheers! Trail Pass is the perfect way to make the most of the upcoming Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend, taking place May 2-4, 2025. This signature weekend features several local wineries and cideries, offering an unforgettable experience of cider, wine, and food. Enjoy artisan hard ciders and award-winning wines, all paired with a full schedule of exciting events.
Where to wag, sniff, and explore—Buster’s guide to the best dog-friendly spots in Hendersonville.
Hi, My name is Buster, and I’m a proud Frenchton (that’s French Bulldog + Boston Terrier for those keeping score). I was born and raised in Mills River, adopted in the summer of 2023, and let me tell you, I hit the jackpot, North Carolina is the perfect place for a little guy like me—fall is my favorite because I can bask in the sunshine without melting into a puddle.
I’m only 2 years old, so I still have lots of energy for exploring, playing, and meeting new friends. My favorite hobbies include hiking, sunbathing, and sniffing everything in sight.
Here are a few of my favorite spots around Hendersonville where I love to hang out, explore, and have a tail-waggin’ good time!
When I’m looking for a fun time, Bold Rock Hard Cider is where it’s at. Every Wednesday, my humans and I join the trivia crowd, and I get to hang out with tons of dogs while they cheer on their teams (and, let’s be real, beg for snacks). The cider’s a hit with my humans, but I’m all about the vibes and the treats. If I’m in the mood for a quick adventure, Hooker Falls in DuPont State Forest is perfect. The easy trail is ideal for my little legs, and I always meet new pups along the way. Plus, the waterfall is the perfect spot to cool off after a hike! For amazing views, Jump Off Rock is a must. The short walk leads to breathtaking views – even if you’re only a foot tall – I can enjoy the breeze and new smells. After a little hiking, I like to treat myself to a pup cup from sweetFrog. My humans get their frozen yogurt, and I get the best dessert in town—heaven in a cup, just for me!
When we’re in the mood for some strolls and shopping, Hendersonville’s Main Street is where its at. There are lots of pet-friendly stores and outdoor patios where I can hang out with my humans. I love meeting new pups and seeing what fun things I can sniff along the way. After some shopping, Mills River Park is the place to be! With an off-leash dog park, I can run free and make new friends. There’s also river access, perfect for cooling off after a fun day of exploring, and plenty of walking space with trails to sniff around.
If you’re new to Hendersonville or just visiting, here’s my advice: make time to get outside. The trails, parks, and pup-friendly spots are endless. Bring your humans along (they’re good for carrying treats and taking pictures), and don’t forget to stop by places like Wag! Pet Boutique or experience the Ice Cream Trail for a cold treat after your adventures.
Hendersonville is my home, and it’s got everything a guy like me could want. From the crunchy leaves in the fall to the cool mountain air, it’s the best place to be a pup. So, grab your leash, wag your tail, and get out there—you’re gonna love it here as much as I do.
Hendersonville has plenty of pet-friendly lodging where your furry friends can curl up after a day of sniffing new trails and making friends. Whether it’s a cozy cabin, a comfy inn, or a hotel with special treats. So, pack your leash, grab your favorite toy, and discover all Hendersonville has to offer.
Oklawaha Greenway
Buster says: “This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick zoomie session. It’s flat, shady, and full of exciting smells. Bonus points for all the friendly dogs and squirrels to watch!”
Jump Off Rock
Buster says: “The views are so good, even my humans stop and stare. It’s also a great spot for sunbathing—my favorite pastime—and sometimes there’s a gentle breeze that fluffs my fur just right.”
Trailside Brewing Company
Buster says: “It’s pet-friendly indoors, so I get to stay close to my humans no matter the weather. Plus, they host fun events like trivia and live music nights.”
Stone Ashe Vineyards
Buster Says: “I’ve heard my humans rave about the wine here, but I’m all about the wide-open space and stunning views.
sweetFrog
Buster says: “Pup cups here are the real deal. A quick stop for this frosty treat makes any adventure complete. I never leave without a wagging tail and a full belly!”
Join at the taproom for a Cheesecake & Flight Pairing—an exciting combo of creamy cheesecakes and crisp ciders.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Bold Rock Mills River. Enjoy $5 select drafts and sip on festive green cider.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Bold Rock. Join at the taproom for a St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Celebration with green cider, beads, live music on Sunday from Saint & Sinners (5pm – 8pm), and more.
Spring in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is a time of blossoming beauty, and what better way to celebrate than with the annual Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend? This delightful event offers a taste of the region’s finest craft beverages and culinary creations.
Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend is packed with opportunities to explore the best of Hendersonville’s offerings. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect (remember to check the official Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend page for the most up-to-date schedule and details):
Start your day with an unforgettable tour as part of the celebration! Take in the scenic views on a Hike & Sip with Souther Williams Vineyard, explore the vines on a guided walking tour with Marked Tree Vineyard, or stroll through the orchards on a vineyard & orchard hike with Appalachian Ridge Artisan Hard Cider.
