Asheville Joins Condé Nast's Gorgeous Mountain Cities List

Condé Nast Traveler named Asheville, North Carolina among 11 American mountain cities as the city continues rebuilding after Hurricane Helene.

Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Europe

Screen-print poster illustration of layered blue mountain ridgelines above a misty valley, with a row of brick rooftops, evoking Asheville's mountain setting. — Condé Nast Traveler named Asheville among 11 gorgeous American mountain cities on October 30, the only North Carolina city on the list, as the city continues rebuilding after Hurricane Helene. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Condé Nast Traveler published its list of 11 Gorgeous American Mountain Cities on October 30, and Asheville is the only North Carolina city included. The recognition comes as the city continues rebuilding from catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024.

Why it matters

The national attention highlights Asheville's tourism and artistic communities during its recovery from the storm. Hundreds of artists are working in repurposed spaces in the city, and many landmarks have reopened to visitors.

The list features 11 American mountain cities, with Asheville as the sole North Carolina representative. The selection does not specify the editorial criteria or how many visitors the recognition may draw.

The players

Condé Nast Traveler

Condé Nast Traveler is a travel publication owned by Condé Nast that is known for its destination guides and curated lists of places to visit.

The details

Condé Nast Traveler framed the list around year-round mountain destinations offering art, slopes, and family activities. Editors recommended The Inn on Biltmore Estate, which earlier this year ranked among the South's top places to stay, and Asheville was previously named the No. 1 nicest place in America.

2024: Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding in Asheville.
Earlier this year: The Inn on Biltmore Estate ranked among the South's top places to stay.
Earlier this year: Bryson City was named one of the best small towns in the South.
October 30: Condé Nast Traveler published its list of 11 Gorgeous American Mountain Cities.

Travel Outlook

Asheville's inclusion follows the post-Helene recognition it has received from other travel sources, including its No. 1 nicest place ranking. Its placement alongside Aspen, Breckenridge and Whitefish signals that Western North Carolina is being evaluated as a year-round mountain destination on par with established Western resorts.

Visitors planning a mountain trip can compare Asheville against Western peers such as Aspen and Breckenridge when choosing a year-round destination. Confirm current availability of attractions and lodging, as the city is still rebuilding from the 2024 storm.

The takeaway

Asheville's recognition shows that recovering destinations can draw renewed national attention when their core attractions reopen. Travelers weighing mountain getaways should look beyond headline rankings and confirm current conditions before booking.