The Lion and the Rose

Top 10 Winter Activities in Asheville

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 20:16:00 GMT

Biltmore Estate

There is never a bad time to visit the iconic Biltmore Estate but winter brings a yuletide oasis. Now through January 4, 2026, you can experience the beauty of thousands of lights, over 100 Christmas trees, fragrant wreaths, and sparkling garland. The winter season of January through March also brings lower prices and less crowds.
Explore Beer City USA

The local craft brewing scene has exploded and Asheville has been voted Beer City USA four years in a row, Asheville takes extreme pride in being home to over 20 local craft brewers. Whether you take a Brews cruise or a DIY tour on the Asheville Ale Trail, a brewery hopping exploration is the perfect way to keep warm and enjoy a cold, winter weekend.
Foodie Experiences Find out why Asheville ranks first in the South Atlantic region in the RewardExpert’s Best American Foodie Towns . With hundreds of restaurants and farm fresh eateries, you will not be disappointed by the choices of restaurants. Take a guided eating tour with a professional foodie to sample and taste some of Asheville’s best restaurants.
Asheville Restaurant Weeks (January 20-26, 2026 and February 17-23, 2026)

Try some new restaurants or revisit favorites. Get the lowest prices of the year, with a prix fix menu at $15-$35/person. With dozens of choices, there’s something for all appetites! Asheville has been touted by many as one of the top ten food and wine destinations in America.
Hiking Less crowds means quieter hikes. It is a great time to hit the trails! Discover peace and solitude with expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains on a cool, clear day. Dupont State Forest offers several hikes from easy to difficult. It is famous for being one of “The Hunger Games” film locations. Chimney Rock offers breathtaking views of the gorge after climbing up the chimney. Pisgah National Forest offers the opportunity of seeing a frozen waterfall at Daniel Ridge Falls.
Sharpen your photography skills Choose a half-day or full-day photo tours with our friends, Chris & Bonnie at Asheville Photo Tours. Explore some of the most photogenic but lesser-known locations in the Blue Ridge and Asheville areas.
Take an art class

Tap into your creative side with some of the talented, local artists. Day and weekend workshops include oil painting, acrylics, watercolor, inks, bookbinding, and pottery.
Live music

Asheville has been called “One of America’s Greatest Music Cities”. There is a vibrant music scene with live music of all genres from bluegrass to rock. Experience some of the very best in live music and find out why The Orange Peel has been called the country’s premiere Live Music Hall and Concert Venue. The Orange Peel offers state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment rarely found in a club of its size. Other fun venues include The Grey Eagle and Asheville Music Hall.
Pamper yourself

There is nothing quite like a luxurious foot soak in a hand-hammered copper bowl. Enjoy a fragrant, rejuvenating, and moisturizing sole to soul experience at Wake Foot Sanctuary. A signature massage can be added on for an extra splurge.
Indulge in a romantic getaway

Snuggle up with your loved one next to one of our cozy fireplaces with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of wine at The Lion and the Rose

Haunted Asheville

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:37:00 GMT

We are lucky to have great friends that grew up in Asheville. They have told us about some interesting local hauntings and strange experiences. With Halloween around the corner, we thought this was the right time to share some of these ghost stories and legends of paranormal activity.

Helen’s Bridge

The most haunted place in Asheville is said to be Helen’s Bridge . The bridge was constructed of quarried stone in 1909 to provide access to Zealandia mansion. A woman named Helen had lived at or near the mansion with her daughter. Her daughter died in a fire and Helen could not deal with the pain of losing her beloved daughter. Helen hung herself from the bridge. Legend says that she appears when her name is called. Many people have reported that their car will not start when they go to leave the area or have experienced looming car issues after having visited Helen’s bridge.

There has also supposedly been a great amount of paranormal activity around this bridge and other dark and creepy apparitions have been seen. Some have described monster-like figures hiding in the dense brush. And some have even reported physical experiences such as scratches and slaps.

Highland Hospital

About a mile away from our inn, you will find Highland Hospital and possibly Zelda Fitzgerald’s ghost. On March 10, 1948, a fire had broken out in the kitchen area of the Highland Hospital. That day Zelda Fitzgerald was scheduled to undergo an electroshock therapy treatment and was locked in her room. Flames quickly spread throughout the entire building and the fire escapes were completely destroyed. Sadly, nine women including Zelda Fitzgerald died in the fire. Zelda was known for taking frequent walks during her stays at Highland Hospital and it is said that her spirit still wanders around the property.

Brown Mountain Lights

The mystery of the Brown Mountain Lights have been caught on camera several times but no one knows exactly what the lights are. They can be definitively seen with your own eyes and appear as glowing orbs of light. They seem to be different colors and sizes but appear and then disappear. Some have reported sounds described as a beating drum while the lights dance above and below the treetops. Science has tried to explain the lights as marsh gas but there are no marshes in the area. Some people are convinced the lights are related to UFOs and aliens and others feel the lights are orbs of Native American ghosts.

The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast?

Some guests seem to think that they have experienced the paranormal here at the inn. Is The Lion and the Rose really haunted? I guess you will need to visit and try to find out for yourself.

If you are looking for a guided haunted tour, please visit our friends at https://usghostadventures.com/asheville-ghost-tour/ and use LIONROSE10 to receive a special discount.

Loyalty Rewards Program

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 21:30:00 GMT

In just under two weeks, Steve and I will be celebrating our seventh inniversary here at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast. Where has the time gone? We’ve been through a pandemic and a hurricane and luckily, we are happy to still be here doing what we love. We feel privileged to be the innkeepers of this beautiful, historic inn and to have met so many wonderful people. Many thanks to both our repeat and new guests for giving us the opportunity to be your home away from home while visiting Asheville.

Has it been a rough year after Hurricane Helene? Yes, it has. The hurricane caused not only physical damage but emotional effects for a lot of us in Asheville. The darkest days are long behind and Asheville has been open and welcoming visitors since late last year. The trees are lush and green, the flowers are blooming, and the air is cool and refreshing. Downtown businesses will welcome you with a smile and a thank you. The Blue Ridge Parkway is open to explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. And the Fall colors will be showing up soon. All the places you love are waiting for you and there are so many reasons to visit Asheville. Hopefully we give you another reason to come back sooner than later.

To show appreciation and thanks to all of our guests, we have created a new loyalty rewards program. This rewards program will be retroactive back to when we started this adventure on September 12, 2018. There is nothing to sign up for. Our reservation system keeps track of the number of nights and stays you have had.

The Lion and the Rose Loyalty Rewards

After staying 1-4 nights, 10% discount on all future stays
After staying 1 night, complimentary option to have a private breakfast for two on the front porch
After staying 5 nights, complimentary upgrade to next best room (example: Book and pay for Margaret Grace and get a free upgrade to Holger Nielsen). The rooms are as follows: Margaret Grace, Holger Nielsen, Fannie Rice, Marion Hall, Craig Toms suite.
After staying 10 nights, get 1 free night on your next stay
All stays in the Craig Toms suite will get a complimentary private balcony or in-room breakfast just for two

Please call us at 828-255-7673 to redeem any rewards on your next stay and we look forward to welcoming you back home.

20 Must Do Fall Activities in Asheville

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 19:01:00 GMT

20 Must Do Fall Activities in Asheville

With summer winding down, the time for Fall is upon us. Fall in the mountains not only brings beautiful color but also cooler temperatures and fun activities including history, the arts, music, food, libations, the outdoors, and the spooky season. These are our 20 Must Do Fall Activities in Asheville.

Leisure Outdoor Adventures

Blue Ridge Parkway leaf peeping

Fall color transforms the historic Biltmore Estate into an 8,000-acre oasis. Visit the prestigious gardens and a few other prime spots for Fall colors – The Bass Pond, The Lagoon, The South Terrace, and Top of the Esplanade.

Haunted Asheville in Spooky Season

There are a few options for a haunted Asheville tour. Our first choice would be the walking tour with Haunted Asheville. See Asheville’s haunts up close and personal for approximately 2 hours. Guides will lead you safely through the streets of downtown Asheville providing storytelling thrills and chills. For those with mobility issues or not wanting to walk, we recommend the Haunted History and Murder Mystery trolley tour. Sit back if you dare as guides illuminate Asheville’s darkest history with astonishing stories of spirits & spies, ghosts & goblins, hauntings & hoodlums and mountain-made murder & mayhem. And for a fun, comedic spin on a haunted tour, check out the LaZoom Ghosted tour.

Adventure Outdoor Activities

Asheville Jeep Tours offers multiple tour options including their Blue Ridge Parkway tour, Waterfall Hike excursion, and their Premier Fall Foliage experience. All of their tours are great but we suggest the Premier Fall Foliage to experience Experience the ultimate fall tour with a little bit of everything – crisp mountain air, sweeping views, and hidden waterfalls. It’s everything you love about autumn in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Travel to at least two waterfalls, High elevation Parkway stops, and Light off-roading.

Mountaintop to mountaintop zipline tour with Navitat is a totally unprecedented mountaintop adventure will take you soaring higher, faster, and longer than ever before, taking in the splendor of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina. Huge side-by-side ziplines and jaw-dropping speeds make the Mountaintop Tour an experience unlike any other. Suitable for first-timers and experienced thrill-seekers alike! There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially in the Fall.

Wellness Adventures

Get Outdoors with Asheville Wellness Tours on a yoga hike or forest bathing.

- The Yoga Hike is a classic yoga hike which allows you to take time away in nature to breathe deep, relax, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Enjoy a 2-mile round trip hike along an easy/moderate trail to a mountaintop with stunning views. Enjoy an hour of yoga for all levels at the summit.
- Forest Bathing will immerse you in the forest. Led by a certified nature therapy guide, this 3-hour experience weaves together mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing and embodied nature connection, providing a unique way to explore the wonders of the great outdoors. Through a series of invitations, you’ll have the opportunity to quiet your mind, awaken your senses, and deepen your connection with nature, community and Self. Meander through the tranquil forest, witnessing the awe-inspiring beauty of these ancient mountains. You’ll be guided along peaceful, gentle trails, truly immersing yourself in the present moment. Whether you’re seeking solace in nature or simply looking to unwind after a hectic week, this relaxing and restorative experience is just what you need. Give yourself the gift of tranquility and let the healing powers of nature wash over you.

Animal Adventures

Guided llama trek at Ellaberry Llama Farm is a memorable trek through our stunning apple orchard, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain views and interact closely with your very own llama. Capture unforgettable moments with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Flock to the Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is one of our favorite Fall events. Yes, Chimney Rock is back open, and so is its signature fall event. See raptors up close, enjoy guided hikes, and catch the hawk migration from one of the most stunning views in the state. 2025 date is Saturday, September 13 from 10am-3pm.

Wine Adventures

Hike and Sip tour at Souther Williams Vineyards offers a new adventure that includes hiking and wine. Put your hiking shoes on and join a unique opportunity to hike scenic rolling vineyards and enjoy five different wines along the way. A private tour guide will share the history of the farm while hiking through the vines. This educational experience will delight as you live the life of grape throughout its annual pilgrimage from vine to glass. This wine tasting tour requires moderate walking through hillside vineyards and appropriate walking/hiking shoes. Tour is held (weather permitting) year round and is approximately 75 minutes in duration.. Weekly tours are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11:00am.

Sip and stroll though the North Carolina Arboretum Arbor Evenings. Walk through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists. Wednesdays and Thursdays June 11 through September 18.

Beer City Adventures

One of the many Oktoberfest festivals are a tradition in Asheville. Asheville Oktoberfest, put on by the Asheville Downtown Association, will take place at Pack Square on Oct. 4. The event will feature 20+ breweries and craft beverage makers as well as games hosted by Asheville Sports and Social Club, local food vendors, and live music! Raise a stein at Highland’s Oktoberfest celebration for the return of Clawhammer Märzen Lager at Clawtoberfest. Enjoy traditional stein games, food, and music by Lagerhosen and Hustle Souls from 1–9 p.m on September 20. And one of our favorites is the Hillman Oktoberfest on September 27.

Get a higher perspective of the Fall colors on an Asheville Rooftop Bar Tour. The Sky’s The Limit tour stops at three rooftop bars for the best views in Asheville. You’ll love the fascinating city history and local lore our guide will share from the rooftops. Learn about “all things Asheville” as the group walks to each rooftop location. You’ll gain valuable insights into Asheville and other things to do and see in our city. If you prefer to visit one or more of the many rooftop bars in Asheville, we are happy to make some recommendations for you.

Arts and Culture Activities

RAD Resilience will tell the story of a community rebuilding—through creativity, connection, and courage. RAD Resilience happens September 13 and will include more than 350 artists (including 100 displaced by the storm) share new works across studios and at the RAD Art Market. Expect music, food trucks, interactive projects, and a spirit of transformation that spans the entire district.

Spend the weekend immersed in Southern Appalachian heritage at the Heritage Weekend at The Folk Art Center . There will be craft demos, mountain music, and hands-on traditions like blacksmithing and broom-making. The fan-favorite Whimmy Diddle Competition at 2pm celebrates the playful side of cultural preservation. 2025 dates are September 20-21 from 10am-4pm.

Asheville Art in the Park transforms Downtown Asheville into an open-air gallery with artists offering handmade goods, from contemporary jewelry to mountain folk art. October 4, 11 & 18 in Pack Square Park.

Experience North Carolina’s longest-running Shakespeare Festival in historic Montford. Montford Park Players’ Shakespeare in the Park productions are held in an informal outdoor setting at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre, 92 Gay Street, in in the Montford Community Center Complex near downtown Asheville. King Lear presented by the Montford Park players September 5–27 and She Kills Monsters from Oct 3-25.

Food Adventures

NC Mountain State Fair is a memorable WNC tradition that offers top-notch entertainment, food, fun, and exhibits. 2025 dates are September 5-14.

The Foodees Food & Culture Festival 2025 dates: September 19-21 at Tanger Outlets Asheville. Prepare for an unforgettable weekend of food, shopping, and family fun. 40+ Food Trucks to savor gourmet eats, international flavors, and sweet treats. 60+ Artisans & Crafters to shop for unique, handmade goods from talented vendors.

The Lion and the Rose Events

Support local musicians at Montford Porchfest on October 4. This annual event is a fun-filled day of music. Local musicians will be playing porches throughout Montford. The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast will be hosting 2 bands from 4-5:30pm.

Halloween in Montford is a trick or treating experience like something out of the movies. Our record number of trick’r’treaters has been 1,200 kids. Dress up with us or just watch in awe of how this neighborhood turns into a Hollywood scene.

Asheville is open and the mountains are calling

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:39:00 GMT

We are perplexed by the number of people who still think Asheville is not accessible or not open for business. Let’s set the record straight and make it clear that Asheville is open and welcoming visitors.

All roads into and out of Asheville are open. The Asheville airport (AVL) is open with a new concourse and more flights than ever before. Most businesses have been open since late 2024. Those in the harder hit areas have reopened in the last couple of months or are planning a reopen date. Parts of the River Arts will take more time to come back but the rumors of the River Arts being completely gone are not true.

Asheville has earned recognition as a top 2025 destination by Forbes Travel Guide and The New York Times. Yet we are baffled how so many people still question if Asheville is open. The answer is simple: Yes, Asheville is open! Below you will find plenty of reasons to visit and support this unique place.

Why you should plan a visit to Asheville soon

Asheville is comprised of mostly small businesses. Needless to say, Asheville would not be the same without the shops, boutiques, art galleries, breweries, restaurants, and bed and breakfasts. Since Hurricane Helene, many family-owned businesses have been struggling to stay afloat. A big draw for visitors are these small businesses and they need your help. If you cannot make a visit soon, please consider buying a gift certificate for one of these special places. Every little bit of income helps our struggling businesses.
Accommodation prices are the lowest they have been in years. Take advantage of staying in a historic B&B. Same beautiful place, same hospitality and experience but at a lower cost. You will most likely get more time and interaction with friendly innkeepers that are happy to chat about travel, offer recommendations, and more.
Tourism is down so it is much easier to visit your favorite places without the crowds
- The Blue Ridge Parkway has less traffic and makes it more peaceful to enjoy the scenery and sounds of nature. Once again, rumors about the majority of the Blue Ridge Parkway being closed are untrue. Miles and miles of it are open and waiting for you. We personally have been enjoying the overlooks and taking in the beautiful scenery. The Blue Ridge Mountains are super lush and green this year. More of the Parkway will be opening within the next month before the Fall colors start appearing.
- Popular and off the beaten path hiking trails have less visitors which is typically unheard of. We personally have been able to enjoy trails that we have not in years. We are avid hikers and love sharing hiking recommendations so feel free to ask about specific trails, trail conditions, flower blooms, etc.
- Both Biltmore Estate and most Asheville restaurants that normally require reservations months out are now possible to visit within a week or two.
Most of Asheville’s annual festivals and events are happening. There are plenty of fun events that include the arts, culture, food, and of course, beer.
Asheville temperatures are generally comfortable and make for a refreshing getaway. Escape the heat and stay cooler in the mountains.

Always Asheville

We highly recommend you take the opportunity to help our community and businesses by planning a visit to Asheville. The mountains are calling and now is the time to rediscover why this place is unforgettable. We thank you all for your support and we hope to see you soon!

Zipline and Canopy Adventures in Asheville

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 23:26:00 GMT

In this exciting episode of Big Blend Radio’s Adventures in Asheville podcast, we celebrate National Great Outdoors Month. Explore the thrill and beauty of ziplining with Navitat Canopy Adventures. Navitat is a premier tree-based adventure company just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville, North Carolina.

A Day Trip to Flat Rock Playhouse

Tue, 06 May 2025 22:09:00 GMT

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with Flat Rock Playhouse on Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast.

In this special episode, we spotlight the history and future of Flat Rock Playhouse, the State Theatre of North Carolina. Located just minutes from Hendersonville and just 30 miles south of Asheville. Flat Rock is also home to the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, plus boutique shops, art galleries, breweries, and local eateries.

Our featured guests Lisa Bryant and Christy Souther share the inspiring story and scenic setting of the Playhouse, its beloved summer camps and youth education programs, and an exciting lineup of 2025 shows, including:
– Cats
– Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
– The Play That Goes Wrong
– Murder on the Orient Express
– Autumn at The Opry
– Yellow Brick Joel: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John
– John Lloyd Young: Broadway’s Jersey Boy
– A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas

Plan your visit and learn more at https://www.flatrockplayhouse.org/

As always, this episode features Steve & Karen Wilson, aka “Mr & Mrs Wild,” innkeepers of the Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast. This inn is a beautifully restored pink Victorian in Asheville’s Montford Historic District. Discover their spring and summer getaway specials at https://www.lion-rose.com/

Fun and Unique Adventures in Asheville

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 20:17:00 GMT

Happy National Fun Day! Asheville, North Carolina is rebuilding after Hurricane Helene and is welcoming visitors back with open arms. Airing live from The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, this episode focuses on some of the unique experiences in Asheville. Highlighted places are the WNC Nature Center, Axeville Throwing Club, Asheville Pinball Museum, and more.

