Montreat, Mountain retreat town in Buncombe County, North Carolina.
Description
Montreat is a small town nestled in a valley at around 800 meters elevation, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. The community sits on forested land and functions as a residential and retreat center.
History
The settlement began in 1897 when the Mountain Retreat Association founded it as a summer resort destination, and the Presbyterian Church took over its governance years later. This religious connection shaped how the place developed and what it became.
Culture
The Montreat Conference Center draws visitors and residents for religious gatherings and public talks about faith and social issues. The space serves as a gathering point where people come together to discuss and think about matters that affect their lives.
Practical
Access to the town is mainly through Highway 9, a winding road that connects the valley to surrounding areas. Visitors should expect mountain driving conditions and allow extra time for travel.
Did you know?
A major storm in 2024 damaged all five bridges crossing Flat Creek, triggering extensive reconstruction work throughout the community. This event significantly altered the town's infrastructure and remains fresh in the minds of residents.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Buncombe County).
Black Mountain College
5.6 km
Andrews Geyser
5.5 kmMcDibbs
3.7 km
Monte Vista Hotel
3.9 km
Black Mountain Downtown Historic District
3.7 km
Intheoaks
4.6 km
Thomas Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church
4.8 km
Rafael Guastavino, Sr., Estate
5.4 kmDougherty Heights Historic District
3.8 kmSouth Montreat Road Historic District
3.1 kmSwannanoa Valley Museum and History Center
3.8 kmPoint Lookout
4.9 kmPoint Lookout
4.7 kmWalkers Knob
3.4 kmBlack Mountain Golf Course
3.7 kmPots Cove
3.4 kmLookout Rocks
1.3 kmRattlesnake Rock
1.5 kmLunch Rock
541 mRed House Studios and Gallery
3.9 kmWaldens Rock
2.9 kmDicky's Loop
4.4 kmGreybeard Peak
4.3 kmRocky Knob
5.5 kmBrushy Mountain View
1.6 kmShelter View
1.4 kmNorth View
787 mGraybeard Falls
3.6 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes