Day 1: Arrival Day – The Anticipation and Gateway to Renewal
Welcome to The Cabin at Spring Creek Preserve, where your journey to relaxation truly begins. As recommended in the digital guide, provided when you book, you choose to take the scenic route along Highway 209, also known as The Appalachian Medley Scenic Byway. This 45-mile stretch winds through the Pisgah National Forest and rural countryside, painting a picture-perfect view of open farmland, historic barns, and majestic mountain scenery. You feel as if you’ve stepped into a living painting.
As if on cue, “North Carolina” by Little Chief begins to play on your curated “Mountain Playlist” from the digital guide provided by Alan and Megan, the stewards of The Retreats at Spring Creek Preserve, this song will forever have new meaning for you, as it will evoke memories of this scenic drive along the Appalachian Medley each time you hear it.
Around 35 minutes away from The Cabin, you stop at Presnell’s Produce & More Farm Stand to pick up fresh, local groceries—farm eggs, grass-fed beef, freshly baked bread, and other delicious baked goods. With your provisions in hand, you continue your journey, crossing Betsy’s Gap and heading downhill toward Trust. You decide to stop at the charming Trust General Store and Café, where you sip on locally roasted coffee and enjoy one of their famous Oatmeal Cream Pies—trust us, this won’t be your last one!
With your excitement building, you continue down the private mile-long road that leads to The Cabin. As it finally comes into view, you know that this experience will be something truly special.
The anticipation heightens as you face your first delightful decision: do you step inside your luxurious, private retreat, or pass through the garden gate to take in your first glimpse of the breathtaking mountain views?
It’s about 4:00 in the afternoon, and the golden hour begins to cast a magical glow across the mountains. After exploring The Cabin and lingering on the back porch (those views are truly mesmerizing!), you unpack and settle in. You and your partner decide to share a celebratory toast: “Here’s to disconnecting so we can reconnect with ourselves and each other in the nurturing energy of these ancient mountains. May we depart feeling renewed, reenergized, and inspired.”
The gateway to renewal has officially opened as you sit together on the porch, listening to the peaceful sounds of Sugar Camp Branch Stream flowing below. Gratitude fills your heart, and you can’t help but think, I am so grateful.
As dusk approaches, you enjoy a romantic dinner and head to the outdoor firepit to roast marshmallows for dessert. The evening wraps up with a luxurious dip in the hot tub, the overhead bistro lights twinkling while your Sonos speaker plays your favorite tunes in the background.
Before turning in for the night, you step outside one last time to gaze up at the sky. The stars are brilliant tonight, and the sight of the Milky Way overhead takes your breath away. You may spend hours stargazing before finally retreating indoors to your professionally designed master suite.
Before falling asleep, you grab the trail map to plan your next day’s adventure in your private 80-acre nature sanctuary. As you close your eyes, you reflect on the amazing day you’ve just experienced, and you drift off in the embrace of the most comfortable bed, feeling fully renewed and ready for Day 2 at The Retreats at Spring Creek Preserve.
Day 2: Exploration & Relaxation – Reenergizing the Mind, Body, and Soul + A Magazine-Worthy Surprise
Today is all about finding the perfect balance between adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re hiking the private 5-mile trail network, lounging on the Tree Net suspended above the rushing stream, or soaking in the serene surroundings, Day 2 at Spring Creek Preserve is designed for you to reconnect with nature and each other. The ancient beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains provides the perfect setting for rejuvenating your spirit. And later, your partner has planned a romantic surprise that will make this retreat even more unforgettable!
Morning Hike on Private Trails
Start your second day with a refreshing morning hike along the exclusive private trails of Spring Creek Preserve. Spanning 5 miles through lush cove forests, these trails offer breathtaking views, peaceful spots to pause, and opportunities to encounter diverse wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous trek, there’s a path suited to your needs. Along the way, you’ll be greeted with stunning mountain vistas and hidden gems, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos. Our personal favorite is the Enchanted Morning Loop—a hike that feels just as magical as its name suggests – you may even see a forest gnome or fairy along the way!
