A Day in Flat Rock…
Living in Greenville is perfect. We’re three hours from the coast and thirty minutes from the mountains. Both spots can be explored in a day.
One of my family’s favorite day-trip destinations is Flat Rock, North Carolina. I thought I would share a few of the reasons why and a short list of things to do.
First, and because I’m a sucker for a good story, allow me to share a (very) brief history of the town. I’m keeping it brief as a favor to you, because I could literally go on and on.
In 1827, Charles and Susan Baring built the Mountain Lodge. Charles was a prominent rice planter in Charleston, South Carolina. Wealthy families from the low country were drawn to the cooler temperatures and picturesque landscape. Flat Rock quickly became known as the “Little Charleston of the Mountains.”
Not much has changed. The mountain town is still the go-to for a respite from the one hundred thirty degree temperatures and humidity of the upstate.
After savoring the view of the mountains as you drive up Highway 25, you’ll be ready to give your taste buds a treat. Breakfast at Honey & Salt offers a great start to your mountain adventure, or leisurely day in the small town. Serving traditional breakfast choices in addition to unique dishes, smoothies, and a toast bar, this local spot is open Wednesday – Sunday, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. Be sure to write those days/times down somewhere. You wouldn’t want to make the drive on a day when it’s closed – not that I know anyone who’s done that… Biscuits, breads, granola and other specialties are made fresh daily in the bakehouse.
Shopping is a great way to walk off those breakfast calories. Flat Rock has quaint, one-of-a-kind shops. Don’t miss my personal favorite, The Wrinkled Egg. It’s packed with an eclectic collection of equestrian goods, southern folk art, clothes, toys and antiques. If you’re not stuffed from breakfast, there’s a bakery in the back that whispers your name as you walk through the store. It’s hard to ignore, trust me. This is where the boys and I like to grab a Coke in a bottle. Coke in a bottle just screams small town, doesn’t it?
You can even see a wrinkled egg, up close and personal. Maybe you’ve never heard of a wrinkled egg. As hens get older, the whites in their eggs thin, causing it to wrinkle. The teacher in me had to include that mini science lesson for you. You’re welcome.
A visit to the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is a perfect way to spend a day in Flat Rock. Highlighting amazing history and artifacts, this home has been kept much the way it was when Sandburg lived there. It’s an uphill walk from the parking lot to the home and farm, but it’s shady. And there are goats! Hiking trails are available for the more energetic history buff. In case you’re wondering, that’s not me.
Sky Top Apple Orchard is down the road and beautiful in the fall. Scrumptious apples (you can pick them yourself or buy them already packaged) are not all this orchard features. Activities for the children, including hayrides, make this stop fun for all ages.
When planning your Flat Rock experience, check the Flat Rock Playhouse website. You may decide to plan your trip around coming attractions.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your day, do not leave the mountain without stopping in the Flat Rock Wood Room! Flat Rock Wood Room has award winning meats, smoked to perfection. Pork, brisket and chicken are complimented by mouthwatering sides. Gourmet pizzas straight from the wood fired brick oven satisfy even the most “hangry” customer. I’m not here to tell you what to order, but consider the calzone and the hush puppies. Oh, and the cornbread. And BBQ. The salads are really great, too. Forget it! Order whatever you want, it’s all delicious!
We tried to include the big attractions but, please keep in mind, this is hardly a complete list of everything Flat Rock has to offer.
Enjoy.