Traveling to Asheville directly helps support the local businesses and regional community. There is so much to do from brewery hopping and rooftop cocktails to public art viewing and shopping, chasing waterfalls and hiking. And visiting some of the area’s iconic attractions like the Biltmore Estate, Pisgah National Forest, and the North Carolina Arboretum.

ON THIS EPISODE OF BIG BLEND RADIO’S “ADVENTURES IN ASHEVILLE” SHOW:
* STEVE & KAREN WILSON – Owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. This charming lodging destination is back open and welcoming visitors. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/

* CINDY SMITH – Director of Development of the Friends of the WNC Nature Center. The WNC Nature Center connects people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity. More: https://wildwnc.org/

* GLEN MERCHANT – Owner and founder of Axeville, the first axe throwing club in Asheville. Opened in 2019, the club is designed to allow guests to safely throw axes at targets while enjoying local beer, cider and wine selections in a modern and cozy space. More: https://throwaxeville.com/

Spring Adventures in Asheville

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 22:27:00 GMT

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast covers Spring Adventures in Asheville. From the beautiful flowers at the Biltmore Blooms to the Asheville Orchid Festival. From Art Shows and Music Events to Hiking and Chasing Waterfalls. And the March Madness of Southern Conference Basketball and Wrestling Championships,

As always the show features Steve & Karen Wilson “Mr & Mrs Wild, who own and run The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/

Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/

This episode is also being shared and featured on other Big Blend Radio Network Podcast Channels including “Vacation Station” and “Garden Gossip,”

Rekindle The Love in Asheville

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 21:37:00 GMT

Traveling to Asheville directly helps support the local businesses and regional community, and there is so much to do from brewery hopping and rooftop cocktails to public art viewing and shopping, chasing waterfalls and hiking, and visiting some of the area’s iconic attractions like the Biltmore Estate, Pisgah National Forest, and the North Carolina Arboretum. The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast is a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. This charming lodging destination is back open and welcoming visitors. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/

Plus, watch for drone photographer Jay Schulz’s “Rekindle the Love” video project that will showcase several of Asheville’s local business. It be featured on Feb 14 on his site, https://www.sidebysidedrone.com/

Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/

Romantic Adventures in Asheville

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 19:43:00 GMT

From brewery hopping, rooftop cocktails, and rejuvenating massages to chasing waterfalls, hiking, ziplining through the forest, and whitewater rafting, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast covers 25+ romantic adventures you can have in Asheville, North Carolina.

As always the show features Steve & Karen Wilson “Mr & Mrs Wild, who own and run The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. More at https://www.lion-rose.com/

Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/

JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL “LOVE IS ALIVE IN ASHEVILLE” LIVE STREAM AT 1PM EST ON FEB. 13, ON PODBEAN: https://tinyurl.com/msn8n8u7

This episode is also being shared and featured on other Big Blend Radio Network Podcast Channels including “Vacation Station.”

25 Romantic Date Nights in Asheville

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 14:36:00 GMT

In celebration of the month of love, we put together a special list of romantic date night ideas in Asheville.

Dining out at a local restaurant

With over 250 independently owned restaurants, Asheville offers a dynamic food scene. A few of our favorite date night restaurants include:

Chestnut
Rhubarb
Strada Italiano
Rendezvous
Zambra
Hemingway’s
Posana
Asheville Proper
Cucina 24

If you are undecided and would like to opt for a less romantic option, we recommend taking a food tour with Asheville Food Tours or Eating Asheville.

Pamper yourself and the one you love

In-room massage or the enhanced Romantic Couples Spa Experience (massage, hot stones, and aromatherapy) at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast
Herbal foot bath and massage at Wake Foot Sanctuary
Salt spa therapy at Asheville Salt Cave

Listen to live music

Although it might not be the most romantic evening alone, music soothes the soul and brings back memories of good times together. Live music can be found nightly in Asheville but these are our favorite venues:

The Orange Peel
The Grey Eagle
Asheville Music Hall
Asheville Yards (formerly known as Rabbit Rabbit)
Jack of the Wood
Harrah’s Cherokee Center
Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

Sadly, the Salvage Station in the River Arts District is permanently closed. They are currently looking for a new space to continue to bring music to the Asheville community.

Movie night

Whether you choose a comedy, horror, action, or drama, any movie is a good excuse to snuggle with your sweetheart. Our favorite movie date nights are at:

Asheville Brewing and Pizza
Carolina Cinemark Bistro

Sweets for my sweet

If you have a sweet tooth and need a little dessert, you will find chocolates, honey, ice cream, and pastries to satisfy that craving.

Crave Dessert Bar
Chocolate Fetish
French Broad Chocolate Lounge
Asheville Chocolate
Asheville Bee Charmer
Old Europe Pastries
The Hop Ice Cream
Whit’s Frozen Custard

Wellness activities for the active couple

Asheville Wellness Tours offers various wellness group and private tours including sunset yoga hikes, forest bathing, sound bath meditation, and goat yoga.

Cooking in the kitchen

Whether you love to cook or are just a beginner, a private cooking class for two with our friends at Cottage Cooking is a great way to have dinner and enjoy preparing a meal together.

Pairing Cocktails

There are many great cocktail bars and lounges in Asheville. A few of our favorite cocktail date nights include:

The Crow and the Quill – speakeasy bar
Tiki Easy – tiki style speakeasy bar
Antidote Cocktail Lounge
Boomer’s Bourbon and Cigar Bar
Cultivated Cocktails
The Times Bar and Coffee Shop

If you are looking for a less romantic option and willing to share part of your evening with a group, we recommend Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours. Learn history of downtown while sipping on specially crafted cocktails.

For The Love Of Animals

If you are an animal lover like us, a romantic night still might include a furry critter that will snuggle you both. Adopt a new furbaby at Asheville Humane Society or visit the WNC Nature Center to see native animals and learn about the education and conservation this center provides to North Carolina.

Reconnect with Nature

A day out in nature reconnects not just the two of you but also with the world around you. With over 300 waterfalls, 369 miles of trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails in Pisgah Forest, it is a nature lovers paradise. As avid outdoorsmen, we are happy to recommend hiking trails tailored to fit your experience and desires.

Picnic on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is 469 miles long. With over 200 overlooks, there are multiple places to park, have a picnic, and just enjoy the scenery. The Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited National Park for good reason. It truly is one of the most scenic drives in America.

If you would like a unique and customized picnic with an expert setting it all up for you, there are a couple companies we recommend that will create the ultimate romantic picnic for the two of you.

Dreamscape Luxury Picnics
Asheville Picnic Company

Biltmore

What is there to say the Biltmore Estate? It is not only America’s largest private home but it is a majestic 1895 French Renaissance style chateau. The house is 175,000 square feet, has 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms. The estate is 8,000 acres and offers the opportunity to view the mansion, gardens, winery, and King Tut exhibit. Other experiences to enjoy include falconry, a horse drawn carriage ride, fishing, and Land Rover tour.

Game night

A little fun competition is good for any relationship. Asheville has everything from pinball to arcades to board games. These are a few of our favorite game night spots:

Asheville Pinball Museum
Level 256 Classic Arcade Bar
Well Played Board Game Cafe

Brewery hopping

When in Beer City, brewery hopping is always a great choice for a date night. With more breweries per capita than any other city in the US, there is a beer for anyone here. Is it the most romantic date night? Maybe, maybe not. But who can say no to a good beer and you will definitely find plenty of excellent beers in Asheville.

Capturing the Moment together on a photo tour

Learn new photography techniques and explore new places on a private photo tour with our friends at Asheville Photo Tours. We highly recommend it for a date day. Our experience included a day of waterfalls, a rainbow, and a gorgeous sunset. What more can I say? A perfect and memorable date!

Throwing axes

Looking for a unique experience and something you haven’t done together yet? Axeville might just be the place for the two of you. Throwing axes together is therapy. Take your frustrations with the world out on a target instead of out on each other.

Love is Art

The Asheville Art Museum has a collection of American art from the 20th & 21st centuries with a concentration on work significant to the Southeast and in particular, regional contributions. They present 15 to 20 exceptional exhibitions each year.

Although the River Arts District was hit hard by Hurricane Helene, not all of it has been destroyed. There are still many art galleries and breweries open. Browse through the downtown and RAD galleries, talk to the artists, and help support the art community of Asheville.

Comedy night

Laughter is the best medicine. Enjoy a few laughs together on a LaZoom comedy bus tour or at the LaZoom room downtown.

Life Together is an Adventure

There are many adventures in the area such as ziplining, white water rafting, rock climbing. Maybe not the most romantic date but we highly recommend a mountaintop zipline tour with Navitat. It is a side by side zipline tour so you can race your partner to the other side of the mountain. You will learn history of the area, about the vegetation, and about areas where parts of The Hunger Games was filmed.

Horseback ride through the mountains

Sandy Bottom Trails
Saddle Up Trail Rides
Pisgah Forest Riding Stables

Play Ball at a Baseball game

Baseball season is April through September. The Asheville Tourists are the class A minor league team, affiliate of the Houston Astros. McCormick Field is the home field built in 1924. There are many fun promotional nights that include Thirsty Thursday with $3 craft beers, Friday fireworks with $1 hot dogs, jersey nights, and more.

You Got Me Hooked Fishing

For the avid outdoorsmen, there are endless opportunities for fishing in the area, particularly trout fishing. The Davidson River is the best known trout fishing spot in North Carolina. If you are both experienced anglers, you can enjoy a fishing date. If you are a beginner and want to share your day with a guide to help you catch something, we recommend Asheville Fly Fishing or Southern Appalachain Anglers.

Hot Air Balloon ride over the Blue Ridge Mountains

Start your day off on a private morning balloon flight for two with Asheville Balloon Company. Fantastic birds eye views of the mountains of Western North Carolina.

Antique car ride around Asheville

Ride along with Mountaineer Motor Tours in a real 1923 open air Ford Model T exploring Grove Park Inn, historic Montford, and downtown Asheville.

Romance on the Rail

Get a front-row view of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on a round-trip on a train is an ideal way to see extraordinary places that you can’t get to by car. The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad starts at a historic train depot with views of the Nantahala Gorge, Tuckasegee River, and more. Choose between steam or diesel powered trains for your scenic excursion. There are also specialty dinner excursions that include beer, wine, or bourbon.

Relaxing Adventures in Asheville

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 18:48:00 GMT

Are you ready to shrug off the stresses of 2024 and step into a relaxed and rejuvenated 2025? This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast shares how you can renew your body, mind, and spirit while helping this beautiful city renew after Hurricane Helene. Life is a journey and so is this recovery effort. So together, let’s make it all happen!

Featured Guests:
– Steve & Karen Wilson “Mr & Mrs Wild, who own and run The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/
– Melissa Long of Wake Foot Sanctuary, known for their thoughtfully formulated herbal soaks and rejuvenating massages that will de-stress and re-energize. More: https://wakespa.com/

Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/

This episode is also being shared and featured on other Big Blend Radio Network Podcast Channels including “Quaility of Life” and “Vacation Station.”

Meet Lita, the inn puppy

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 00:26:00 GMT

As some of you already know, we sadly lost our beloved inn dog, Oreo, to canine cancer. It has been such a difficult time for all of us and we know many of you loved Oreo as much as we did. Thank you so much for all of your love and support during this sad and heartbreaking time. Your kind words and condolences mean a lot to us.

Our other inn dog, Ozzy, was extremely attached to Oreo and was so lost without his buddy. It was beyond sad to watch him grieve for his best friend. We felt the time was right and made the decision to search for a new inn puppy.

There were certain requirements for a new inn dog. First, we needed a hypoallergenic dog for our sake and our guests. Our inn dogs are only introduced once we get approval from guests. Second, we wanted a sweet and loveable pup that would love guests and her inn duties as much as Ozzy.

Resume for Lita, the Shih Tzu puppy

Objective :

Extremely sweet, intelligent, friendly Shih Tzu puppy seeks a loving family that offers a safe and fun environment. Searching for a permanent position that allows me the opportunity to make many friends and give many puppy kisses.

Skills:

Excellent puppy kisser
Super cute heartbreaker that will melt all hearts
Adorable fluff ball
Fast learner
Good listener
Very ambitious
Attention getter
Great playmate
Offering hours of silly and cute entertainment
Exceptional cuddler
“Jill of all trades”
Talented multi-tasker
Eager to please
Hard worker
Good companion
Works well with humans and other animals
Perfect bonus Bed and Breakfast amenity and another reason to choose The Lion and the Rose as your place to stay in Asheville

Experience:

Although I have no past experience, I am eager to learn and willing to shadow lead inn dog and big brother, Ozzy. My cuteness, loving companionship and endless puppy kisses will be used to fulfill all inn job duties. I promise to make guests smile and laugh daily. Upon request, I will happily greet guests and offer them many puppy kisses and cuddles. My big brother, Ozzy, will be loved and wrestled with until he is pooped out. My parents will get their fill of daily physical exercise chasing me around and smiles from my cuteness. Even though I am small, I am a spitfire ready to take on the world. I am a hard worker with lots of energy and willing to work long hours. I am a bold and sweet girl and I am the pick of the litter for this job!

Personal Bio:

I am currently 12 weeks old. My parents named me after Lita Ford, one of the best female rock musicians of all time. Like my human parents, I rock hard, work hard and play hard. Please come to The Lion and the Rose and visit me. I can’t wait to meet you!

24 New Experiences in Asheville To Try in 2024

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 22:41:00 GMT

A New Year is always a good excuse to get out and try new things. Step out of your normal comfort zone to try something different. Or check off some of those fun activities on your bucket list. Let 2024 be the year of many new and exciting experiences.

We have put a lot of thought into fun things for you to do on your next visit to Asheville. We have carefully crafted 24 experiences just for you. Each month we will be highlighting two different special packages that will introduce you to new activities and enhancements to your Asheville vacation. All of these packages will be available throughout the year and not just the month they are featured. Please note that some of these packages cannot be booked online. Give us a call with any questions or bookings for these specials.

January

As we start the year, January is a popular time to start planning for that future wedding or elopement. Or maybe just some pamper time for yourself and significant other. Hence, our featured packages for January are our Mountain Bliss Elopement Package and our Couples Romantic Spa Experience.

Mountain Bliss Elopement: Includes all the necessities of an elopement wedding. Officiant, bridal bouquet, small cake, bottle of champagne and photography by the innkeepers are included. An Elevated Mountain Bliss Elopement is the enhanced version for 2024. It can be customized to include a mountain or waterfall ceremony location and custom beer bottles for your wedding toast.

Couples Romantic Spa Experience: All the ultimate spa treatments wrapped up all in one package. Enjoy a 60 minute in-room couples massage, hot stones, and reflexology.

February

Love is in the Mountain Air: This romance package includes a bottle of wine, chocolate truffles, a dozen red roses, and a special discount to the Asheville Salt Cave.

Bed & Biscuit: This pet package is very limited as we can only offer certain rooms and dates to ensure the comfort of all our guests. Upon arrival, your pup will be treated to homemade dog biscuits and you will be greeted with a pint of our beer. You and your pup will be accommodated at a private table for breakfast each morning.

Bonus special: Winter Biltmore Special . Book a February stay in our Craig Toms suite and you will receive a pair of complimentary Grounds & Gardens passes to Biltmore Estate. Upgrade these tickets to include a house tour and you will save about half off the normal price.

March

Crafted Cocktails: This package includes a bottle of Two Trees Distilling bourbon whiskey and a special discount on Asheville Rooftop Bar tours.

Paint The Town: Enjoy the arts around Asheville with special discounts on Mountain Mural tours and special admission rate to the Asheville Art Museum.

April

Spring Gardens: Indulge in a private champagne breakfast served on our front porch or garden area. Special discounts on Biltmore Estate and gardens, Chimney Rock State Park, Hood Huggers tours, and on classes at Art Garden AVL.

Beer and Baseball: Our only package that includes a personal in-room tap when you stay 3 or more nights. Also included are 2 custom The Lion and the Rose beer koozies and 2 tickets to an Asheville Tourists baseball game.

May

Capture the Moment: This package is for photography lovers. Get a special discount on Asheville Photo Tours, picnic lunch for 2 and 2 custom beer bottles with our beer.

Wine and Cheese: Extra special discounts on Asheville Wine Tours, Biltmore Estate and Antler Village wine tasting, in-room Bottle of red or white wine and a Charcuterie. Discount on goat yoga tours at a local creamery and farm. For those interested in exploring the WNC Cheese Trail, we will also include details.

June

Outdoor Adventures: Start the day with a private breakfast for 2 on our front porch. Take a picnic lunch to go on and head out on some fun outdoor adventures. Get special discounts on Chimney Rock State Park, Asheville Wellness Tours and Asheville Adventures tours. Innkeepers are happy to hike with you depending on schedule and availability. Just ask if you’d like to hike with us.

A Taste of Asheville: Includes a Bed & Breakfast cookbook, two custom The Lion and the Rose souvenir mugs, and special discounts on Asheville Food Tours, Eating Asheville tours, and on a Cottage Cooking class.

July

Summer on the Water: Summer in the mountains is the perfect time to enjoy water activities. Receive special discounts on a beer float tour, SUP tours, tubing, kayaking and other watersports tours.

Wild about Wildlife: Includes a private breakfast on our front porch (remember to keep an eye open for bear sightings), picnic lunch for 2 to go, and tickets to WNC Nature Center.

August

Wellness Retreat: Customize your own wellness retreat with extra special discounts. Choose from a sunset yoga hike, forest bathing, hiking, sound healing, or tarot card reading.

Adrenaline Adventures: For the adventure seekers, there are several discounts in this package from ziplining to whitewater rafting to jeep adventures. Two custom bottles of our beer will also be included.

September

Group rental: We love having groups rent the entire inn! Rent the whole house and receive a 10% off discount on the rental. And special discounts on group activities such as the Hot Zone Party Engine, The Amazing Pub Cycle, Axeville, and more. There are five rooms, accommodating up to 12 people. Rules can also be flexible on whole house rental. Ask us for more details.

Asheville Bourbon Trail: Includes a bottle of Two Trees Distilling bourbon whiskey, free tasting at Two Trees Distilling, and a list of our favorite local distilleries and cocktail bars.

October

Beer City Oktoberfest: Between Fall colors and Oktoberfest, Beer City is the place to be in October. Start your stay with a pint of our special Oktoberfest beer in a souvenir The Lion and the Rose pint glass. Each morning, a beermosa will accompany breakfast, a tradition usually reserved for Sunday mornings. Also receive a discount on any Brew-Ed tour and get a list of our favorite breweries.

