Last week over on the LetterJess Instagram page I asked you where some of your favorite apple orchards were, and I was excited to get a couple great suggestions from you. I thought it would be fun to do a short post that shares those with LetterJess readers in case you have time for an impromptu journey for some apple adventures!
Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, North Carolina
I attended my cousin’s wedding rehearsal dinner at Sky Top a couple years ago and was blown away by the sweeping panoramic views of the beautiful North Carolina Mountains. Located in Flat Rock (near Hendersonville or Asheville,) the orchard boasts offerings of freshly picked apples, grapes, pears and peaches- according to what fruit is in season. You can also watch as apple cider doughnuts are made in front of you or enjoy a hayride with your family/friends. The orchard is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm and the website linked above will give you more helpful hints on ways to plan your perfect apple adventure onsite.
Apple Orchard Inn in Saluda, North Carolina
Don’t you just ADORE a quaint Bed & Breakfast? South of Asheville lies the little town of Saluda, North Carolina which boasts its entire downtown on the National Registry of Historic Places. While enjoying a stay at Orchard Inn, you can enjoy dinner or brunch at Newman’s restaurant which has been noted to be one of the nicest restaurants in the area. Spa services are also available on site, and the Inn hosts weddings and events year round. I have never been to Apple Orchard Inn personally, but after researching this recommendation it’s getting added to my list of future weekend road trips!
Century Farm Orchards in Reidsville, North Carolina
Another apple adventure awaits if you’re able to make it to Reidsville, North Carolina for one of Century Farm Orchard’s open house days. The orchard is only open to the public a few days each year. This year the open house days are November 2, 9 and 16. The rest of the year, the orchard is a working apple and pear tree nursery specializing in old southern (and disease resistant) apple and pear trees. The orchard is recognized by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture has having remained in the owner’s direct family for more than 100 years (thus the name Century Farm.) Customers can purchase live apple and pear trees for delivery or pick up during those open house Saturdays. If you’re not interested in cultivating your own fruit, you can use the opportunity to visit the farm during open house to learn about apple/pear farming, see live demonstrations and (perhaps most important) try a number of different apple varieties. Did I mention BAKED GOODS?
Do you have your apple adventure planned yet? I’d love to hear if you try one of these spots or if you have other fun suggestions to share!
