I’m back from my camping trip with my sister and her boyfriend in the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains.
I met them in Spruce Pine, NC (north of Charlotte) on Thursday. We camped out at Spruce Pine Campground and went “gemmin’”. If you’ve never been to a gem mine and sifted through the rocks in search of precious gemstones (emeralds, rubies, sapphires, opals, etc.), you don’t know what you’re missing! We visited the Spruce Pine Gem Mine and the Emerald Village in Little Switzerland.
Besides the precious stones and the spectacular views we drove around sightseeing.
We stopped at the “must see” Historic Orchard at Alta Pass. They have all kinds of handmade gifts, souvenirs, homemade fudge, hot cider, and don’t miss out on the pickled mushrooms! They also have live entertainment.
Although I’m glad to be back, I could have stayed for a couple of more days! Spruce Pine is only 5 – 5 ½ hours from New Bern and well worth the trip!