Enjoy an Exclusive Escape at These Expensive Luxury Hotels in North Carolina

Choosing the wrong hotel for your next vacation isn't the end of the world, but picking the right luxury hotel will make all the memories that much sweeter. Sure, they're expensive, but if you're already spending thousands of dollars on that vacation, what's a bit more?

Whether you're looking for an all-inclusive resort hotel or just breakfast in bed with a massage in the evening, we've got four fabulous homes away from home to experience a truly unforgettable vacation.

North Carolina is a treasure trove of natural beauty, shopping, and adventure. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains, Outer Banks, and Grandfather Mountain—just be sure your phone or camera is ready and charged. You'll be taking photos and videos almost every time you turn around. But North Carolina is more than mountains, there are gorgeous beaches to enjoy, like Carova Beach.

You're more likely to run out of time than run out of things to do in North Carolina, like visiting the Biltmore Estate. Dreamed up by George Vanderbilt, it's a sight to see and holds the title of America's Largest Home. Other attractions include:

• The North Carolina Zoo
• Chimney Rock
• Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Of course, the Wright Brothers National Memorial is a great day trip for history lovers.

100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary, NC 27513

Price: Up to $3,000 per night.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa is picturesque and sits on 12 acres near the William B. Umstead State Park. When you stay at the Umstead, you'll always feel welcome. The Presidential Suite is on the top floor with expansive views of the landscape. Amenities include silk pillows, custom art, a minibar, a safe in the room, nightly turn-down service, a deep soak tub and separate shower, and more. While the Presidential Suite is one-of-a-kind, the other rooms offer beautiful views, wonderful amenities, soft pillows, and comfortable, oh-so-soft beds.

Also located in the hotel is the Herons restaurant, which is on the Forbes Five-Star Restaurants list and offers delicious fine dining.

Among the amenities at The Umstead Hotel and Spa:

• The spa offers massages, manicures, pedicures, and body treatments
• Pool & sauna for a refreshing swim after a long day
• Wedding venue for a very special day

Attractions Near The Umstead Hotel and Spa

The hotel is just west of Raleigh, leaving you close enough to enjoy shopping and restaurants. A short drive to the city gives you access to dozens of interesting activities. Here are a few:

• Tour the James B. Hunt Library, also called the Library of Tomorrow.
• Visit Pullen Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
• Explore the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve.

201 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202

Price: Up to $8,500 per night

The Ritz-Carton is synonymous with luxury, for good reason. Even the least expensive rooms here are over $500 per night, making it one of the most expensive hotels in North Carolina. The Ritz-Carlton is the place to go for a restful night after days spent exploring in and around Charlotte. Each room offers a marble bathroom with a separate tub and shower, 24/7 room service, a safe in the room, and turn-down service.

Meals at the Ritz-Carlton are fabulous too. Enjoy a flavorful steak at the BLT Steakhouse, then finish the evening with a cocktail at the K Lounge. If you love a great gelato, the Bar Cocoa has you covered.

Attractions Near The Ritz-Carlton

There are many attractions to take while staying at the Ritz-Carlton, whether you book a day at the spa to recharge or plan a day trip. Drive to Asheville, visit the Biltmore, or hang out at Freedom Park. There are shopping choices and sports entertainment in this charming city as well!

445 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741

Price: $505 and up

In the quaint little mountain town of Highlands, you'll find the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. The hotel is cozy with an understated, unpretentious luxury that beckons. They offer rooms only, or packages with extras like:

• One round of golf per guest
• Three-course meal at any Old Edwards restaurant
• Champaign arrival

Some rooms are situated directly above the spa with easy access. For your customized spa day, select from facials, massages, healing Reiki treatments, and more. You'll walk away pleasantly relaxed, feeling like a new person.

If the spa treatments and amazing hospitality weren't enough, you can take advantage of the fitness center, pool, or place some tennis.

Attractions Near the Old Edwards Inn and Spa

This hotel is conveniently nestled onto a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains in the Nantahala National Forest, a perfect area for an adventure-loving person. Here are a few ideas:

• Visit Rainbow Falls
• Hike through Ellicott's Rock Wilderness.
• See Bridal Veil Falls, right from the road!

311 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Price: $345 to $700

The Graduate by Hilton Chapel Hill gives guests a hint of college decor with top-notch service and amenities. Located near UNC Chapel Hill, the hotel offers a fitness center, EV charging, and on-site hotel. Plus, their rooms are pet-friendly. Whether you're getting your new college student set up and need somewhere close to stay or visiting Chapel Hill for vacation, the Graduate is stunning.

Attractions Near the Graduate Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a college town, so that's much of its attraction. But there is delicious local cuisine, shopping, and more adventure available. Here are a few favorites:

• Stroll through the North Carolina Botanical Garden and its 1,200 acres of natural beauty
• Visit the Morehead Planetarium, it's on campus and one of the oldest planetariums in the country.
• Enjoy a round of golf at Finley Golf Course.

Chapel Hill is a college town, which means you will be met with enthusiasm, friendliness, and quite a bit to do!

These beautiful hotels offer more than a place to slumber through the night. They're all beautiful but have different amenities that appeal to different tastes. While some wonder if the higher price of a luxury hotel is worth it, others know it is. Whether you need a mountain retreat with modern amenities or love being near the city, these hotels have something for you.