Handmade Satin Flowers

Where else can you hike, eat amazing cuisine, visit a winery, tour an estate and shop amazing galleries - all in 48 hours? You have just entered Asheville - the perfect (and unlikely) city to never sleep...or sleep all day. This cozy mountain town has been gaining popularity over the past decade and is the place that both hippies and hipsters are proud to call home.

Friday

2PM As you drive up to Willow Winds, you may find yourself wondering why you're in a residential neighborhood. But once you reach the property entrance, you'll realize that you've reached vacation heaven. When checking in you'll receive a gift basket of cookies and a wealth of information from the wonderful women who run the resort. Be sure to ask about their two-day passes at The Biltmore - their rates are great. After making your way to your cabin retreat, you may not want to leave - and you don't actually have to with all the amenities...but trust us...you won't want to miss out on all Asheville has to offer.

3PM Grab a coffee and catch a poetry reading at Malaprop's Bookstore/Caf . This downtown landmark is the perfect place to begin your Asheville journey by picking up the flavor of the city.

5PM Take a seat at the park in the center of downtown and listen to the impromptu drum circles that are constantly taking place. It's a great way to capture the flavor of the city's residents.

6PM Head over to Biltmore Estate and hit the winery. Make sure to buy a two-day pass so you can take advantage of EVERYTHING this wonderland has to offer. You don't need a reservation for the winery - simply park and head over to tour the facility and taste the delicious wines. Don't forget to hit the gift shop to pick up a bottle (or two) to remember your journey. And if you can't tear yourself away, have a seat outside and enjoy live music and a glass of wine. Before leaving, make a reservation to tour The Biltmore for the following day. Spots can fill up fast during popular times and you won't want to waste a trip there with no reservation.

8PM It's hard to pick a place to eat in Asheville because there are so many options. But Sugo is one spot that should not be missed. Be sure to arrive hungry because you'll want to sample everything on the menu. And the servers are there to please. When I had a craving for a Bloody Mary and couldn't find one listed on the drink menu, the waiter said 'No problem' and the bartender prepared one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had. Dinner also includes treats to inspire your palette between courses.

10:30PM Step outside onto the deck of your cabin and look up. You will see more stars than you ever thought possible. Sit back and enjoy.

Saturday

11AM Head over to tour The Biltmore Estate for your reserved time. The tour will take about 2 hours. You can purchase headphones for an additional - personally, I believe that you pay enough to get in and these should be included in the price.

After the tour, head over to The Biltmore Gardens and stroll through the wonderful array of flowers. You will not be disappointed.

1PM You can't visit Asheville without dining on BBQ. And there's no better place to do this (although this is always up for discussion) than 12 Bones. Expect a wait, and expect it to be well worth it. With amazing ribs, pulled pork, delicious sides, and draft beer, you'll most likely over eat and be happy that this delicious spot is located far from your home.

2:30PM If you're looking for unique pieces of art, you've come to the right place. Asheville has an abundance of galleries featuring pieces of all price ranges. Visit 16 Patton, Bella Vista Art, Blue Spiral and so many more.

5PM It's time to relax - and you deserve it. Enjoy an amazing massage, facial or whatever you're craving at Sensibilities Day Spa. You simply can't go wrong with any of the services at Sensibilities - voted Best Spa 2007 by Asheville-Citizen Times and Mountain Xpress.

7:30PM Make your way over to Weaverville Milling Company Restaurant for a rustic yet delicious dining experience. It's a great place to stretch your dollar (since we know you spent a lot shopping in the galleries!)

10PM Not ready to call it a night? We don't blame you. Head over to Hannah Flanagan's Irish Pub for a pint of beer. Hang out on the patio when if the weather permits - and stay stay for a second (and a third) round.

Sunday 9AM Even the biggest carnivore can't help but to fall in love with the 100% vegetarian restaurant Laughing Seed. The delectable menu changes every Sunday but always features Bloody Marys, Mimosas and a wide variety of waffles and omelets. Trust us, you won't miss the meat.

11AM Ready to work off the delicious food from the weekend and bid farewell to Asheville the right way? Head over to Grandfather Mountain for an unforgettable hike. This mountain is the tallest in the Blue Ridge and offers amazing wildlife along trails that range from easy to difficult.

The author is a professional writer who is passionate about travel. To learn more about Asheville and other travel destinations visit mywork.name/loans/go/go.php?sid=1.asheville-review/]