Scandinavian Reboot

As we’ve recalibrated our lives, local getaways have risen to the forefront—and delightful places like The Wells Hotel have emerged from the fog.

I came to The Wells for a pandemic escape and to sample the culture of our close mountain neighbor near the Nantahala National Forest. Highlands reminds of a quaint Alpine village, a perfect weekend getaway in serene nature with abundant shopping and restaurants filling Main Street.

The Chandler Inn, a former Highlands mainstay less than a mile from downtown, changed hands in November 2019. Its new owner gave the inn a facelift in “mountain-chic Scandinavian style,” along with a name change. The renovation is equal parts woodsy and elegant, rustic and modern, perfectly homey but also appealing to city dwellers with a refined eye.

Each of the hotel’s 12 stylish suites, unique in character and layout, are appointed with luxurious linens, fine bath products, and Nespresso machines. Like a Danish dream, hardwood floors, modern furnishings, and monochromatic accents lend an airy feel, while picture windows bring the outside in. The larger suites have gas fireplaces (a fire in Highlands can always fit the bill, no matter the time of year) and small kitchen areas with a microwave and mini fridge. Many rooms are adjacent to an interior courtyard and have private sitting areas.

The lobby doubles as a gathering space and will evolve into a public café called The Stag Bar later this year. Until then, wine, coffee, and draft beer from local Cashiers spot Whiteside Brewery, a sister property of the hotel, are for guests’ enjoyment.

Spring is on its way, reminding of renewal—which is something we all could use these days. Take your beverage outside to sip by the fire pit. It is a perfect way to wind down or continue your evening in this charmer of a mountain town.

The Wells Hotel, 790 N 4th St, Highlands, NC. (828) 482-7736, thewellshotel.com