Needing a breath of fresh air and a temporary escape from city living – my hub and I embarked on a one week adventure to Appalachia.

Spending several days in the Pisgah National Forest in a beautifully renovated antique cabin at Brown Mountain Beach Resort, we enjoyed leisurely hikes, canoeing and fresh locally made foods. The couple who recently acquired the stretch of historical cabins imparted their  enthusiasm for all things green and homegrown. Not only is this treasure of a resort striving for true sustainability, both financially and ecologically, they’re also pet-friendly. Talk about hitting up the right demographic! David and I will be sure to swing through again in the future with our mini goblins in tow.

After a few days of R&R in the park, we embarked on a visit to Asheville, the self-proclaimed “foodtopia” of the East. With a penchant for the arts and slow processes, both with foods and products, this tiny city nestled in the smoky mountains was refreshingly low key. With live folk music pouring from the bars, an abundance of local handmade crafts, direct-from-farmer restaurants and a thriving arts scene, this town of 50,000 was a pleasant surprise. We enjoyed gallery hopping in the River Arts District and leisurely strolls between the many boutiques. A true gem with much more to be discovered – I foresee us swinging through Asheville again in the near future – to do some more in depth exploring.

Is there a close vacation destination near your home that offers sustainable and local foods? If so – share your suggestions for regional trips in the comments! We’d love to know where you go to escape!