You’ve settled in your room, unzipped your bag and taken out that favorite scarf, the one you bought for this trip. What could make this mountain getaway any better? Oh yes, a glass of the perfect Cabernet. As you settle into the living room that will be yours for the next week, you wonder: what are some hygge things to do in Bryson City? How can I continue experiencing this cozy, hyggelig feeling?
Hygge, which translates to the pursuit of every day happiness through simple things, like togetherness, well-being and gratitude. Hygge is curling up on the sofa with a fresh glass of wine or tea, it’s sharing comfort food with your best friend, it’s the view of the mountains after a long hike. Hygge is also simplicity, it’s not fancy or expensive, it’s a celebration of slow, simple living.
Of all the Hygge places in the world, Bryson City, North Carolina is an untapped gem. Here are 4 places you can visit to truly experience a rejuvenating hygge vacation.
4 Hygge Things To Do In Bryson City
Deep Creek
Mother nature is the originator of hygge. There are few places that can leave you with a sense of awe. Nature teaches us that we don’t need anything, we are already perfect. Going out in nature is simple yet purposeful, and experiencing it will remind us of this instantly.
Deep Creek is one of most beautiful places in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s just outside of Downtown Bryson City (and a 5 minute drive from our Hygge House mountain suites). You can take a number of hikes or casual walks, as well as make a day and set up a picnic. There’s something here for whatever level of nature you want to commune with.
La Dolce Vita Bakery & Coffee Shop
Who doesn’t want to settle in and enjoy a rich mocha latte? So much of our normal lives are often spent reaching for our coffee to go. With the hygge mindset, it’s all about slow living and enjoying the moment.
La Dolce Vita is in downtown Bryson City and it’s central location is a great people-watching spot. Beyond its Instagrammable appeal, everything on the menu is delicious. They serve an assortment of coffee, tea, lunch and breakfast options. Plus, you can enjoy your coffee with the view of our charming small town.
The Chocolate Shoppe
As the Danes will admit, Hygge is not 100% about being healthy… indulgence is key. And what better time to indulge then when you’re on vacation? The Chocolate Shoppe is a long time treasure to Bryson City. All the chocolate is made in-house freshly by locals. They also serve homemade ice cream for those summer hygge days.
Bryson City Outdoors
You can practically hear the cheers theme song when you walk in this essential local spot. Bryson City Outdoors (BCO) is part outdoor shop part taproom. It’s locally run by some of the sweetest people in town, and its charm is undeniable. This is a must visit any time you pass through Bryson City. Whether you’re grabbing some beer or gear, you’ll be sure to run into smiling faces and small-town conversation.
Pro-tip: if you’re looking for a quick bite after a hike, this is the perfect place to reward yourself. BCO features some of the most delicious food trucks in town and you can eat while you drink on their beautiful patio overlooking the mountains and Bryson City. What can be more hygge than that?
Psst… looking for a quickie all-in-one guide to Bryson City (Western North Carolina area)? Check out our Bryson City Travel Guide! These are our favorite spots we’d recommend to friends and family.
Ps. We create weekly videos of life here in Bryson City and things to do in town and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountain area 😊 Subscribe to our channel for a weekly dose of life in the mountains.
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