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highlands

Sliding Rock, dance social, and horse-back riding in the mountains
Travel Guides

10 Camp-Inspired Ways to Play in the Mountains

The whimsy of summer camp knows no age limit.

by Hannah Lee Leidy
Edible chocolate mushrooms and acorns from Edelweiss Pastry Boutique
Bakery

Confection Perfection at Edelweiss Pastry Boutique

A Highlands baker combines sugar, flour, and imagination to create edible masterpieces.

by Katie Schanze
Hikers in Whiteside Mountain, a 10-minute drive from downtown Highlands, NC
Murphy to Manteo

Embracing the Rugged & Refined Spirit in Highlands

Surrounded by lush forestland and filled with plush amenities, a resort town in Macon County hits the sweet spot for an upscale, down-to-earth getaway.

by Katie Schanze
The Park on Main Hotel, diners at Madison's Wine Garden, and Highlands Mountain House in Highlands, NC
Travel Guides

Where to Eat and Stay in Highlands

Five sumptuous stays. Five exceptional dining choices. Here’s how (and where) to channel this Macon County town’s refined sense of luxury.

by Hannah Lee Leidy
Happy Valley in Caldwell County.
Quiz

Down in the Valley

The lowlands that lie between North Carolina’s mountains brim with beautiful views, outdoor adventures, and rich local history.

by Alan Hodge
A traditional Burns Night dinner includes a platter of haggis, neeps, tatties, and cock-a-leekie soup
Food

A Great Scottish Feast

Each January, Highland Scots in North Carolina celebrate their ancestry by gathering around tables full of haggis to honor poet Robert Burns.

by Margaret Moffett
Illustration of children snow tubing down a mountain.
Festivals

How Highlands’ Powder Play Sparked a Snowy Tradition

For years, sledding down Monkey Hill in Macon County has been a popular winter activity. Now, it’s the inspiration for the area’s annual Snow Fest.

by Katie Kane Reynolds
Two people toast their glasses filled with a North Carolina wine.
Wineries & Breweries

Raise a Glass: 7 North Carolina Wine Regions

Set apart by climate, soil, and geography, each of North Carolina’s grape-growing regions produces wines that are just as distinct.

by Rebecca Woltz, Isabella Reilly & Hannah Lee Leidy
Sponsored

The Seasons in Highlands: Fall

Zip-line through the colorful forest canopy, go leaf peeping on a hike to a beautiful waterfall, explore downtown shops, and have a cozy dinner during a fall trip to Highlands.

by Our State Staff
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