Planning a mountain getaway and looking for something a little slower paced? A wine afternoon in the High Country might be exactly what you need. Fresh mountain air. Rolling hills. A glass in hand. Good conversation. That’s a solid way to spend a day in Boone.
If you’re searching for the best place to stay in Boone, NC, Graystone Lodge puts you right in the middle of it all. Our guests often stay 1–4 days, which makes local wineries a perfect addition to a hiking trip, football weekend, or romantic escape.
Here’s where to go and what to expect.
In this article:
–Visit top High Country wineries near Boone, NC – Sip at Grandfather Vineyard, Linville Falls Winery, Banner Elk Winery, and the new Mill Camp.
–Stay centrally at Graystone Lodge in Boone, NC – Easy access to Banner Elk, Newland, and local wine stops for a smooth 1–4 day getaway.
–Turn your trip into a full Boone weekend plan – Pair winery afternoons with Blue Ridge Parkway sunsets, downtown Boone dining, and a relaxing stay at a luxury boutique hotel in Boone, NC.
Graystone Lodge is a 101-room boutique hotel located in Boone, NC, that captures the spirit of the High Country in a warm, welcoming ambiance of a mountain lodge with an enhanced modern design and upscale amenities. Book your stay or learn more about our rooms. Subscribe to our email list to “stay in the know” about local tips, events, and promotions: Join the list! Don’t miss our Winter Special: Stay 3 Nights and Save 20%. Valid December 19th, 2025 through March 20th, 2026. Book now and save.
Sip Local at Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
About 25 minutes from Boone, Grandfather Vineyard sits along the Watauga River with Grandfather Mountain towering in the background. It’s one of the most scenic winery settings in the region.
They produce estate-grown wines and offer a laid-back tasting room atmosphere. On a mild afternoon, grab a seat outside near the river. In cooler months, the indoor space feels cozy and relaxed.
Guests love that you can:
- Enjoy live music on select weekends
- Bring a picnic or purchase small bites onsite
- Walk the property and take in mountain views
- Relax with friends without feeling rushed
This spot pairs well with a morning hike or a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Don’t Miss Linville Falls Winery
Set on a historic property near Newland, Linville Falls Winery has that classic North Carolina vineyard feel—rolling fields, a red barn, and wide-open skies.
Their wines range from dry reds to sweeter blends, so there’s something for every palate. The property itself is spacious, which makes it a great stop for groups or families who want room to spread out.
It’s also conveniently close to Linville Falls, so you can easily turn your day into a mix of waterfalls and wine.
A New Favorite: Mill Camp
Mill Camp is the newest addition to the Boone-area wine scene, and locals are already talking about it. It’s exciting to see more vineyards taking root right here in the High Country.
Mill Camp brings a fresh energy while still honoring the agricultural character of the mountains. The setting feels distinctly Boone—open land, long views, and that crisp air that makes everything taste better.
If you’re staying at our luxury boutique hotel in Boone, NC, this is an easy addition to your itinerary. Less driving. More relaxing.
We’ve had guests check in, head out for an afternoon tasting at Mill Camp, then return to unwind in our lobby with a nightcap and good conversation. Simple. Easy. Memorable.
Extend Your Wine Tour to Banner Elk Winery
Banner Elk Winery offers another beautiful mountain setting, complete with vineyard views and a welcoming tasting room. It’s a relaxed stop that works well for couples or small groups.
Many of our guests make a loop: Banner Elk, Grandfather Vineyard, and then back to Boone for dinner.
That’s the beauty of staying central. You’re never too far from the next stop.
Making a Weekend of It
When it comes to planning a High Country getaway, balance is everything. You don’t need a packed schedule to have a great trip.
A few ideas to round out your wine weekend:
- Start your morning with coffee and a stroll through downtown Boone
- Head out mid-day for a winery visit
- Catch sunset along the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Enjoy dinner at one of Boone’s locally owned restaurants
- Return to Graystone Lodge for a quiet evening in
Some guests plan winery visits around Appalachian State football weekends. Others come during leaf season in October, when the vineyards glow in gold and red. Spring and summer offer lush green backdrops and patio weather that’s hard to beat.
Why Stay at Graystone Lodge?
After a day of tastings, driving mountain roads, and soaking in the views, comfort matters.
As a hotel in Boone, NC that understands short mountain getaways, we focus on what makes a stay smooth and easy:
- Comfortable, thoughtfully designed rooms
- Indoor heated pool for year-round relaxation
- Complimentary breakfast to start your morning right
- Convenient access to Boone, Banner Elk, and surrounding wineries
- Pet-friendly accommodations for those bringing their four-legged travel buddy
Many guests tell us we’re the best pet-friendly hotel in Boone, NC, especially when they want to include their dog in outdoor winery visits. Others appreciate that we’re also known as one of the best family-friendly hotels in Boone, NC, which makes multigenerational trips feel effortless.
Wine afternoons for the adults. Pool time for the kids. Everyone wins.
Slow Down and Savor It
The High Country has a way of encouraging you to slow your pace. Wine fits naturally into that rhythm. Sit longer. Talk more. Look around.
You don’t need a complicated plan. Just a comfortable place to stay, a short drive to a scenic vineyard, and a few hours set aside to enjoy it.
Graystone Lodge makes it easy to build your weekend around what matters most—good views, good company, and a glass raised to mountain memories.
We’ll have your room ready when you get back.
Check out other blogs:
- Boone’s Best Kept Secrets for Couples
- Tired of Freezing Outdoors? 9 Ways to Stay Warm Inside While Visiting Boone, NC
- Boone’s Winter Playground: Ski, Tube, and Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains
- A Mountain Christmas: Discovering the Holiday Magic of Boone, NC
- Skiing Lessons in the High Country: Tips and Tricks for the Best Experience
- Where to Find and Cut Your Own Christmas Trees in Boone