Episode 005:
Hot Springs, NC
There is just something so magical about bathing in hot spring water. In our latest episode, we visit Hot Springs, NC, which is home to a natural hot spring, a spa, a stop on the Appalachian Trail, and a VERY small town.
Where is this place...
View Larger Map
Hot Springs, NC is located in the Appalachian Mountains about 45 minutes outside of Asheville, NC. Follow U.S. Route 25 North through Marshall. After coming down the mountain ridge and crossing the French Broad River, you will drive right through Hot Springs, NC. The Hot Springs Resort and Spa will be on your right.
The Basics...
Spa Hours:
Monday-Thursday, 12pm to 10pm
Friday-Sunday, 10am to 12am
Spa Cost:
Standard Spa - $15-$35
Deluxe Spa - $40-$45
Bathhouse - $50-$60
Costs vary by time of day (Before or After 6pm)
More information can be found on their website.
The Details...
The 100+°F Natural Hot Mineral Springs are the only known hot springs in North Carolina. The springs were first discovered by the Native Americans and used for their magical healing powers. Europeans were reported to be visiting the springs as early as 1778. Several hotels were built on the site of the springs over the years, with the small town of Hot Springs, NC growing up around them. Currently, the springs are privately owned and operated as the Hot Springs Spa and Resort.
The facilities of the Spa and Resort were very modern, with a main reception and spa treatment building and several hot spring jacuzzis set up along the river. The grounds were very picturesque, surrounded by a warm green natural setting with the Appalachian Mountains as a backdrop. Across the property, you can see the foundations of some of the former hotels and bathhouses.
One of the spa employees led us on a short path through the wooded area by the river to our Hot Springs Jacuzzi. The jacuzzis were enclosed by wooden fences and walls, providing excellent privacy. We took one of the Deluxe Spas, which was located alongside the river. After the tub was filled with hot spring water for us, we entered and just relaxed in the hot water while enjoying the views. There was even a "mist" feature which sprayed a mist of cool water. The hot springs jacuzzi was extremely relaxing and enjoyable and the staff were all helpful to us.
The Appalachian Trail, which runs along the Appalachian Mountain Ridge from Maine to Georgia, passes through the center of the town. A general store and outdoor sports store cater to the hikers who pass through the town. We found the store owners to be very watchful of us, mostly likely because it was clear that we were from out of town.
The town of Hot Springs itself, is a small town of roughly 500 people located on the French Broad River. On the main road, U.S. Route 25, are a number of small shops and restaurants, which are geared towards hikers and tourists. The majority of the town is residential. It was clear to us that there was a tight-knit community in the town, where most of the residents know each other and know who is from out of town.
In general, the town was very nice and very scenic. We did not have any problems while we were there, but we were also cautious to avoid any potential drama. The town is definitely a place to take a day trip. However, we would not recommend staying overnight.
Cool
You can come here and be gay without a problem, but you might not want to be waving a flag around. It also probably wouldn't hurt to keep the PDAs to a minimum.
Recommended for: Gay Couples
That's all for now. Thanks for watching and reading! Don't forget to like us, leave a comment and share us with your friends if you enjoy the video!
Peace and Love,
Jon and David
No comments:
Post a Comment