Blair Knobel

2 months ago | vsslmag.substack.com | Blair Knobel

By Blair KnobelTHERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT THE PHYSICAL RISE of traveling to the mountains—or hiking up a trail—that delivers me from the heaviness of life. It’s as if the act of literally moving up relieves me of my troubles below. Therefore, going to Highlands, North Carolina, the rhododendron-lush, misty-peaked Blue Ridge plateau in the Nantahala National Forest, is medicine for the soul. The charming mountain town, brimming with shops and restaurants, is also not shy of hospitality.

Jan 11, 2025 | vsslmag.com | Blair Knobel |April Economides

These are just a few of our favorite spots in Appalachia’s largest city, Asheville, and nearby small towns. There are many more. The Love Asheville from Afar Initiative offers an expansive way to support hundreds of shops and artists. Chai PaniFestive and colorful restaurant serving elevated Indian street food. 32 Banks Ave. CúratePopular Spanish tapas restaurant in a renovated 1920s bus depot.