Our mountain community sits perched at the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, offering amazing views, endless outdoor activities, and the opportunity for year-round fun. But beyond the array of amenities and on-site experiences, North Carolina also offers an abundance of ways for foodies and hungry families to enjoy local delights, farmers markets, and happenings centered around fare rooted right here in our own backyard. From local farms and ranches to dairies and rotating markets, the farm-to-table scene in North Carolina is overflowing with fresh, delicious options for all.
This month, we’re taking you from soil to supper and spotlighting the neighbors who bring Bright’s Creek the best in farm-to-table provisions.
North Carolina boasts a rich local food scene and is the #1 U.S. producer of favorites like sweet potatoes, as well as a top state for peanuts, blueberries, grapes, and more. In fact, North Carolina ranks among the top 10 agricultural states in the U.S., with about 8.2 million acres of flourishing farmland. It’s no wonder we’re perfectly positioned to enjoy all that NC’s farm-to-table scene has to offer here at Bright’s Creek.
Less than 10 miles from us and right here in Mill Spring, NC, sits Trickle Creek Farm, a 5th generation family-owned farm located in Western North Carolina. Minutes from Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, as well as Hendersonville and Asheville, it’s centrally located within reach of it all. Built on a legacy of over 100 years, Trickle Creek has been sharing their love of the land with locals and visitors for generations. Bring your family to pick fresh blackberries and blueberries soon—the fresh berries season is about to kick off! Visit their Facebook page for updates.
About an hour’s drive north is Round Mountain Creamery, a sprawling 28-acre working goat dairy and farmstead nestled in the lush, rolling forests of Black Mountain, NC. The destination for farm tours, cheese tastings, and fresh dairy products, they’ve proudly taken guests from pasture to plate since 2008. From their own farm store to local grocers and restaurants, you’ll find their handmade cheese products ready to enjoy anytime. Check out the list here.
Go less than 20 minutes east and you’ll find the incredible Caitlyn Farms, home to a 600-acre grass fed cattle ranch, event venue and wildlife management area. Beyond being an exceptional venue to host a wedding or other special event, Caitlyn Farms prioritizes regenerative ranching, which includes a strict rotational grazing plan to help improve farm soil, water, plant diversity and wildlife habitat. Their sustainably raised meat is local, 100% grass fed, and humanely raised so you can feel good about enjoying the best that the area has to offer. Say hello to their herd and learn more about their farming ethos here.
Of course, where there are farms, there are local farmers markets—and we’ve sure got plenty of amazing options in Mill Spring and our surrounding cities. In Polk County NC, you’ll find a variety of destinations like the Columbus Farmers Market that runs now through October, every Saturday from 8am-noon, just an 8-minute drive from Mill Spring NC. Stay close to their Facebook page for updates, vendor features, and more.
Keep the farmers market fun going with a stop at the Saluda Tailgate Market, about 20 minutes from Bright’s Creek. It also runs now through October at Saluda School Field, every Friday from 4-6pm. With an emphasis on supporting local agriculture, they provide a selection of goods grown and made within a 25-mile radius. Come connect with local farmers, artisans, and enjoy the best in farm-to-table favorites.
Hit the road to the quaint mountain town of Hendersonville, just about 25 miles away, to check out the Hendersonville Farmers Market, which runs Saturdays from 8am-1pm from May through October. Located at the Historic Train Depot (650 Maple Street) in downtown Hendersonville’s Seventh Avenue District, there’s ample free off and on-street parking for the perfect family outing. Get an insider sneak peek of the market—check out their YouTube video here.
Need some fresh local ingredients for a soil-to-supper dinner at your Bright’s Creek oasis? Make a pit stop at the iconic Mill Spring Farm Store less than 10 miles from our gates. You’ll find local meats, fresh cheeses, seafood, produce, and so much more. Sustainable practices and supporting local vendors is what they’re all about, so you can feel great about eating good, too.
Searching for a great date-night experience? Look no further than The Horse Shoe Farm in Hendersonville. This 85-acre family-owned boutique resort is nestled in the mountains, with an on-property farm-to-table dining experience and luxury spa. Check out their Silo Cookhouse restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that are all farm fresh.
Of course, don’t miss a meal at our very own on-site destination, Water Wheel Grille. Bright’s Creek Executive Chef Matt Silva loves creating farm-to-table fare. “We always love sourcing local ingredients because it supports our neighbors and local economy, while also ensuring the freshest farm-to-table flavors. Whenever we can, absolutely try to source locally, and we partner with food vendors to source select products in the area. Our low-lying North Carolina marshlands are actually prime for rice production, so we love sourcing rice from area farms.”
Best of all, when you shop small, you stimulate your local economy, reduce your carbon footprint, help to create more local jobs, and give back to your community.
Come discover the best North Carolina farm-to-table experiences and so much more! Discover a world of unlimited possibilities at Western North Carolina’s premier golf and outdoor recreation community.
Contact our Bright’s Creek real estate team directly at (828) 600-5132 to book your Discovery Tour today.
