A Mountain Retreat for Rest, Renewal, and Reconnection
Tucked high in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, Highlands, North Carolina has long drawn wellness seekers in search of fresh air and restoration. Founded in 1875 and known early on for its clean water and healthful climate, Highlands became a place to relax, reset, and recoup good health. Today, that legacy lives on through spa experiences, yoga workshops, forest therapy, and holistic nourishment, all set among waterfalls, hardwood forests, and quiet mountain rhythms.
Whether you are planning a winter wellness retreat, a mountain reset weekend, or a self-care focused escape, be sure to visit these places and practices devoted to renewal, where Highlands reveals itself as a destination for intentional travel and deep restoration.
The Spa at Old Edwards
One of the Southeast’s most celebrated mountain spas, The Spa at Old Edwards blends garden botanicals with refined European techniques. Guests enjoy Swiss showers, saunas, whirlpools, and serene spaces like the solarium and fireplace lounge.
To kick off the new year, the spa participates in Old Edwards’ winter offerings, including the Winter Slip Away & Save package and seasonal weekday promotions that make luxury spa access especially appealing during the quieter winter months. Follow the link for more: Winter Slip Away & Save
Unfurl Wellness Spa
Unfurl Wellness Spa invites guests to design a personalized wellness itinerary through restorative massage, holistic therapies, meditation, and skincare.
Unfurl hosts recurring group experiences such as Sacred Sundays, which combine mindful movement and sound meditation, along with seasonal sound bath sessions that are especially grounding during winter. Signature Chakra Alignment sessions use sound, color, and energy work to clear blocks and restore balance across all seven chakras.
Individual treatments generally start around $160 for a 60-minute session, with group classes typically around $30. Follow the link for more: Workshops and Classes
Yoga Highlands
Yoga Highlands is a cornerstone of wellness on the Plateau, offering yoga, Pilates Method, and Rolf Method classes focused on breath, alignment, and mindful movement.
This month, visitors can join Slow Flow Yoga, a gentle class designed to calm the nervous system and release urgency, or Yoga Foundations and Basics, which emphasizes breath capacity and balanced, accessible movement. Don't miss out on Winter’s Wisdom & Rhythm with Monette Chilson later this month.
The studio also offers seasonal New Year promotions on class passes, making January an ideal time to build a practice.
Drop-in classes are approximately $20 per session, with discounted class packages offered seasonally. Follow the link for more information: Yoga Highlands Classes
Pinnacle Forest Therapy
Forest therapy sessions with Dr. Mark Ellison invite guests into the quiet outdoors for guided shinrin-yoku experiences. These slow, sensory walks are scientifically shown to reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, improve mood, and support immune function.
In winter, the forest’s stillness deepens the experience, allowing participants to reset their nervous systems, sharpen mental clarity, and reconnect with natural rhythms through mindful presence. Sessions are available by appointment throughout January.
Pricing generally ranges from $50 per person for small groups to $75 for private sessions. Click here to learn more.
Whole Life Market
Whole Life Market supports wellness from the inside out with organic groceries, vitamins, supplements, CBD and hemp products, and natural skincare.
The Nectar Juice Bar offers fresh juices, smoothies, and wellness shots that pair perfectly with a yoga morning or spa afternoon.
Juices and smoothies are priced comparably to premium juice bars, with items varying by selection. Click here to learn more.
Highlands Recreational Park
Complement restorative practices with movement at the Highlands Recreational Park Fitness Center. Guests can access cardio and strength equipment and enjoy the year-round covered and heated pool, ideal for gentle recovery and circulation after hiking, yoga, or spa treatments.
Day passes typically range from $8 to $20 for fitness center access, with pool admission around $5 for adults and $4 for youth. Call 828.526.3556 or Follow the link to learn more: Highlands Recreational Park