Eco-Friendly 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Nature and Relaxation

Day 1: Exploring Asheville

Asheville, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Start your day with a hearty, locally-sourced breakfast featuring unique Southern dishes at this popular eatery.
Head south down N Lexington Ave towards East Walnut St.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Biltmore Estate

Explore the stunning grounds and opulent mansion of the largest privately-owned home in the US, surrounded by gardens and vineyards.
Drive 10 minutes to 1 Lodge St.
USD80, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at White Duck Taco Shop

Indulge in vibrant, eco-friendly tacos with innovative fillings that showcase local ingredients.
Drive back into downtown Asheville, about 15 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the River Arts District

Stroll through this charming area filled with artist studios and galleries, showcasing local talent and craftsmanship.
Walk or cycle around the district, approximately 10 minutes from downtown.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Plant

Dine at this acclaimed vegan restaurant known for its creative dishes made from seasonal local produce.
Drive 5 minutes from the River Arts District.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains Adventure

Great Smoky Mountains, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner Kitchen

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring a range of vegetarian options in a historic building in Biltmore Village.
Drive approximately 20 minutes to the restaurant.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking in Clingmans Dome

Trek to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains, where breathtaking views await at the top.
Drive 40 minutes to Clingmans Dome parking area.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Newfound Gap Picnic Area

Have a picnic with packed local treats while admiring the stunning mountain views.
Drive a short distance to the picnic area.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cades Cove Loop Drive

Take a scenic drive through a beautiful valley rich in wildlife and historic homesteads.
Drive for 30 minutes to Cades Cove Loop.
USD0 (Free entry), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cades Cove Cafe

Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner featuring comfort food sourced from local farms.
Dine in the cafe situated within the loop.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Tour in Cherokee

Cherokee, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Waffle

Treat yourself to a filling breakfast with delicious fluffy waffles and fresh fruit.
Drive 30 minutes north to Cherokee.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn about the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people through compelling exhibits and stories.
Located just 5 minutes from the breakfast spot.
USD12, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Guided Nature Walk

Join a local guide for a fascinating morning hike that explores the area's flora and fauna.
Arranged through the museum; meet the guide outside.
USD35, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Paul’s Place

Savour authentic Cherokee dishes, including fry bread and comfort food served in a homely setting.
Drive 10 minutes from the nature walk.
USD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Engage with knowledgeable rangers and view exhibits that promote conservation in the Smokies.
Drive 15 minutes to the Visitor Centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The yellow Submarine

Enjoy a laid-back dining experience with great sandwiches and local beers.
Drive 15 minutes to the restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Begin your day with gourmet pancakes made from scratch in this popular breakfast spot.
Drive 30 minutes from Cherokee to Gatlinburg.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a lift to the top of Crockett Mountain for breathtaking views and walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Walk to the entrance from breakfast, around 10 minutes.
USD25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Relax with a casual lunch and local craft beers in a vibrant atmosphere.
Just a few minutes walk back into town.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore this top-rated aquarium showcasing thousands of sea creatures and interactive exhibits.
A short walk from the restaurant, around 5 minutes.
USD35, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Discover local arts and crafts made by skilled artisans along a scenic 8-mile loop.
Drive to the Arts & Crafts Community, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Enjoy a fondue dining experience at this upscale restaurant offering unique meal options in an intimate setting.
Drive back into Gatlinburg, approximately 15 minutes.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 5: Urban Nature Escape in Knoxville

Knoxville, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Tomato Head

Relish organic and locally sourced breakfast options in this eclectic and friendly café.
Drive 45 minutes to Knoxville.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ijams Nature Center

Spend your morning walking the beautiful trails and stunning views, close to downtown Knoxville.
Drive 10 minutes to the nature center.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at A Taste of Tennessee

Enjoy regional cuisine created with local ingredients and a home-cooked feel.
Drive back towards downtown, around 10 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum

Stroll through the expansive gardens and learn about native plants in a beautiful setting.
Short drive or a nice walk from lunch, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Market Square

Spend some leisurely time exploring boutiques and shops in one of Knoxville’s central gathering places.
Drive about 10 minutes to Market Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Copper Cellar

Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring a great menu of locally sourced dishes and craft cocktails.
Drive 5 minutes from Market Square.
USD40, 2 hours
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