5 Easy Ways to Escape Asheville NC

Are you thinking about moving to Asheville, but you don’t want to get stuck there? Here are 5 Easy Ways to Escape Asheville, NC and How to Get There.

Are you Looking for a change of scenery from the vibrant city of Asheville, North Carolina?

I know, even though we love where we live we sometimes want to get-away.

We've curated five easy ways to escape and explore, each offering a unique destination and a different mode of transportation. So, let's dive in and discover your next adventure!

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Our first escape route takes us on a scenic drive to the coastal beauty of Hilton Head Island. Hop into your car and embark on a leisurely road trip, winding through picturesque landscapes as you make your way to the sandy shores.  Just under 5 hours of driving, you'll find yourself basking in the warm sun, relaxing on pristine beaches, and enjoying the renowned golf courses and exquisite cuisine that Hilton Head has to offer.

Hilton head is wonderful for families as well. There are many beaches to chose from and it is very bikeable. When we went we easily rented bikes and they delivered them. Tobi brought a portable speaker and we played some good tunes and put the kids on the back and rode all over the island to playgrounds to to lunch. We rented a condo in a community for a week with a heated pool, because we were there in early May and it was directly across the street from a beach. It was easy, fun and the kids loved it.

There are also tons of boat tours you could do, such as pirate boats and dolphin watches. I used to teach sea kayaking there for a summer as well and would take people out in the inlets exploring all the wildlife. You just have to be careful to time it right with the tide, otherwise you are spending the night on your kayak.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

For a tropical getaway, we recommend catching a 4 hours flight from Asheville to the Cancun (Via Atlanta) then take a quick 20 min ferry over to Isla Mujeres, Mexico. With convenient air travel options, you can quickly find yourself immersed in the turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and vibrant culture of this island paradise. Indulge in local cuisine, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs (there is even an underwater city there), or simply unwind on the white sandy beaches. 

 Isla Mujeres offers a quick and blissful escape from the daily grind. I love it there because it has the perfect everything, (according to ME). In February the wind blows just enough to deter bugs and keep you cool but not enough to be bothersome. The water is cool enough to be refreshing but not to be too cold or hot. The sand does not burn your bare feet because it is white and cool to the touch. There is a very wide variety of food, from gourmet selections to dinner shows to street food and quick take-out options. There is great people watching and little electric dinosaur ATVs the kids can rent in the main square. Now, most people stay in the walkable North Beach area but You can rent a golf cart and drive around the entire island. Stopping at different resorts along the way for a dip and stopping to see the ruins on the south side. 

 Atlanta, Georgia

If you're craving a dose of city life, hit the road for an easy drive to Atlanta. A mere 3-hour drive will transport you to a metropolis bustling with energy and endless possibilities. Explore world-class museums, savor delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant music and art scene. Whether it's shopping in trendy boutiques or strolling through charming neighborhoods such as Candler Park or 5 points, Atlanta offers a captivating urban escape. And believe it or not, Atlanta has some really beautiful parks and wildlife. There is a massive Aquarium there as well that captivates people of all ages. This is where we go for the big concerts and events.

Munich, Germany

For those seeking a European international adventure, hop on a flight from nearby Charlotte to the beautiful city of Munich, Germany. Unleash your wanderlust and explore the rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene of Bavaria.

First and foremost, Munich is famous for its world-renowned Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival in the world. Every year, millions of people flock to the city to indulge in the lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian music, delicious food, and, of course, copious amounts of beer. The festival's exuberant spirit spreads throughout the city, creating an infectious sense of joy and celebration. So if you are already a beer lover, which most Ashevillians are- you’d probably love Munich. And if you are not there during Oktoberfest you can still discover its charming beer gardens, visit world-renowned museums, and indulge in traditional cuisine and delightful Bavarian hospitality. Munich is a gateway to an unforgettable European escapade.

What is great is that you can take a direct flight there from Charlotte. The drive to Charlotte (or take the shuttle from east Asheville) is about 2 hours, then 8 hours by plane and you are in Munich. Or you can fly to Charlotte as well, easily.

Hot Springs, Madison County, North Carolina

Finally, let's dive into nature's embrace with a relaxing drive to Hot Springs, nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina. In just under an hour, you'll find yourself in a traditional Western NC mountain town coined as “Where mayberry meets the twilight zone”.

There are natural hot springs in Hot Springs but it is funneled into a tub that you can rent that overlooks the French Broad River. The Appal-LATCH in Trail also runs right through the town so there are a ton of through hikers that tell big tales of their adventures hiking. There are kayakers and rafters who are just putting on or taking off the river, there are wedding parties from the Hot SPrings resort and spa and campers from the campground. It is one of my favorite day trips in the area and feels like a home away from home. It wasn’t until recently that there was even cell phone service there. I remember every mother’s day I would be in hot springs for a music festival and I would have to walk to town and call my mom from the pay phone. It is a special place of history, local culture and outdoor fun-filled adventure.

So, whether it's a coastal retreat, a tropical paradise, a vibrant city, an international voyage, or a nature-inspired getaway, these five easy ways to escape from Asheville, NC, offer something for every traveler's taste.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey. Pack your bags, choose your escape route, and let the adventure begin!