An amazingly eclectic food scene, rich cultural offerings, and an abundance of outdoor activities – all set against a monumental Blue Ridge backdrop – make Asheville, N.C., a destination unto itself. But Asheville’s proximity to attractions outside the city also makes it the ideal locale to set up a home base. From quaint coastal towns to big-city spots, for Ashevillians, a change of scenery is only a simple drive away.

Where is Asheville, N.C., located?

Situated in the western part of North Carolina, Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains at the confluence of the Swannanoa and French Broad rivers. The county seat of Buncombe County, Asheville is the largest city in western N.C., with a population of 91,000.

Asheville has a number of neighboring communities perfect for a quick afternoon of exploration. Arden, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Enka, Fairview, Montreat, Swannanoa and Weaverville are all less than a 30-minute drive from Asheville, and offer appealing activities for the entire family.

How far is Asheville from the mountains?

The Blue Ridge Mountains, part of the Appalachian Mountains range, cover most of western N.C. While the Blue Ridge Mountains stretch from Georgia to Pennsylvania, the highest peaks are found around Asheville, which is itself at 2,134 feet. Mt. Mitchell (31 miles from Asheville via the Blue Ridge Parkway) is the highest point east of the Mississippi River (at 6,684 feet).

Five entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – including Cataloochee Valley, Balsam Mountain and Big Creek – are within 70 miles of Asheville. That means you can enjoy a day trip to this national gem, with free entry.

How far is Asheville from the beach?

Asheville’s reasonable proximity to the Carolina coast means you can easily make a weekend trip to the region’s many popular beaches. Keep in mind that, because of the curve of the coastline, South Carolina beaches are closer to Asheville than North Carolina’s. Folly Beach and Isle of Palms are around a four-hour drive from Asheville, essentially a straight shot down I-26 East. Hilton Head Island is 4.5 hours away, and Myrtle Beach is just under five.

How far is Asheville from major Southern cities?

Just because you’re in a small town doesn’t mean you can’t easily get your big-city fix. Charlotte, North Carolina’s largest city and the second-largest city in the Southeast (behind Jacksonville, Fla.), is just over two hours (130 miles) away from Asheville. The city of Atlanta (pop. 486,000) is a 3.5-hour drive, which makes Georgia’s capital the perfect weekend destination. For a little Lowcountry charm, head to Charleston, S.C., just four hours away. North Carolina’s Research Triangle – Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Durham – is about four hours away as well.

If Asheville – and its proximity to attractive destinations – sounds appealing to you, and you’d like to explore real estate options, please contact Mike Figura at Mike@MyMosaicRealty.com or call him anytime at (828) 337-8190.

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