There’s No Other Underground Retreat In The World Quite Like This One In North Carolina

Nestled on the side of Sunset Mountain in Western North Carolina is one of America's most prized hotels. Built in 1913, the Omni Grove Park Inn has hosted many dignitaries over the past 100 or so years since it opened. Sitting U.S. presidents, as well as countless celebrities, have enjoyed the rustic luxury of the resort. But not all of them got the chance to enjoy the underground retreat now located at the resort. That's because it wasn't added until 2001.

One of the real jewels of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the luxurious Omni Grove Park Inn. For many, the experience of staying here is truly once in a lifetime.

The hotel is considered one of the best in the world and has the views to match.

But one of the best views from the hotel is actually seen from looking down the mountain toward the hotel's massive underground grotto.

On top of the subterranean retreat lies a perfectly landscaped garden, complete with glass pinnacle ceilings that allow natural sunlight into the ritzy and rustic underground world.

Make your way down the winding staircase, and then just outside the entrance you're greeted by a towering waterfall lapping over the edge of a stacked rock formation with the extravagant Grove Park Inn high above.

Spin on your heels 180 degrees to find the entrance to a 43,000-square-foot subterranean retreat whose walls and ceilings are lined with tons and tons of natural rocks.

The Spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn is a cavernous hideaway that boasts several indoor pools (among other things) for relaxation beyond your imagination.

Finish any one of the self-indulgent treatments offered by the spa and then go relax in front of one of the three toasty fireplaces, or soak in a pool.

The spa has three of them, including a lap pool with 6,500 fiber-optic stars — and underwater music.

If you prefer the great outdoors, then the underground retreat does have many connections to the outside world. Sit in the outdoor spa and enjoy the warmth as you soak up the unforgettable views all around you.

The Omni Grove Park Inn (and its fabulous subterranean spa) is located at 290 Macon Ave., Asheville, NC 28804.

Find out more about the spa at this link.

For another can't-miss adventure in North Carolina, check out the 19 scenic tunnels found on the Blue Ridge Parkway.