If you appreciate killer mountain views, a thriving arts scene, and a hint of Southern charm, then Asheville, NC, is your ideal destination. This city’s natural beauty is captivating, crawling with art galleries, studios, and lively music venues. Asheville has gained fame for its commitment to farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, and artisanal cuisine, offering an extensive range of culinary experiences from trendy cafes to upscale restaurants to satisfy any palate. This picturesque mountain town has been home to several renowned individuals, including Roberta Flack, Luke Combs, Chris Chalk, and Thomas Wolfe, to mention just a few.
Arrival and Check-In
Tucked away in the French Broad River Valley, enveloped by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is a mesmerizing gem where nature meets artistic inspiration and a vibrant community thrives. One of my top choices for accommodations during my Asheville visits is the Kimpton Hotel Arras. It is a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape from the daily grind. This beautiful boutique hotel offers an unforgettable experience, blending southern hospitality with modern luxury. When we arrived, the valet staff quickly extended a warm welcome, ensuring our arrival was met with attentive hospitality. Their friendly demeanor and efficient service set the tone for the exceptional stay that awaited us. You’ll find the front desk just a few steps from the valet stand, beyond the grand double doors. The hotel’s intriguing history makes this experience unique – it was once a BB&T bank and is the tallest building in Western NC.
The lobby, though cozy in size, exudes exquisite décor. What captured our attention immediately was a vintage record player, and let me tell you, whoever curates the music collection has impeccable taste. Their selection was Ah-Mazing featuring timeless gems such as “The Score” by The Fugees, the soulful tunes of Etta James, the iconic rhythms of Phil Collins (insert drum break; if you don’t know what I’m talking about, how did you even find this blog?), the infectious beats of the B-52’s, the raw authenticity of Johnny Cash, and the soul-stirring melodies of Gladys Knight and the Pips, among many others.
Two of my favorite things collided in the lobby – a luxury hotel experience and Anthropologie. Hold on because this stay just got better. How is that possible, Dana? Let me school you real quick. When you book your stay at select Kimpton hotels across the country, don’t fret about cramming your suitcase to the brim because they offer an ingenious feature called the Anthropologie capsule. All you do is pick from the beautifully curated accessories and check them out. Oh, and did I mention it’s completely complimentary, and you can keep checking out items as you please? I checked out the most fabulous pair of green sunglasses during my stay.
Accommodations
Kimpton Hotel Arras offers a diverse selection of opulent rooms and suites, and here’s a little secret: it’s also a pet-friendly haven! Our stay encountered a minor hiccup despite the breathtaking view of the Blue Ridge Mountains because our assigned room featured two double beds, which didn’t quite suit us as a married couple. Eager to switch, we made our request, only to discover that the hotel was fully booked, leaving us no alternative but to accept the situation.
In our moment of mild disappointment, a beacon of hospitality named Bellman Elliot arrived to rescue our spirits. He presented us with a tray filled with treats—a true game-changer! The tray had bottles of Prosecco, orange juice, chocolates, cookies, an assortment of candy, and sparkling seltzer water. This unexpected gesture worked like a charm, lifting our moods, and transforming our perspective. At that moment, I looked at Eric and said, “Don’t worry, babe! One bed is for sleepin’, the others for creepin’!” After that, it was all good.
Here’s a list of amenities.
Day 1
With about 1.5 hours to spare before our dinner reservation at Posana, we swiftly freshened up and made our way downstairs to District 42, the hotel’s inviting bar. Whether you’re into craft cocktails, local beer, or fine wine, the bar’s inviting atmosphere and impeccable service make it a great gathering spot for guests and locals. I had a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc and Eric Don Julio 1942 reposado with sphere ice.
If you’re a foodie, you should try Posana. Located directly across the street from the Kimpton, this gem is the kind of place where foodies go for an unforgettable dining experience. They offer a farm-to-table approach that’s both flavorful and sustainable. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a cozy ambiance and an ever-changing menu highlighting the region’s seasonal ingredients.
For dinner, I decided to go all-in on the NY Strip. It came with duck fat fingerlings, Black Trumpet Farm mushrooms, glacé, grilled squash, and a heavenly red wine shallot butter. Eric, on the other hand, went for the Sunburst Trout Almondine, a dish that arrived with haricot vert, herbs de Provence roasted red potatoes, a zesty preserved lemon brown butter, and a sprinkle of Espelette almonds. Trust me, both dishes were nothing short of delicious!
Now, when it comes to beverages, I’m never one to shy away from a good cocktail. So, I opted for a seasonal spritz, similar to the classic Aperol Spritz, while Eric stuck to his tried-and-true Don Julio 1942.
And then came dessert! I couldn’t resist sampling both the lemon cheesecake and the Summer Squash Brownie Sundae. Let’s just say I left the restaurant feeling a bit stuffed – the portions were generous and perfect for sharing.