Picnic Lunch with a View
After your morning adventure, pack a picnic using the vintage wicker basket and tableware supplied in The Cabin. Seek out a secluded spot along the trail or by the stream to enjoy lunch surrounded by the beauty of Spring Creek Preserve. The tranquil privacy of the property allows you to fully escape into the moment. Whether you choose a shaded spot beside the stream on the boardwalk or a sunny clearing with panoramic views, this picnic will be one to remember—a perfect way to savor the surroundings.
Afternoon Respite by the Stream
After lunch, make your way down to the stream, where a hidden treasure awaits: the Tree Net. A favorite among guests who have shared that is “way cooler than a treehouse!”, this unique spot is suspended over Sugar Camp Stream. The sound of the rushing water combined with the negative ions in the air brings a deep sense of wellbeing. Relax, read, meditate, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery as you’re enveloped by the calming sounds of nature. If you’re feeling adventurous, dip your toes into the cool, clear stream to experience a refreshing connection to the mountains.
As you and your partner unwind on the Tree Net, there’s an air of excitement—your partner is practically buzzing with anticipation for the surprise that awaits you both back at The Cabin in the early evening.
A Magazine-Worthy Surprise
As the afternoon comes to a close and you return to The Cabin to prepare for the mountain sunset, you’re greeted by an unforgettable sight—a meticulously arranged romantic picnic, overlooking the most spectacular mountain views. The scene looks like it’s been plucked straight from a Food & Wine magazine photo shoot, complete with elegant tableware, exquisite floral arrangements, plush blankets, rugs, and cushions for a cozy and comfortable seating arrangement.
Just when you think the moment couldn’t get any better, a private chef steps out from the kitchen, cocktail in hand, ready to prepare a culinary masterpiece for you to enjoy in this dreamy mountain setting. This experience is truly EPIC—a memory you’ll cherish forever.
As you dine together, you watch the sky transform from brilliant blues to fiery oranges and pinks. With no city lights to interrupt, the sunsets at Spring Creek Preserve are nothing short of breathtaking, marking the perfect end to a magical day. This romantic experience will undoubtedly be one of the most cherished highlights of your stay, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 3: Departure Day – Feeling Inspired
As the final morning at The Cabin begins, you step onto the porch with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, cradling your hand-spun artistic pottery mug. The world around you is waking up. You listen to the gentle symphony of birdsong and decide to open your Merlin bird app, eager to learn about the many species sharing this peaceful mountain space. As you gaze out over the vast landscape, the sun slowly climbs over the mountain peaks, casting a soft, golden light—a warm greeting to the new day.
After soaking in the quiet beauty of the morning, you feel ready for one last adventure. Today, you decide to hike a portion of the Alpinist Loop, a trail calling for a touch of bold exploration. This trail takes you through two uniquely different mountain environments, offering a final opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the ancient beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. By the end of your hike, you’ll have experienced the essence of “The Mountains”, leaving no stone unturned in your journey.
With your heart full and spirit renewed, you return to The Cabin, pack your belongings, and load up your chariot for departure. But as you take one last look into the mountains, you know this isn’t a farewell—it’s a promise of return. The road ahead may lead you back to daily life, but the feeling of wellbeing and wonderment lingers, melting into your senses.
As you drive down the private road, your thoughts drift to the magic of your stay. You reflect on how the luxurious, restored cabin and the unspoiled natural surroundings served as a spiritual container—a space where you and your partner were able to disconnect from the routine of everyday life and reconnect with each other and with nature. The mountains cradled you in their ancient ecosystem, guiding you toward peace, joy, and inspiration.
Leaving The Retreats at Spring Creek Preserve, you feel not just rested, but renewed, reenergized, and inspired, carrying the memories of this transformative experience with you until the next time you return.
