North Carolina is home to a variety of small, secluded towns that offer quiet escapes from the more populated areas of the state. Many of these towns are nestled in the mountains, along the coastline, or within forests. Each town has its unique historical background, shaped by industries like agriculture, mining, or railroads. These eleven secluded towns will give you the peaceful escape you’ve been looking for.
Highlands is a small town that was founded in the late 19th century by two developers who believed it would become a major crossroads for railroads. While that vision didn’t materialize, Highlands grew as a retreat for those seeking cooler temperatures during the summer. Its location on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains gives it a unique geographic position, surrounded by national forests.
You cannot visit Highlands without hiking the nearby Whiteside Mountain, which has trails leading to views of the surrounding forests and cliffs. The town also provides access to the Cullasaja River Gorge, where you can view waterfalls like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. In addition, Highlands Botanical Garden has trails through native plant habitats, a quiet experience for those interested in the region’s flora.