While You're Here at The Gilded Vale at Clover Hill
Tucked into the scenic foothills of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, The Gilded Vale offers guests an unforgettable setting—and an abundance of nearby activities to enjoy before and after the big day. From outdoor adventures to local history and charming mountain towns, your wedding weekend will be full of memory-making moments. All recommended activities are within 30 minutes of the venue. Ask us for help arranging any excursions!
Outdoor Adventures For Every Season
Whether you’re planning a wedding weekend or an extended stay, The Gilded Vale is perfectly positioned for outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, guests can enjoy scenic drives, tranquil hikes, and waterfall trails like Glen Burney and Otter Falls. From upland bird hunts and championship golf to kayaking on the Yadkin and skiing at Appalachian Mountain, every kind of mountain memory is right at your fingertips.
Scenic Drives & Hiking Trails
Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, just 15–20 minutes from the property. Favorite stops include:
- Julian Price Memorial Park – Paddle boats, kayaking, fishing, and mountain views.
- Moses Cone Memorial Park – Historic estate, hiking and carriage trails, horseback rides, and crafts from the Southern Highland Craft Guild.
Waterfall Trails
Fly Fishing
Cap Wiese Fly Fishing Center – Located just 2 miles away at the historic Patterson School, homeplace of Edmund Jones, builder of Clover Hill.
Horseback Riding & Ziplining
Leatherwood Mountains Resort (17 miles) – Guided trail rides, children’s leadline rides, and a thrilling zipline canopy course.
Hunting Excursions
Yadkin River Hunting Preserve – Guided upland hunts for pheasant, quail, and chukar.
River Fun & Kayaking
- Upper Yadkin Outfitters – Kayak and canoe trips with shuttle service.
- Foothills Outdoor Adventures – Rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, tubes, and more.
Golf
Cedar Rock Country Club – Book a tee time at this championship course.
Winter Sports
Appalachian Ski Mountain (17 miles) – Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
Pickleball
Yadkin Valley Community Park – Courts for fun, friendly competition.
Indoor Adventures to Enjoy
Whether you’re seeking high-energy fun or peaceful relaxation, the area surrounding The Gilded Vale offers something for every guest. From family-friendly adventures and historic landmarks to spa indulgences and cozy local eateries, you’ll find memorable experiences just minutes from the estate. It’s the perfect blend of exploration and ease—ideal for wedding weekends, extended stays, or simply soaking up the charm of Happy Valley.
Indoor Fun & Family Attractions
Tweetsie Railroad (13 miles)
Wild West theme park with rides, a petting zoo, live shows, and seasonal events like Ghost Train and Tweetsie Christmas.
High Gravity Adventures (13 miles)
Aerial obstacles, ziplining, climbing, and kid-friendly ninja courses—right next to Tweetsie Railroad.
Bo’s Entertainment (7 miles)
Family fun with bowling, laser tag, mini-golf, and arcade games.
Downtown Blowing Rock (16.4 miles)
Charming boutiques, art galleries, antiques, and a beautiful park for kids to play.
History & Heritage
Fort Defiance (3.8 miles)
Home of William Lenoir, grandfather to the original Clover Hill owners. Guided tours available.
Chapel of Rest (2 miles)
The historic 1887 chapel is open daily, originally serving Patterson School for Boys.
Patterson School Foundation (2 miles)
Historic campus and home of the Cap Wiese Fly Fishing Center and Western NC Sculpture Center.
Whippoorwill Academy and Village (14.1 miles)
Step into local history at this collection of preserved buildings, including a schoolhouse attended by NC Poet Laureate James Larkin Pearson.
Rest & Relaxation
Westglow Resort & Spa (10 miles)
Luxury spa treatments, facials, Vichy showers, and a serene mountain setting.
Wolf Moon Salt Cave (6.8 miles)
Salt cave therapy, massage, yoga, energy work, and IV hydration—everything you need to reset and recharge.
Dining & Drinks
Happy Valley Filling Station & Brewery (2.2 miles)
Pizza, salads, craft beer, and live weekend music—a relaxed favorite for guests and locals alike.
Side Street Pour House & Grill (6.7 miles)
Wings, burgers, and classic casual dining in a welcoming atmosphere.
Call Family Distillers (24.9 miles)
Family-owned craft distillery and restaurant with a rich legacy in moonshine.
More Dining
Find an array of fine and casual restaurants in nearby Blowing Rock, just 15 minutes away.
Stay In & Unwind
The Gilded Vale at Clover Hill offers countless opportunities to relax in refined comfort. With spacious interiors, stunning views, and the peaceful charm of Happy Valley, it’s the perfect place to unwind with friends and family.