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Asheville for Gay and Lesbian Visitors |
Also see: 10 Favorites for Gay/Lesbian Visitors | Gay Real Estate | Asheville Gay Travel Feature |
Gay Dating in Asheville |
 Asheville is becoming a popular vacation getaway for gays and lesbians. This mountain city is something of an undiscovered gem among lesbian and gay tourists, surprising when you consider Asheville's significant feminist and lesbian/gay communities. The region supports an active art scene and is rich with hiking and outdoor opportunities. Downtown Asheville sits like a saucer nestled among the slopes of numerous and verdant mountains. It's well preserved, with many great old buildings, cool restaurants, acclaimed crafts galleries, and fun shops. Vibrant by day, the area is becoming steadily more lively at night. It's easy to find friendly and approachable locals, and a diverse crowd at coffeehouses and bars or just strolling about. Organic bakeries, co-ops, and politically active cafes proliferate. The city prides itself on being a haven of divergent and eclectic views. (Fodor's Gay Guide to the USA by Andrew Collins, read
Andrew's 2009 feature on Asheville.) |
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 WHAT TO DO?
Gay and lesbian folks visiting Asheville find a very friendly atmosphere overall, especially downtown and at Biltmore Estate. There is a large gay and lesbian community that enjoys meeting visitors (since most of them were once visitors before they fell in love with the area and moved here). Downtown boasts four gay/lesbian bars, including a sprawling dance club. To help you plan your trip, visit the 10 Asheville Favorites for Gay and Lesbian Visitors. Also, read about gay Asheville neighborhoods and real estate.
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INNS / BED & BREAKFASTS / CABINS: GAY OWNED / OPERATED |
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1889 WhiteGate Inn & Cottage, Asheville
Frank and Ralph's New England Shingle-Style home is surrounded by lush, award-winning gardens, cascading streams, and Koi ponds, while the Greenhouse Conservatory is home to 1,500 orchids and tropicals. The Inn is filled with antiques, collectibles, and original works of art and is just a 1/4 mile stroll from downtown Asheville. They offer four traditional B&B rooms, four Jacuzzi suites, rustic pet-friendly cottage, and a two suite pet-friendly Bungalow which may be rented separately or combine for a full house, three bedroom rental accommodating up to 10 people.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Bittersweet Cottage & Suite, Asheville
Matt and Stephen's arts and crafts style cottage and Asian-inspired suite atop Elk Mountain was designed with the discerning guest in mind. Evidence of this is the custom wood paneling, central air, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen (with a refrigerator stocked with breakfast items), and glass block bath. Enjoy the vistas of Asheville and the mountains from the deck..
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Brookside Mountain Mist Inn, Waynesville
Carolyn and Dina's luxury bed and breakfast is in the quaint town of Waynesville, just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville. Their oversized guestrooms are immaculate. Enjoy privacy and peacefulness in their park-like setting, just one mile from downtown Waynesville with great galleries and restaurants. You will also be next door to golf and a short drive to hiking and rafting in the Great Smoky Mountains. They even have a garage to store your kayak, bikes and cycles.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Compassionate Expressions Mountain Inn & Healing Sanctuary, Leicester
Reva and Lenora welcome you with country hospitality to their magical private mountain retreat, a 30-minute drive from Asheville. Enjoy a relaxing setting and certified wildlife habitat while staying in your Cabin Guesthouse or Inn Room on 40 private acres bordered by a trickling creek and wild medicinal foliage. Pamper yourself and de-stress with quality, personalized healing/spa services: Massage, Reiki/Energy Healing, CranioSacral therapy and outdoor whirlpool hot tub.
Click here to visit their Web site.
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27 Blake Street, Asheville
Hang your hat and stay awhile where people have been welcomed for over 20 years. Enjoy an affordable stay in charming comfort surrounded by a half acre sanctuary of award winning gardens in the convenient location of Montford, the beautiful historic neighborhood adjacent to and within easy walking distance to the heart of downtown Asheville. Private entrance and private bath.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Mountain Laurel B&B, Asheville
Step through the door for a haven of comfort and safety in a welcoming atmosphere. Mountain Laurel sits on a hill surrounded by trees, woods, and mountains. Three spacious rooms are available, all of which have satellite TV, VCR, and many other amenities. Enjoy an extensive library of gay/lesbian books, magazines, and videos.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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1891 Cedar Crest Victorian Inn, Asheville
This is the closest B&B to Biltmore, located just a few blocks away from the entrance. And they are only a mile from downtown! Take a glimpse back in time, while enjoying all the luxuries and modern conveniences of the present. Check out their special discount to gay & lebian visitors!
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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North Lodge on Oakland, Asheville
Greg and Gregg invite you to the peace and serenity of their 1904 house, nestled on an acre of gardens that include a gazebo and fountain. Enjoy a three-course breakfast each morning. Then explore nearby Biltmore Estate or downtown. Return to enjoy goodies from the snack pantry and fresh baked cookies. Relax with an in-room massage. Does it get any better?
