Tryon & Brevard, North Carolina: Explore the Artist's Retreat and Melrose Cottage Area

Two of Ananda's most peaceful properties, the Artist's Retreat and Melrose Cottage, sit near Tryon and Brevard, two small towns tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina that punch well above their weight for culture and outdoor adventure.

Melrose Cottage sits close to Tryon, a town known for the Tryon International Equestrian Center, world-class horse shows, and a walkable downtown with the Tryon Fine Arts Center and Nina Simone Plaza, a tribute to the legendary singer who was born there. Just outside town, Pearson's Falls is a short, easy walk to a waterfall tucked into a private nature preserve, perfect for a quiet afternoon.

Little Falls Bungalow and the Artist's Retreat are closer to Brevard, the gateway to Pisgah National Forest and famously home to the white squirrels that wander its downtown streets. Waterfall lovers will find no shortage of options here, including Looking Glass Falls, which you can see right from the road, and Sliding Rock, a natural rock waterslide that is a favorite with kids in summer. DuPont State Recreational Forest, with more than 80 miles of trails and multiple waterfalls, is also just a short drive away, and music lovers can catch a summer concert at the Brevard Music Center.