Saluda, North Carolina — population 713 in the 2010 census is often billed as The Gem of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A quick trip on a crisp January day proved that to be very accurate and I am already thinking about a return trip to include a bit more sightseeing in this cute mountain town.
I was fortunate to go on a trip with a couple of friends with the main purpose of the visit being to visit a noteworthy yarn store called Kniticality.
Located outside of Saluda this charming shop boasts everything any knitter or crocheter could possibly want. Owner Amy Johnson offers yarn, tools, classes and design services and her mountain shop is well laid out. Complete with several sitting areas, bright rooms with beautiful mountain views and all the yarn that could be imagined the shop reaches customers near and far. A Facebook page allows fans to see what is going on with the shop as well.
While I am not into the yarn arts (yet) I loved being able to see and feel all of the wonderful textures and see the vivid colors. Who doesn’t remember that Granny Square afghan that their grandma made years ago? Stitched with love the ladies at Kniticality shared that they often finish up projects for clients that have been left in attics and basements from previous generations. What a gift that is to be able to put new life into old memories.
But perhaps my favorite part of the trip to the shop on Robin Lane was spending some time with Cinderella.
Another fun stop in Saluda which is a must see is the historic Thompson’s Store, the oldest grocery store in North Carolina. In the middle of downtown Saluda this is a store that is worth a stop. For over 125 years Thompson’s has served the community and beyond with fabulous offerings and great service.
So what can you find in this historical store? Fresh hand cut meats, rows upon rows of canned goods including some pretty appetizing looking jams, jellies, spreads, sauces and other speciality items. Did I mention that they carry a full line of Carolyn’s Reason to Bake gluten free cookies? You know that I loved seeing that amazing display even if I forgot to photograph it. Hint: it is right up next to the cash register.
I found this place to be very similar to the Polebridge Mercantile that we visited this past fall when we were vacationing in Montana.
Ward’s Grill is right next door with easy access from the store where the signature sage flavored sausage of the late proprietor, Charlie Ward, is served. Daily specials and a full breakfast menu are featured at Ward’s and next time I am in Saluda I am definitely eating here.
Saluda has plenty to see and the town itself is on the National Register of Historic Places . One of the major attractors is the fact that it is home to the steepest commercial railroad grade in the entire United States. If you want to check out their online shop you can click here to explore more.
Next visit I plan to walk the town, stop in all the fun shops and take it all in. Small towns like this are my favorite places to stop. They are full of charm and full of lovely people as well.
Have you ever been to Saluda, NC? Let me now in the comments section and remember that every comment goes to support our Comments for a Cause this month — The Cindy Platt Boys and Girls Club of Transylvania County.
