When the time came to plan the details of my trip to North Carolina for a wedding in the mountains a few weeks ago, I decided to fly into Charlotte and take a quick detour to one of my favorite mountain towns – Blowing Rock. The town holds some very happy memories for me, as my family gathered there just a couple of years ago to celebrate the wedding of my sister & brother-in-law. I figured it was the perfect spot to spend a relaxing afternoon and evening, before a busy weekend of work!
As we’ve made sure to mention before, Relais & Chateaux hotels happen to be some of our very (very!) favorite hotels, so booking a night at the luxurious Westglow Resort & Spa seemed like no-brainer for me. I was fortunate to secure the last available room on the property, and even though it was located in one of the buildings across the street from the historic main inn, I loved everything about my quick solo mountain retreat!
Named by former owner, artist & writer Elliott Daingerfield, for the glow of the evening sunsets, Westglow was built in 1917 as Daingerfield’s summer home. Many of Daingerfield’s own paintings are displayed throughout the Greek Revival mansion, and almost 85% of the furnishings seen today are original pieces. One could completely lose track of time exploring the nooks and crannies of the mansion, and taking in the history of the property!
There are an abundance of beautiful, quiet spots around the property to curl up with a good book or simply take in the views of the majestic mountains all around, but the resort’s daily fitness activities and spa are not to be missed! There are guided three & six mile hikes each morning, daily yoga & pilates classes, tennis clinics, and other fitness classes offered on-site. Inside the Life Enrichment Center, you’ll find a rather extensive workout facility, a pool, group fitness classrooms, and, of course, the lovely spa itself. Although I didn’t have time to schedule a treatment for myself, I’ve heard nothing but amazing things from friends who’ve visited the spa before. Clearly I need to return and schedule my one hour Grandfather Stone Therapy, aptly named for nearby Grandfather Mountain!