Haunted Asheville: Asheville has a reputation for having several haunted locations. Discounts on haunted trolley tour and haunted hikes included in this spooky package. And don’t forget to spend Halloween with us. There have been as many as 1,200 trick or treaters in the neighborhood. It is quite a sight!

November

Military and Veteran Appreciation: We love our military and veterans! For the month of November, we invite all active military and veterans to get a special discount on their stay at The Lion and the Rose. Several partner activity discounts also available. We also will be running a contest for a free night on Veterans Day. Contest details coming some time in August.

History of Asheville: Spend a day learning the history of Asheville and getting a great overview of this vibrant city. Included are two Hop On/Hop Off trolley tickets, the best way to see all of the main attractions in Asheville. Discounts to other history tours such as Asheville Rooftop Bar tours, Asheville Food Tours, Eating Asheville, and Biltmore Estate will be included.

December

A Hallmark Christmas: There is nothing quite like a visit to Biltmore Estate for Christmas. The decorations, the music, and the setting puts you in your very own Biltmore Chrismtas Hallmark movie. Receive a special discount on Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore and a bottle of Biltmore wine to celebrate the holidays.

Snuggle Up Chocolate Lovers: Enjoy Karen’s famous wine brownies snuggled up next to a cozy fireplace. A locally made The Lion and the Rose souvenir mug filled with hot chocolate will also be a special treat in this package. The perfect end to an evening after exploring Asheville,

September Anniversary Free Night Offer

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 19:57:00 GMT

Thank you to all of our guests, friends, family and neighbors for supporting us over the last five years. It has been a dream come true to be innkeepers of The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast. We thank each and every one of you for all the wonderful memories over the past five years. We look forward to sharing more great times and moments together.

To honor this milestone, we invite you to stay with us and celebrate. September is a beautiful month to visit Asheville. Great weather, less crowds and lots of activities to enjoy. For the month of September, stay longer and get a free night. Five is the magic number for us this year. Stay 4 nights and get your 5th night free. This offer is valid for any room and any dates in September through October 3rd. Give us a call or book directly on our website, www.lion-rose.com. Remember we usually start seeing Fall colors starting at the end of September and in early October. We can’t wait to celebrate with you this September!

UPDATE: We have decided to extend this offer through Fall for you to be able to enjoy a longer stay during peak season and see the beautiful colors of Fall with the leaves changing. This offer is now available through November.

Oktoberfest Festivals Around Asheville

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 21:55:00 GMT

As summer comes to an end, we start thinking of leaves changing colors and fun Fall festivals such as Oktoberfest. Western North Carolina is the perfect spot for a Fall vacation and offers several Oktoberfest events that you should include in your visit to Asheville. Dress up, taste German foods and beers and let’s all have a great time. PROST!

Clawtoberfest at Highland Brewing – September 16

Oktoberfest-style party filled with music, food, games, and German-inspired small-batch beers at Asheville’s original craft brewery, Highland Brewing . From 12PM – 10PM with two bands, several food trucks and games including Keg Roll, Stein Hoist, Stein Race, Moustache Contest and more.

Live music schedule:

1:00PM-5:00PM Lagerhosen

6:00PM-9:00PM LazrLuvr

Food trucks and pop ups:

El Querubin
Frios Pops
Post 25’s Outpost
Backdraft BBQ
The Scarlet Bee
Bullhded Peanuts

4th Annual Lookout Oktoberfest – September 16

From 12PM – 9PM, Lookout Brewing in Black Mountain will have live music, special beer releases, food specials and custom Lookout Steins.

Live music is from 4PM-7PM courtesy of Das Oompapa’s Band . Special beer release is a Schatzt Lager and festive dress will be all part of the celebration.

Guidon Brewing Oktoberfest – September 16 and September 23

Guidon Brewing in Hendersonville has two dates to celebrate Oktoberfest. Dig out your Dirndl and Lederhosen to try to win the best dressed contest. Enjoy bier, brats, pretzels, games and polka music. Games include obstacle races, stein hoist, and Hammerschlagen.

Live music schedule:

September 16 – Lagerhosen

September 23 – music from Phoenix DJ and Sound

Dssolvr Shrektoberfest 2 – September 23

At Dssolvr Brewing in downtown Asheville, prepare for SHREKTOBERFEST 2: Once Upon a Stein! A BIGGER, BADDER, SHREXIER Shrektoberfest!! Starts at 3PM.

Featuring such hits as
– Farquaad’s Onion Toss,
-“All Star” Musical Chairs
– “Can’t we settle this over a pint?” Steinhold Competition
– Shrektober Costume Contest
– Puss in Boots Medallion Hunt
– “Do The Roar” Shrek Roar Competition
– Dance Party with the DJ Ogrelord
– Shrekstravagant Feast
– Hey Hey Yah Yah FESTBIER

13th Annual Southern Appalachian Oktoberfest – September 23

It’s worth making the short drive from Asheville to Hendersonville to enjoy the 13th Annual Oktoberfest at Southern Appalachian Brewery from 12PM-6PM.

The celebration includes an assortment of Bavarian-themed events, including the popular Dachshund races, stein hoist competition, a costume contest. Live music provided by the Mountain Top Polka Band .

One of our favorite parts of this event is that the proceeds from race entry fee ($20/dog, includes one adult festival admission) benefits the Blue Ridge Humane Society . Otherwise, admission is $10 per person,

Hillman Beer Oktoberfest – September 30

Dust off your dirndls and lederhosen for a fun day at one of our favorite local breweries, Hillman Beer , located in Biltmore Village. There will be a new collectible Hillman Beer stein with a special Oktoberfest beer release. Live music by Das Oompapas from 3PM-6PM.

Appalachian Mountain Brewing Oktoberfest – September 30

Get your lederhosen and dirndls ready to celebrate at Appalachian Mountain Brewing’s new Mills River location from 12PM-10PM. A day packed full of stein hoisting, pretzels, beer, Oktoberfest-inspired food, live music, games, and more.

3rd Annual Brevard Oktoberfest – September 30

This year’s event will have two biergartens.

Biergarten #1 at 185 King Street will feature a biergarten with German beers from some of the World’s oldest breweries and

Biergarten #2 at Upcountry will feature a biergarten with German-style beers from each of the Transylvania County Breweries: Brevard Brewing, Ecusta Brewing, Noblebräu Brewing, Oskar Blues and Upcountry.

Guests will have the option to pay for tastings for each Biergarten OR pay as they go for full beers. Tastings will occur from 12PM-5PM. After that window ends guests can still buy full beers for the rest of the event.

185 King Street will be serving house made beer-brats, pretzels and beer cheese along with some of their classic menu items and Smash NC will be serving up fresh grub in the Lumberyard Courtyard.

Games will occur in the Lumberyard Courtyard. Sign up sheets will be located at the courtyard from noon until 15 minutes before the event.

Event Schedule:

12:00PM – Event begins and Biergartens are open – tastings begin

12:00-2:30PM Music by The Harrows at 185 King Street

2:30PM – Games Begin in the Lumberyard Courtyard

2:30PM – Steinhoist

3:00PM – Keg Toss

3:30PM – Barrel Roll

4:00PM – Best Dressed, awards and prizes

5:00PM – Beer tasting window ends

4:00-6:00PM Music at 185 King Street John Trufant, Owen Grooms and JT Linville

$15 for commemorative stein, $15 for unlimited tastings at 185 King Street for the German Biergarten from 12-5PM, $15 for unlimited tastings at Upcountry for the local Biergarten from 12-5PM. Note that you do not need a ticket to attend the event.

Asheville Oktoberfest – October 7

One of the largest Oktoberfest festivals in North Carolina will be held in Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville.

Enjoy a big variety of beer and hard cider tastings from 20 breweries, with many featuring seasonal ales for Oktoberfest. Pair the brews with German staples like bratwurst, pretzels, and traditional sides.

Entertainment from yodeling to live polka music by the Mountain Top Polka Band . Fun Oktoberfest games return including the Brezel Toss (pretzel toss), Stein Hissen (stein hoist), Staffellauf (relay race), and Fass Roll (Keg Roll).

The Asheville Oktoberfest runs from 2-6 PM and is $55 per person. Admission fee includes a complimentary tasting stein and the opportunity to taste a variety of local and regional beers as well as local cider and select wine. VIP tickets are $100 per person and will include early access to festival (1-2PM), VIP tent with food and full pints, and even more. Buying advance tickets is recommended since they will probably sell out.

Breweries include:

Food Vendors include:

Smasheville
Blunt Pretzels
Simply Hot Dogs (serving up brats)
Dare Vegan Cheese

Live Music:

1:00PM-3:30PM Lagerhosen

4:00PM-6:00PM The Hillclimbers

Prost, y’all! Come stay with us at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast and start your Oktoberfest fun with a complimentary pint of our very own special beers, brewed just for our guests.

Summer of Music in Asheville

Sat, 27 May 2023 18:52:00 GMT

As some of you already know, Steve and I are huge music fans. We have both been musicaholics and deeply involved in music since we were kids. Supporting live music is important to us and we love to share that passion with other music lovers.

We would like to invite you to stay with us for the Summer of Music in Asheville. With so many awesome local venues and artists playing in Asheville this summer, we are offering you an incentive to check out a show during your next visit.

If you stay with us while attending a live show any time from June 1 – August 31, we have a 10% discount available to you. While checking availability on our website, choose best rate and use the code SUMMERMUSIC. Or give us a call and tell us what show you have tickets for and let’s talk music! Please note that this discount code is good for bookings made on June 1st or later and only valid for direct bookings on our website or by phone.

Be sure to check out our favorite picks of the summer but keep in mind, there is so much more than our shortlist. Live Music Asheville is a great resource that has an extensive listing of music happenings around town from the small local artists to the well-known musicians coming to town. You will find all types of music from rock to bluegrass to country and everything in between. And of course, we are happy to make recommendations for you as well.

Our Summer of Music Picks

Friday, June 2 – Nightrain at Salvage Station
Sunday, June 4 – AVL Honey Fest (featuring The Barsters, Queen Bee and the Honeylovers, Chikomo Marimba and Sol Driven Train) at Salvage Station
Saturday, June 10 – Jeremy’s Ten: A Pearl Jam Tribute at The Orange Peel
Saturday, June 17 – The Pixies at Rabbit Rabbit
Saturday, June 24 – Flashback (This is a music benefit concert for Asheville Rock Academy) at The Orange Peel
Tuesday, June 27 – Robert Plant & Alison Krauss at Harrah’s Cherokee Center
Saturday, July 8 – Shot Thru The Heart at The Orange Peel
Saturday, July 8 – Drivin and Cryin at The Grey Eagle
Thursday, July 13 – King’s X at The Orange Peel
Thursday, July 20 – Led Zeppelin 2 at Salvage Station
Friday, July 21 – Zoso at The Orange Peel
Saturday, July 22 – Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute at The Orange Peel
Monday, July 24 – Buckcherry at Silverados
Monday, July 24 – Steel Panther at The Orange Peel
Thursday, August 3 – Sunday, August 6 – AVL Fest, a multi-day music & arts festival taking place throughout the greater Asheville area
Saturday, August 12 – Trial By Fire (Tribute to Journey) at The Orange Peel
Friday, August 18 – The Breakfast Club at The Orange Peel
Saturday, August 26 – Maiden Voyage at The Grey Eagle
Saturday, August 26 – Vinyl Record Fair at Harrah’s Cherokee Center

What To See and Do in Historic Montford

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:50:00 GMT

Montford is a large historic neighborhood comprised of approximately six hundred homes. The neighborhood location is just outside the city of Asheville. A good portion of Montford is a National Register Historic District. We at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast are so happy to be a part of this wonderful neighborhood.

Considered to be a Victorian neighborhood, Montford has one of the largest varieties of architectural styles in the entire state of North Carolina. Development of Montford started in 1889 with the popular Queen Anne style. The Queen Anne is generally characterized by irregular, complex massing and rooflines, corner turrets or towers, a mixture of surface textures, and a lavish use of ornamental devices. English architect, Richard Sharp Smith, may be best known as the supervising architect for the Biltmore House but he also built several homes in Montford. His trademarks were gambrel roofs, hipped gables, pebbledash or stucco walls, heavy porch brackets and simple Colonial Revival details.

Things to Do in Montford

Stay at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast. Built in 1898, this beautiful pink lady is a grand Queen Anne. There are five rooms, cozy and comfortable with a warm and welcoming home-like feel. Breakfast is homemade and served daily. Our gardens are wildlife certified and we are the only B&B in Asheville that brews our own beer just for guests.
Learn the history of Montford and Asheville on a Grayline Trolley Tour. There is good reason for the Grayline trolley is one of Asheville’s most popular activities. Knowledgeable guides share interesting stories of the area and introduce you to the highlights and attractions of Asheville.
Visit North Carolina’s longest running Shakespeare theatre company at Montford Park Players. A short walk from the inn, you will find Asheville’s Montford Park Players. These talented artists dedicate summers to providing exceptional dramatic entertainment for the enrichment, education and enjoyment of their audiences.
Take a stroll through Riverside Cemetery. This 1885 cemetery is a beautiful, tiered property with flower gardens, ornate statues and mausoleums. It is the burial places of famous authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry.

Things to Eat and Drink in Montford

Eat at Nine Mile Restaurant . This is one of our favorite restaurants and we’re lucky that it’s only a half block walk from the inn. Nine Mile is a Caribbean-inspired, vegetarian-friendly restaurant and bar. The food is full of flavor and can be spicy. Be sure to try one of our favorite dishes, Cool Runnings.
Check out Montford’s newest restaurant, Tall John’s . It is a local neighborhood tavern with a full service restaurant and bar.
Enjoy a salad, fresh bowl or mocha on the patio at All Day Darling , a local cafe serving an all day menu of market fresh foods.
Have drinks at Little Jumbo Bar . This neighborhood cocktail bar is welcoming and the atmosphere offers a classic vibe. There is also live music a few days a week. Be sure to try the Old Fashioned. It is our favorite cocktail of choice at Little Jumbo.

Check out our May show of “Adventures in Asheville” to learn more about what to do in Montford while visiting Asheville.

Brewing up new options for a beer inspired getaway

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 19:32:00 GMT

Greetings Fellow Beer Lovers!

We are extremely proud to be the only Asheville Bed and Breakfast that brews our own beer. We have had two different styles of beers on tap for a few years now. Most beer lovers will agree, there is nothing quite like having a cold beer on a relaxing front porch to start off your vacation.

Let’s Get Brewing

Home brewing started as a hobby about eight years ago. Our adventures in brewing started from a love of beer and a curiosity to learn the process of brewing craft beer. To us, it was an experiment similar to trying out new recipes. We both like to be hands on and test out new things to find what we like. Then, the best part is creating something interesting and different to share with everyone.

Upon deciding to change careers to become innkeepers, we still wanted to continue the brewing hobby. After discussing it over, we felt that it was a no brainer to incorporate our beer into the B&B. It seemed like a natural fit in Beer City USA and we wanted to create a Beer, Bed and Breakfast experience in Asheville for all of our fellow craft beer lovers. How cool it would be to have our own beer as a unique amenity! And how appropriate it is that the name of the inn comes from the first owners’ favorite pub in England, The Lion and the Rose.

We’ve brewed all styles from the heavier beers such as stouts and porters to traditional lagers and pale ales to the funky sour beers. We always have two different styles on tap and offer it to our guests as a welcome pint upon arrival. We’ve had fun with everything from beer hours to summer beer slushies. And of course, we continue to serve our famous beermosas with breakfast every Sunday. Most guests agree that they are better than mimosas. And they sure are a fun addition to complement Sunday’s breakfast of our signature orange ricotta pancakes.

It has been so much fun sharing our beers with guests and we love experimenting with different beer theme ideas. From beercations to special limited edition holiday beers, we are here to offer you a beer inspired getaway in Asheville.

What’s brewing at The Lion and the Rose

On the note of new and exciting, we are so happy to now be offering an in room beer tap for just the two of you. Name the style of beer you prefer and as long as we have at least two weeks before your arrival, we can brew it specifically for you. If booking within two weeks, we can still fill your personal in-room keg with the guest favorite, our wheat beer, or the other seasonal we have on tap.

Our Craft Beer Package is now available for booking on our website. You can also give us a call to request your favorite type of beer. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about our beer or about any of the Asheville breweries.

This special offer is exclusive to those guests who book direct with us. It is not available to those who book via a third party website. This package is valid for booking in all rooms except Margaret Grace.

Brewing Soon

And in the coming months, we will be adding two souvenir logo pint glasses with your in room tap. Keep checking back on our website and social media for more details.

This Bed and Breakfast is meant to have lions (as in our two little friendly lion dog Shih Tzus), roses in our gardens and cold beer as a refreshing welcome. All coupled together with warm hospitality from the innkeepers/brewers, this makes a relaxing and fun environment to call home while visiting Asheville. We hope to welcome you home soon! And remember, there are no strangers here, only friends you have not yet met!

Helping Western North Carolina Wildlife and Animals

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 18:10:00 GMT

From the time that we decided to become innkeepers, one of our biggest priorities was to connect with other local businesses and organizations. It was important to us to be involved with the Asheville community.

We are very passionate about animals, wildlife and nature. Over the years, involvement in many nonprofit organizations has been so rewarding for us. From local animal shelters to wildlife rescues across the world including virtually adopting an African elephant, there has always been a strong connection with us and nature. Upon settling into our new home, we searched for local nonprofit organizations that support animals. Two organizations matched our criteria, Asheville Humane Society and Appalachian Wild.

Baking dog biscuits for Asheville Humane Society has been a fun ongoing project. Sharing our homemade spent grain dog biscuits with dogs up for adoption just makes our day.

We are also proud to be partners with Appalachian Wild. This group of wonderful people provide injured and orphaned wild animals a place to go for care and treatment giving them a second chance at life in the wild.

About Appalachian Wild

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that coordinates wildlife rehabilitation efforts in Western North Carolina. They provide care for injured and orphaned wildlife, support the wildlife rehabilitation network, and offer conservation education to the community.

Listen to Savannah Trantham discuss how Appalachian Wild helps rescue, rehabilitate and release local wildlife. From cute baby squirrels to possums to birds, learn about a great organization making a difference in Western North Carolina.

FAQs about Secret Hush Work Trips

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:07:00 GMT

With so many people working remotely these days, a new trend in travel for 2023 is the secret hush workation. Let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions regarding this new travel concept of secret hush vacations.

What is a Secret Hush Workation?

Remote workers that are looking for a change of scenery and wanting a secret working getaway that their boss does not know about. Basically, a work and play vacation.

What does a Secret Hush Work Getaway include?

