Golf, spa draw conventions to Asheville

With 60% of the US population within a day’s drive of nature-rich Asheville, NC, the area is stepping up efforts to attract convention business.

“Our CVB is targeting more niche markets such as garden groups and arts and crafts groups,” said Carole Summers, director of tourism for HandMade in America, Inc., a non-profit organization promoting craft and culture and economic development in western North Carolina.

The historic Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa has by far the largest convention space with 50,000 square feet of meeting space, according to Phil Werz, pr manager for the well-known resort.

The circa-1913 property has long drawn golfers for its award-winning course. But a 40,000 square foot spa introduced in 2001 has also been a draw.

“A lot of conventioneers come here because their wives want to use the spa,” said Mr Werz.

The 510-room Grove Park is the only resort in small town Asheville (population 70,000) with a spa, he added.

The resort also has recently added themed rooms such as the “Swinging 60s” and the “Fabulous 50s” that are popular.

Asheville is known for the scenic views from the Blue Ridge Parkway as well as its hiking trails, rivers and wildlife sanctuaries. Many movies such as “Last of the Mohicans” have also been filmed here.

Report by David Wilkening