Recently, I enjoyed a refreshing trip to Highlands, NC, and stayed at the new Park on Main, blending beautifully with the Old Edwards Inn at the opposite end of Main Street.

I was initially disappointed that the Old Edwards was booked for a wedding party, but I soon discovered that the serenity of the Park was just as enjoyable. Brand new and painted a beautiful charcoal/black color with crisp white trim and interior, the Park offers only 8 rooms, each with a sitting room complete with Keurig, refrigerator and sleeper sofa in the event your husband is snoring (I'm just saying).

Our room stepped out onto the fountain courtyard where the air was cool and plenty of tables provided a place to rest and enjoy a nightcap before dinner.

A bamboo garden frames the parking lot of gravel, creating a Zen environment for sitting and contemplating the high-end jewels that occupy the interior of this cedar shake building in Highlands. I was inspired by the simplicity and renewable qualities of and uses for the bamboo.

Secret pathways led to hidden treasures.

Charming churches blended beautifully on Main Street.

A pristine, vintage Aston Martin parked nearby. What a beauty!

Flowers are prolific, providing inspiration for color combinations.

The food was fresh and delicious. We feasted on shrimp and grits (a Southern classic); a spinach salad with goat cheese, strawberries, and toasted pecans; and fresh fish.

What a great trip! Have you ever visited Highlands, NC? What was your favorite thing to do?