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North Carolina is a state that seems to elude all convenient stereotypes. While it has some of the highest peaks on the east coast, it’s not exactly a mountain state. While the Outer Banks boast some of the most idyllic beaches along the Atlantic, pigeonholing it as a beach destination would be a crime. And although it’s rich in southern hospitality, it’s equally rich in modern cosmopolitan character. The point is this — the luxury resorts in the Tar Heel State do a great job of showcasing its diversity. Get a body massage while looking out onto snow-capped mountains, lounge poolside just steps from the ocean, or have a six-course meal in an internationally-renowned restaurant. Scroll down to discover the best luxury resorts in North Carolina.
Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate
Do you remember the house from the classic 90’s film, “Richie Rich”? Yeah, that’s the Biltmore Estate. Built for George Vanderbilt back in the late 19th century, the Biltmore Estate is currently the largest privately-owned house in the USA. Nowadays, the Village Hotel won’t exactly put you inside the building, but it’s nestled in the heart of Antler Hill Village and surrounded by tons of famous wineries. With incredibly curated amenities and detailed attention, this inn on Biltmore Estate is world-class luxury at its finest.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Umstead Hotel and Spa
The Umstead Hotel Located in Cary, North Carolina prides itself on being a collision of art and nature. It’s a place where zen gardens blend into conceptual art lobbies, where 5-star ballrooms have views onto the on-site lake, and where suites stay true to the all-white aesthetic while adding accents of earth tones and exotic plants. Of course, it has all the amenities you’d need for a 5-star getaway: a fitness center, a spa, and dining options ranging from multi-course meals to a place to just sip some afternoon tea.
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Blockade Runner Beach Resort
North Carolina, among many other things, is known for its incredible beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Located in Wrightsville Beach, the Blockade Runner is a boutique spot that has tons of amenities including rooms with oceanfront views, glass door balconies, swimming pools, umbrellas for shade, mini umbrellas for drinks — you get the idea. This is a great option for outdoor recreation enthusiasts, with options like swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, and sailing. If you’re yearning for a little more heart-pumping action, head over to one of the 5 Best Water Parks in North Carolina.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
The Omni Grove Park Inn
If your taste in luxury includes a degree of historical charm, the Omni Grove Park Inn needs to be on your list of options. Just take one look at the building’s exterior and you’ll get a vibe of medieval Europe or some long-lost Nordic mansion. With over 500 rooms and an entire shopping district within its own boundaries, you won’t really need to even leave the premises to have your luxury experience. Arguably the site’s best amenity is the 43,000-square foot subterranean spa. Dive into the mineral pools, hang out under the waterfalls, and cling onto the rock formations in what feels like a cave experience much farther away from the comforts of your hotel room and bathrobe.
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Chetola Resort
Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Chetola Resort is a great combination of luxury and cozy mountain culture. Here you’ll find fire pits, big blankets, lush evergreen forests, and southern hospitality only found in the best 5-star resorts. Some great standouts of the Chetola Resort are the special events nights. Visit for “steak on the lake,” a jazz night, music and oysters, and bonfire nights. The resort offers mountain views, and options for golf, shopping, and fine dining. For all the mountain lovers, here’s the definitive list of the 5 Best North Carolina Ski Resorts.
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The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel
If it wasn’t made clear by the name, let’s set some things straight about Charlotte’s Ballantyne hotel. The Ballantyne is a well-rounded luxury resort founded on the principles of southern hospitality. If you’re visiting Charlotte for any of the numerous reasons to, staying at the Ballantyne is a great way to theme your vacation. Set amidst lovely green spaces emblematic of North Carolina, the hotel has pools, golf courses, event ballrooms, spa services, and a complimentary shuttle to nearby attractions. Explore the dynamic city with one of these incredible tours or head out to the network of hiking trails that lie just within a stone’s throw.
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The Winds Resort Beach Club
Sometimes luxury doesn’t have to take the form of gigantic ballrooms and gaudy architecture. You can just as easily find luxury in unassuming beach bungalows as in 5-star resorts. What you’ll find at the Winds Resort Beach club is a different kind of luxury. With a more laid-back, beach cottage feel, the Winds offers beachfront suites, tiki-themed restaurants, tropical music, and the sound of the surf in the background. The Winds is perfect for romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons, reunions or family trips.
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The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte
Few names in the luxury resort space have as much household recognition as the Ritz Carlton, so it’d be a crime to leave their Charlotte location off this list. Easily the most urban and modern on the list, the Ritz showcases its elegance through upscale cocktail menus, a green rooftop with a chefs’ garden, chocolate-inspired spa treatments (get your imagination going), and gelato sweetened with honey from their on-site beehives. Don’t confuse these curated add-ons for pretentiousness — these are the reasons the Ritz has gained such fame.
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The Carolina Inn, a Destination Hotel
Located right on the campus of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, the Carolina Inn has been a staple of university life since 1924. The historic hotel has earned the AAA five diamond award several times and is widely recognized as the best place to stay if you’re visiting campus. Architecturally it’s known lauded as an impressive blend of classic antebellum architecture with lots of Georgian and neoclassical features. Equally as important is the Crossroads Restaurant, which has been welcoming guests for brunch since opening over 90 years ago.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price