A word of advice...unless you really love the outdoors and enjoy an active lifestyle, Asheville and the mountains of western
North Carolina may not be the best place for you.
In fact, almost everyone who lives in this land
with its mild climate and magnificent mountains is totally captivated by its towering forests, cascading waterfalls and rich
variety of native trees and wildflowers...not to mention activities like golf, tennis, fishing and snow skiing.
Combine all of this with a vibrant and revitalized downtown that is nearly always alive with a full schedule of musical
and cultural events, including an ongoing calendar of outdoor festivals, and Asheville must be recognized as one of the best
places to retire.
Of course, the city itself is just the hub of an entire region filled with a
rich cultural heritage and love for music of all kinds. With an eclectic array of interesting, picturesque small towns like
Brevard, Black Mountain and Weaverville nearby, there is a ready abundance of activities and events, including art galleries,
antique shops and inviting bed and breakfast inns.
Nor is the Asheville lacking in such fundamental
areas as medical care and
educational facilities. With more doctors per capita than most cities of its size and the presence of such assets as the Asheville
branch of the University of North Carolina with its research institute and senior wellness center, the city's reputation for
excellent medical care and educational opportunity is well justified.