It depends on the place but here at The Lion and the Rose, your getaway would include everything you need:

You are welcome to work from your room, one of our parlors, our front porch, or our backyard firepit garden area
Complimentary, fast internet
Daily private coffee service delivered to your room by 7:30am
Daily breakfast in your room, at an outdoor table on the porch (weather permitting) or join other guests in the dining room
Daily afternoon snacks
Complimentary pint of our own beer as a welcome drink
Access to the butler pantry 24/7 where you find a selection of complimentary teas, snacks, water and sodas. There is a full size refrigerator with freezer and microwave oven for your use should you choose to bring your own food or drinks.
Activity and restaurant recommendations for some fun in Asheville
Exclusive discount code to save you money on a visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate
If you are missing your pup, our friendly Shih Tzus are happy to visit with you

Are there any discounts for a Secret Hush Work Trip?

Yes, we offer an incentive for you to work and stay longer. Stay 7 nights or more and receive 10% off your hush work trip.

Will my boss find out I’m on vacation?

No information about any guests will be shared at any time. We respect everyone’s privacy. No one will know where you are unless you tell them.

Which room(s) would be best suited for my Workation?

All of our rooms have a sitting area and can be used for working in your private room. However, the most comfortable and spacious rooms, Marion Hall and Craig Toms Suite, would be the best choices.

Please keep in mind that we have two parlors you are welcome to use when other guests are out during the day. After breakfast, you are also welcome to use the dining room if you need a larger working space. And if the weather is great, our front porch or backyard fire pit are other options.

Can I get lunch or dinner at the inn?

Although we do not typically provide lunch or dinner, we do have a couple of add-on options. With a little advance notice, we offer a picnic lunch and also a BBQ and fixins’ dinner. You are also welcome to order takeout from one of the many excellent restaurants in Asheville. Grubhub and Uber Eats are popular options for those looking to stay in for lunch or dinner.

How do I book my this trip?

Give us a call at 828-255-7673. We are happy to discuss rooms, availability, rates and more with you. Online bookings will be available soon.

Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 23:42:00 GMT

Passionate about Hiking and Nature

We love to hike and we love to share the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains with you all. Many of you ask how we spend our time off or how we manage to unwind and relax. Hiking is the answer. We are both active, adventurous people and nature has always been a huge priority in our lives. Hiking and reconnecting with nature is our way to revitalize and disconnect from the real world, at least for a little while.

We have hiked hundreds of miles and explored over 60 waterfalls in North Carolina alone. As you can see, we are passionate not only about what we do but where we live and what we can experience around us.

We are always happy to talk about nature, wildlife and the outdoors with anyone interested. We also enjoy making recommendations for hiking trails based on your interests. From waterfalls to wildflowers to breathtaking mountain views, we got you covered.

Guided Hiking in the Mountains

For one day only, we are going to try to combine two of our favorite things, hiking and taking care of our guests.

To celebrate the beauty of Spring and the Year of the Trail, we would like to invite our guests to join us, the innkeepers, on a complimentary guided hike. Our goal will be wildflowers and/or waterfalls. The hike will be on Monday, March 27 after breakfast. The exact trail will be decided closer to the date and it will be chosen according to weather forecast, flower blooms, and hiking experience.

Reconnect with Nature Wellness Retreat Weekends

If you cannot join us for our Spring hike, we also are offering a couple of Reconnect with Nature Wellness Retreat Weekends with one of our local partners. Take a deep breath, unwind and learn about the peaceful practice of forest bathing. Join a certified forest therapy guide for a relaxing 2.5-hour stroll through the forest. You will learn to slow down, relax and reconnect with nature by quieting the mind and awakening the senses. Dates will be the weekend of March 31-April 2 or April 21-23 . Contact us directly for details on pricing and availability.

We are always adding more fun activities and experiences for your visit to Asheville so stay tuned to our website, social media and blog for upcoming events. In the meantime, get outdoors and hope to see you out on a trail!

Trivia Nights in Asheville

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 20:23:00 GMT

Wondering where to go for trivia in Asheville?

Whether you are looking for indoor activities to escape the cold or the heat, trivia nights in Asheville are a great date night any time of the year. Many of the local breweries offer a weekly trivia night with prizes from gift cards to merchandise. Grab your trivia partner, a cold beer and have fun testing your knowledge for a couple of hours.

Monday

Dssolvr at 7pm

Highland Brewing at 6pm

Jack of the Wood at 7pm

Tuesday

Archetype West at 6:30pm

Barley’s Taproom and Pizzeria at 7:30pm

Bhramari Brewing at 7pm

Down Dog AVL at 7pm

French Broad Brewery at 6pm

Highland Brewing Downtown at 6pm

Hillman Beer at 7pm

Juicy Lucy’s Burger Bar and Grill at 7pm

The Village Porch at 7pm

Thirsty Monk Biltmore Park at 7pm

Twin Leaf Brewery at 7pm

Wednesday

12 Bones South at 7pm

Asheville Brewing and Pizza (Merrimon location) at 6:30pm

Catawba Brewing South Slope at 7pm

Foggy Mountain Brewpub

Hi-Wire Big Top at 7pm

The Bier Garden at 7pm

Upcountry Brewing at 6pm

Thursday

Bold Rock Downtown at 6:30pm

Catawba Brewing Biltmore Village at 7pm

Creekside Taphouse at 7:30pm

Green Man Brewery at 7pm

Urban Orchard at 6:30pm

Friday

N/A

Saturday

N/A

Sunday

Riverside Rhapsody at 5:30pm

Things To Do in Asheville in Spring

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 23:40:00 GMT

Spring is around the corner and it is a beautiful time to visit the mountains. Over the next few months of Spring, there are plenty of activities and events going on in Asheville.

What’s new and going on at The Lion and the Rose:

SoCon Basketball Tournament Discount – March 2-6

March Madness starts with the Ingles Southern Conference Basketball Championship on March 2-6. Stay for 2+ nights during the tournament and receive 10% off by giving us a call.

Bucket List Adventure Trip – available again starting March 2

This adventure package is back starting March 2nd. Our Bucket List Adventure Getaway combines accommodations at our inn with one of our favorite outdoor experiences in Asheville. Navitat’s Mountaintop Tour is a totally unprecedented mountaintop adventure and will take you soaring higher, faster, and longer than ever before. Huge side-by-side ziplines and jaw-dropping speeds make this an experience unlike any other. Nowhere else will you find ziplines this high, fast, and long fully integrated into a spectacular natural setting. Suitable for first-timers and experienced thrill-seekers alike and guaranteed to be a truly unforgettable adventure. There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

St Patrick’s Day Weekend Special – March 17-19

One weekend only with limited spots available! Your St Patty’s Day beer-centric weekend includes a Cooking with Beer class, daily hot breakfast and a pint of our special beer. Call us for details before this sells out.

Spring Hike – March 27

We love to hike and decided to offer a guided hike for our guests. This will be complimentary for any guests staying with us. Our goal will be wildflowers but looking to include waterfalls as well, depending on the weather and trail chosen. This hike will be on Monday, March 27 after breakfast. Please note interest when making a reservation so we can discuss hiking details.

Reconnect with Nature Wellness Weekends – March 31 – April 2 and April 21-23

This weekend wellness retreat will reconnect you with nature. Take a deep breath, unwind and learn about the peaceful practice of forest bathing. Join a certified forest therapy guide for a relaxing 2.5-hour stroll through the forest. You will learn to slow down, relax and reconnect with nature by quieting the mind and awakening the senses. Contact us for details on pricing and availability.

Stay Longer and Receive a Special Gift – starting April 7

Starting on National Beer Day, we will be offering a new package that includes a complimentary gift to those staying 4+ nights. You will receive an in-room tap for just the two of you to share. How cool is that? More details coming soon.

Culinary Retreat Weekend – April 20-23

The perfect getaway for food lovers! A cozy B&B stay with delicious, homemade breakfasts, a private cooking class on Friday evening and a guided Eating tour of some of the best restaurants in Asheville.

Spring into May with Savings – May 4-8

It is a rare occasion we offer discounts on weekend days. For a limited time, we are offering 2 discount options to start the month of May. Rent the entire inn (all 5 rooms) for 3+ nights between May 4-8 and get 10% off your entire stay (weekend days included) or Stay for 3 or more nights between May 4-8, 2023 and receive $50 off your long weekend getaway.

New Activities

Party Fire Engine Tour – Owned and operated by two local firefighters and specializing in tours of downtown Asheville, brewery tours, and group parties. Tours last from 2-4 hours and can accommodate groups up to 13.

Floating Brewery Crawl Tour – Starting in April, get ready for a unique experience combining beer and nature. Enjoy brewery hopping in Asheville while casually floating down river on a guided raft trip. Your guide will have a cooler with ice and you are welcome to bring your own beverages along. Relax and enjoy cold brews and river views.

What’s new and going on in Asheville this Spring:

Mondays in March Hiking with a Naturalist at Chimney Rock State Park

Every Monday in March spend an hour exploring one of the park trails with a naturalist on this guided hike. Watch the transformation from winter to spring on this educational excursion and learn some of the Parks’ history. Included with park admission.

Biltmore Estate Italian Renaissance – begins March 3

Biltmore’s newest multi-sensory experience, Italian Renaissance Alive, immerses you in the beauty of fine art and the masterworks of Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. Watch history come alive around you with brilliant visuals, a compelling operatic score and a captivating narrative. This new experience begins at Biltmore on March 3. Don’t forget we have a special discount code for you to save money on your day at Biltmore.

Ginger’s Revenge 6th Anniversary Celebration – March 10-12

Take a special behind the scenes brewery tour, enjoy live music, small batch beers and prizes. Raffle donations and tour proceeds help to support Asheville Music School. Another fun event coming up at Ginger’s Revenge is a Murder Mystery at their South Slope location on March 17.

Aleblazers Beer Fest – March 18

Enjoy beers from 25 different North Carolina breweries at Highland Brewing. Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Southern Appalachians Highlands Conservancy.

Spring Birding Walk – March 25

This walk is for the birders. Join a naturalist and see how many Spring migratory species you can spot from Chimney Rock State Park on their NC Birding Trail.

Spring Wildflower Walk – April 1

Join a Park naturalist at Chimney Rock State Park in search of wildflowers. This is a moderate hike that will take you along the Hickory Nut Falls Trail and down the Four Seasons Trail while you learn to identify beautiful spring blooms.

Orchid Festival at the NC Arboretum- April 1-2

The North Carolina Arboretum Orchid Festival is one of the largest in the southeast. See hundreds of orchids and also many spring blooms such as tulips and azaleas throughout their 65 acres of gardens and trails. The Western North Carolina Orchid Society will also be offering a variety of classes and lectures.

Live Music in Spring

There is always live music with local musicians and national acts to be found at many places throughout Asheville. Here are a few of our picks for some cool upcoming shows:

Kings of Thrash at The Orange Peel on March 12

80s versus 90s Dance Party at The Orange Peel on March 18 and April 22

Tedeshi Trucks Band at Harrah’s Cherokee Center on March 25

The Winery Dogs at The Orange Peel on April 4

Flatland Cavalry at The Orange Peel on April 13

Nirvani and Badmotorfinger at Salvage Station on April 14

Tracy Lawrence with Blake Ellege and the Resonators at Silverados on April 22

Agent Orange at Grey Eagle on May 10

An Evening with Riki Rachtman at Grey Eagle on May 17

Molly Hatchet with Travers Brothership and Them Dirty Roses at Silverados on May 19

Eats and Drinks in Asheville

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 17:26:00 GMT

Happy February!!!

We are super excited to share our February “Adventures in Asheville” podcast. Discover some of the best local breweries, distilleries, and more. Featured guests include:

Steve and Karen Wilson, The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast
Nikki Mitchell, Highland Brewing Company
John Godts and Liisa Andreasson, Cottage Cooking
Mike Semenec, Dssolvr Brewing
Joe Rogazzo, Two Trees Distilling
David Ackley and Andie Whigham, Ginger’s Revenge

This episode covers everything from the very first craft brewery, Highland Brewing, to newer and unique breweries such as Dssolvr and Ginger’s Revenge. With more distilleries popping up in and around Asheville, we have Two Trees Distilling talk about their innovative and sustainable approach to making various distilled spirits. And our friends from Cottage Cooking will discuss the fun cooking classes they offer for those interested in a culinary experience while visiting Asheville.

You can listen to this podcast on demand below.

As always, if you are looking for recommendations on our favorite food and libations, we love to help point you in the right direction. One of the best parts of our job are ensuring you eat, drink and be merry in Asheville.

How to make the most of your vacation days

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:07:00 GMT

For those of us who love to travel, having enough vacation days can be an issue. As travelers ourselves, we were always looking for ways to extend our own vacation. This simple how-to tip can help maximize your time off and allow more time for your travels. Plan your trip around a holiday. Taking just one day off will give you a nice four day weekend getaway. If are lucky to have any or all of these holidays off, your best bet is to plan to take extended weekends around a few holidays. This will give you several fun long weekend trips while using a minimal amount of vacation days.

Winter Getaway
- January 16 – Martin Luther King Jr Day
- February 20 – President’s Day
- December 25 – Christmas
Spring Getaway
- April 7 – Good Friday
Summer Getaway
- May 29 – Memorial Day
- June 19 – Juneteenth
- July 4 – Independence Day
Fall Getaway
- September 4 – Labor Day
- November 11 – Veterans Day
- November 23 – Thanksgiving

Exploring Asheville’s food scene

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 21:16:00 GMT

January may bring in colder weather but it also brings less visitors and more deals. How can you go wrong with more bang for your buck and fewer crowds?

If you are thinking about a winter getaway, you might just want to consider planning a trip to Asheville some time during the week of January 17-23. There will be more than 40 participating restaurants offering special dishes and deals inviting you to try a new restaurant or revisit an old favorite.

Make sure to check www.ashevillerestaurantweek.com to see the participating restaurants and breweries. For more details on specific restaurants, visit their websites and/or social media to preview their Restaurant Week menus and specials.

Restaurants and Breweries participating in Asheville Restaurant Week 2023

Bargello
Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ
Bhramari Brewing Co.
Buxton Hall BBQ
Chai Pani
Chestnut
Corner Kitchen
Curate
Farm Burger
Farm Dogs
Fork Lore
Gemelli
Green Sage Café
Hemingway’s Cuba
Holeman and Finch
Huli Sue’s BBQ & Grill
Isa’s French Bistro
Ivory Road Café & Kitchen
Jack of the Wood
Luella’s Bar-B-Que
Melting Pot Social
Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails (Black Mountain)
Mountain Madre Mexican Kitchen and Agave Bar
Old School Subs
Pie.zaa
Posana
Rye Knot
Strada Italiano
Table
Rhubarb
The Lobster Trap
Tastee Diner and Dive Bar
Tahini Jar
The Spotted Banana
Twisted Laurel – Downtown Asheville
Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse
White Labs Brewing Co
Zambra

23 Things To Do in Asheville in 2023

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 19:11:00 GMT

Happy New Year!!!

We wish you all the best in 2023 and hope to see you soon!

We are excited to share our January “Adventures in Asheville” podcast with twenty three of our favorite things to do in Asheville. This show was inspired by the book, 100 Things To Do in Asheville Before You Die . Featured guests include:

Kristy Tolley, author of 100 Things To Do in Asheville Before You Die
Kaye Bentley of Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours
Nicole Will of Asheville Wellness Tours
Kyle Samples of LaZoom comedy bus tours

This episode covers everything essential in Asheville from bar hopping and breweries to yoga hikes and forest bathing to comedy and music entertainment to nature and the outdoors to history and the iconic Biltmore Estate.

We are honored to be included in this book for our beermosas served at breakfast. As craft beer connoisseurs, we went from enjoying craft breweries to brewing our own beer for over eight years now. This hobby seemed like a natural fit to be a fun amenity at our inn. Adding another unique beer in Beer City USA to share with guests has become a part of The Lion and the Rose. That simple amenity has since evolved into offering two different beers on tap, beer slushies at various times during the summer and of course, our beermosas with breakfast every Sunday. You never know what we might come up with next.

You can listen to this podcast on demand below.

If you are looking to buy a copy of 100 Things To Do in Asheville Before You Die , you can pick one up at one of our favorite spots, Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar, located on Page Avenue here in Asheville, North Carolina.

We look forward to seeing you in 2023 and helping you plan your fun adventures in Asheville!

Asheville Culinary Retreat

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 21:13:00 GMT

New and exciting for 2023 is our Culinary Retreat weekends. These weekends include:

Accommodations at The Lion and the Rose B&B for 2 or more nights
Our homemade, hot breakfast daily
A pint of our own beer
A cooking class
An eating tour of downtown Asheville

This package will be available for 2-6 guests so you can enjoy as a couple, as friends or as family. Currently, this retreat will be offered on select dates or upon request. Whether you love to cook or want to learn, this weekend getaway is a perfect foodie vacation.

Another fun addition we now offer is cooking classes. This won’t be your typical cooking class, it will be about collaboration. Guests will cook together as a group and eat together. Enjoy meeting new people who share the common interest of the culinary arts. Learn fun cooking tips and how to make great recipes. BYOB and share an interesting conversation over your meal with your new friends. Classes include anything from making puff pastries, empanadas, pasta, breads, biscuits, scones or crepes. Try your hand at cooking with beer or making fun foods for game days. Various cuisines you can learn are Southern, Italian, Thai, Indian, Hawaiian, Moroccan or Cajun. Vegetarian and Gluten-Free cooking are yet other options.

New and Fun Experiences in Asheville

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 19:16:00 GMT

New Year and new, exciting things going on at The Lion and the Rose. We have some new experiences for you all in 2023. Let’s take a look at what’s new in 2023.

For the music lover:

70’s / 80’s Music Weekend on January 13-15, 2023

Stay with us for a fun music inspired weekend on January 13-15, 2023. These innkeepers are passionate about music and want you to enjoy live music during your visit to Asheville!

If you are attending one of the following live music events, we will apply a 10% discount to your reservation.

The Breakfast Club tribute band at The Orange Peel on Friday, January 13, 2023
ABBA tribute band at The Omni Grove Park Inn on Friday, January 13, 2023
Michael Jackson tribute band at The Omni Grove Park Inn on Saturday, January 14, 2023
Abbey Road tribute band at The Orange Peel on Saturday, January 14, 2023

Stay tuned for more music related activities to come throughout 2023.

For the beer lover:

Stay any time during the month of February and you will receive a complimentary pint of our limited edition Chocolate Stout beer.

St Patty’s Day Celebration on March 17-19, 2023. Your weekend can include a Cooking with Beer class, daily hot breakfast and a pint of our special beer.

Floating Bar Crawl will be a new activity offered starting in the Spring 2023. Enjoy rafting adventures on tap in Beer City USA. Experience a four-mile float down the French Broad River, one of the world’s oldest rivers, in a commercial raft. Your guided float will include bar hopping by raft to local breweries and dive bars along the river.

