Looking for something to do?

The Florence Trail Cottages are nearby many great attractions, activities, and areas of interest. 

We are located in Hickory Nut Gorge - the beautiful area comprising of the towns of Gerton, Bat Cave, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

We are close both to Asheville and Hendersonville.

One of the most beautiful scenic wonders in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory Nut Gorge is sometimes called a hidden treasure. Those of us lucky enough to live and work here want to share this gorgeous and friendly place with you.

Beginning in the higher elevations of Gerton, a picture-perfect mountain community, the Gorge winds down to Bat Cave  along the rushing Rocky Broad River.

The Gorge continues into Chimney Rock Village and on to the crystal waters of Lake Lure. Along the entire way are spectacular scenery and fantastic opportunities for relaxation and fun.

To read more about these attractions, clink on the highlighted links



The Florence Nature Preserve

Florence Nature Preserve in Hickory Nut Gorge - Pet Friendly
Click on the link above to view the Florence Nature Preserve Trail Map only a 3 minute walk from the cottages.

The Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce lists many special events in our area.

Hickory Nut Gorge News - Great Website for the History of Hickory Nut Gorge as well as Local News and events.


Bat Cave

 The actual Bat Cave is owned by The Nature Conservancy and a private landowner, and is accessible only through the North Carolina Chapter’s field trip program from June through early August. Here's a link to the Nature Conservancy which gives some additional information about Bat Cave itself and about how to find out about their field trips there.

Old Cider Mill and Gift Shop in Bat Cave -
Here you will find an assortment of some finest homemade country Jams, Jellies, Relishes, Honeys and Syrups, all brought to you from the local kitchens in the area. The Mill is still one of the few establishments that can boast "Fresh Pressed Cider". 


Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock Park- Pet Friendly
Spectacular hiking with 75 mile views, 404 ft Waterfall a perfect place to take along a picnic.
Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine 
Nestled deep in the Hickory Nut Gorge, on the banks of the Rocky Broad River in historic Chimney Rock Village, there is a gemstone mine of great opportunity to prospect for your own gems.
Chimney Rock Village - "Come, take a step back in time ... and enjoy!"

Lake Lure


Lake Lure National Geographic has called Lake Lure one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the world.You can enjoy a wide variety of water activities, ranging from canoeing and fishing to pleasure boating and waterskiing.

 The Lake Lure Adventure Company
Offers adventurous experiences on Lake Lure including Fishing, Watersport Trips, Wakeboarding Watersking, Tubing and more.

The Cedar Creek Riding Stables- Horseback Riding
a public trail riding facility, nestled in the beautiful mountains of Lake Lure




Asheville
                                       
 
Asheville -
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains has long been a favorite vacation destination.

Tour America’s largest home and most visited winery at Biltmore Estate. 

Drive along ridgetops of the North Carolina mountains on the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in America.

• Explore the vibrant, inviting downtown Asheville with hundreds of local shops and beautiful art deco architecture. 

 Shop for fine arts and crafts in 100+ galleries and visit a cornucopia of artist studios. Asheville has been named by AmericanStyle magazine as the No. 2 small-city arts destinations.

How about seeing the beautiful mountains from a Hot Air Balloon?