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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The Cottage on Town Mountain, Asheville
Ralph just finished building this charming cottage in late 2009. It's beautifully decorated with antiques, oriental rugs, and original art. Enjoy plenty of privacy under towering evergreens and beautiful mountain sunset views from a large, private porch and the large living room. Bedroom suite includes a jetted tub for two and shower for two! Two miles from downtown Asheville, five minutes drive to Blue Ridge Parkway. Amenities include a fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, breakfast items, two televisions, wi-fi, outdoor dining table, and gas grill.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Louisa's Porch B&B, Asheville
A stay with Bob is more akin to borrowing a friend's home for a getaway week or weekend. Plan to settle in, make full use of the facilities, enjoy nearby shopping and restaurants and let Bob take care of breakfast preparation and cleaning in his newly renovated historic home that opened as an inn in the Fall of 2009. Located in the Montford historic neighborhood, you'll enjoy rocking on the porch and the easy walk to downtown. Traveling with another couple? Book both rooms and have the house to yourself!
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Honey Hill Inn & Cabins, Candler
A wonderful lesbian couple, Cheryl and Gretchen, purchased the former Owl's Nest Inn in early 2010. After many improvements, they reopened in May 2010. Situated on 12 acres of rolling hills with stunning mountain views, Honey Hill offers two unique options for your getaway. Stay in the historic Mansion and enjoy old world elegance and a delicious breakfast. Or escape to one of the six fully-equipped cabin rentals atop the knoll. Just 15 minutes to downtown Asheville, Biltmore, Blue Ridge Parkway and Waynesville.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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La Petite Chalet Bed and Breakfast Inn, Little Switzerland
Jack hopes you will treat yourself to a stay in gay-friendly Little Switzerland (on the Blue Ridge Parkway) and experience a bed and breakfast so appropriately labeled "Swiss mountain whimsy, with an elegant French attitude." With it's charming Swiss architecture and creekside setting, bold color combinations and fine imported fabrics greet you everywhere.
Whether you are a party of one, two, three or four, you are assured a privacy as if in your own pied-a-terre. Located in the center of Little Switzerland, across from a cafe, just 50 minutes to Asheville, and a short drive to the prestigious Penland School of Crafts.
Click here to visit their Web site.
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INNS / BED & BREAKFASTS / CABINS: GAY FRIENDLY
While these places are not gay-owned, they are very welcoming with a friendly staff and elegant accommodations. |
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Inn on Main Street, Weaverville
Dan and Nancy invite you to join them for your romantic getaway at their beautiful seven-room Victorian B&B in quiet, artsy Weaverville, just 10 minutes from downtown Asheville. Walk to fine dining, galleries, live music and a scenic mountain lake. Take a drive to hot mineral baths, rafting, antiques, trails or the Blue Ridge Parkway. Snuggle by the fire or enjoy the whirlpool tub. Celebrate the variety and harmony of the human experience in a casual atmosphere.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Cottages at Spring House Farm, Chimney Rock
If you are looking for peace and quiet, retreat to one of only six fully-stocked cottages (with fireplaces and hot tubs) on 92-acres. Owners Zee Anne and Arthur Campbell are pro ecology and have created an oasis with in the midst of valleys and hills, streams and trout ponds, deep woods and pastures. Use numerous hiking trails to explore the property. Picked by Outside Traveler magazine as a "Top Ten Hideaway." 37 miles southeast of downtown Asheville.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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The Lion & the Rose Bed & Breakfast, Asheville
Jim and Linda's beautiful pink lady sits at the top of a sloping lawn with gardens above Montford Avenue. Faithfully restored to its original elegance, each room is adorned with antiques and Persian rugs. Indulge your romantic fantasies with decadent gourmet breakfasts, and relish in the comfort of luxury linens and feather beds.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Carolina Bed and Breakfast, Asheville
This turn-of-the-century Arts and Crafts style home has been graciously restored to it's original charm. Located in the Montford Historic District, it's just a 1/2 mile walk to downtown. You will find heart pine floors with six well-appointed guest rooms and a cottage that feature private baths, whirlpool bathtubs, fine linens and quilts, and most with working fireplaces. Other amenities that David and Susan offer include a full gourmet breakfast, afternoon refreshments, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and lovely gardens.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Asia Bed and Spa, Asheville
At this luxury bed and breakfast near downtown, it's all about pampering and general well-being. They have built every facility and amenity to ensure your total relaxation and rejuvenation. After a couple's massage or a wet-body treatment and scrub, enjoy the cedar-lined Sauna Courtyard for two, European steam shower, and double-whirlpool tub in your beautiful suite.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Beefy's Retreat, Mars Hill
Philip (a.k.a. Beefy) and his friend "Sweaty" recently built this "micro castle" in the mountains by a ski resort. Inspired by the storybook houses in the woods, you may feel like you're going to visit Hansel & Gretel. The difference is that you'll enjoy plenty of modern conveniences like multiple flat panel televisions, Direct TV, wi-fi, IPOD dock, gas fireplace, and a variety of DVDs, games and books. And it's pet friendly. Located near Wolf Laurel with skiing and hiking right outside your door. It's on a mountain road, but no 4WD is required. Sleeps up to 6.
