Old Edwards Inn & Spa
Following our stay at High Hampton Resort, we moved over to Old Edwards Inn & Spa for a good friend’s wedding. Old Edwards Inn is one of my favorite resorts within driving distance - it’s such a special place!
A refined mountain retreat in the heart of Highlands, North Carolina, Old Edwards Inn offers a blend of European-inspired elegance and relaxed Southern hospitality. The property spans several buildings and cottages across a beautifully walkable village setting, giving it a true “small-town luxury” feel. Guests enjoy thoughtfully designed rooms and suites with cozy fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and rustic-chic touches that make the stay feel both elevated and inviting.
The spa is a standout — and I personally think it’s one of the best in the region. It features serene treatment rooms, mineral pools, and tranquil relaxation spaces. Dining is a highlight as well, with farm-driven cuisine and warm, attentive service. The property’s heated outdoor mineral pool, lush gardens, and stylish common spaces create a perfect backdrop for couples’ getaways, wellness escapes, or a leisurely mountain weekend.
Old Edwards Inn & Spa’s membership in Relais & Châteaux reinforces its place among the world’s most exceptional boutique hotels. Being part of this collection means the property delivers standout service, thoughtful details, and a real sense of place—exactly what Relais & Châteaux is known for. It’s also a nod to the inn’s food and overall guest experience, which consistently feels elevated without being stuffy.
Old Edwards is especially well-suited for travelers looking for a sophisticated but laid-back escape within driving distance of many Southeastern cities. Between the walkability to boutiques and restaurants in Highlands and the resort’s extensive amenities, it’s an easy, restorative, and indulgent getaway.
I personally love staying at Old Edwards Inn and visiting Highlands. The downtown area has great dining and shopping options, and the resort is perfectly situated to visit nearby waterfalls, hiking paths, and experience the Blue Ridge Mountains.
