Top Reasons to Love Winter at The Cliffs
Cooler temperatures, snow-covered mountains, and endless holiday activities with friends and family –– winter at The Cliffs is the most wonderful time of the year! As the seasons begin to change, our luxury mountain and lake communities are one of the best places to spend the chilly winter months.
Together we learn about six reasons to get excited about what is in store for you this winter in the Carolina mountains.
1. Its Mild Climate
As the temperatures begin to drop and snow lightly dust the peaks of the blue-tones mountains –– winter in the Carolinas is one of the most beautiful times of the year. For those looking to experience all four seasons throughout the year, the Blue Ridge Mountains are the perfect place to do so. In the summers, temperatures average in the 80s, creating a pleasant escape from the heat.
During the winter months, the lows average in the 30s and highs in the mid-50s. Snowfall near Asheville averages at around 13 inches a year, while higher elevations, such as Grandfather Mountain see an average of 54 inches a year. Fortunately, the winter months are mild enough to comfortably spend time outside during the day, making it possible to still enjoy your favorite outdoor activities.
2. Near Top Ski Resorts
The arrival of winter means that it’s finally time to dust off your skis and hit the slopes! The Carolina mountains are known for being home to some of the top ski resorts in the country. A short drive from Asheville is Sugar Mountain, the largest ski area in North Carolina. This resort is great for advanced skiers as it has good terrain variety and the most vertical drop in the region.
Another great option is Beech Mountain Ski Resort, known for being the highest ski resort in the East. It offers 17 short runs, a tubing park, and a skating rink. Be sure to visit the glass roundhouse skybar for a drink at the peak!
A family-friendly ski resort to visit this winter in the Carolinas is Appalachian Ski Mountain. Its gentle terrain makes it a great option for beginners to the sport. Wherever you choose to ski this season will be filled with panoramic vistas of the magnificent rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as far as the eye can see.
3. The Biltmore Estate Holiday Light Show
Known as one of the most beautiful homes in the country, The Biltmore Estate takes on a whole new life during the holidays. Expertly decorated with more than 100 decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 twinkling holiday lights, visiting the estate’s traditional Christmas at Biltmore is an experience unlike any other.
Visit during the day to appreciate the holiday decor within the home or during the evening for a candlelight experience filled with live music and holiday cheer. Tickets include access to a wine tasting experience at The Biltmore Estate Winery, one of the best wineries in the state. This holiday experience ends January 10th, so hurry and plan your trip to the Estate soon!
4. Exceptional Shopping
When you spend winter at The Cliffs, you are surrounded by the charm of the mountain towns in the area. They are the perfect place to spend the day shopping and visiting one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. Whether you’re looking to find a new art piece to decorate your luxury mountain home or an elegant dress for a social event, the shopping opportunities are endless.
Within our gates, members can shop in any of our seven pro shops, filled with premier golf gear and equipment to keep you stylish on the course and help you improve your game. With access to top brands, you’ll be able to find everything you need for a day out on the course –– just one more reason you’ll love winter at The Cliffs!
5. Outdoor Ice Skating
Throughout the Carolinas, there are several outdoor ice skating rinks that open during the winter months. One favorite among locals is UCB Ice on Main. Located in the heart of Greenville, SC, the 3,200 square-foot rink is the perfect place for skaters to enjoy the ice while surrounded by the many shops and restaurants in the downtown area.
Another option for outdoor ice skating is at the US National Whitewater Center. Take a day trip to Charlotte and spend the afternoon free skating on 17,000 square foot of ice. When you need a break to warm up, there is an Airstream in the center of the rink serving hot and cold beverages.
Be sure to visit the illuminated walking trail, an immersive light installation created by artist Meredith Connelly. Inspired by science, nature, and technology, the series of 12 installations of moss, vines, crystals, and other natural features is a different approach to a holiday light show –– one that brings you closer to the outdoors and magnifies the beauty of the forest.
6. Winter Hiking Trails
Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a wonderful way to experience the Carolinas, no matter what time of the year you visit. Each of the seven communities at The Cliffs offer easy access to some of the best hiking trails and mountain cycling trails in the area. Many of the hikes in the area guide you to exceptional viewpoints where you can appreciate the landscape.
During the winter months, these trails are less crowded, creating a more natural experience. One of the best times to go for a winter hike is after a snowfall when these trails and trees are coated with the freshly-fallen snow.
Cozy Up This Winter at The Cliffs
This winter, cozy up around the glowing fireplace in your new luxury mountain home at The Cliffs. Located in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina, our mountain and lake communities grant you access to numerous private member amenities, such as secluded walking and hiking trails, world-class golf courses, and hundreds of private social clubs that allow you to take part in your favorite activities with other members in your community.
Take the first step today and browse our available homesites or move-in ready properties at The Cliffs. If you would like to request any additional information about the community, club membership opportunities, or purchasing process, please contact our team by clicking the button below.
