After three months cooped up at home since the beginning of the virus outbreak, visiting Lake Lure for vacation is a breath of fresh air. Fresh mountain air that is. As the roads begin to wind and the air temperature cools by a few degrees I know we are getting close. I travel with my best friend from college Hannah and her family to Rumbling Bald Resort in the crisp mountains of North Carolina. Rumbling Bald Resort vacation rentals will make Patrick Swayze fans swoons, since it is the place where part of the movie Dirty Dancing was filmed. Aside from it’s famous movie tribute this resort has plenty of COVID-friendly activities.
Where we stayed
Rumbling Bald Resort
Rumbling Bald Resort is the place to have a mountain retreat. The road is curvy and steep along our drive to the cabin. Needless to say I was glad I was not the one driving. We stayed in a rustic modern cabin with plenty of room for the whole group, with a pool table included in the downstairs area and a long dining table perfect for cards. There are several cabins on a reduced price tag due to the lack of recent traffic because of COVID. Keep on the lookout for deals on cabins.
What to bring
None of us checked the weather, and thus we were all unprepared for the cool mountain temperatures. It was in the 50s and 60s the whole time of our three day vacation, and most of us brought nothing but swimwear. Make sure when you visit the mountains you also have plenty of sweatshirts and sweatpants, because temperatures are much cooler the higher you go. Also be sure to bring your mask and where is when you are interacting with anyone you didn’t travel with.
Things to do
If you never feel like leaving the Rumbling Bald Resort there are plenty of activities offered to keep you busy for days.
Kayaking
Spend the morning taking a kayak tour around Lake Lure. This is the best way to see incredible views of the mountains and explore all the pretty lakeside homes nearby. Kayak rentals are $25 an hour for a double seated kayak and $40 for two hours.
Mini-Golf & Corn Hole
Mini-golf and corn hole are just a few of the games offered by the resort. They are a great and inexpensive way to get the whole gang together. Mini-golf costs $5 per person and corn-hole is free.
Cozy up at the Cabin
The second day of our stay the weather was not on our side. It was rainy and cold, perfect for a day inside. Playing cards and games of pool downstairs brings out the competitive side of all the guests.
Visit the 16th hole
If you are a fan of Patrick Swayze and Baby stop by the iconic spots where the movie Dirty Dancing was filmed. The 16th hole on Bald Mountain Course is where the famous scene of Dirty Dancing was filmed.
Lay out on the beach
While it was far too cold when I visited to lay out on the beach, the shoreline of the lake is a great place to unwind.
Take a boat tour on a pontoon boats
A boat ride is a relaxing way to see the whole lake. Ride rates run at $90 an hour and $315 for 4 hours.
Golf
I am not a golfer, but if you are you don’t have to so far at Rumbling Bald. Apple Valley or Bald Mountain courses are available for guests and members at the resort.
Hiking Trails
There are several hiking trails within the resort. While it was raining and we didn’t get a chance to visit them they are a great way to enjoy the natural beauty around the lake.
Things to drive to
Chimney Rock State Park
On a Lake Lure Vacation why not stop by Chimney Rock State Park. Especially, if you are in the mood to do some hiking head over to Chimney Rock State Park.
Shopping at the Bubba O’Leary’s General Store
General Stores in the mountains have the best selection of eclectic finds and Bubba O’Leary’s is no exception. Since we left our clothing for chilly weather at home, almost everyone I came with purchased a Lake Lure or Chimney Rock sweatshirt to stay cozy the remainder of the trip.
Borderline Zip-lining
Not only is Borderline Zip-lining open but they are practicing measures of safe social social distancing. You won’t be allowed to go unless you have a face mask and they take your temperature before entering. Along the tour they take you on six zip-lines through the North Carolina Mountains. The staff is friendly and fun, and encouraged us to scream loudly while zipping. Each of the six zip-lines is named something specific.
Streamline
Behind all the busy shopping streets is a beautiful creek ideal for wading and dipping your toes in the water.
Where to eat, drink, & snack
Southern Comfort Food Dining at Victory
When in rural North Carolina you have to eat like a true North Carolinian, which means eggs and grits. Victory offered a wide variety of southern breakfast staples.
Grab Coffee at Coffee on the Rocks
If you want a rich cup of coffee to wake you up Coffee on the Rocks menu consists of creamy cappuccinos and sweet treats. This shop has been around for ten years and have perfected the art of coffee.
Ice Cream Break at Village Scoop
When on vacation you have to eat ice cream. Village Scoop has over 60 flavors to choose from, but I select a classic chocolate chip.
Rumbling Bald is a great place to have a relaxing Lake Lure vacation. As the world slowly begins to open up again I hope you get more opportunities to travel.
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Asheville Is My Favorite Free-Spirited Mountainous City In The U.S.
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