For the food lover:

Culinary Retreats on select dates or upon request. Your retreat will include one or more cooking classes, an eating tour of downtown Asheville along with the comfort and coziness of a Bed and Breakfast stay.

For the romantics:

An exclusive and very special romantic couples getaway on Feb 10-12, 2023 in honor of Valentine’s Day . Accommodations in a room of your choice (with hot breakfast daily), a complimentary pint of our limited edition Chocolate Stout beer, a Southern style cooking class, an Eating tour of Asheville, and a beermosa with Sunday’s breakfast.

Our popular romance packages such as the Suite Mountain Romance and Love is in the Mountain Air will still be available for any time throughout the year.

Our elopement package, Mountain Bliss , will still be available with a few different options making it more affordable and customized for 2023.

For the dog lover:

Our Bed and Biscuit days will be back in 2023 on select dates. On these dog friendly days, you are welcome to stay with your pup. Dates include January 13-15, February 16-19 and March 2-5. More dates coming soon.

For the art lover:

Enjoy a colorful urban art tour through the River Arts District, Downtown, and West Asheville to see a beautiful collection of murals, artistic graffiti, sculpture, and street art installations. You’ll learn about the artists’ stories and inspirations and local history that make Asheville a top tourist destination.

For the girls:

Galentine’s Day getaway on Feb 10-12, 2023. On this special weekend, we will be offering an exclusive package. Accommodations in a room of your choice (with hot breakfast daily), a complimentary pint of our limited edition Chocolate Stout beer, a Southern style cooking class, an Eating tour of Asheville, and a beermosa with Sunday’s breakfast will be included to make for a fun, foodie inspired weekend.

For the history lover:

Visit the historic and iconic Biltmore Estate, a stunning and beautiful piece of American history. We will be offering a new special winter Biltmore package for select dates in mid-January through February. Details to come soon. We will also continue to offer a special discount code to guests who stay with us. Discount code will be sent via email after booking is made by phone or online.

For the special event planners:

Rent the inn for your special event including bridal shower, baby shower, champagne brunch or just an afternoon tea party. We are now opening up the dining room, two parlors, front porch, and backyard fire pit areas for your private event. Limited availability so please contact us for more details.

If you are looking for an indoor or outdoor venue for a photo shoot, we will also be renting the inn by the hour for those special photo sessions.

Happy New Year!

We wish you all the best in 2023 and can’t wait to share some great times and memories with you all!

Music and Performing Arts in Asheville

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:10:00 GMT

Our November podcast is a discussion about music and performing arts in Asheville. We personally find so much inspiration in music and the arts. This show is dedicated to sharing all the local talent that most don’t even know exist in Asheville. Featured guests include:

Katie Jones – The Magnetic Theatre
Stephanie Hickling Beckman – Different Strokes Performing Arts Collective
John Baldwin – Actor & Director
Elizabeth “Liz” Teague – Singer/Songwriter
Dennis Berndt of the Chalwa Reggae Band
Hank Bones, Paula Hanke & Peggy Ratusz, the Love Bubble Band

You can listen to this podcast on demand below.

Talk to us about music, ask us for recommendations and we look forward to helping you plan your fun music and performing arts adventures in Asheville!

Bid to save wild lives and win a stay in Asheville

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 10:18:00 GMT

To all our fellow animal and wildlife lovers,

For those who already know us, you understand how deep our love and connection with wildlife is. For those of you who don’t know us, we will give you a little overview of who we are and why we are excited to partner with organizations that help wildlife and animals. Steve and I have always been passionate about nature. We combined that love with travel and most of our travels around the world have revolved around wildlife. This is one of the reasons we have been given the nicknames, Mr. and Mrs. Wild.

We are happy to be partners with Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that coordinates wildlife rehabilitation efforts in Western North Carolina. They focus on rescues, rehabilitations, and releases of orphaned and injured wildlife. A group of wonderful volunteers offer a place for wild animals to go and get the care and treatment they need to give them a second chance at life in the wild. Appalachian Wildlife Refuge also offers conservation education to the community.

Best Halloween Events in Asheville

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 00:13:00 GMT

Everyone knows that October in Asheville is a highly sought after getaway because of our beautiful Fall foliage. But did you know that Asheville has some awesome Halloween events that are not to be missed?

Halloween in historic Montford is unbelievable. Families in costumes line the street and it looks like something out of a Hollywood movie. We generally get over 1,000 trick or treaters visiting our B&B on Halloween night. We always make some light snacks and treats for guests and we encourage them to dress up in costume and join us for the fun.

Several of the breweries have fun theme Halloween parties with live music, costume contests, and food and drink specials. This year there were plenty of options including:

Rabbit Rabbit – Zombie Prom Silent Disco

Catawba South Slope – Halloween theme charcuterie workshop

Masquerade at The Marquee

Bold Rock Cidery – Rocky Horror Picture Show Theme Night

Fleetwood’s – A Night of Thrills Halloween party

Catawba White Zombie Annual 5K

Well Played Board Game Cafe – Halloween trivia

Ginger’s Revenge – The Great Catsby Roaring 20’s Night

Urban Orchard Cidery – From Dusk Til Dawn Party

Bottle Riot – Hallowine and Candy Pairing

Highland Brewing – Monster Market and Late Night Halloween Dance Party

Dssolvr Brewing – Thrones, Rings and Stranger Things Party

Getaway River Bar – Scream Queens Theme Night

pleb Urban Winery – Halloween Mimosa Yoga

Hi-Wire Brewing at Biltmore Village – Halloween Pop-Up Market and Pup-O-Ween

The last weekend in October before Halloween, there is an annual pub crawl that goes to several breweries, bars and distilleries. Make new friends or bring some friends along on this Asheville weekend getaway. Your ticket includes entry to select places and includes a discount for special drinks and light bites. Each location will feature its own version of themed specials and cocktail concoctions. Don’t forget to dress your best to win a big cash prize of $1,000.

5 Creepy Hikes Near Asheville

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 20:58:00 GMT

Happy October!

We are passionate about hiking and often get asked what our favorite hikes are. Well, it honestly depends on the time of year and what you are looking to see on that hike. Now that October has begun, we felt that it is the appropriate time for sharing our favorite haunted hikes.

Browning Knob –

There are dozens of plane crash sites in Western North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This trail is for those looking to travel off the beaten path to see a Cessna crash that is mostly intact. It is a moderately challenging 2.5 mile hike and be prepared for an elevation of approximately 6,240 feet. Sadly, on November 24, 1983, a Cessna 414 crashed into the side of Browning Knob and all onboard were killed. This location is very quiet and is near the top of the mountain but there is definitely a spooky feel once at the crash site. Poor weather and alcohol have been said to be the cause of this crash. We have hiked this trail several times and it is still creepy even on a sunny day.

Barnett Knob Fire Tower and Abandoned Cabin –

This 1.4 mile hike is easy and one of the only remaining towers in the Qualla Boundary of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians that is accessible to the public. It is located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway between Maggie Valley and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This 60 ft steel tower was built in 1932. It offers amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Plott Balsams. On a windy day, the weird, creaking sounds give you an uneasy feeling when climbing the tower. It was similar to the sounds we heard at Frying Pan Tower. The biggest creep factor here is the abandoned watchman’s cabin. Upon entering the cabin, you will find a small black and white TV on the floor that is on with white static playing. It had a Poltergeist type of feel and was really weird.

The Road to Nowhere –

Along the North shore of Lake Fontana, Lakeview Drive was to be built in order to provide access to old family cemeteries. The road project failed due to an environmental issue. About six miles into the park, construction was stopped with the road ending at a tunnel. Roadwork was never resumed and county residents gave the unfinished Lakeview Drive its popular, albeit unofficial name, The Road To Nowhere. Note that you may want to bring along a flashlight. Walking through this quarter mile long tunnel is dark and creepy even on a sunny day.

Cemetery Loop Trail –

This off the beaten path trail is an easy to moderate 2.5 mile loop in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. It is named for the old McCall family cemetery and most of the headstones are from the 1800s. The beginning of the trail follows an old wagon road and can be somewhat overgrown in spots. If you’re lucky, you may find mountain laurel, dwarf iris or lady slippers in bloom. Upon reaching the cemetery loop, you will find that only a few of the stones are readable. It feels like a peaceful spot but still has a little bit of a creepy feel since many of the headstones are illegible and worn.

Noland Creek Trail –

Also known as the Norton Creek Trail, this trail has two ghostly tales and over 200 cemeteries. It sounds creepy already, right? The first haunted tale is about a settler that died in the woods while searching for his lost daughter. The spirit of this settler is said to be friendly and will shine a bright light to help guide lost hikers. The second haunted tale is a Cherokee legend about a witch named Spearfinger. This scary witch’s spirit has been said to lure children to her home. She would sing to them, rock them to sleep and then she would use her razor sharp finger to eat their livers. This hike begins on the North shore of Lake Fontana on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Asheville Fall Specials and News

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 21:49:00 GMT

It’s almost Fall y’all and we have quite a bit going on here at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast. Check out what is happening the next few months and come join us for a great time in Asheville.

September 2022

Our Summer Celebration continues throughout the month of September . Feel free to ask us for a pint of our special Shandy beer. This beer is complimentary for guests and is a refreshing start to your Asheville vacation.
September 6 – This will be the air date of our new podcast series, “Adventures in Asheville”. This first show will focus on a day trip to the Chimney Rock area, just a short drive from our inn. We are so excited about our partnership with Big Blend Radio for this monthly podcast! Stay tuned on the first Tuesday every month for future episodes. You can listen live or on demand from any of their podcast outlets listed on the Big Blend Radio website .
September 9 – Porch Fest in Montford. We are lucky to be welcoming Liz Teague back to our porch again. Her style is Southern roots, classic country, Americana, and folk rock. Our guests are welcome to sit on the porch and enjoy listening to Liz play while sipping on a glass of wine or pint of beer. ***Cancelled due to rain, rescheduled for October 8
September 12 – Happy Inniversary! We are looking forward to celebrating 4 years as innkeepers of The Lion and the Rose!

October 2022

For the month of October , we will be celebrating Oktoberfest in Beer City style. We are brewing a special Oktoberfest beer that will be offered to guests. We will also be serving our homemade pretzels made with the spent grains from our beer.
Leaf peepers will find beautiful colors throughout the month of October . We chase the colors as much as we can so we can point you to the colorful spots during your stay. Note that peak color in Asheville is later than on the Blue Ridge Parkway and is usually the last week of October. Fall colors typically start as early as late September and last through early November.
October 1 – We will be guests on a special podcast episode of Big Blend Radio in honor of Sausage month. It sounds like it will be a fun show with lots of guests from all over the world with stories, recipes, songs and more about sausage.
October 31 – Halloween in Montford is unforgettable. We typically get around 1,200 kids that come to our porch. Looking down Montford Avenue is like a Hollywood movie filled with kids and families dressed up in costume. Guests are invited to join us in handing out candy to the trick or treaters. We will have some light bites and drinks on the porch and we encourage you to dress up with us.

November

November 4 through Jan 2023 – Christmas at Biltmore. The Candlelight Christmas Evenings is our favorite time of year to visit the Biltmore Estate. Once you book a stay with us, you will receive an email with an exclusive discount code to save money on your purchase of Biltmore tickets.
November 6 -17 : 20% OFF Military Appreciation discount. Stay must be 2+ nights (excluding November 11 and 12) and must book direct by phone (828) 255-7673. Note that you will need to show your military ID upon check-in to have discount applied.
November 9 – As a participant of the BnBs for Vets, we are holding a free night contest. Veterans will have the opportunity to win a free one night stay. A winner will be chosen at random on October 9th. To enter, send an email to info@lion-rose.com and include your military affiliation and contact details. Thank you for your service!

Day Trip From Asheville to Chimney Rock

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:53:00 GMT

Looking for a fun day trip from Asheville? Chimney Rock is one of our favorite spots and it is only about a thirty minute drive from our inn.

Chimney Rock State Park

This beautiful State Park offers dramatic mountain scenery with the signature 315-foot spire overlooking Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. There are six hiking trails, most considered to be a moderate hike. We recommend the Hickory Nut Falls trail. This 404-foot waterfall was made famous in the movie, “The Last of the Mohicans”. The trail itself is a moderate, 1.4 mile out-and-back and takes you through mature forest with diverse flora and fauna. Upon reaching the base of the falls, you will find a unique ecosystem with many rare plants and animals. If you are lucky, you will spot one of the water snake species that call this area home.

Make sure to stop by the Animal Discovery Den to view the park’s animal ambassadors and plan to see the interactive Animal Encounter program where you will get the opportunity to meet some animals. You will learn about their habitats, history and how these animals came to live at the park.

Old Rock Cafe

If you are looking for a lunch or early dinner spot, the Old Rock Cafe offers burgers, grilled sandwiches, salads & soups. A few years ago, Old Rock Cafe made the Zagat’s “Must-Try Burgers across the Country” list. The burgers and sandwiches we have tried have all been great. The location is convenient and right next to the entrance of Chimney Rock State Park. We recommend sitting on the deck next to the creek and listen to the soothing sounds of the water while enjoying your meal.

Hickory Nut Gorge Brewery

Brews with views is the best description of Hickory Nut Gorge Brewery. With four decks that go all the way down to the water’s edge, you can sit along the banks of the Rocky Broad River while watching a blue heron and quenching your thirst with a traditional English ale. The food is British pub fare and is very good especially if you are looking for a larger meal with options besides sandwiches. It’s such a great spot to kick back and unwind after hiking at Chimney Rock Park.

Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room

Voted North Carolina’s winery of the year for several years running, wine lovers must plan a stop at Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room and Bistro. Their patio offers gorgeous views of both Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls. Choose to do a wine tasting or just sip on a glass of one of their award winning wines. There are light bites on the menu and some days there is live music.

Lake Lure Flowering Bridge

If you love flowers (and butterflies when in season), it is worth a few minutes drive down the road to see the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge. This historic, three-arch bridge was built in 1925 and was transformed into beautiful gardens in 2013. Volunteers help to maintain and plant these impressive gardens. If you want to take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and learn more about the various plants and flowers, there is a phone number you can call to listen to an informative audio tour.

Looking for more ideas for your trip to Asheville? Check out our new podcast series, “Adventures in Asheville”, on Big Blend Radio . The first episode will be “ Adventures at Chimney Rock ” but be sure to check out our other adventures the first Tuesday of every month.

Adventures in Asheville podcast

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 23:10:00 GMT

Big news from Karen and Steve at The Lion and the Rose!

We are excited to announce our partnership with our friends at Big Blend Radio and we can’t wait to share our new podcast series, “Adventures in Asheville” with all of you. The first Tuesday of every month will feature a new episode of fun and interesting things to see and do in Asheville. The premiere episode will be a day trip to Chimney Rock State Park. Tune into Big Blend Radio to learn more about our adventures in Asheville and we hope that enjoy this new series!

Beaches near Asheville

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 21:20:00 GMT

Are you torn between a mountain getaway or a beach vacation? Well, you can have both right here in Western North Carolina. We have done the difficult part of visiting this beaches in the name of research. See our list of area beaches that you can go to for your beach fix while visiting Asheville.

Lake Lure Beach

At 26 miles away, Lake Lure is an easy and scenic drive from our inn. Lake Lure has been made famous from a number of hit movies. Firestarter, My Fellow American, A Breed Apart and of course, Dirty Dancing. It is a beautiful, picturesque lake that offers boat tours, fishing, kayaking and a swimming beach. There are changing rooms and bathrooms at the beach. There is also a beach house that sells towels, chairs, sunscreen, floats, toys, and more.

Note that there is an admission fee of $10 per person for beach access. That fee does also include admission to the water park.

Other places of interest nearby include the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge and Chimney Rock State Park. Make sure to cool off with a stop at Scoop Ice Cream. It is an old fashioned ice cream shop across from the beach. So many delicious choices from hand dipped ice cream, sundaes, floats, and our favorite, milkshakes topped with a giant scoop of ice cream.

Lake Powhatan Beach

This is the closest beach to Asheville and it is only 10 miles away. Although it is a small beach, it is located within Bent Creek Experimental Forest. Bent Creek is the oldest experimental forest in the East and it is comprised of over 6,000 acres. It is a popular spot for mountain biking and there are a variety of mountain bike trails for all skill levels. You will also find hiking trails and a fishing pier.

Note that there is a $4 day use fee per person.

Other sights of interest nearby include the North Carolina Arboretum, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Sierra Nevada Brewery.

Lake James Beach

This beach is located about 45 miles to the east of Asheville. It is open seasonally between May and September. Lake James State Park appeals to outdoor lovers for its swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and biking. The lake is approximately 6,812 acres and surrounded by rolling hills. In the swim beach area, there is a bathhouse with changing facilities and some concessions.

Other places of interest include Fonta Flora Brewery at Whippoorwill Farm and one of our favorite hikes, Shortoff Mountain.

Lake Glenville Beach

Although Lake Glenville is 64 miles away from Asheville, it is another picturesque mountain beach with clear waters that is worth the drive. Besides the swimming beach, you will a fishing pier, bathrooms, a picnic area, and trail access to High Falls. We suggest you take the short, moderate one and a half mile roundtrip hike to this beautiful waterfall before hitting the beach.

Wildcat Lake Beach

This beach may be a farther drive being 76 miles away from Asheville but the location and setting is stunning. Wildcat Lake is approximately 13 acres and is located in Banner Elk. There is a white sand beach with two swimming areas, a swimming dock, and a bath house. It is open seasonally between May and September. There are also two fishing docks. What makes this beach unique from others is the higher elevation of 3700 feet. Be prepared for chilly water.

Other nearby places of interest are the town of Banner Elk (shops, artists, and restaurants). We suggest planning a stop at Linville Falls (the most photographed waterfall in North Carolina) or a stop at Grandfather Mountain State Park.

New Backroads and Waterfall Adventures around Asheville

Sat, 04 Jun 2022 00:45:00 GMT

We are excited to announce a new partnership with Asheville Jeep Tours. Whether you are looking to tour the Blue Ridge Parkway, explore the backroads and waterfalls or go on an extreme off-road adventure, these new opportunities are a great way to get out in nature and enjoy all the beautiful and hidden spots within our mountains and forests with a local expert guide.

Our review of the Backroads & Waterfall Jeep Tour

We had the pleasure of meeting our guide, Clayton, for the Backroads & Waterfall tour and we had such a blast. As most of you know, we are passionate about the outdoors and nature. Hence, our nicknames, Mr and Mrs Wild. We knew this tour would be right up our alley as we are always looking for a new adventure and exciting way to explore the beauty of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Let’s start by saying the custom jeep is just very cool and it was comfortable. It was reminiscent of our days on safari in Africa. It brought back some wonderful memories of our past travels and adventures. Driving through puddles in a 4×4 in search of nature and wildlife felt like deja vu but this was a different type of safari. This time we were in search of waterfalls, flowers and whatever we found along our path. Clayton told us about the background and history of the National Forest. We had a great time discussing the biodiversity of the area. We also traded stories about plants, animals, waterfalls, and hiking.

