Chimney Rock Park and Lake Lure North Carolina

This weekend I went to North Carolina to visit a cousin. She doesn't live very far away from a beautiful location with so much to do. Chimney Rock, and of course the allure of Lake Lure, and the two are nestled close enough together to enjoy it all.

Picture this: Mountains and cliffs surrounding all areas within your sights. Beautiful creeks alongside the road in your travels, that make you want to stop in the summer time, kick off your sandals and go get cool. At Lake Lure there are areas to stop and rent canoes or even take a family tour on the water with a pontoon. Areas to go fishing or just take a walk and see the ducks and geese,

or a lovely little beach to lay out in the sun and do a little swimming, or stop off and have a picnic and just take in the beautiful scenery. An elevator runs up through one of the mountains in Chimney Rock to take in some fantastic views at its highest points. Absolutely amazing! Definitely need to watch your footing along the top there though!

Various bed and breakfast places are located throughout these mountains, as well as campgrounds, and cabins, either right on the water, or set away from the hustle of active summer tourism. Wonderful comforts of home offered by the people of the area operating the places, and if one doesn't have a vacancy they will assist in helping you find a spot with equal enjoyment. It is is perfect for a calm outing on any day.

Amenities are bountiful, and the places to shop at Chimney Rock are wonderful for all aspects of gift giving, and it is loaded! There are places that are great for shoppers looking for anything from motorcycle souveniors with the "Heavenly Hogg" shop, to the more cultural spots for Native American goods and handmade items from places like "Featherheads." Cafés and ice cream parlors, eateries with outdoor seating, they bring it all together. There's even a great little spot for miniature golf. I especially love the artsy shop that displays chainsaw carvings. Tree trunk remnants turned into some wonderful creatures, eagles and bears. The creativity is wonderful! If you are a lover of antiquities there are many places to view and purchase these types of items as well.

If you love the arts, and the outdoors the area is perfect for it all. Along the roads are spots to stop and get fresh fruits and vegetables, flea markets, and other local yard sales. Boredom is not an option. Travellers come from all over to visit these parts of North Carolina.

Here are some links for your enjoyment:

Vacationing Guide
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g49025-Chimney_Rock_North_Carolina-Vacations.html

The Esmeralda Inn at Lake Lure
http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/nc-chimney-rock-theesmeraldainnatlakelure.html

Distinctive Mountain Lodging
http://www.distinctivemtnlodging.com/

Some of what you see here is not for everyone, but in my own personal opinion I believe it can be quite an enjoyable trip because there is a lot to do for everybody, including the kids. For the impatient, in a hurry through life types of people, it may not be a good choice because nothing is rushed. Traffic moves slowly with many sightseers and those pedestrians crossing the busy store-lined streets. Motorcyclists, bicyclists, and hikers, families out for the day with their children are there to take time out in a calm environment. Take a load off from the busy days of work for one weekend to enjoy a great and relaxing time. The beautiful views will make you glad you got this time out. Take your camera, as there is much to see!