Valdese is a lovely 19th-century mountain town located just 10 minutes east of Morganton, originally founded as a Waldensian religious colony of Italian immigrants. Today, the charming town is home to delightful cultural attractions such as the Old Rock School Auditorium, which hosts an annual Bluegrass at the Rock concert series and performances by the Old Colony Players community theater. Each summer, the town presents the "From This Day Forward" theatrical journey, one of the state's longest-running outdoor dramas. Waldensian cultural history is on display at the Waldensian Heritage Museum, the preserved historic Waldensian Presbyterian Church, and the lovely Trail of Faith, which can be explored as part of self-guided tours. Couples can also enjoy delicious dinners at restaurants such as Myra's or sample boutique wines at the lovely Waldensian Heritage Winery, which utilizes winemaking practices perfected for more than 250 years.

Brevard Bald Head Island Blowing Rock Boone Bryson City Cape Hatteras Cashiers The Crystal Coast Dillsboro Duck Flat Rock Hot Springs Lake Lure Little Switzerland Manteo Marshall Morganton Highlands Valdese Wilmington

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