Sylva

Destination of the month: Sylva, North Carolina. This small town, bordering Dillsboro, finds itself tucked in the shadow of the Blue Ridge mountains. Between them, the two towns consist all of about two miles. If size doesn't deter you, then the locals might.

To clarify, you will probably never find more welcoming, friendly, and helpful people anywhere. The kind of Southern hospitality that just doesn't exist in South Cackalacky. It's more of a righty-lefty issue; Patchoulli-laden natty dreads versus mulletted trucker hats, Toyota Prius versus Chevy Four-by-Four, you get the picture. It's just this that makes Sylva a great place to visit, but I couldn't live there, at least not now.

It is the perfect place for a summer mountain home. Though small, the Jackson County seat has a lot to offer (at least it appeared that way during my short stay). Surrounded by mountains and rivers yet only forty miles from Metropolitania (Asheville, and yes I made up that word). But don't assume that you'll have to make a run into town to find civilization, the streets Sylva and Dillsboro are lined with things to do.

Upscale and down home restaurants (like Kosta's authentic Greek), Bed and Breakfasts, and shops abound. There's a local brewery and The Dillsboro Chocolate Company/Espresso bar combines a few of my favorite things. Speaking of favorites, the area offers some of the best on and off-road cycling around. Ample bike lines, beautiful scenery, and the coolest bike shop ever make it a desitnation location for me. Be sure to add this to your weekend getaway list.