The vacation trails leading through North Carolina Vacation Rentals are as diverse as they are interesting, from the natural wonders to the naturally wonderful people, visitors will find it is the place they just donít want to leave.
Saying North Carolina is diverse may be putting it mildly when you can stroll sandy beaches in the east and snow ski in the mountains to the westñall in the same state. And the treasures to be found in between offer a rich cultural heritage, abundant history, modern and exciting cities. Plus the 600 golf courses from the mountains to the coast provide varied terrain and challenges suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
The 300-plus miles of North Carolina coastline are dotted with picturesque lighthouses and a chain of barrier islands along the northern coast beckoning visitors to such familiar places as Kitty Hawk, Duck and Cape Hatteras; and along the southern coast youíll find the historic Cape Fear Coast, Crystal Coast and Brunswick Islands. Each area has its unique style, and all offer spectacular Vacation Rentals, events and activities in a thoroughly relaxed atmosphere. And all with that famous North Carolina-patented hospitality.
History abounds along the coast where ships sailed and colonies formed 300 years ago. Historic Bath is North Carolinaís oldest town and celebrates its tri-centennial this year. Visit Beaufort, with buildings dating back to the mid-1700s, and Pine Knoll Shores, home to one of North Carolinaís three aquariums (Fort Fisher and Roanoke Island offer the other two). Tryon Palace Historic Site and Gardens, a collection of elegant Georgian buildings in New Bern, was constructed in 1770 as a residence for Royal Governor William Tryon and served as the stateís first capitol. In Wilmington, where the stage was set for much Civil War drama, today sets the stage for film and television drama. Famous faces and movie crews are often seen at work in this historic town. That Civil War drama spread throughout the state back in the mid-1800s and is commemorated this year as North Carolina joins the Civil War Trails project, with numerous historic sites interpreted with markers across the state.
For those fond of fairways, the stateís 600-plus golf courses are spread across North Carolina. From enchanting mountain courses to ocean-view fairways, golf in North Carolina can be played year-round.
Central North Carolina also boasts some exciting city life. Charlotte is the stateís largest city known for its offerings of fine cuisine, cultural activities and nightlife. Just north of the city, in Concord, shopping takes on a whole new meaning at Concord Mills. At Loweís Motor Speedway, race fans can thrill to NASCARís best. Many of the sportís drivers and race shops are located here offering museums and tours. Also in central North Carolina is Old Salem, a Moravian settlement restored to its 18th-century glory. And while there, donít miss the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts and the Old Salem Toy Museum, each teeming with antique treasures.
The Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area is home to some of the most prestigious and beautiful university campuses in the country. Shopping is great, as are the numerous museums and cultural activities, historic neighborhoods and the stateís capital in Raleigh. The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro has been called one of the best natural habitat facilities in the world. And in nearby Seagrove, where the earth is natural red clay, some of the worldís best potters ply their craft, and have for more than 200 years.
Although barbecue is often considered a verb, in North Carolina it is a noun to be eaten in large quantities along with hushpuppies and sweet tea. Great barbecue can be found all across the state, but Lexington is known for this regional delicacy.
Charming small towns beckon you to stay, but higher reaches may call you westward where the Great Smoky Mountains rise to meet the sky. From the northern mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds its way past scenic state parks, including New River, Stone Mountain and Doughton. An engineering marvel, the Linn Cove Viaduct takes you into the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area and some of North Carolinaís most spectacular hiking trails. Fishing, canoeing, whitewater rafting and camping are perfect ways to enjoy natural mountain wonders. So is an early summer visit to Roan Mountain, the worldís largest natural gardens of crimson-purple rhododendron. Spring and summer festivals provide an opportunity to enjoy foot-tapping mountain music and regional cuisine and, of course, famous North Carolina handmade crafts. Asheville is city-center to mountain activity and boasts numerous arts and crafts shops, galleries and museums. Two of the most interesting homes in all of America, George Vanderbiltís Biltmore Estate, a 250-room French chateau, and Carl Sandburgís Connemara, are located here. In North Carolinaís mountains, more than 300 waterfalls have been sighted, and the trout fishing is downright exciting. Ride on a mountain biking trail and you might discover your own private waterfall.
From beaches to mountains, North Carolinaís trails lead to unforgettable vistas and experiences. You wonít want to leave, and you know youíll return.