Sapphire Travel Guide

Sapphire, NC originated as a mining town. Located along the Highlands-Cashier Plateau, Sapphire stands out against the surrounding communities thanks to its distinct natural beauty and luxurious mountainside homes. It has a modest population of under 2,000 people, who are all incredibly friendly and welcoming towards guests.

Things to Do in Sapphire

To experience Sapphire’s natural beauty, guests can explore the city’s parks and outdoor recreation areas which include the likes of Gorges State Park and White Water Falls where guests can hike ½ a mile to reach the foaming falls. In addition to White Water Falls, Sapphire is also home to Turtleback Falls, Rainbow Falls, and a number of other incredible, photo-worthy waterfalls.

Visitors looking to explore the wilderness in the area can take a visit to Horsepasture River and Nature Trails, where the river winds through the Western North Carolina Mountains and trout fishing is abundant. Or, they can treat themselves to an afternoon of horseback riding, plant education, and historical stories with the Whitewater Equestrian Center. Enthusiastic visitors could also spend some time golfing at the Sapphire National Golf Club, enjoying a facial at Canyon Spa at Lonesome Valley, or, during the winter, skiing and snowboarding at Ski Sapphire Valley Resort.

Best Places to Stay in Sapphire

The Sapphire Valley Resort is a popular destination for travelers hoping to enjoy a luxurious stay, however, Sapphire's smaller rentals such as cottages and condos are also luxurious, and offer their own unique personalities. Regardless of where the rental is, each has been equipped with wireless internet and a full kitchen.

Best Time to Visit Sapphire

The best time to visit Sapphire is during the spring season, and near the end of the summer/start of fall.

Food in Sapphire

When it comes to satisfying your cravings, Sapphire’s many restaurants know how to do just that. The community offers Table 64, which serves everything from salad and crab cakes to duck and salmon, and The Library Kitchen & Bar, which specializes in gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options. It also offers a number of ethnic eateries.

Things to Do for Families in Sapphire

Families can take a short trip to Glenville and make the best out of the North Carolina summer by sending the day at Lake Glenville. Here, they can rent their own private boat, hike past waterfalls and over rocky ledges, participate in watersports like water skiing and motorboating, go fishing and canoeing, as well as have a BBQ.

Families can also go shopping in nearby Asheville, which is home to dozens of great shopping locations and strip malls including Asheville Outlet Mall and Biltmore Park Town Square, which offers Barnes & Noble, Orvis, and Charming Charlie.