Itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Sunday, 10 May 2020: Arrive Asheville, NC; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into the Asheville airport no later than 4:00pm and take local transportation to the hotel. The tour begins at 6:00pm in the lobby of the hotel. Our Welcome Meeting will be followed by dinner to get acquainted and discuss our upcoming adventure. Overnight Asheville - 5 nights
Monday, 11 May 2020: Walking Tour of Asheville; Afternoon Waterfalls Walk (B,L)
This morning we're off on a walking tour of Asheville to learn more about this delightful artsy city. The downtown area is very compact making walking around to all the sights very easy. There is a vibrant artisan, food and craft beer scene in Asheville. Later we enjoy a leisurely walk to three waterfalls closely located to each other in nearby DuPont State Forest, with frequent stops for photo opportunities and time spent relaxing at the falls.
Tuesday, 12 May 2020: Great Smoky Mountain Railroad (B,L)
It's all aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad today. This excursion departs from Bryson City and travels 44 miles along the scenic Nantahala River and rugged terrain that the Cherokee called "The Land of The Noonday Sun." It crosses Fontana Lake on a historic 100-foot-high bridge that spans almost 800 feet across the lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. There is a one-hour layover at the Nantahala River Depot for sightseeing, shopping and relaxing.
Wednesday, 13 May 2020: Blue Ridge Parkway; Mount Mitchell; Grove Park Inn (B,L)
This morning we will drive the fabled Blue Ridge Parkway, often dubbed "America's Favorite Drive." We'll stop in at the Folk Art Center, which showcases the finest in traditional and contemporary craft of the Southern Appalachians. From here we drive to Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi, for a stellar scenic overlook with breathtaking views of the rolling ridges and fertile valleys. We then make our way back to enjoy a late lunch at historic Grove Park Inn, nestled in the mountains. This is a taste of true Southern hospitality.
Thursday, 14 May 2020: Biltmore Estate and Gardens; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
We will spend today visiting the famous Biltmore Estate, the largest home in America. George Vanderbilt's French chateau-style mansion features 250 rooms, 65 fireplaces and numerous art masterpieces. The estate also features elegant gardens, a winery and the River Bend Farm. There is so much to see and do at Biltmore that we will spend the entire day here. Later, we will gather for our Farewell Dinner to reminisce about the enjoyable week we've just had.
Friday, 15 May 2020: Return Home from Asheville (B)
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. Based on the departure time you provide WTT, your Tour Leader can assist with organizing travelers into small groups so you can ride-share to the airport if you wish.