We asked Highlands local Shayna Bigazzi (Altaterra Events owner + Highlands Chamber board member) how she’d do a couple’s weekend retreat. Her insight gives us a getaway that's equal parts cozy, scenic, and effortlessly fun.
Stay: Half-Mile Farm (your “hideaway” basecamp)
Set on Apple Lake, Half-Mile Farm blossomed around an 1880s farmhouse, began welcoming guests in 2001, and joined Old Edwards Hospitality in 2015. Expect crackling fireplaces, cabin-and-suite comfort, and that quiet-luxury mountain vibe. Book your reservations today, as vacancy fills fast.
Friday (arrive ~3:00 pm)
Quick first stop: Highlands Welcome Center (108 Main St) for maps, local tips, and your Nantahala National Forest annual parking pass - $15. This pass let’s park for free at places like Whiteside Mountain, Whitewater Falls and Dry Falls (daily parking is $3 otherwise).
Dinner in: Check in, then let the evening slow down at the on-site J. Henry Farmhouse Tavern, followed by wine by the fire pit or a hot-tub soak.
Saturday (big views + easy wins)
Morning: Half-Mile Farm breakfast - two courses, chef-prepared, served with bright a Woodland View Room ambience.
Late morning adventure: Whiteside Mountain - a 2-mile loop with dramatic 750-foot cliffs and a summit around 4,930’. Plan ~1.5–2 hours with photo pauses.
Lunch: Head downtown for One Wicker Cheese Co. - a cheese-and-charcuterie shop with sandwiches that are perfect for a picnic-style lunch. They also have indoor and outdoor seating (They’re closed Sunday and Monday, so Saturday is the move.)
Afternoon: Dry Falls - a short walk to a 75-foot waterfall you can walk behind. Because this Waterfall is right next to the road, Dry Falls only takes about 45 mins to thoroughly enjoy.
3:30–4:30 pm: Ice skating at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.
Evening: Head back to Half-Mile Farm to freshen up for 7:00pm reservations at Highlands Supper Club a cozy, fireplace-warmed log cabin restaurant serving Southern comfort classics with a modern twist, plus bourbon-forward cocktails and a curated wine list—no “membership” required, just a reservation. (Shayna’s must: seared pork belly starter + a Pinot Noir).
Sunday (slow + scenic exit)
An easy rise, followed by another delicious two-course Breakfast at Half-Mile Farm (Included in the stay) into a quick stroll through the majestic trails on-property before check out.
Before you roll out, Shayna says you must try Highlands Smokehouse (they’re open Sundays 11am–7pm.) She recommends the Pulled Pork Sandwich with Collards + Mac n' Cheese. Enjoy their comfy bar or outdoor dining space (complete with a fireplace) or grab your food to go and hike it up to Sunset Rock for one last “wow” view picnic.