Click here to visit their Web site.
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Applewood Manor Inn Bed & Breakfast, Asheville
Larry and Nancy, along with Mr. Monty and Miss Maggie (Australian Silky Terriers), invite you to stay in their colonial, turn-of-the-century home in the historic Montford District. They believe in privacy and intimacy, so there are quite a few private spots to relax. Walk the grounds, try out the porch swings, or relax in Adirondack chairs on private porches. For the ultimate in privacy, stay in their one-room romantic cottage next to the inn. They are just three miles from Biltmore and a 25-minute stroll past magnificent old homes to downtown Asheville.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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The Beaufort House Inn, Asheville
Enjoy the warmth and friendly atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind historic property. Built in 1894, this historic home has been meticulously restored with an air of casual luxury and elegance. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this beautiful Queen Anne Victorian is situated on 1 ½ acres set back off the road in the quiet, residential neighborhood of the Chestnut Historic District. It provides an oasis of beautifully landscaped grounds, gardens, and waterfalls just a half mile stroll from the vibrant activities of downtown Asheville, NC. Jim and his wife, Chris, look forward to meeting you!
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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The Reynolds Mansion, Asheville
Savor a gourmet breakfast in the Grand Dining Room or sip your morning coffee on the porch, either way you will enjoy the gracious living of the past with the comforts of today. Listed on the National Registry for Historic Places, this Mansion was built in 1847 and is one of the few remaining pre-Civil War homes. The mansion sits on a four acre site, with spectacular views, near the foot of Reynolds Mountain. The home boasts over 3,000 sq feet of porches and 12 fireplaces. Pet friendly in the Carriage House and two cottages.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Hotel Indigo, Asheville
This new downtown Asheville sophisticated boutique hotel features intriguing design using local art, thoughtful amenities and attention to detail. Guestrooms speak of harmony and balance. Their Bar & Bistro features cutting edge cuisine, a full bar and locally roasted/free trade coffee.Walk to all that downtown Asheville offers.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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GAY & LESBIAN COMMITMENT CEREMONIES
Asheville is becoming a popular destination for a gay and lesbian commitment ceremony or holy union. Any of the inns featured can help with arrangements for a very small gathering. For a larger celebration, Homewood (gay operated) is ideal. |
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Mountain Magnolia Inn, Hot Springs
Commitment ceremony or romantic getaway? Retreat to this 1868 Victorian Mansion. Soak in the famous hot mineral baths. Enjoy exquisite dining prepared by Chef Martha Beakes and served under the direction of her partner and hostess Sachi who also coordinates the details of commitment ceremonies. The Inn's mission is to provide a space where people can come to rest, relax, and renew their bodies, minds and spirits. While the Inn is elegant, the atmosphere is relaxed and dress is casual. They are located in a quaint valley town just 40 minutes north of Asheville. Steps from the Appalachian Trail.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Homewood, Asheville
Homewood is a beautifully restored 1920's stone manor located in Asheville's post-Victorian historic district of Montford. The elegant castle features original hardwood floors, cherry walls, 20 foot ceilings, grand Appalachian stone fireplaces and alabaster sconces. Monroe will help you arrange the perfect ceremony, inside or outside, big or small.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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Hidden River Events, Asheville
Hidden River is pleased to serve members of the LGBT community for their vacation rental and commitment ceremony/special events needs. They provide all that is needed for a largely outdoor celebration, including accommodations for up to 46 people. Clients can select all of their vendors or contract with them for full or partial service. Located in the beautiful Swannanoa Valley, next to Warren Wilson College, they are one of the prettiest venues in the region and offer kind and efficient services designed to meet your needs.
Click here to visit their Web site. |
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| ASHEVILLE REAL ESTATE |
 Troy Winterrowd
Designer and Real Estate Broker Troy Winterrowd works with buyers and sellers here in Asheville at Real Living Connect, a gay-friendly agency with a storefront in the heart of downtown.
Click here to visit his Web site.
See more on Troy: Gay Living in Asheville |
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 Lyssa Cross, Asheville Realtor/Broker
Lyssa at Keller Williams Realty is a Certified Residential Specialist and an Accredited Buyer Representative. This extensive training, experience and commitment means that she has all you need to know to find and close a deal!
Click here to visit her Web site. |
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 Bland Holland, Hospitality Broker
Bland specializes in the sale and purchase of inns, bed and breakfasts and "boutique small hotels." Since he is a specialist in this area, he does not work in the residential field. He owned a bed and breakfast (Azalea House in Florida) and managed others, so he is an expert in hospitality business. He has worked with several gay and lesbian couples in purchasing a bed and breakfast in the Asheville area. He and his partner of 17 years, Norman, live in Asheville. They love to travel in their motor home and spoil their “dog-children” Cody and Bailey.
See Asheville Area Bed and Breakfasts For Sale |
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| Thinking of moving to Asheville? Read more about Asheville Real Estate for gay & lesbian relocation. |
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| MORE |
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Go to 10 Asheville Favorites for Gay and Lesbian Visitors.
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