10 Reasons to Fall for Western North Carolina

Weaverville – Kim Goodin
The pace in the charming town of Weaverville is even more leisurely than that of nearby Asheville, so reset your personal clock once you arrive. Aside from the relaxing atmosphere and small-town friendliness, the main reason to visit is the great shopping. For some reason, Weaverville seems to have more than its fair share of talented artists, and it also enhances Western North Carolina's reputation for fine antiques. Really, I could spend days here prowling through Mangum Pottery (828-645-4929; www.mangumpottery.com), Miya Gallery (828-658-9655; www.miyagallery.com), and Preservation Hall (828-645-1047; www.preservation-hall.com).

Eat ...
An avocado and sprout sandwich from North Star Diner (61C Weaver Blvd; 828-658-1300; www.northstardiner.com).
Enjoy ...
Asian-inspired rest and relaxation at Secret Garden Inn and Spa (56 N Main St; 828-658-9317; www.secretgardennc.com).
Shop ...
North Main Street, where most of Weaverville's shopping is clustered.

West Jefferson – Kelly Sigmon
In North Carolina's northwesternmost corner, snuggled into Ashe County's Blue Ridge Mountains, sits tiny, proud West Jefferson. Having sprung up like a weed along the route of the Virginia Creeper railroad, the town of roughly 1100 residents draws visitors with NC's only cheese factory, superb religious frescoes by artist Ben Long, and (in nearby Crumpler) Shatley Springs Inn. Established around curative mineral springs, the inn is best known for its delectable, family-style meals. Fill your belly to excess with the homestyle fare, and then fill your milk jug with restorative waters as you leave.

Rock ...
On the porch before savoring fried chicken and sugar-cured ham at Shatley Springs Inn (407 Shatley Springs Rd, Crumpler; 336-982-2236; www.shatleysprings.com).
See ...
How curds and whey are transformed into cheddar and pepper jack at Ashe County Cheese (106 E Main St; 336-246-2501; www.ashecountycheese.com).
Stay ...
The night in a converted farm building, graciously updated with art, antiques, and cosseting amenities, at River House Country Inn and Restaurant (1896 Old Field Creek Rd; 336-982-2109; www.riverhousenc.com).

Valdese – Kelly Sigmon
Founded in 1893 by Waldensian immigrants from Italy's Cottian Alps, the foothills community of Valdese is strong in history and European tradition. The Burke County enclave recalls its origins with the seasonal outdoor drama, From This Day Forward, and with a downtown street festival that celebrates "Glorious Return," the Waldenses' 19th-century homecoming after religious exile in Switzerland. Learn about the group as you tour the Waldensian Heritage Museum, visit the winery, play a game of bocce, or explore local art offerings at the Old Rock School.

Dine ...
On smoked chicken, hand-chopped pork, and homemade rolls at Butch's BBQ & Breakfast (210 Praley St NW; 828-874-7228).
Trace ...
Waldensian history and share the group's story of survival via 15 open-air stations on the Trail of Faith (401 Church St NW; 828-874-7255; www.waldensiantrailoffaith.org).
Spend ...
A night at the historic Inn at Glen Alpine (105 Davis St; 828-584-9264; www.innatglenalpine.com), where enormous porches and charming rooms offer pastoral beauty at the base of the Appalachians.