As a writer, I am always looking for the perfect place to write. Every year, I carve out a long weekend to escape the real world and get some uninterrupted wordsmith time in. A quality writing retreat must have three things. It must have an awe-inspiring setting. The place must have several options for sustenance, and if the words aren’t there, I need some activities to distract or sustain me until the creativity comes.

Resort in Asheville

When you think of a resort, you think of a one stop destination. Everything you want to do in one spot, but for a price. I typically look for resorts for my retreats, and the Crowne Plaza Resort in Asheville, North Carolina is every bit the resort, but with budget rates. The aesthetics of the place are natural and beautiful. Each room offers a full kitchen and separate living room. I don’t have to leave the room if the muse is speaking to me. And, if she isn’t, Asheville is a great little town with a fantastic music scene and entertaining venues. All are worth exploring for those rock star romances I love.

Image provided by Jason Kenagy via Trover.com.

Style in Greensboro

The O. Henry Hotel has all the in-room comfort I need in a writing retreat hotel. The decor in the rooms is stylish, clean and interesting. The beds are big and fluffy. The spacious bathrooms feature both a shower and a separate soaking tub — super important to get my mind right. The hotel is inspired by the ’20s and ’30s vacation spots. The locally owned hotel is a three diamond venue, which translates into impeccable service and style, the perfect mix of retro and modern romance.

Romance in Greensboro

This romantic retreat in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a modern and unique destination. The comfortable decor has a clean and stylish big-city flair. Outside, the hotel features several beautifully maintained gardens and outdoor areas that offer comfort and inspiration. The on-site restaurants offer award-winning, tasty, hip food. The Mussels, Wine and Music Wednesday’s are perfect for feeding those creative juices.

’60s Inspiration in Blowing Rock

The Cliff Dwellers Inn is the perfect setting if I’m working on a period piece. Inspired by the ’60s, both in its decor and in the staff’s enthusiasm for serving their guests. Located in Blowing Rock North Carolina, Cliff Dweller’s Inn is small with only 21 rooms. It gives the place a bed-and-breakfast type feel. However, this hotel isn’t open in the winter months, so I’d save a visit for a great springtime retreat.

Serenity near Boone

Image provided by Gary-Heather Kobza via Trover.com.

Located just outside of Boone, North Carolina, The Inn at Crestwood offers a quiet and serene setting in the mountains. I love the outdoor terraces and patios with picturesque views of the mountains in the distance. A perfect inspirational setting for my next small-town romance novel. When I can’t write, it’s usually because I’m thinking too much and I need to relax. The Inn offers a full-service spa with massage, facials and body treatment.