High Hampton Inn
Blogging From Our Little Corner Of Cashiers And Highlands, North Carolina

Archive for the ‘For the Kids’ Category

Celebrating 26 Years of Bear-y Fun Picnics – A Q&A with Hampton Bear

July 3rd, 2012 by Staff

Each summer, High Hampton invites children and parents to celebrate our famous mascot, Hampton Bear, with a special birthday celebration known as the Teddy Bear Picnic. This year’s Teddy Bear Picnic will take place on July 9th and will feature an all-day party for children, parents and teddy bears alike in honor of Hampton Bear’s 26th birthday.

To provide some insight into this festive day, Hampton Bear took some time to answer some questions about the party.

1. How is the Teddy Bear Picnic different from other celebrations?

High Hampton may be the only resort in the world that offers Teddy Bears a memorable vacation, along with their owners. Not only do I get to celebrate the day with all the children, but I get to celebrate with their favorite teddy bears too. The Teddy Bear Picnic is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to spend the day together, especially during the Treasure Bear Hunt.

2. What is your favorite food offered at the picnic dinner?

After being in hibernation all winter long, I look forward to Hampton Bear’s Fabulous Fried Chicken.  Chef Sean knows it is my favorite and always cooks it to perfection! Like most of the children, I love the Chocolate Bear Cake and Bear Cupcakes too.

3. What is one of the most creative Teddy Bears you have seen at the Teddy Bear Picnic?

There have been so many great bears at my party over the years, but I have to say, the most creative bear has been Elvis Bearsley. The hair and the outfit made me laugh – I was all shook up! I can’t wait to meet the bears this year.

4. What advice can you share with children who will be attending the Teddy Bear Picnic for the first time this year?

I would tell them to be creative in designing their Teddy Bears. There are many different categories where prizes can be won, such as the Best Dressed Bear, the Beary Oldest Bear, the Most Appealing Wee Bear, the Most Interesting Big Bear, the Most Awesome Bear, the Most Overall Huggable Bear, and the Hampton Bear Award.

I want the kids and their parents to be ready for a day of fun and games, and get a good night’s sleep the night before the picnic.

 

We look forward to seeing all the creative bears dressed up this summer!

Famous Llamas Invade Cashiers This Summer

June 29th, 2012 by Staff

Llamas arrive at High Hampton

Move over Fred and Ed, there are new furry friends at High Hampton this summer! No, guests aren’t seeing things; llamas have invaded Cashiers. Serving as furry Sherpas for guided hikes and as golf caddies every Thursday and Friday during the summer, the llamas are a special addition during our 90th season.

The llamas, previously featured on National Geographic Adventures, Animal Planet and BBC, are undaunted by their new role here at High Hampton Inn.  You may see them carrying picnic baskets, blankets and provisions while accompanying families and children on hikes to Cherokee Campgrounds, around Hampton Lake, and up to the top of Rock Mountain. In the evenings, the llamas will make special guest appearances at the Rock Mountain Tavern, where you are invited to meet and take pictures with the shaggy, friendly animals.  Also, by request, golfers can arrange for a llama to be their caddy.

The llamas arrive each Thursday with owner, Mark English, who has been raising them at his family’s farm in Brevard, NC since 2008. While this is the first summer High Hampton has partnered with English’s company, Llama Caddy, the llamas are already attracting major attention in the short time they have been here. Their hikes and meet-and-greets at the Tavern have become some of our most popular summer activities.

Have you met the llamas yet?

Looking down at Rock Mountain

Staying Fit during a Trip to High Hampton Inn

May 22nd, 2012 by Staff

In the weeks leading up to a vacation, people typically make an effort to eat well and exercise regularly to be in the best shape possible. Whether you’re vacationing at the beach, lake or mountains, trips away from home usually involve indulging in different foods and drinks and often times little exercise.  A visit to High Hampton Inn includes not only great dining but also unique ways to stay active on your vacation. Below are four fun ways to keep in shape while making the most of your stay at High Hampton.

Hiking and Fitness Trails – Since High Hampton is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you are guaranteed access to a number of hiking trails. There are 15-miles of well-marked hiking trails on property for you to explore alone or with a guide. To reach the summit of Rock Mountain at 4,370 feet, you will need about an hour-and-a-half.  A four-hour round-trip excursion leads to the peak of Chimney Top Mountain, located at 4,618 feet, and back down.  The Lake Trail is ideal for visitors looking for a mild hike.  The 1.5-mile trail meanders around Hampton Lake, giving you many opportunities to enjoy the area’s flora and fauna.  The Fitness Trail includes 10 exercise stations that will tone your muscles.  The trail begins at the upper end of Hampton Lake and finishes at the base of Rock Mountain. All of these hikes allow for spectacular views and great cardiovascular exercise.

Hampton Lake – Hampton Lake offers numerous ways for you to stay active all day long. The 35-acre lake features a wading pool, swimming area, beach, two docks and swim platforms, and a playground. Spending an afternoon kayaking, canoeing or paddle boating is a great way to get active and enjoy a peaceful summer day on the water.  Those looking for something more vigorous will enjoy swimming laps in the refreshing mountain water.

Children swimming and playing in a mountain lake

Enjoying summertime fun on Lake Hampton

Beanstalk – If you are seeking the thrill of rock climbing, the Beanstalk is for you.  The eight-sided, 28-foot climbing tower located outside of the Hampton Health Club and Spa the perfect way for adults and kids to work on total body fitness.  Arm and leg muscles are sure to be toned as you make your way to the top of the rock.

Outdoor climbing tower

Heading to the top of the Beanstalk at High Hampton

Outdoor Sports – You can also enjoy spending time outdoors playing golf, tennis, and bocce ball. A round of golf on the George W. Cobb 18-hole golf course or playing tennis on one of the clay courts are both great ways to burn some calories. To hone your skills, you can participate in our golf and tennis clinics that are available throughout the year. Our two new bocce ball courts are also great ways to get active and indulge in a little friendly competition.

Girl playing tennis

Staying in shape with a game of tennis at High Hampton

When you visit High Hampton this summer, you don’t have to stop your fitness routine.  By participating in our fun and unique activities, you are sure to stay fit on your trip this summer.