On this tour, you will stop and see a few waterfalls. Once again, this was so us. We are avid hikers and love chasing waterfalls. Note that there is no strenuous or long trail hiking but just a couple of nice walks to see some gorgeous waterfalls tucked in the forest. I don’t want to share which waterfalls as that would ruin the fun of the secrets of hidden gems you have to find on this tour.

Choose Your Jeep Adventure

If the Backroads & Waterfalls is not your style or level of adventure, check out the descriptions for the Blue Ridge Parkway tour, Extreme Off-road tour, or Downtown Asheville Brewery Hopping Tour below.

Backroads & Waterfalls – See “The Land Of Waterfalls” in our custom Jeep! This tour takes you along miles of scenic National Forest backroads to our favorite waterfalls. Your guide will share stories of the rich history and biodiversity of our Asheville mountains.
Blue Ridge Parkway Driving Tour – This tour takes you on the most iconic stretch of the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway. Enjoy endless views from your seat on our custom jeep. Your local guide will share stories about Pisgah National Forest, its rich history, and unique biodiversity.
Extreme Off-road Adventure – Experience a true off-road adventure deep in the Appalachian Mountains. This Jeep Tour takes you through rivers, mud holes, up mountains, and through miles and miles of National Forest.
Downtown Asheville Brewery Tour – Experience “Beer City” in a custom Jeep! This brewery tour takes you to three of Asheville’s greatest breweries where you will receive behind-the-scenes knowledge and a delicious drink.

13 Distilleries to Visit in Western North Carolina

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 20:44:00 GMT

These days distilleries are popping up every where throughout North Carolina. Asheville and Western North Carolina are no exception. From full scale operating distilleries to tasting rooms, check out all these distilleries within an hour drive from Asheville.

Feel free to use this list to plan your own WNC spirits trail.

Distilleries within Asheville area:

Cultivated Cocktails – Not just a tasting room but a cocktail lounge. Located in downtown Asheville. A little bit of various distilled spirits including rum, gin, vodka, coffee liqueur and creme de cacao.
Asheville Distilling Company – This is a place for whiskey lovers. Six different types of whiskeys including a blonde whiskey, oak reserve, flavored whiskey and moonshine. New location in downtown Asheville will be open this Fall 2022.
Chemist Spirits – Tasting room and Antidote Bar, an early 1900s Apothecary style cocktail lounge. Both are located in the heart of the South Slope. Four types of gin including barrel rested, navy strength and a milk & cookies bierbrand, a unique collaboration with Wicked Weed.
Eda Rhyne Distilling Company – Located in the Biltmore Village neighborhood. You will find seven different types of distilled spirits. Four flavored herbal liqueurs, gin, vodka and a unique soda mixed with liqueur.
Dalton Distillery – Small batch craft spirits including two types of vodka and three types of rum. Located in downtown Asheville.
Howling Moon Distillery – As seen on shows such as Moonshiners, Gordon Ramsays Unchartered and Ride with Norman Reedus. Currently offering four types of moonshine made with traditional family recipes.
Rye Knot Restaurant & Distillery – Classic pub fare with their own beer and distilled spirits. A local spot offering rye whiskey, corn whiskey, bourbon whiskey and vodka. Gin and rum coming in the future.

South of Asheville:

Two Trees Distilling Company – Located in Fletcher, approximately 20 minutes from our inn. A lot of choices here with something for everyone. Four types of whiskey, eleven flavored whiskeys, a vodka and a couple of liquor infused ready to drink whiskeys.
Cedar Mountain Moonshine – Located in Cedar Mountain, approximately 50 minutes from Asheville. This is still a hidden gem offering eight flavors of moonshine. It is a short distance away from your fun day hiking in Dupont State Recreational Forest.

East of Asheville:

Oak & Grist Distilling Company – Located in Black Mountain, approximately 20 minute drive from our inn. Currently offering two types of whiskey and two types of gin.
Copper Creek Distillery – Located in Marion, approximately 40 minutes from Asheville. You will find five flavors of moonshine. Note that they continue to add more flavors every season.
Blue Ridge Distilling Company – Located in Bostic, just under an hour away. Specializing in rye whiskey and single malt whiskey.

West of Asheville:

Elevated Mountain Distillery Company – Located in Maggie Valley, approximately 40 minutes from the inn. Whiskey, bourbon, vodka and various moonshines available.

Bed and Biscuit Dog Days of Summer

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 16:46:00 GMT

Hi y’all, Ozzy the inn pup here. I am taking over Oreo’s dog blog today.

As most of you already know, my family at The Lion and the Rose loves animals as much as people! Our first Bed & Biscuit weekend was a hit. I loved making friends with all of you and your fur babies. I am happy to announce more dates for this special dog friendly getaway. And the best news is that we have decided to extend the stay up to a week instead of just a weekend. Pack up the car and don’t forget to bring my new best furiend to our Bed & Biscuit Dog Days of Summer.

The Dog Days of Summer will be June 13-17, August 2-11 or September 6-12.

Note this special must be booked by choosing the Bed & Biscuit rate on our website in order for us to accommodate your pup. My big brother, Oreo, and I cannot wait to see your smiling faces and wagging tails.

Military Appreciation baking project

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 23:58:00 GMT

Inn Support of Our Troops

Wed, 05 May 2021 22:52:00 GMT

Inns Across the Nation Team Up to Bake and Mail Goods to U.S. Service Members Overseas for Military Appreciation Month

During the month of May, inns across the U.S. are coming together to offer sweet comfort with homemade baked goods in a show of gratitude and appreciation to troops deployed overseas

Asheville, North Carolina (May 5, 2021)— Cookies, brownies, socks, books and toiletries will be in the mail to U.S. service members deployed overseas by the end of May, courtesy of several innkeepers across the country. The special military care packages are part of the annual “Inn Support of Our Troops” initiative. Innkeepers across the nation came together virtually during the pandemic in 2020 to show love and support to our service members.

“Our goal is to continue this initiative on an annual basis. It is an honor to bake and mail goods to our service members,” said Karen Wilson, who co-owns The Lion & the Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, with her husband, Steve. “Both of our Dads are veterans. We have a deep respect for all service members and want to let them know how much we appreciate their service and all they do for our country. This was our inspiration for joining Angel Bakers and creating Inn Support of our Troops with Soldiers ‘ Angels.”

Soldiers ’ Angels is a national charity providing aid, comfort, and resources to the military, veterans, and their families. The inns have registered independently to participate as Angel Bakers, where they may access a database with the first name and state of each service member that has expressed interest in receiving baked goods. Most inns are choosing to send a care package to someone from their home state. Angel Bakers nationwide has sent 1,902 care packages between January and April 2021. Last year, 3,534 packages were shipped overseas. The organization holds the highest level of recognition from the world’s largest source of nonprofit information, the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“It’s truly inspiring to see these Inns return for a second year to share their support for deployed service members,” said Amy Palmer, President and CEO of Soldiers ’ Angels. “2020 was such a difficult year for small businesses. Their commitment to return in 2021 shows their heart and dedication for the military community.”

The participating inns have been through a rough year, suffering unprecedented financial hardships from the pandemic and the anxiousness over the loss of their home – since many owners live on the premises. Baking sweets and mailing goods has provided a much-needed outlet to bring innkeepers together to help keep positive and give back to our military. “ We feel very fortunate to have business picking up but we wanted to continue this initiative to honor and thank our service members,” said Steve Wilson, a craft beer hobbyist who is baking Spent Grain Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies to incorporate his pastime and in a nod toward his inn’s hometown of Asheville, aka Beer City USA.

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About Soldiers ’ Angels: Soldiers ‘ Angels is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides aid, comfort, and resources to the military, veterans, and their families. Founded in 2003 by the mother of two American soldiers , the organization now has a global network of volunteers — representing all 50 states and over a dozen countries abroad — work tirelessly to ensure that those who serve or have served are supported, uplifted, and remembered through a variety of support programs.(Tax ID# 20-0583415). Learn more at www.soldiersangels.org .

Hiking For the Love of Animals

Sat, 01 May 2021 19:25:00 GMT

A Dog’s Blog: Hiking for the love of animals

Hi y’all, Oreo the Shih Tzu here.

My pawrents and my little brother, Ozzy, love helping a good cause, especially one that involves animals. Unfortunately the Asheville Humane Society won’t be having their annual fundraiser so the opportunity to win a free stay at The Lion and the Rose is postponed for now.

In the meantime, my pawrents have been baking homemade dog biscuits. They enjoy visiting with the shelter dogs and donating the biscuits to the Asheville Humane Society. I must say I am jealous that they don’t let me and Ozzy have all of them. But we are happy to know that other dogs get to enjoy them while they are waiting to find their furever home. Those biscuits are so yummy and they are made with the spent grains from the beer our Dad brews for our guests.

These homemade biscuits will be included on our Bed and Biscuit dog weeks. Be sure to keep that in mind if you want to bring your pupper along while staying at our inn. My pawrents are also thinking of selling these gourmet treats. Keep an eye for more details on that later this year. Didn’t mean to get off on a tangent but I can’t help it when treats are involved. Food is a big motivator for me.

What I really want to talk about today is hiking to support two great non-profit organizations.

My Mom found the Tails and Trails event on the Blue Ridge Humane Society’s website. She signed us up to participate. Ozzy and I were excited and couldn’t wait to see where we would be going. And of course, we were happy to help such a great cause. The registration fee proceeds support Conserving Carolina and the programs of Blue Ridge Humane Society that provide new homes for pets in need, support services for local pets and their owners, and more! Sometimes being an inn dog is a ruff job but someone needs to do it.

What a fun day exploring trails and helping two wonderful local organizations, Conserving Carolina and the Blue Ridge Humane Society. There were three hiking options to choose from for this event. We have hiked Bearwallow Mountain a few times and as much as we love that trail, we decided to try a new one. The Oklawaha Greenway was our choice. It is approximately 3.25 miles of Greenway, a paved pathway through vital wetland areas with little elevation changes. Conserving Carolina is a founding member of the Friends of Oklawaha Greenway, an organization that stewards the existing greenway path as well as advocates for extending its length with new greenway segments and connector routes.

We hiked most of the Greenway and finished at Pet’s Own Place Dog Park, an off-leash area for sociable dogs to romp and play, which is adjacent to the Greenway. What a pawfect day! We had a nice walk on the Greenway, Ozzy and I took a few dips in the creek and then we both got to make some new furry friends at the dog park.

We all can’t wait until next April to participate again!

The Giving Plate

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 18:33:00 GMT

We love working with other local businesses every chance we get. We enjoyed having a photo shoot onsite for the new Spring line at Virtue Boutique. Renee and all the models were lovely. It was fun to be a part of their photo shoot and we really enjoyed seeing and sharing all the beautiful shots they took while at the inn. We look forward to having them do another shoot in the future.

About a week after the photo shoot, we were surprised by a package in the mail from Renee at Virtue Boutique. The Giving Plate was such a nice gesture and we absolutely love it! It reads:

The Giving Plate

This plate is for everyone to give love and kindness away. Let its gift bring joy and comfort while it’s with you on this day. Cherish the precious memories made with your family and friends, then pass it on to someone else so it’s giving never ends.

We decided to pass this plate onto our good friends, Scott and Cindi. They showed us true Southern hospitality from the time we decided to buy The Lion and the Rose. They have become such dear friends and we are so grateful for their friendship and kindness over the last couple of years. We hope the giving plate brings them happiness as it did to us and that it continues to give joy to whomever they choose to pass the plate onto in the future.

Virtue Boutique Photo Shoot at The Lion and the Rose

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 22:37:00 GMT

It was so much fun having a photo shoot at our inn. This was a model photo shoot for the new Spring line of dresses at Virtue Boutique. The dresses are simply adorable! And the girls were such a pleasure to have onsite. We look forward to working with them again in the future.

When visiting Asheville, make sure you visit the Virtue Boutique located at 58 N Lexington Ave.

Virtue Boutique has been an Asheville shopping staple for over 15 years. They have been a go-to dress destination for many locals and tourists since day one. Over the years they have strived to bring in more unique brands and trends while presenting their products with a customer first attitude! From everyday basics to one-of-a-kind statement shoes and purses, Virtue has something for everyone!

Bed & Biscuit Dog Weekend at The Lion and the Rose

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 23:58:00 GMT

We know that you all love your fur babies as much as we love ours so we are excited to announce our very first Bed & Biscuit weekend on April 9-11, 2021.

Stay and play with your pup! It will be a dog lovers weekend at The Lion and the Rose B&B! Pawrents will receive a complimentary pint of our beer and pups will receive our homemade dog treats.

*Up to small 2 dogs allowed per room and maximum weight 30 lbs per dog. Dogs must be up to date on vaccinations, be potty trained and be on flea treatment.

Check our availability page on our website at www.lion-rose.com for more details and rates.

The Lion and the Rose meets The Price is Right

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 00:28:00 GMT

We are so happy to share some great news for 2021……The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast was a prize on The Price is Right. The episode aired this morning, on January 15, 2021.

Steve and I both grew up watching the show and always thought it would be fun to be a contestant. Little did we know that we would have the opportunity to have our inn as a prize on the show. We are so excited and grateful to be part of such an epic game show. We felt like we made history today and we hope you all saw it!

If you missed it and have not seen the show, you can stream it from the CBS website.

New Year and New Experiences in Asheville

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 00:32:00 GMT

Happy New Year!!!

New Year means it’s time for new ideas and experiences here at The Lion and the Rose. We are pleased to share a few new add-ons and packages for 2021.

Make a New Year’s resolution to put a rough year behind. We all need to take care of not only our physical health but mental health as well. With that in mind, we were inspired to create a wellness package. This will be a custom package allowing you to customize your own wellness retreat while staying at our inn. Choose from several activities including many virtual options.

Tarot: for the soul seeker and groups who are ready to break through the superficial and enjoy a deeper connection. Plus, spark conversations that often last for months afterwards. Also available virtually.
Yoga Classes: invite balance, relaxation, and rejuvenation into your vacation with a yoga class to help you unplug, unwind, and enjoy the present! A wonderful way to unwind from a day of exploration or prepare for an active adventure. Also available virtually.
Guided Meditation: for the overworked, stressed guest. This is a unique, guided meditation session. It may be just what you need to disengage from the hustle and bustle and relax into the slower pace of the wise ole Blue Ridge Mountains. Choose from tea ceremony, sound journeys, or instinctive (woo-woo free) meditation styles. Also available virtually.

Winter is the perfect time to stay cozy in your room and upgrade your romantic getaway with a private couples massage. Please note that we can offer this in all rooms except Margaret Grace.

More ideas in the works and details on other upcoming experiences coming soon.

Celebrate the holidays with a gift certificate from our Asheville Bed and Breakfast

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 00:34:00 GMT

The holidays are around the corner and will be here before you know it. For a lot of us, the search has begun for those unique and special gifts for our friends and family.

Now more than ever we all need a relaxing and comfortable getaway. Take the time to unwind, de-stress and reconnect with that special someone. Consider a gift that offers memories of a lifetime at our romantic Bed and Breakfast in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer”

The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast is a charming five room inn located less than a mile from downtown Asheville, three miles from the Biltmore Estate and a short drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our inn is the perfect year-round place for couples. Winter entices you to relax and enjoy a peaceful and romantic getaway. Spring, Summer and Fall may to call your adventurous side to get out and explore the mountains.

As you step inside our stunning pink lady, you will be welcomed with a complimentary beer and warm hospitality. Doze off at the end of the day in a quiet, comfortable room with luxurious bedding and the modern amenities of home. The next morning, wake up to the smell of coffee. You will find a special delivery left outside your door, a tray with a carafe of fresh brewed coffee just for the two of you. Indulge in a two-course breakfast before deciding your activities for the day. We are happy to help provide you with recommendations for exploring Asheville and Blue Ridge mountains. Keep cozy and snuggle up in front of one of our fireplaces. Or pamper yourselves with an in-room couples massage. The options are endless.

Christmas Bonus Promotion: Call us directly and mention “Christmas gift certificate promo” and you will receive an extra $10 bonus for every $100 of your gift certificate purchase.

Honoring our Veterans and Military

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 00:38:00 GMT

We are happy to announce that we have joined the B&B for Vets program! Both of our Dads are Army veterans. We have great respect for our active military and veterans who are serving or have served our country. This year we will be offering one free night on November 11, 2020. The winner will be selected from a drawing.

If you are interested in entering the contest, please email your name, military affiliation, and contact information with subject “FREE NIGHT FOR VETERANS”. The winner will be announced on October 15, 2020 and notified by phone and/or email.

We are also offering a Military Appreciation discount to veterans or active military (with proof of ID) that stay between 11/8/2020 – 11/12/2020. Receive 20% off our best available rates. (not valid with other offers or packages).

Lastly, we would like to say to all veterans and active military: Thank you for your sacrifice, your bravery, and the example you set for us all. Thank you for your service and we appreciate all you have done to keep us safe and free!

Our Certified Wildlife Garden

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 00:41:00 GMT

We are so excited to share some great news!

First, our gardens are now a certified wildlife habitat from National Wildlife Federation. We have been busy little bees working towards this goal and it’s finally accomplished. Yay!

Second, we are so happy to be included in a virtual Inn to Inn garden tour. In celebration of these events, we are offering a discount for those who book direct and stay with us through August 2, 2020. Please read on to see more about our gardens and special offer.

Dog Days of Quarantine

Sat, 30 May 2020 00:43:00 GMT

Hi y’all, this is Oreo, the inn dog and blogger for The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast. It’s been a while so just wanted to say hi to all my furiends and give you an update. During this COVID-19 quar-inn-tine, my family has been busy trying to make everything extra beautiful for when everyone is ready to travel again.

The weather has been wonderful so my little brother, Ozzy and I have been enjoying a lot of time out in the yard and hanging out on the front porch. We just love Spring!. All the blooming flowers smell so good and there are several neat critters around.

Sadly, it is not the same without all of you here and we wish you were here to share the beauty of Spring. I’m not sure if I miss you all more than Ozzy or not. If you were here, he could smother you with puppy kisses instead of constantly pushing me to wrestle. Ha ha.

Our favorite Apple Pie recipe

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 00:45:00 GMT

Ever since we visited the Bourbon trail in Kentucky, we have been experimenting with bourbon in various recipes. So in honor of National Apple Pie Day on May 13th, we would like to share one of our favorite pie recipes that has a touch of bourbon.

Apple Cinnamon Bourbon Pie

Pie crust:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup butter, chilled (diced or grated works best)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup ice water

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball. Separate in 2 dough balls. Wrap each in plastic and refrigerate for about 1 hour.

