How to Spend a Weekend in Asheville, NC

The Biltmore Estate

Exploring Asheville

Nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is a city that beckons with its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and a thriving food culture. A weekend getaway to this charming city is always a good idea, and when it’s paired with a visit to the tranquil oasis of Shoji Spa, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

Before delving into the serene world of Shoji Spa, start your weekend in Asheville by exploring the city’s unique and diverse offerings. Begin your day with a visit to the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately-owned home, known for its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. The estate offers a range of activities, including wine tastings, guided tours, and outdoor adventures. To be honest, the estate is beyond massive and will take most of the day to thoroughly explore. However, the exterior and the gardens can be traversed with drink in hand and the on-site restaurant (The Dining Room) and wine tasting are quite phenomenal. I’d highly recommend reservations in advance for the restaurant as this location is rather popular.

After immersing yourself in the opulence of Biltmore, head to downtown Asheville, where you’ll find a bustling arts and cultural scene. Explore art galleries, boutique shops, and savor delicious cuisine at one of the many local restaurants. The area is certainly still worth visiting even if you don’t intend on stepping inside one of the many pretentious art galleries or hippie flea markets, although the local pottery scene is exceptionally brilliant. Luckily, Asheville is renowned for its craft beer, so you can always visit one of its numerous breweries and enjoy a tasting session. The surrounding villages and mountains are littered with breweries like Wicked Weed, New Belgium, Highland Brewing, Sierra Nevada, and on and on to the sum of over 40 breweries.

Culinary Delights in Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, is not just a haven for nature enthusiasts; it’s also a paradise for food lovers. A well-rounded weekend in Asheville includes indulging in the local culinary scene, and on this occasion a visit to Sovereign Remedies, French Broad Chocolate, and Wasabi is where I chose to overindulge.

Coffee at French Broad Chocolate Lounge

After a rejuvenating night’s sleep, treat yourself to a morning visit to the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. It’s not just a coffee shop; it’s a haven for chocolate lovers, caffeine addicts, and obese diabetics alike. This charming establishment boasts an array of coffee creations and a delectable selection of handmade chocolates.

French Broad Chocolate

Grab a perfectly brewed cappuccino or a mocha while pairing it with a luscious chocolate truffle or a slice of their famous chocolate cake. The lounge is known for its ethically sourced and artisanal chocolate, so don’t forget to pick up some treats to take home and fatten up the rest of the family to prevent body shaming.

Dinner at Sovereign Remedies

The cozy ambiance and attentive staff create a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering of friends. Know that the menu at Sovereign Remedies changes with the seasons, ensuring that you enjoy the freshest and most locally sourced ingredients.

Sovereign Remedies is most known for its inventive cocktails, using house-made syrups and bitters, making it a great place to start your evening. However, it’s a better place to end the night because you will honestly want to try several of the cocktails. Obviously, this requires an Uber unless you’re one of the many drunk drivers this country prides itself on. The food isn’t too shabby either, you can savor dishes like the seared trout or braised short ribs and then be sure to explore their exceptional dessert offerings.

Retreat to Shoji Spa

Private Hot Tub at Shoji Spa

After a day of exploration in Asheville, NC, it’s time to escape to Shoji Spa, an idyllic Japanese-inspired mountain spa that’s just a short drive from the city. Nestled amidst the lush forests, Shoji Spa offers a serene and tranquil setting, making it the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate. Whether you’re hungover or you just don’t want to see or hear kids it’s the perfect escape.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the calming sounds of flowing water and the soothing scent of cedar and eucalyptus. Shoji Spa offers a range of therapeutic treatments, including private open-air hot tubs, couples’ massages, and body scrubs. For the ultimate relaxation experience, consider booking one of their luxurious private hot tubs, where you can soak in natural mineral water while surrounded by the beauty of the forest. The secluded hot tubs also offer a rare opportunity for public fornication under the natural canopy of the forest which is an added bonus.

The spa’s attentive and skilled staff will ensure that your experience is nothing short of blissful. Shoji Spa’s Japanese-style architecture, complete with sliding shoji screens and minimalist design, creates an ambiance that fosters relaxation and mindfulness.

Shoji Spa’s offerings extend beyond traditional spa services. Their facilities include a dry cedar sauna and a cold plunge pool, which can be alternated to create an invigorating and restorative experience. You can also opt for a meditation session or a yoga class to further enhance your sense of inner peace and well-being.

One of the highlights of a weekend at Shoji Spa is the opportunity to gaze at the starry night sky while soaking in the private tubs. It’s an experience that provides a deep connection with nature and a sense of serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

A weekend in Asheville is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pairing your visit with a day at Shoji Spa takes your getaway to another level, offering a profound sense of relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection with nature. Whether you’re looking for romance, solitude, or simply a break from the ordinary, Shoji Spa in Asheville is a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized, making it easier to return to your extraordinarily mundane life.

Private Hot Tub, Sauna, and Meditation at Shoji Spa