Savor a variety of tastings and pairings throughout the weekend! Indulge in wine & chocolate pairings at Stone Ashe Vineyard, experience a barrel tasting with the winemakers at Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, or enjoy a bourbon-kissed red wine tasting at Souther Williams Vineyard. For cider lovers, sample a selection of hard ciders and spirits at Appalachian Ridge Artisan Hard Cider or sip on a cider and wine flight at J&M Farms.
Enjoy live music in a variety of genres throughout the weekend, adding to the festive atmosphere! Relax with acoustic tunes at a scenic vineyard, groove to lively sets at a cider house, or dance the night away at an energetic outdoor concert.
For a hands-on experience, create your own blend at a wine blending workshop with Stone Ashe, pack a basket and relax with a picnic in the vineyard at Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, or browse artisanal goods at Sawyer Springs’Spring Market & Festival.
Cap off the evening with a Taste of Hendo AVA Wine Dinner at The Henderson, or a Spring Wine Dinner at Marked Tree, where expertly crafted dishes are paired with locally made wines.
To fully enjoy the Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend, you’ll want to find the perfect place to stay. Hendersonville offers a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, including these special offerings for the weekend:
Echo Mountain Inn
Enjoy a memorable weekend in Henderson County with an all-inclusive getaway! For $550 + tax, this package includes a two-night stay, breakfast on both Saturday and Sunday, transportation to four local vineyards, and a catered dinner on Saturday night. The perfect way to sip, savor, and explore the best cider and wine in the area.
Clear Creek Cabins
Stay at one of the highly rated rural cabins, located central to several wineries, and enjoy a rural retreat at the 20-acre countryside property. The cabins sleep two, are located and landscaped for privacy, and have a hot tub and a fireplace.
Special Weekend Hours: They are extending normal check-in and check-out hours to provide a more relaxing stay. Check-in will be available Friday 2 hours early at 2 PM, and check-out a full 6 hours later on Sunday at 5 PM.
The Henderson
Experience two exciting events designed for wine lovers and food enthusiasts!
May 2 – Indulge in the Taste of Hendo AVA Wine Dinner, a four-course dining experience featuring wines from the same AVA, all set in the elegant ambiance of The Henderson.
May 3 – Enjoy an afternoon wine tasting featuring wines from Marked Tree, Stone Ashe, and Southern Williams Vineyards, paired with artisanal charcuterie from Hickory Nut Gap Farms.
The Horse Shoe Farm
Kick off Cider, Wine & Dine weekend at The Silo Cookhouse with an evening of expertly paired wine, cider, and charcuterie. Enjoy a curated selection of local wine and cider, thoughtfully paired with regional cheeses and charcuterie, all served on the outdoor patio with live music and picturesque farm views. Pairings are available for $45 from 5:00 to 8:30 PM, and regular menu items will also be available for purchase. No reservations are required—just come as you are and enjoy a relaxing evening.
WNC Mountain Rentals
Stay at one of Hendersonville’s top-rated short-term rentals during the Wine & Dine Weekend (May 2-5)! Book 3 nights and get 1 night at half off, plus receive a $25 gift certificate to Southern Williams Vineyard and a selection of local coffee and treats.
To make the most of your Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend, here are a few helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Purchase Tickets in Advance: Some events may require tickets, so it’s always a good idea to book ahead of time.
Designate a Driver: Safety first! With all the delicious wine and cider you’ll be sampling, it’s best to designate a driver. Hendersonville offers great transportation options, including local ride services and shuttles, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the weekend without worrying about getting behind the wheel.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many events include vineyard tours, so expect to do some walking. Comfortable shoes are a must!
Check the Weather: Spring in Hendersonville brings beautiful weather, but it can occasionally be a bit chilly. Be sure to pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Share Your Experience: Be sure to share your photos and stories on social media!
When considering a getaway with your best girls, some things are nonnegotiable. Beautiful scenery, spacious lodging, fabulous food and tasty beverages are must-haves. The Blue Ridge Mountain town of Hendersonville checks all of those boxes. From there, you can tailor your experience to suit your group. Check out the custom itineraries below for an escape to suit your style.
Stay: Selena Einwechter planned every detail at the Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill, pulling ideas from Southern Living magazine and personal travels throughout the Southeast. The entrepreneur opened her purpose-built inn in 2009. Rent the entire seven-bedroom inn for your girls’ weekend. Each room is named after a Southern town and reflects its style. Indulge in the three-course “breakfast at Tiffany’s” each morning and wind down in a rocking chair on the front porch in the evenings listening to birds and crickets.
Play: Book a spa day at The Horse Shoe Farm, less than five miles from the inn. The former working horse farm along the French Broad River is now a high-end retreat welcoming visitors to lose themselves in serenity. The Stable Spa draws on this area’s long connection to wellness and restoration, and it infuses treatments with a strong sense of place. Book a la carte massages, facials, foot therapies and wellness classes, or choose from a selection of themed packages. Enjoy lunch on property prepared by The Silo Cookhouse.