Roll half the dough out to fit a 9 inch pie plate. Place crust in pie plate. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate. Reserve other half of dough for top crust.

Apple filling:

5 large Granny Smith apples peeled and sliced
1 c. sugar
1/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. water
1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar no substitutions
2 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/3 c. Evan William Fire bourbon whiskey
scoop of vanilla ice cream

Arrange one of the pie crusts into the bottom of a deep dish pie pan. Fill the pie shell with the apples.

In a medium pot, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, water, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick.

Remove from heat, and add butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and bourbon whiskey. Pour mixture evenly over the apples. Arrange the top crust, and pinch edges to seal. Prick with a fork.

Bake at 400 degrees for 45-50 minutes, or until pie is golden brown, and the apples feel soft when a toothpick is inserted near the center. Remove to a wire rack to cool.

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy!

Top 25 New Age Cities for 2020

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 00:47:00 GMT

Outdoor, charm, and a whimsical air that inevitably attracts spiritual and creative folks, that’s our Asheville. Ya’ll know we’re still in the South, but this is the Blue Ridge South, a place where the beauty of the woody, lush mountains envelops and preserves.

And these people here, this community, make it all the better.

Of course, locals know all this, but what’s extra special is when someone else spots that magic. According to a new studied index of cities from Reservations.com, Asheville made the #4 spot in their newest official city ranking: Top 25 Wanderlust-Inspiring New Age Cities for Spring.

These cities were ranked on measurable factors including community vibes, creativity, spirituality and wellness, outdoor activities, and festivals.

Asheville’s known for its plethora of outdoor activities like yoga hikes and a celebrated arts district featuring artists specializing in glass blowing, sculpture, and even bookbinding and basketry. Plus, friendly faces populate the city welcoming and encouraging personal wellness and internal self-discovery. After all, the motto is “Discovery inside and out.”

And that’s really possible here in Asheville!

COVID-19 update

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:49:00 GMT

Dear Friends of The Lion and the Rose,

We would like to take this opportunity to extend thanks and gratitude to each and every one of you for your support through the good times and the bad. We are all on a bumpy, rocky road right now and facing challenges we never imagined. We are deeply touched by those who have checked on us to see how we are managing through these difficult and crazy times. And we also appreciate those who have rescheduled or postponed their stay until the time is right to travel again. We are hoping to be able to reopen May 1st and welcome you to your home away from home.

Please know that Steve and I are very grateful for the wonderful past year and a half. We are not only deeply in love with each other but also with this beautiful pink lady known as The Lion and the Rose. We are lucky to not only have found our soul mates but also our true calling in life.

As many of you already know, our wedding night was our first stay at a B&B. That day was unforgettable in so many ways. A seed was planted that day, one that would grow in the back of our minds about owning a bed and breakfast some day. This wedding photo of us on the front porch of that B&B served as inn-spiration to make that dream come true. Seventeen years later, our dream became reality.

The day we became innkeepers was truly a dream come true. We cannot tell you how fulfilling it is to see your smiling faces every day. It is our pleasure to help make your stay memorable and meaningful. We love our jobs and love our lives! It warms our hearts knowing that we invite you in as strangers but you leave as friends. There is no better feeling than that!

Karen & Steve (and the inn pups, Oreo & Ozzy)

A Touch of Folk Art

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 00:51:00 GMT

The Lion and the Rose is a historic home in the beautiful Montford neighborhood with a fascinating history. It has connections to well-known people such as Thomas Wolfe. The house itself offers stories to tell but so does the art and décor that adds to the beauty and character of the house.

Edee Carlson was a nationally acclaimed woodcarver of American folk art and was Steve’s Aunt. Edee’s favorite carving subjects were animals. She never tired of watching them in their natural habitat. Steve and Karen have always shared their passion for wildlife and travel with Aunt Edee. They also have great appreciation for her adventures and artistic style.

Edee’s individually, handcrafted carvings of wildlife and unusual Santa Claus figures and other similar subjects were sold at prestigious galleries across the United States. Sadly, Edee died of cancer in 2004 but her imaginative creations live on at The Lion and the Rose and in many other homes.

We feel very lucky to have a few pieces of Edee’s beautiful carvings. One of her well-known brown bears now sits next to the staircase. We hope that all of our guests will enjoy this wonderful, one of a kind carving. The folk art style is prevalent here in the mountains of Western North Carolina. You will find many beautiful carvings similar to Edee’s in many locations around town.

If you would like to learn more about Edee during your stay, feel free to ask. We have a book that shows photos of her work and offers a background story about her art style, methods and life.

March Special Offer

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 00:53:00 GMT

We are excited to share some big news!

We like to experiment and try new ideas to make sure each and every one of you have the most memorable stay! For the month of March we thought it was appropriate to have a March Madness type of special. Instead of offering a beer hour on select dates, we have decided to add an extra touch to your arrival.

Visualize this……Being greeted at the front door by smiling faces. You are given a warm welcome as you walk into a beautiful, inviting home. And a personal tour of the property makes you feel at home. Once you get settled in, you are offered a cold, complimentary pint of craft beer. This is a one of a kind craft beer that is brewed just for you. Unwind from the moment you arrive and enjoy the unique experience of our Beer, Bed and Breakfast in Asheville.

Happy 2020!

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 00:55:00 GMT

Happy New Year!!!

We would like to send a big heartfelt thank you to each and every guest for making 2019 a wonderful year. We are looking forward to what 2020 brings us all.

We are excited to now offer two romance package options and an elopement package.

Love is in the Mountain Air is our romance package that includes all the essentials for an unforgettable romantic getaway (roses, wine and chocolate truffles).

Suite Mountain Romance, is exclusive to the Craig-Toms Suite and includes a champagne breakfast for 2 served on your private balcony or inside your room.

Make your New Year resolution an easy one….cherish every moment with those you love!

Best wishes to all and we look forward to seeing y’all in 2020!

Asheville Yoga Hike getaway

Sat, 28 Dec 2019 00:56:00 GMT

We are excited to announce our partnership with a local yoga outfitter to bring you our new yoga hike package. Unplug, unwind and reconnect with yourself, loved one(s) and nature on this Asheville getaway.

We currently have 2 options for this package that includes accommodations at the inn and your choice of the classic yoga hike or sunset yoga hike.

The Classic Yoga Hike :
Take time for yourself, breathe deep, relax, and immerse in the beauty of our lovely Blue Ridge Mountains! Enjoy a 2 mile round trip hike to a mountaintop with stunning views plus an hour of yoga for all levels at the summit. We’ll bring the mats. You bring your spirit of adventure!

Sunset Yoga Hike :
Get ready for views upon views upon views. Unplug, unwind, and take a moment away from the busyness of life to breathe in breathtaking vistas as the sun sets before you. Beginning with a mindful meditation, we’ll sink into a nourishing yoga practice on the mountain top suitable for all levels. An incredible way to relax into the wisdom and beauty of the Blue Ridge.

We thoroughly enjoyed the sunset yoga hike and we highly recommend this option! The trailhead is only 30 minutes from our inn. Please contact us for more details and pricing.

Introducing Ozzy, the inn puppy

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 16:38:00 GMT

Resume for Ozzy, the Shih Tzu puppy

Objective :

Extremely intelligent, friendly Shih Tzu puppy seeks a loving family and a pawsome job. Looking for a permanent position that allows me the opportunity to make many friends.

Skills:

Pawfect puppy kisser
Super cute fluff ball
Fast learner
Good listener
Ambitious
Attention getter

Experience:

Although I have no past experience, I am eager to learn and willing to shadow lead inn dog, Oreo. My plan is to use my cuteness, loving companionship and endless puppy kisses to fulfill all job doodies. I promise to make everypawdy smile and laugh daily. Happily I will greet guests upon request and offer puppy kisses and cuddles. I am also committed to wrestling with Oreo and making sure innkeepers receive a minimum level of daily physical exercise chasing me around. I am a hard worker with lots of energy and willing to work long hours and I am the pick of the litter for this job!

Happy Inn-iversary at The Lion and the Rose!

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 16:40:00 GMT

We are so excited to celebrate to our first Inn-iversary as innkeepers here at The Lion and the Rose!

A huge thank you to all of our guests, friends, family and neighbors for making our first year so memorable and special. We have met so many wonderful people and we are loving what we do!

The Beer Days of Football

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 16:42:00 GMT

We are always looking for new and fun things for our guests here at The Lion and the Rose. Our Beer Days of Summer was a hit and we want to keep the beer days flowing. Rather than just calling our next chapter the beer days of fall, we wanted something that was a bit more exciting. Hmmmm….what else marks the beginning of Fall like football? And you can’t possibly watch football in Asheville Beer City without some beer!

So on that note, are you ready for some football?

Join us for a complimentary pint of craft beer and football. We will be kicking off our first Beer Day of Football on September 8 at Carolina Panthers game time.

Future Beer Days of Football: September 22, October 6, October 27. .

We will be adding more dates throughout the football season. Keep checking our social media pages and website for more beer days.

The Best Summer Events in Asheville

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 16:51:00 GMT

Biltmore Gardens Railway – Friday, May 24 – Sunday, September 29

Enjoy meticulously handcrafted botanical model train displays in the Conservatory and Antler Hill Village & Winery. The displays feature a variety of Biltmore area structures made from natural elements. This is a one-of-a-kind garden experience with 800 feet of rails and trains with six separate lines.

Shakespeare in the Park – every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7:30PM

Experience North Carolina’s longest running Shakespeare Festival at Hazel Robinson Amphitheater. Short walk within the historic Montford neighborhood. Free to attend with great classics all summer long.

June 28 – July 27 : Robin Hood: Quest for Justice
August 2-24 : Romeo and Juliet
August 30 – September 14 : Winter’s Tale

Drum Circle – every Friday, 5-10PM

Experience the Asheville tradition of the Drum Circle. Every Friday night people get together in Pritchard Park to play drums, dance to the beat or sit and enjoy the good vibes of our unique city.

The Drum Circle is a tradition that began in Asheville in 200. It brings together hundreds of people outside during the warm weather months.

All are welcome to bring their own drum and join the music. Drummers begin showing up in the early evening (between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.). They continue with brief breaks until about 10 p.m.

Shindig on the Green – every Saturday July 6 – August 31, 7-10PM

Shindig on the Green features a stage show and informal jam sessions around Pack Square Park. Locals and visitors alike come together downtown to experience the music and dance traditions of Southern Appalachia.

23rd Annual Biltmore Concert Series – various dates in July and August

Concerts are staged on the South Terrace of Biltmore House with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All shows start at 7:30 p.m.

July 25 The Beach Boys

July 26 The B-52s

Aug. 3 The Charlie Daniels Band and The Marshall Tucker Band

Aug. 6 Chicago

Aug. 9 The O’Jays and Kool & The Gang

Aug. 10 Amy Grant and Steven Curtis Chapman

Riverfest – Saturday, July 20, 1-8PM

Enjoy live music, local beer, food and the Anything that Floats Parade on the banks of one of the oldest rivers in the world. RiverFest serves as a fundraiser for RiverLink. The proceeds from the event goes to support ground work throughout the watershed. This free event is at New Belgium Brewing.

South Highlands Craft Fair – Thursday, July 18 – Sunday, July 21, 10AM – 6PM

In its 72nd year, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands returns to downtown Asheville’s U.S. Cellular Center. Filling both the concourse and arena levels of the venue, makers exhibit a variety of craft ranging from contemporary to traditional in works of clay, wood, metal, glass, fiber, natural materials, paper, leather, mixed media, and jewelry. General admission $10 per person.

6th Annual Asheville Yoga Festival – Friday, July 25 – Sunday, July 28

Set in the heart of the ancient and mystical Appalachian Mountains, the vision of Asheville Yoga Festival is to create a space for connection, adventure, play, relaxation and healing.

Downtown Asheville will be the retro-urban backdrop for the 2019 festival. It will feature over 40 world-class presenters & musicians, and 90+ offerings including yoga, music and outdoor activities. In between classes you will have time to stroll through our beautiful outdoor Mountain Air Market, home to variety of unique health & wellness vendors and tasty treats.

Hi-Wire Brewing 6th Annivesary Party – Saturday, July 27, 3-10PM

Celebrate Hi-Wire’s 6th Birthday at the Big Top. This years line-up of live music will feature Natural Born Leaders, Free The Optimus & Mike Live, and April B & the Cool. Cold beer will be flowing including Hi-Wire Brewing year-rounds, seasonals and an exclusive 10-tap Sour & Wild Ale beer station. Carnival attractions will include a ferris wheel, carousel, and water gun race station. There is a $5 advanced/$8 day of admission for all guests 21+.

Mountain Dance and Folk Festival – Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3, 6:30PM

The 92nd Annual Mountain Dance and Folk Festival showcases traditional and old time musicians, mountain dance groups and cloggers. Net proceeds from this event are dedicated to partial support for the eight Shindig on the Green evenings presented through the summer. The non-profit, all-volunteer Folk Heritage Committee’s mission is to preserve and present the musical heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. General admission single-night tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance.

The Beer Days of Summer at The Lion and the Rose

Guests staying at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast on Beer Days will enjoy a complimentary beer hour. Join us on the front porch and try a pint of Steve’s seasonal home brew. The Beer Days of Summer are: July 15, August 4, August 22 and August 25.

A Dog’s Blog: A Day of Hiking at Bearwallow Mountain

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 16:56:00 GMT

Yipee! It’s me, Oreo the inn dog and I’m excited to share my newest blog post about hiking.

The last month has been really busy for all of us but I finally was able to enjoy some family time on a hike. My brother and I slept on the short drive from Asheville to Bearwallow Mountain. We were both raring to go once we got there. The smells of the forest and other animals in the area kept me excited to keep hiking up that trail. The views of the mountains and all the smells in the air were just so refreshing and invigorating.

Mom and Dad held out on us though and didn’t tell us what cool things we would find at the top of the mountain. Not only were the views breathtaking but Harley and I felt like we hit the jackpot finding a bunch of animals. Harley let out a few little woofs to try to talk to these creatures. They sounded funny and went “Moo!” at us. Dad tells me these big Moos are cows. I was fascinated since I had never seen one before. There were big ones, little ones, brown ones and a few that had my colors of black and white.

They were a little intimidated by me for some reason so I didn’t try to get too close. Harley was pulling the leash and whining to get a closer look but Mom and Dad scolded us for trying to scare them. I blame my little brother, Harley, for getting us both in trouble. He always gets overexcited and blows the fun….party pooper. I really wanted to get a closer look in those big round eyes and get a good sniff. But I was a good boy and didn’t push my luck.

I enjoyed watching the Moo cows for a distance and then chilled out in the grass for a while. We were the only ones up there so it was quiet and really peaceful. I could’ve stayed up there furever but we had another surprise stop to make. The hike was a lot of fun but I admit I was a little pooped out. Once I jumped in the car, I quickly plopped down and closed my eyes for a short nap. On the way back home to Asheville, we stopped at a cool brewpub called the Whistle Stop. It was a little red caboose and it was such a neat spot to stop for a cold drink.

I woof Western North Carolina and am so happy to live here. Not only do I get to meet so many nice people but there are so many cool spots to check out and mark. I’m already excited for the next hike and I look forward to Mom sharing some of the oh-so-cute pics of me at these pawsome hiking spots and pit stops.

Whitewater rafting adventures in Asheville

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 16:59:00 GMT

Hearken back a few years. It was a family vacation at beautiful Lake Tahoe! My mother always loved the outdoors and Tahoe was one of her favorite places.

While we were there someone came up with the idea to take a raft ride on the Truckee river which runs out of the lake. Being that my dad couldn’t swim I am pretty sure it was mom’s idea. Being that I love the water I thought it was a great idea! Boy was I wrong!

It was the four of us: Mom, dad, me and my little brother. So here we have Dad who can’t swim, Mom who doesn’t swim well, my little brother who didn’t like the water either and me; the only swimmer in the raft.

We climb into the raft. My dad sits in the back thinking he will use his oar as a rudder to control the ship while we paddle. Dad was book smart and more a thinker than a doer. About 20 ft. downstream and the fun begins! The rudder technique doesn’t really work. Dad starts panicking which sets Mom off and then little brother starts bawling. You have to remember that the Truckee River is no more than 2 ft. deep for most of the raft ride. If you fall out? Stand up.

I was mortified since all I could do was wait it out. It was one of the longest 20 minutes of my life! After the parents screaming at each other and little brother crying, we eventually got to the end where the crew were waiting to help us in. What a relief! From that day on I vowed never to go rafting again.

Until…

My wife informs me that she really wants to go whitewater rafting. Let’s just say that we push each other when it comes to adventure and overcoming our fears. She was so excited knowing that we have whitewater rafting within a short drive of Asheville. How could I say no. After all, whenever we give a little push, we usually end up with our most unforgettable and priceless moments.

Time only allowed for us to do the half day trip unfortunately but the few hours on the French Broad River gave us a taste of the adventure we had been craving. It was a picture perfect warm day with sunny skies and the views out on the river were amazing.

We went out with Blue Heron Whitewater Rafting which is located in Marshall, an easy 25 min drive from our B&B. We met Sandy, the owner and guide for our trip. She was absolutely awesome throughout the trip. She was a wealth of knowledge and shared some great stories and facts about the river. But more importantly, she gave us the confidence to paddle correctly through the rapids and squeeze through some challenging rocks and crevices. There was a nice progression on the trip going from class I to III rapids which also helped build confidence in our paddling skills.

Did I mention that the views of the mountains were breathtaking?

We had two fun stops during the trip – one that offered a chance to jump off a rock ledge into the river and one that offered the opportunity to slide into the water and float down the river without the raft. Both stops were a nice bonus. The water was refreshing on this warm day and the few hours on the river was a good mix of adrenaline and relaxation.

Whoever thought that whitewater rafting when done right could be fun? We had such a great time and my first experience is now just a faded memory. Would I do it again? Absolutely!!! It was an invigorating, memorable afternoon and we can’t wait to get back out there for the full day adventure. Maybe I’ll even ask my brother to go….

Best Ways To Learn About The History Of Asheville

Fri, 31 May 2019 17:02:00 GMT

Asheville is a vibrant city with so much to offer including a rich history. In the short time we have called Asheville home, we have learned a lot about the history of the area from some of the wonderful tour guides we’ve met.

