Nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, the historic district of Flat Rock located 3 miles south of Hendersonville (and 30 miles south of Asheville) is a hidden gem that beckons visitors to step back in time. With its charming architecture, lush landscapes, and a legacy that spans centuries, this quaint town offers a unique glimpse into the past. 

Flat Rock’s history dates back to the early 19th century when it became a popular summer retreat for wealthy Charlestonians seeking respite from the oppressive heat of the South Carolina lowlands. The town earned its name from the large, flat rock outcropping that provided a natural stage for gatherings and events.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Flat Rock is the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site. This charming residence, known as Connemara, was the former home of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and biographer, Carl Sandburg. Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved estate and explore the grounds that inspired some of Sandburg’s most famous works.

Apple Orchards, Vineyards, and Dining:

The Flat Rock area is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it an ideal location for apple orchards and vineyards. Here are some notable ones in the vicinity:

Sky Top Orchard:

Location: 3403 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock, NC

Sky Top Orchard is a beloved destination for apple-picking enthusiasts. With over 22 varieties of apples available, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the orchard while picking their own fruit. Additionally, they offer hayrides, a bamboo forest, and a stunning mountaintop view.

Justus Orchard:

Location: 187 Garren Road, Hendersonville, NC

Justus Orchard is a family-owned and operated orchard known for its wide variety of apples and delicious cider. In addition to apple-picking, they have a farm market with fresh produce, homemade jams, jellies, and baked goods.

Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard:

Location: 170 Stepp Orchard Drive, Hendersonville, NC

Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard is a picturesque orchard that offers apple-picking, a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, and a variety of family-friendly activities. They also have a cider house where you can taste their freshly pressed apple cider.

Burntshirt Vineyards:

Location: 2695 Sugarloaf Road, Hendersonville, NC

Burntshirt Vineyards is a stunning winery situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They offer a selection of award-winning wines and have a beautiful tasting room with panoramic views. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and events.

Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards:

Location: 588 Chestnut Gap Road, Hendersonville, NC

This family-owned vineyard is known for producing high-quality wines from their estate-grown grapes. They have a tasting room where you can sample their wines while enjoying views of the vineyard and surrounding mountains.

Overmountain Vineyards:

Location: 2012 Sandy Plains Road, Tryon, NC

While not in Flat Rock, Overmountain Vineyards is a short drive away and offers a serene setting with vineyards, ponds, and mountain views. They specialize in crafting European-style wines and provide a relaxing atmosphere for wine enthusiasts.

Stone Ashe Vineyards: *Winners of 2022 Best New Winery in the Country*

Location: 736 Green Mountain Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792

With a shared vision in 2010, Craig and Tina Little started to imagine an estate vineyard similar to those of the great growing regions of France. So began their story to pursue a second lifelong passion: grape growing and winemaking. Undeterred during their three year search for an ideal site, Craig and Tina discovered an area rich in ‘stony ashe’ soil providing internal drainage, steep slopes for high-density planting and external irrigation, and a micro-climate suited for efficient photosynthesis and elegantly balanced fruit. Dedicated to showcasing their land and the entirety of the North Carolina region as a thriving viticulture area, they invite you to the intersection of elegance, complexity, and finesse at Stone Ashe Vineyard.

These orchards and vineyards near Flat Rock, NC, offer a delightful combination of natural beauty, delicious produce, and an opportunity to experience the agricultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re interested in apple-picking or wine-tasting, these destinations provide a wonderful way to spend a day in the charming countryside.

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