Evening Out: Season’s at Highland Lake Inn offers elegant dining in an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Admire bountiful gardens and flowering planters through wraparound windows in the dining room. Wine Spectator Magazine has given the restaurant its Award of Excellence for more than 20 consecutive years. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients, but expect a lineup of soups and salads, beef, seafood and tempting desserts. After dinner, take in a show at nearby Flat Rock Playhouse, the state theater of North Carolina. The theater offers a vibrant lineup of musicals, comedies, dramas, and an annual favorite, “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas.”
Stay: Depending on the size of your group, book one or more cabins at Brightwaters Vacation Rentals. The units range from two- to three-bedroom and are connected by Poplar Park, a private outdoor area with seating, walking paths and a fire pit. Owners Michele Azan and Elisabeth Perez lovingly built the property piece by piece, purchasing a unit at a time, renovating it and outfitting it with eclectic décor from estate sales, antiques stores and thrift shops. Each has its own personality.
Play: Feel free to ask your hosts for shopping recommendations, as the local duo has extensive neighborhood knowledge. Horse Shoe Gap Village is located a mile from Brightwaters. There you’ll find artisans working in a variety of mediums, including glass blowing, metalwork, jewelry, ceramics, painting and textiles. Head to downtown Hendersonville, park the car and stroll Main Street’s curvilinear sidewalks to art galleries, antiques shops, clothing boutiques, specialty stores and more. Don’t miss the shrimp and grits at Dandelion for lunch. The café is the job training arm of Safelight, a nonprofit that benefits survivors of domestic violence. Also check out Safelight’s thrift store next door for deals that do good.
Evening Out: Head up the steps at Shine to the rooftop cocktail bar and watch the sun drop behind the mountains in the distance. Descend downstairs for dinner, where everything — from ginger beer for your drink to ketchup for your fries — is made in house and served in a warm dining room with low lighting and wooden accents. Walk to dessert. Three stops along the Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail are located on or near Main Street. You can’t go wrong with frozen yogurt at sweetFrog, a homemade waffle cone at Kilwin’s, or extra-thick Irish-style ice cream at Celtic Creamery.
Stay: Stay in the middle of Hendersonville’s Crest of the Blue Ridge wine country at The Wallace House. Located next door to Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cider and across the road from Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, the five-bedroom farmhouse sleeps 12. Wake up to vineyard views and peaceful mountain mornings on this farm that’s been in the Ward family for centuries.
Play: Several tour companies offer winery excursions. Leave the driving to the professionals, and enjoy spending time with friends and admiring back-road scenery as your driver chauffeurs your group from one tasting room to the next. Seven wineries are located throughout Hendersonville’s Crest of the Blue Ridge wine region. Each has its own personality. Admire sweeping mountain views at Point Lookout Vineyards as you sip wine and mead, an ancient tradition of making wine from honey. Have lunch at Burntshirt Vineyards’ Vintner’s Table Restaurant and explore its extensive list of estate-grown wines. Discover less-familiar varietals at Souther Williams Vineyard, which grows grapes originally suited for the cooler climates of Austria, Germany and Russia.
Evening Out: After freshening up at the farmhouse, head to Flat Rock for dinner at Campfire Grill. This camp-themed restaurant honors Hendersonville’s history as the summer camp capital of the East Coast. But don’t expect hot dogs and sloppy joes. The menu is built around the restaurant’s wood-fired grill. Think fresh fish, steaks, grilled vegetables and over-the-top burgers. The restaurant continues to expand its wine program and now hosts monthly wine dinners and wine tastings on Wednesdays. The s’mores skillet is a must for dessert.
Whether you are looking for a scrumptious meal, fresh produce, locally roasted coffee, or a carefully-created craft beverage, your tastebuds will be delighted in Hendersonville.
Begin your day in the rolling horse country of rural Mills River at the elegant Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill. At this purpose-built inn
After a leisurely morning, venture over to Bold Rock Hard Cider. In late 2015, Virginia-based Bold Rock opened its second production facility in Mills River, along with an apple-pressing barn, tasting room and cider garden. The area’s orchards provide a ready source of fresh apples, which helped the Mills River location outpace its Virginia predecessor within the first three years of operation. Take a tour to learn how apples are pressed into juice, which goes through a fermentation process similar to winemaking and is kegged or bottled on-site. Participate in a tasting to try several of the dozen ciders on tap, from the original Carolina Apple to ciders flavored with blackberry, pineapple, herbs and spices. Bold Bites mobile kitchen serves a menu of burgers, wings, nachos, sandwiches and wraps.
After taking in the all that Bold Rock has to offer, head to downtown Hendersonville for the afternoon and pop into Wine Sage Merchant + Wine Bar on Main Street. The wine shop and bar focuses on vintages from smaller wineries, and also sells culinary-related gadgets and gifts, as well as offers tastings and classes.
Make dinner reservations at Postero, located across the street from Wine Sage Merchant + Wine Bar, in a former bank building. The smartly designed dining space features an open kitchen as its centerpiece. The restaurant maintains strong relationships with area farmers, calling them out on the menu when possible. Menu items honor Appalachian food traditions, while incorporating unexpected ingredients and elevating the presentation to something that resembles artwork on a plate.