Here are our favorite ways to get a historic perspective and hear interesting stories about Asheville’s past:

The historic trolley is a great way to learn more about Asheville. You can choose to stay on the trolley for about an hour and a half for just a history lesson. Or you can take the hop on/hop off option to explore many of the most popular attractions. You still get a little dose of history each time you get back on the trolley. We have the pleasure of seeing the trolley stop past The Lion and the Rose every half hour. We are very honored that they give a little background about our beautiful B&B. What we like best : the hop on/hop off is an easy way to see Asheville’s most popular attractions in a day
Tukit is one of Asheville’s newest tours but it’s another great way to learn about Asheville in a couple hours. The city tour offers interesting history and stories with a finale of indulgent chocolate treats at The Chocolate Fetish. The electric tuk is not only a distinctive and eye catching way to learn about Asheville, it conveniently picks you up right at our B&B. What we like best : The tuk takes up to 6 people so it’s a more personalized experience and the tour ends with chocolate!
Want a bird’s eye view of Asheville? We recommend Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours for a unique perspective. You visit three rooftop bars and have a choice of drinks to enjoy while taking in the beautiful views of the city and mountains. Your friendly and knowledgeable guide, Kaye, will also show you old city photos while sharing history of your surroundings. What we like best : It’s a great way to meet other fun folks and watch a beautiful sunset.
A walking and eating tour of downtown. You visit anywhere from five to seven restaurants with different food and drink pairings. The walk tends to be about a mile or less so easy for most people to handle. Although there is not as much history in this tour, we still felt it was a fun way to learn about town while indulging in delicious food stops. It also gives you a chance to walk off some of the sweeter treats you discover on these tours. What we like best : Not having to decide which one restaurant to visit for lunch when you can experience several great restaurants in an afternoon.
Want a little bit of history with some comedy thrown in? Then Lazoom’s City Comedy Tour is the right fit for you. The iconic purple bus is one of the most popular tours in Asheville with both visitors and locals. What we like best : The combination of learning some history while having some good laughs.
Follow the Urban Trail or Architecture Trail. Both are casual do-it-yourself strolls around town. You will find sculptural trail stations that give background and a look into historical moments and achievements of renowned individuals. Soak in Asheville’s small town charm. Admire its collection of Art Deco style buildings that is second only to Miami’s Art Deco District. What we like best : The do-it-yourself trails allow you to spend as little or as much time walking around town as you feel like.

A Dog’s Blog: A Day of Gardening

Wed, 08 May 2019 17:04:00 GMT

Yipee! I am so excited to write my first dog blog and share my adventures as an inn dog.

Oh, what a day!

Today was a great day at our beautiful pink lady known as The Lion and the Rose. My brother, Harley and I are absolutely loving our yard and front porch. The weather has been warm, everything is so green and the flowers are blooming. We spent some time playing outside while Mom and Dad made some enhancements to the garden. I’m happy to help dig in the garden, smell the flowers and look for any critters. Of course, my curiosity always gets the best of me and I like to give them a good sniff. Rut-roh…..that curiosity has gotten me into trouble. I’ve also been embarrassed a few times so I best get back to telling you about my day of gardening.

My family is passionate about nature and wildlife so we decided to introduce some new plants to attract birds and butterflies. Mom has always wanted a NWF Certified Wildlife Garden Habitat so we are all working hard to make that happen. We were all hoping to see the hummingbirds come to the feeder once we took a break on the porch but unfortunately they didn’t show up today. Harley and I worked so hard that we pooped out on the outdoor sofa and took a little nap.

Garden day review

I might be biased since Mom and Dad did the work but the garden is looking really good. I think that our guests will enjoy the colorful plants and sweet smelling flowers. Oh, and how could I forget how much fun it will be to watch the birds and butterflies that visit our garden. We hope that y’all will be as excited about our garden as we are. I hope to see you enjoying our peaceful yard and the fresh, mountain air.

P.S. Don’t forget to share some photos of your stay with us on our social media pages. We woof to repost your memories!

Top 5 Reasons to Book Direct

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 17:05:00 GMT

Planning a vacation in Asheville, North Carolina?

The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast might just be the perfect place to celebrate your romantic getaway, special occasion or girlfriend trip. Our B&B offers so many extra perks and amenities for our guests including a delicious 2 course gourmet breakfast, 24 hour access to the guest pantry with snacks and drinks, beer hour (on certain dates), complimentary wifi, a huge wraparound porch and backyard fire pit to kick back and relax with the fresh mountain air! You can enjoy even more benefits simply by booking a room directly on our website or by phone!

Why should you book direct with us?

1. Lowest rates available

When you book directly with us, you will find the lowest price available online. There is no need to spend time and effort going through an online travel agency or third party to find the best deals, as we already offer the best prices available!

2. Exclusive offers and packages

Our website includes many offers not available on any other third party site. We offer romance packages, a Biltmore package, a fishing package, and an elopement package. Extra add-ons are also available when you book through our website. And occasionally, we offer special incentives and bonus amenities for those guests who book direct.

3. Best booking experience

No middle man to make the booking process frustrating and much easier to communicate should you have any questions about your reservation.

Keep in mind that most third party booking sites have a no refund policy and they won’t let you cancel or modify your reservation if you have to. When you book directly with us, you’ll be treated with more flexibility and understanding.

Avoid the potential headache of your reservation getting lost! This is one of the most common complaints about online travel agencies. By booking on a third party site, you’re not a customer of the B&B, you’re a customer of the online travel agency. Book direct on our website and you’ll only share your personal information and credit card details with our secure, encrypted reservation system. You will also be sure your reservation won’t get lost.

4. No hidden fees

There are no hidden fees with you book direct with us! When booking on third party sites, you can end up paying hidden fees that the online travel agency charges for miscellaneous items. Why would you want to add additional charges to your booking total, costing you anywhere from 4% to 15%? Book direct and save!.

5. Early check-in

Guests who book directly with us will receive early check-in when it is available, subject to availability. We will contact you by email or text if your room is ready for early check-in.

A Vanderbilt Party at Biltmore Estate

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 17:08:00 GMT

Let me start by saying that we were unsure if we would enjoy Biltmore’s newest exhibit, A Vanderbilt House Party, but we were pleasantly surprised. The audio was immersive and entertaining and the replications of the clothing were exquisitely done with much detail. The event had a Downtown Abbey feel and was a new way to experience Biltmore. It felt like we were going back in time and seeing Biltmore through the eyes of guests back in the Gilded Age.

As we strolled through the house, it was fun to try to picture myself in some of the clothes they wore back then. The fashion styles of that time period are unique and distinctive. What girl doesn’t love a huge wardrobe of clothing but to change outfits 7 or 8 times a day just seems insane to me. Just give me a pair of jeans and a t-shirt for the day and I’m a happy camper. Though I did absolutely love the black velvet gown that Edith Stuyvesant Dresser wore to celebrate her engagement to George Vanderbilt. That dress was one that I could see myself wearing to a special occasion event or cocktail party.

Biltmore brought in award winning designer, John Bright and his team at Cosprop London for their expertise of costume design in this era. The recreation of the clothing, accessories and hairstyles took the curators over 2 years to complete. They consulted over 100 archived photos to ensure authenticity and accuracy of the styles, colors and fabrics. John Bright is renowned for his costume designs in A Room With A View, Howard’s End, Sense and Sensibility, Gosford Park, and Downtown Abbey.

One of my favorite rooms to see every time we visit Biltmore is the banquet room. For this exhibit, the table was elegantly decorated with bouquets of roses, colorful fruit and candles. The room gives you a feeling of sophistication and royalty. That could explain why I suddenly felt the need to change into something more appropriate and feminine like the butterfly gown worn by George Vanderbilt’s sister, Florence Vanderbilt Twombly. With the help of the audio tour painting visuals in my mind, I start picturing this room filled with happiness and the laughter of guests. A warm and fuzzy feeling strikes me from deep within. It makes me feel blessed that I live a similar lifestyle on a much, much, much smaller scale. Hearing laughter and sharing stories to connect with each other at our breakfast table puts a smile on my face every day. As is welcoming guests as strangers but having them leave as friends. I completely understand how the Vanderbilts enjoyed entertaining and sharing their beautiful home with so many visitors.

This exhibit runs from February 8 – May 27, 2019. We suggest visiting in March so you can avoid the big crowds and get a lower ticket price through March 20. At The Lion and the Rose, we offer 2 day Biltmore tickets so you can get a 2nd day free to visit anything you have missed on your first day or anything you want to revisit. Please note that you do need Biltmore tickets in order to visit any of their onsite restaurants or winery. We would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on the Vandebilt House Party exhibition when you stay with us for your Asheville getaway.

What’s brewing at the inn?

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 17:10:00 GMT

What’s better than a pint of fresh beer on a warm spring day or for that matter a cold and dreary winter day? (We’ve had more than enough of those this winter let me tell ya) Heck! Any day is a good day for beer!

Well, here at the Lion and the Rose we have come up with a solution. Fresh home brew on tap!

It all started around 5 years ago when I decided that if I was going to pay $13.00 for a 12 pack of good beer, I was going to brew the beer to my taste. Actually, that’s a bargain these days. But I digress… After doing some research online I found that I could brew my own beer. So began my journey into home brewing.

Since that time I have brewed many a bottle of beer. Since we are now living in Beer City USA, we felt it was time to share our beer with our guests. Asheville has named “Beer City USA” for several years now and boasts over 50 breweries in the area. With New Belgium and other small local craft breweries such as Green Man and Hi Wire as inspiration, we purchased a single tap kegerator and proceeded to brew up a keg.

Fermenting nicely!

So we present to you The Lion and the Rose English Ale. It’s kind of a cross between a brown and amber ale but it is an English style brewed with British ingredients; Irish stout malts, fuggles, challenger and magnum hops then fermented with Nottingham yeast.

Daffy approved!

The result is a full bodied malt forward brew only slightly bitter with a touch of sweetness. Kinda sounds like a beer commercial… Anyway, we got to test it at a party the other night. It got the thumbs up from everyone who tried it. At least both growlers we brought were emptied.

So if you happen to be staying with us on Friday, March 1st we would be happy to offer you a complimentary pint for your drinking pleasure. Next on tap will be a Belgian wit beer. Keep an eye on our website for more details on the next opportunity to make your stay with us a beercation. You can also follow us on social media and/or sign up for our newsletter to keep up with our progress. Cheers!

The Perfect Fishing Getaway In Asheville

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 17:13:00 GMT

As some of you already know, Steve and I love the outdoors. Although we were born in different parts of the U.S., we both grew up with a fishing pole in our hands. Let’s reminisce back to those fun childhood fishing days of Karen and Steve for just a minute…..

Ah, those were good times!

Our fishing package offers:

2+ nights at our B&B with your choice of room
A breakfast to go bag on your fishing day(s)
Two course gourmet breakfast on day of checkout
Complimentary transportation to fishing site from our inn
1 full or half day of guided fishing. Fishing trips are all inclusive with all gear. All trips are private. (Multiple fishing days can also be accommodated)
Lunch will be provided on full day trips. Your choice of:
- A hot “Riverside Shore Lunch” with table and chairs will feature Asheville’s famous 12 Bones BBQ. Sides include pulled pork, potato salad, vinegar base slaw, dessert.
- Fresh cold cut deli sandwiches or wraps, potato salad, chips, chocolate, fruit. You have the option of “Lunch in the boat” or “shore lunch” with table and chairs.
Waters and Snacks on the boat
Digital photos of your fishing trip

This package can be customized to include more nights and more fishing trips. Each package will be custom tailored just for you!

Whether you are looking to catch Smallmouth Bass, Trout or Musky, your private guided fishing tour will be tailor-made to meet your needs and ensure you get that day on the water you’ve dreamed of. You’ll get professional, hard-working guides who love bringing people to the finest waters in Western North Carolina and East Tennessee such as the South Holston River, Watauga River, Nolichucky River, French Broad River, Pigeon River and Pisgah National Forest. Wade trips or float trips via drift boats and rafts offer beautiful scenery and opportunity for anglers of all experience levels to develop their fly fishing skills. For those more advanced thrill-seeking anglers, you will be provided with the most challenging yet rewarding fly fishing experience.

Best Holiday Activities and Festivals In Asheville

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 17:18:00 GMT

Looking for fun and unique ways to celebrate the holiday season? We’ve collected some of the best holiday activities from sparkling light displays to festive Christmas events unique to Asheville, North Carolina.

Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings (Nov 3 – Jan 5)

Create an evening to remember with warm candlelight, firelight, live music from choirs and musicians, and the extravagant holiday decor of the Biltmore House. You will be greeted with a 55-ft. Norway spruce decorated with thousands of lights and hundreds of hand-lit luminaires on the front lawn. See elaborate hand-decorated trees including the amazing 35-ft. live Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall, thousands of poinsettias, hundreds of wreaths and sprays, and miles of garland.

Daytime tours are self-guided but it is recommended to make a reservation for a timed entry. Candlelight Evenings require a separate ticket for entry from daytime admission. Advance reservations are required. Our tickets at The Lion and the Rose include the daytime visit with next day free. Tickets can also be upgraded to the Candlelight Christmas Evenings ticket for an additional fee. All tickets include self-guided tours of Biltmore House and gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Winery for a complimentary wine tasting.

The Estate is open every day, including Thanksgiving, Christmas (9 AM-2 PM) and New Year’s Days. The house is open 9 AM-5 PM for daytime tours. Candlelight tours begin at 5:30 PM.

Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum (Nov 16 – Dec 31)

Asheville’s brightest holiday tradition with over a half-a-million lights at The North Carolina Arboretum. Walk through an outdoor winter wonderland. Enjoy unique displays and landscapes composed of more than half-a-million holiday lights. Listen to the sounds of your favorite holiday tunes or enjoy a cup of holiday-inspired cocoa, cider or beer. Proceeds generated from Winter Lights help support the Arboretum’s educational programs, exhibits and year-round.

Enjoy special discounts on Winter Lights on certain days. Tuesdays are Friends & Family Discount Night. November 26 – 29 is Arboretum Discount Week. Thursdays – Saturdays offer an option for the “Winter Lights Holiday Tour” which includes round-trip transportation in festively decorated buses to the Arboretum, entry into Winter Lights and a free cup of hot chocolate.

Old fashioned Dickens Christmas Festival (Nov 30 and Dec 1)

The historic district of Biltmore Village in Asheville transforms into an old fashioned village reminiscent of the days of Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol. The Dickens in the Village festival is an immersive holiday experience. It features performances by strolling carolers, actors and musicians dressed in Dickensian era costumes. As you stroll the brick-lined streets of the Village, pick up freshly roasted chestnuts or hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride. There will be 20 live entertainment acts strolling through the Village, a craft market, Old Time Photo Booth, kids crafts and the Mugs of Merriment, a Christmas beverage competition.

Santa on the Chimney ( Dec 1 and Dec 8, 11am-2pm )

Only near Asheville can you see Santa prepare for his Christmas deliveries rappelling down one of the world’s largest chimneys! Make your list and bring it to Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy live holiday music, hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities. Meet Park animal educators, and more at Chimney Rock State Park.

Annual Gingerbread House Competition display at Grove Park (Nov 25 – Jan 4)

Guests not staying at the resort can view the gingerbread house display after 3:00 p.m. on Sundays. Or anytime Monday through Thursday, based on parking availability and excluding holidays.

Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour (Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays Nov 23 – Dec 29th at 7pm)

A fun and festive celebration of the season. It features the sights and sounds of the holidays with stories of local holiday traditions and singing of classic Christmas carols. Departs from The Olde World Christmas Shoppe in Biltmore Village.

Craggy Mountain Jingle Bell trolley ride

Be transported back in time to a 1940’s themed tradition Christmas depot. Train cars are decked out in lights bustling with elves, lively Christmas critters and classical Christmas music. The Jingle Bell trolley takes you down the mountain and up again along the historic Craggy Mountain Line Railroad. Enjoy free refreshments such as cookies and hot cocoa and visit with Santa in his very own trolley. Trolley rides offered on November 24th, December 1st, December 8th, December 13th, December 14th, December 15th, December 20th, December 21st, and December 22nd.

Highlights of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 17:19:00 GMT

One of the most common questions we have had is where to visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway and how to get there. We will share some of the highlights closest to The Lion and the Rose. You can choose to take just a short drive to a few overlooks or you can use maps and other tools to spend a day or more exploring the views from numerous overlooks.

The fastest and easiest route to the Parkway from The Lion and the Rose is traveling North via 74A:

Turn right on Montford Avenue and continue until it dead ends into Haywood St. (at a stop light).
Turn left on Haywood St and turn left at the next traffic light onto the I-240 East entrance ramp.
I-240 East becomes 74A after exit 8. Once on 74A, follow the signs to the Parkway.

Attractions along the Northern route of the Parkway

Folk Art Center – art galleries, craft shop and artist demonstrations of Appalachian arts and crafts located at MM 382.

Haw Creek Overlook – overlooks Haw Creek and Tunnel Road (Mall and McCormick Field). Insider tip: On the 4th of July, you can watch the McCormick Field fireworks from here.

Tanbark Ridge Tunnel – Hike up a hill to the ruins of Rattlesnake Lodge built in the early 1900s. Parts of the old building and a spring still remain. And it has beautiful mountain views. Insider tip: There is a good picnic spot just before you enter the tunnel on the left.

Craggy Gardens – Close to MM 367. If you go up this road, picnic grounds are on the right. If you take the gravel road on the left, you will see several waterfalls. Four wheel drive is almost essential to handle the gravel road. You can meander down this road for quite a while and see waterfalls rolling down the mountainside.

At MM 365 there is a visitor center and lake overlook.

You can also hike to the top of Craggy Pinnacle. There are many other hikes in this spot. If you drive past this stop and continue through the tunnel, you will come to another parking lot. This stop also has a hike up to Craggy Pinnacle. This is a 15-20 minute hike and not very difficult. Many rhododendrons make a beautiful sight when blooming in June and July.

Mount Mitchell – The tallest point east of the Mississippi. It is located at MM 356. Mount Mitchell State Park is approximately a 45 minute drive from Asheville and is open 8 AM – 9 PM. Restaurant is open May through September. There is a parking lot near the summit and then a 5 minute hike to the top. It overlooks the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. There is also another trail to the top that starts at the restaurant.

Helpful tip: We have found the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner to be a great tool in planning your drive on the Parkway. They have a mile by mile guide and map. You can also download their free app for Android or iOS. There is an option to download offline maps which is very helpful since cell reception is limited while driving the Parkway.

Innkeepers thoughts: The Parkway is enjoyable any time of day or year but is especially breathtaking for watching a sunset or sunrise. Perfect for those on a romantic getaway or for those love to photograph nature and landscapes like we do.

Click here to download a PDF file of the Blue Ridge Parkway attractions and directions from The Lion and the Rose.

What’s new at The Lion and the Rose – September 2018

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 17:21:00 GMT

We are extremely excited to start our next adventure as the new owners of The Lion and the Rose.

The previous owner, Lisa, has been a huge help in our transition and we wish the best of luck to her and her furry kid, Cooper. Hope they enjoy their retirement!

Many thanks to our neighbors, fellow innkeepers and business partners for giving us a warm welcome and making us feel at home.

We are happy to be in Asheville and look forward to welcoming y’all to your home away from home.

The Lion and the Rose

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Cooking in the kitchen

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