Nestled along the French Broad River, the mountain resort town of Hot Springs is home to about 600 people. However, like the ebb and flow of the river, the town’s numbers swell with visitors seeking relaxation and recreation.
The area has been popular with couples and families for centuries. But today, women are also flowing into town for girls weekends. Whether you’re hoping to reconnect with nature, rejuvenate your spirit, or reanimate dormant friendships, there are tons of great reasons to choose Hot Springs for a ladies-only vacay this season.
Here are just three reasons why Hot Springs, NC is an awesome girls weekend destination.
You can Nourish Your Body and Your Soul
The town of Hot Springs is quite quaint, but offers a number of surprises along its main drag. Bridge Street meanders like its nearby water source, but the cafes, coffee shops, gift shops, and art galleries are all imminently walkable. Explore town and discover everything from original local and global art to hand-crafted items and outdoor equipment.
Once your soul is nourished, don’t forget to feed your body. Hot Springs is home to a variety of unique restaurants serving fresh and creative cuisine prepared with locally grown and organic ingredients. From a country-cooking diner frequented by locals to casual fine dining, you and the ladies can enjoy a meal fireside, creekside, or with unforgettable mountain views. Stay out late to enjoy the town’s festive nightlife and local craft brews.
You can Reconnect with Your Wild Side
Hot Springs’ is one of the few towns in America with a truly intimate relationship with the Appalachian Trail—The AT passes right through the center of town! Bring all your camping gear, or simply take a short day hike with the gals. The Lover’s Leap Hiking Trail is a moderate two-mile loop that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the French Broad River and Pisgah National Forest. Take the loop to the AT for an additional 2,200 miles of the longest hiking-only trail in the world. (Just kidding…probably.)
Each April since 1995, the town hosts the weekend-long Trailfest, a celebration of all things related to outdoor recreation and the AT, complete with live music and local foods. The annual French Broad River Festival is held a few weeks later. This event features an impressive roster of musical groups, whitewater and bike races, arts and crafts vendors, and a kids village. Time your trip to coincide with one of the town’s signature events for a fun (and wild) time.
You can Soak Your Cares Away
Hot Springs got its name from one of the region’s most extraordinary features: natural mineral springs with temperatures of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re the perfect excuse to pack your bathing suit and a bottle of rosé! Before you know it, any tensions that remain from your “real life” will fade away.
The Hot Springs Resort & Spa, established in 1778, maintains indoor and outdoor hot tubs that are fed by the springs. Larger tubs can hold you and up to six of your closest friends. The mineral-rich water is said to increase circulation and oxygen flow throughout the body. Along with a full range of massage and body treatments, you’ll feel like you’re back to your college self in no time! For an even more intimate girls weekend experience, Broadwing Farm Cabins each feature private spring-fed tubs—so you never have to leave your lodging!