Experience the finest among North Carolina Vacation Rentals in Highlands NC at The Lakehouse on Lake Glenville in Cashiers

Ever wonder why some bicycles are made with as many as 27 gears? The answer can be summed up in two words – North Carolina.

With a huge variety of terrain, no matter what kind of cyclist you are, the state is a cyclist’s dream. A recently published ranking of the 10 best bike trails – from flat, serene and easy 10th gear to steep, perilous and possibly heart attack inducing 1st gear highlights, in 3rd gear, the Cashiers Tour.

This route is relatively short (10 miles), but packs a major thigh burning and visual wallop. To begin with, Cashiers happens to be perched atop a plateau which is encircled by the Nantahala National Forest, providing the area with awe-inspiring vistas at virtually every turn.

Judi Lawson Wallace, author of Short Bike Rides in North Carolina, describes the sights in the area this way: “Cashiers’ location on the Eastern Continental Divide at 3,487 feet, combined with the number of rivers flowing through the area, gives it many natural wonders at which to marvel…It has tall mountain peaks, deep valleys, many waterfalls, lush forests and mountain plants and a serene setting.”

Start your ride at Cashiers Commons on US 64, turn right when you get to NC 107 and get ready for heart-pounding climbs, hairpin turns and one of the most inspiring rides you will find anywhere. (Complete directions are found in Wallace’s book).

After completing your ride, relax with a cool beverage overlooking Lake Glenville at our vacation rental, the Lakehouse at Katie Camp.

12/03, 12/04, 12/06, 12/11.  I love a parade and if you do too there are lots of opportunities to enjoy a traditional small town parade as many of the villages that surround Lake Glenville host their Christmas parades. These annual events are populated by local high school bands, home-made “floats” towed by farm tractors and riders large and small mounted on steeds of many varieties. Waynesville, Brevard, Hendersonville and Cashiers each have a parade.

On Friday, May 14, the Cashiers Historical Society kicks off its 2010 season with an opening event that has a little something for everyone. Anne Fariello of Western Carolina University will be presenting her latest book, “Cherokee Basketry: From the Hands of our Elders”. In this work, Fariello reveals that baskets hold much more than food and clothing. Woven with the stories of those who produce and use them, these masterpieces remain a powerful testament to creativity and imagination. Come celebrate this tradition that dates back almost ten thousand years.

Textile specialist Suzanne McDowell will share her knowledge during a special “Bedturning” program. A Bedturning is a participatory gathering where attendees learn ways to interpret the clues in their textiles. “Turners” will draw back or “turn down” each textile while McDowell teaches methods to determine historical content, such as the era created, pattern names, and other significant traits.

Attendees are encouraged to bring in as many as three quilts, blankets, and coverlets to share, as well as any photos or information held about the maker of the objects. Each textile will be photographed and brief survey form can be completed for the owner’s records.

Also, May 14 marks the season’s first guided tours of the Zachary-Tolbert House Museum. Stop by for a visit; pack a lunch; stretch your legs along the nature trails; spend the day! Then enjoy a relaxing evening at our mountain lake lodge.

The House will be open from 11 until 3 and the two programs will run concurrently from 12 until 2. For more information call 828-743-7710.