miss madras
​​Put some color on and live a little
Mountain Madras
One of my favorite escapes is my family's house in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Toxaway is a nature nut's paradise, offering hiking, fly fishing, canoeing, and all things outdoorsy. There is nothing like spending the entire day hiking, taking in all of nature's beauty and breathing the mountain air. There is no sound more exciting than quick rush of water in the distance, letting you know you're almost to the waterfall. Even though I know that the trails I hike have been traversed for ages, it always feels like I'm discovering for the first time, beauty untouched.
While hiking, I like to keep it casual. Light layers offer warmth and flexibilty. Duck boots let you go puddle hopping and slippery rock climbing through rivers (not a very safe activity, but my favorite by far). A nap sack and canteen are a hiking essential (snacks on snacks). And if you want to look like you know what you're doing without really trying, get a hat (I swear people take you more seriously in it).
Photo Credit: Rita Powers
My North Carolina Top 5:
1. Looking Glass Rock Trail: This is the best hiking trail around! Even though it is rather long, you can't beat the views!
2. Brevard Antique Mall: Even if you're not super into antiquing and such, this hidden gem is a can't miss. My favorite is their huge collection of antique photographs- all for under $3!
3. Highlands, North Carolina: The highest town east of the Mississippi, this quaint little village offers great shopping (my favorite store is Wit's End) and great company (spend some time in the Ugly Dog Pub and listen to great stories).
4. Music festivals: Towns such as Cashiers and Brevard often hold music festivals that are unparralled in blue grass music (Steve Martin, who has a house on Lake Toxaway, often performs with his band). If you don't like blue grass, you simply haven't heard good blue grass.
5. The Biltmore: The Vanderbilt estate, located in Asheville, is America's largest home and even has it's own winery and village....and my favorite, it's own Lilly Pulitzer store!