Valle View Retreat

Blog

Guides, Tips and Local Favorites from the High Country

Welcome to the Valle View Retreat blog, your guide to Valle Crucis, Banner Elk and the North Carolina High Country. Find seasonal things to do, family-friendly outings, ski and trail tips, and the local restaurants worth booking ahead, so you can plan a mountain getaway that makes the most of every day.

A Banner Elk Vacation Rental Built for Big Groups: Inside Valle View Retreat

Five bedrooms, two living rooms, a kitchen for sixteen and no stairs anywhere. What makes Valle View Retreat work for family reunions and big groups.

By dev

Property Features

Fall Color in the High Country: When to Visit Banner Elk for the Leaves

Fall is the High Country's busiest season for a reason. When the leaves usually turn near Banner Elk, and where to see them from Valle Crucis.

By dev

Seasonal

A Winter Ski Trip From Valle Crucis: Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain and Snow Days

Two ski areas within about 12 miles, snow tubing and a hot tub to come home to. How to plan a winter trip to the High Country from Valle Crucis.

By dev

Seasonal

Things to Do Near Banner Elk With Kids: Tweetsie, Grandfather Mountain and Snow Tubing

Steam trains, a mile-high swinging bridge and snow tubing are all within easy reach of Valle Crucis. Our favorite family days out near Banner Elk.

By dev

Adventure

Where to Eat Near Banner Elk and Valle Crucis: Family-Style Dinners, Cafés and Wineries

From fried chicken passed round the table to wine tastings with a mountain view, here's where our guests eat and drink near Banner Elk.

By dev

Places to eat

A Local’s Guide to Valle Crucis, NC: The Mast Store, the River and Friday Night Music

Valle Crucis is small, historic and right on our doorstep. Here's how to spend a slow day in the village, from 5-cent coffee to Friday night bluegrass.

By dev

Local Guide