Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Romantic Retreat at River House Inn & Restaurant
Established in 1988, River House Inn & Restaurant combines historic charm with modern comforts in the heart of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Our twelve uniquely decorated guest rooms, housed in restored 19th-century farm buildings, offer king-size beds, private bathrooms, and Jacuzzis surrounded by art and antiques. The on-site French-inspired restaurant, renowned for its regional and international cuisine, has been a culinary destination since our founding. We specialize in creating immersive experiences through outdoor activities like river tubing, hiking, and scenic drives, complemented by cultural attractions like live music events and art exhibitions.Our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our 160-acre property while providing personalized service has made us a trusted choice for romantic getaways, weddings, and retreats. With decades of hospitality experience, we maintain rigorous standards for cleanliness, guest satisfaction, and environmental stewardship. Our team's deep local knowledge ensures visitors receive authentic recommendations for exploring nearby attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway and New River State Park. We continuously invest in property maintenance and staff training to uphold our reputation as a premier destination in Ashe County.
Services
Accommodations
Fine Dining
Weddings
Outdoor Activities
Catering
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 160 acres of pristine riverfront property with walking trails since 1988
- Our French-inspired restaurant has been a High Country dining destination for 35+ years
- Twelve unique guest rooms combine historic preservation with modern amenities
- We host weddings from intimate ceremonies to 400-guest celebrations
- Our buildings maintain original 1870s exteriors while providing comfortable interiors
What people say
Elegant without pretension
Most personal place
Unforgettable river wedding
Superb dining experience
Serene mountain retreat
Services
Accommodations
Our twelve guest rooms in restored 1870s farm buildings offer king-size beds, private bathrooms, and Jacuzzis. Each room features unique decor with art, books, and country antiques while maintaining original historic elements. The property provides riverfront access for strolling, wading, and fishing in a peaceful mountain setting.
Fine Dining
The French-inspired restaurant serves regional and international cuisine Wednesday through Sunday evenings. Our Sunday Salon features live music and a four-course Chef's choice menu. The dining experience includes an extensive wine list and full-service bar with ABC permits in an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere.
Weddings
We host weddings from intimate ceremonies to large celebrations accommodating up to 400 guests. Services include venue setup on riverfront white tents, reception coordination in our rustic Tobacco Barn, and catering options featuring North Carolina specialties. Our staff assists with vendor connections and event planning details.
Outdoor Activities
The property offers direct access to New River for tubing, canoeing, and fishing for brown trout and rainbows. Walking trails traverse 160 acres of mountain terrain with wildlife viewing opportunities. We provide equipment rentals and transportation services for river excursions and coordinate nearby activities like golf and horseback riding.
Catering
Our catering services feature regional specialties like North Carolina pulled pork and signature desserts including Chocolate Bourbon cake. We accommodate special events from rehearsal dinners to corporate functions with customizable menus. The innkeeper's culinary expertise includes creating showstopping presentation pieces for wedding celebrations.
People
Gayle Winston
Innkeeper
Gayle Winston, owner since 1988, brings decades of hospitality experience from her background as a journalist, Broadway producer, and restaurateur. She has operated five gourmet restaurants and maintains rigorous standards for guest experience while preserving the property's historic character. Her leadership earned the Order of Long Leaf Pine in 2009.
Questions
How do I make a reservation at River House Inn?
Reservations can be made through our website or by calling 336.982.2109. We recommend booking well in advance, especially for weekend stays and special events.
What dining options are available at the inn?
Our restaurant serves breakfast daily and dinner Wednesday-Sunday evenings. We offer a Sunday Salon with live music and special menus. Reservations are required for dinner service.
Can I host a wedding at River House?
Yes, we host weddings of all sizes with riverfront ceremonies and reception venues including our rustic Tobacco Barn. Our staff provides comprehensive planning assistance and catering services.
How do I get to River House from Asheville?
Take I-40 East to Exit 70, follow US-221 North and US-16 North to the North Fork New River bridge. Turn left onto Old Field Creek Road where we're located half a mile upriver.
Are the historic buildings accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Our 1870s buildings have limited accessibility. We provide ground-floor accommodations and ADA-compliant features in designated areas while maintaining original historic structures.
What outdoor activities are available near the inn?
Guests enjoy river tubing, canoeing, and fishing on the New River. The property has walking trails through 160 acres of mountain terrain with wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic vistas.
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