Following dinner, we took a slow walk down to Double D’s Coffee and Desserts. Afterward, we headed back to the hotel for a nightcap with friends at District 42. The outdoor fireplace cast a warm and inviting glow, and it was the perfect setting for Eric to enjoy an after-dinner cigar while I snuggled up with a glass of wine to keep cozy and enjoy the evening.
Day 2
Brunch at Bargello
Eric and I were looking forward to enjoying a leisurely start to our day before our couples’ massages. After waking up at our own pace, we headed down to Bargello, a Mediterranean and Italian restaurant inside the Kimpton, for brunch. Bargello provides plenty of delicious food options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, and the restaurant also offers private dining options for those looking for a more intimate experience.
When I tell you brunch is my jam, I mean it! I could eat it any time of the day, and Bargello truly lived up to my expectations. If avocado toast is on the menu, it’s a must-order for me. And their take on this classic brunch dish was simply fantastic! It consisted of Aleppo pepper, three-graces feta, and radish, all resting on a bed of rustic bread that added that extra flair.
As for Eric, he went with the garden omelet, generously stuffed with mushrooms, spinach, caramelized onions, local feta, and smoked salmon, served with a side of breakfast potatoes. And, of course, no brunch is complete without mimosas. We decided on the mimosa kit – it’s the ultimate brunch choice! The kit includes a bottle of Cava and offers your pick of freshly squeezed orange, pineapple, or cranberry juice. We couldn’t resist trying all three because our enthusiasm for breakfast spirits knows no bounds!
After brunch it was time to explore more of the city. But with the sun shining and Asheville’s charm beckoning, we were eager to explore more of this beautiful city. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. It was one of those days that make you fall in love with the fresh mountain air. So, we set out for some good old-fashioned sightseeing. Downtown Asheville was our playground with its unique blend of culture and nature. There’s something so freeing about wandering around with no destination in mind
Our next stop was the Kimpton Hotel, where a 90-minute couples massage awaited us on the third floor. Corinne and Cedar, our massage therapists, greeted us. After a quick chat about our well-being and a waiver signing, it was time to get down to business.
Let me tell you, that massage was a game-changer. Aromatherapy filled the room, instantly setting the tone for what would come. And those hot jade stones they used? Heaven. But what truly set this experience apart was the soothing voices of our therapists. Eric and I couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing it felt. We were practically floating by the time we left the spa, all set for a well-deserved nap.
But we weren’t about to waste our precious weekend together. Nope, we had more exploring to do. Our next mission? Souvenir shopping for our girls. Downtown Asheville had us covered with its abundance of galleries and charming boutiques. What I loved most about these charming boutiques was the diversity of merchandise they had to offer, and the fact that so much of it was created by talented local artists.
Finally, it was time to head upstairs and get ready for our 7pm dinner reservation at The Marketplace. But, you know me, I can’t resist a quick detour. On the way to dinner, we passed by Urban Outfitters, and of course, I had to pop in for a quick browse. I didn’t have time to shop, but I put together a short wish list for later – retail therapy goals, right?
Our dinner plans were pretty special because we were meeting up with a group of friends. And The Marketplace had graciously closed its doors just for our event. As soon as we walked in, we were promptly seated. I couldn’t help but notice a beautiful charcuterie board with artisan bread and butter waiting for us Talk about a warm welcome!
Naturally, I continued to sip on my favorite Sauvignon Blanc throughout dinner. Hey, when you know what you love, why mess with a good thing, right? Now, I’ll be honest, I don’t usually go for steak two nights in a row, but let’s face it, my grilling skills are… well, let’s say, they’re a work in progress. So, I leave the steak mastery to the pros. I know my limitations! And oh boy, was that decision worth it. The steak at The Marketplace was, dare I say it, even better than the one I had the night before.
Eric, on the other hand, went for the flounder. While it was absolutely divine, we both agreed that the trout dish from the previous night was the ultimate seafood winner.
After our delightful dinner, we made our way back to the hotel and met up with our friends at District 42 for drinks and conversation. Since it was our last evening in Asheville, we were determined to make the most of it. The crowd was even livelier than the night before, and we met a few new friends.
Day 3: Departure
As our quick weekend getaway came to a close, we enjoyed a leisurely departure as check-out wasn’t until 11am. We savored the final moments, taking in the mountain views and reflecting on our unforgettable weekend. It’s a luxury we’re starting to enjoy more now that our girls are a bit older. The chance to sneak away for a couples’ trip like this is truly priceless.
A weekend at the Kimpton Hotel in Asheville proved to be a perfect choice for us. From the impeccable accommodations to the exceptional dining options and the city’s rich cultural offerings, our getaway was filled with love, relaxation, and adventure. If you’re seeking a romantic escape or a place to unwind in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Kimpton Hotel in Asheville promises an experience that you’ll cherish for years to come. So, plan your visit and create your own unforgettable memories in this charming southern gem.
Tell’em McKnights of Magnolia sent ya!
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