Vacation Rentals in Black Mountain

A small town with big flavor, Black Mountain lies just 15 miles east of downtown Asheville, enjoying its elevation of 2,405 feet. The picturesque town center is ensconced by mountain ridges, and outdoor activities are just minutes away. Black Mountain also boasts enviable art, crafts, and culinary scene, and the festival line-up is decidedly robust. Dog-friendly restaurants and stores make the town truly special, and families with kids and pets will feel right at home here. Whether you’re in search of a romantic escape or looking to chill out with family and friends in a serene, mountain town setting, a vacation rental in Black Mountain is a great idea.

Once voted the “Prettiest Small Town in America,” Black Mountain has garnered a solid fan following in recent years, and discerning travelers whether families, couples, or friends are all making their way up here. Vacation rentals on Holidu come with amenities such as heating, barbecue setups, patios, and fully-equipped kitchens. Some rentals have balconies too to soak up those divine mountain views. With regards to location, rentals around the Black Mountain Downtown Historic area are highly sought after thanks to proximity to specialty stores, crafts shops, and locally-owned restaurants. Those looking to reconnect with Nature could consider accommodation around the Black Mountain Golf Course or at the adjacent town of Swannanoa.

Black Mountain’s Downtown district is truly unique and first-time visitors are taken by surprise to see the giant rocker chairs all over the town. They’ve been placed just so that you can sit down and take in the views! The well-maintained Town Square is also a wonderful spot to watch the world go by. Another top pastime is shopping for hand-crafted souvenirs at locally owned stores such as Black Mountain Quilts, the C. W. Moose Trading Company, and the 1928-established Town Hardware & General Store – this one is like stepping back in time! The Mountain Nest Gallery is your window to the regional arts and crafts scene, and you can purchase everything from paintings to jewelry and pottery. Housed inside an old train depot, the equally charming Old Depot Gallery represents over 125 artisans and artists.

Black Mountain’s culinary scene is legendary and regulars just know where to go each time! A terrific breakfast option is Louise’s Kitchen – try Louise’s buttermilk cakes, chocolate chip pancakes, and biscuits & gravy. The Dynamite Roasting Company on Cherry Street is a 100% fair trade café where diners can soak in mountain views with a steaming cappuccino or creamy latté in hand. Also on Cherry Street is the Veranda Café which claims to serve the best lunch in town. Enjoy their house sandwiches with chips, soups, and Angus beef preparations. My Father's Pizza and Pasta, a long-standing favorite since 1990 proposes hand-tossed gourmet pizzas, hot oven subs, and salads all made from locally sourced ingredients.

Black Mountain’s festivals and events are second-to-none. Music fans should try coinciding their trip with Park Rhythms, a free summer concert series that ropes in some of North Carolina’s biggest names. July 4th is a big deal in Black Mountain and locals go crazy partying at the Downtown Street Dance and Fireworks event. Summer’s biggest surprise is the Annual Sourwood Festival where more than 30,000 visitors flock to the mountain town for the music, dance sessions, kiddie rides, and sourwood honey tastings! The family-friendly LEAF festival (short for Lake Eden Arts Festival) takes place twice a year in May and October and features fun art installations, music, and dance events. The year closes with multiple Yuletide celebrations, important ones being the Black Mountain Christmas Parade, and Deck the Trees. Book your vacation rentals in advance during the Christmas period!

A short stroll from the Downtown area will get you to Lake Tomahawk Park where you can swim, plan a picnic or try some old-fashioned angling amidst glorious mountain vistas. For clear views of Black Mountain’s sixth-highest peak, consider hiking the historic Graybeard Trail in nearby Montreat. The hike is moderately difficult but the pretty wooded trails make up for it. Another popular attraction is the family-friendly Chimney Rock Park replete with waterfalls, panoramic hiking trails, rock-climbing opportunities, and close-up animal encounters. Don’t forget to greet Greta the groundhog at the park’s Animal Discovery Den.

For a unique and unpretentious golfing experience in a mountain setting, check out the Black Mountain Golf Club course which was established in 1929. The rates are competitive, and the greens and fairways are in top-notch condition.

History buffs shouldn’t miss the Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, which is housed inside a 1920s fire station. Artifacts here touch upon Appalachian music, Native culture, moonshine, and even the experimental Black Mountain College where music, art, and poetry pioneers convened in the mid-20th century.

Located inside the former Black Mountain City Hall, this art center has been the focal point of art and culture in the region for over two decades. More than just an art gallery, visitors can also enjoy concerts, dance, and theater performances here.

The town has quite a few reputed distilleries and breweries, and a top choice is the Black Mountain Ale House. Their selection of organic microbrews is exceptional, and the live music nights are a nice touch. For something different, try mead (a wine made from fermented honey) at the Black Mountain Ciderworks + Meadery. For grain-to-glass blended malted whiskies and spicy dark gins, nothing beats the Oak and Grist Distilling Company.

Two miles north of Black Mountain is the secluded v1llage of Montreat nestled in miles of rugged wilderness. But there’s culture too! Community arts events, symphonies, and plays are regularly held at the Montreat Conference Center, and an exciting event is Montreat’s 4th of July Parade.