The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in North Carolina

On the outskirts of Charlotte, the striking Ballantyne underwent a renovation in 2018 to bring the hotel’s traditional luxury into the modern era. A popular choice for conferences, weddings and business meetings due to its excellent event venues, the hotel is often a hothouse of activity. Other standout facilities include a complete in-house spa, tennis courts and indoor and outdoor pools. Be sure to stop by the Gallery Bar, one of the best-stocked whiskey bars in the state.

In addition to comfortable lodgings and personable service, the Omni Grove Park Inn happens to be surrounded by the outstanding natural beauty of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. Serving up southern hospitality for more than 100 years, it focuses on relaxation and restoration with its five-star rooms, mountain air and excellent in-house facilities. Dine at the Blue Ridge restaurant, which serves creative takes on classic southern cuisine, and play a round of golf at the Donald Ross-designed golf course. Alternatively, book yourself in for some pampering at the on-site spa.

In downtown Charlotte, the Ritz-Carlton has everything you’d expect from a modern, eco-conscious luxury hotel. Taking an environmentally responsible stance while still offering a full range of creature comforts, this five-star property really does have it all. Each room features an Enseo entertainment system, twice-daily housekeeping and a spacious ensuite bathroom with an in-mirror TV, a deep soaking tub and separate vanity stations. If you fancy a nightcap during your stay, check out the Punch Room, the in-house speakeasy with a select menu of cocktails and spirits curated by its expert bar staff.

Built by the renowned Vanderbilts in 1895 as their country chateau retreat, the Biltmore showcases the opulence and extravagance that made the family famous. With the estate covering an astounding 8,000 acres (3,237ha), you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a private mountain-set haven. As a guest, you can expect to find all of your needs attended to, with a 24-hour concierge service, daily housekeeping and in-room dining available. With such a vast estate to explore, there are plenty of activities to take part in, such as guided bike tours, tasting at the on-site winery and the family-favorite Pisgah Playground.

In a serene lakeside setting, the Umstead Hotel and Spa lies near the William B Umstead State Park, home to an abundance of wildlife and protected woodland. As the only Forbes five-star hotel in North Carolina, the Umstead is well known for its exemplary service, ultra-modern suites and next-level in-house dining at Herons Restaurant, led by acclaimed chef Steven Greene. Among the Carolina pines, make sure to book yourself in for a body treatment or massage for a truly relaxing experience.

On the idyllic grounds of a former farm, the Fearrington House Inn is an excellent choice when it comes to luxury lodgings in North Carolina. Part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group and an essential component of the community-focused Fearrington Village, the inn has a timeless aesthetic and a real home-away-from-home vibe. Each room features Egyptian cotton sheets, Boca Terry bathrobes and fresh-cut flowers from the inn’s gardens. A favored choice for weddings due to its inherent romantic nature, the Fearrington is perfect for couples looking for a romantic weekend away.

In western North Carolina, among the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa will sweep you away with its remote woodland setting, friendly service and scenic choice of lodgings. With cabins, traditional rooms and cottages available, it’s sure to have something to suit your vacation needs. Make the most of the inn’s creative surroundings and explore the many cultural highlights found nearby, including theaters, galleries and music venues.

Famed as the anchor site of the US Open golf tournament, Pinehurst has the sport ingrained into its history and hospitality. With several different hotels making up the resort, including the striking Carolina Hotel, the bright and breezy Holly Inn and the restored Manor, you’re sure to find something you like. It also has some fantastic dining options, including the Carolina Dining Room and the 91st Hole, a clubhouse just off the courses. However, its nine world-class golf courses are the true highlights of the property, with Hogan, Palmer and Woods all teeing off on the grounds at one point or another during Pinehurst’s rich history.