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Dive into the heart of sisterhood and Southern charm with “Thoroughbreds, Traditions & Trails: A Southeastern Odyssey,” exclusively designed for women who seek adventure, connection, and unforgettable memories. Sisterhood Travels invites you on a journey through the spirited streets of Louisville, Kentucky, across the serene beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, and into the artistic heart of Asheville, North Carolina. This trip is more than a getaway; it’s an invitation to bond with like-minded women as we explore the elegance of thoroughbred horses, savor the legacy of Southern traditions, and wander the majestic trails of the Appalachians together.
Our adventure kicks off in the lively city of Louisville, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the rich heritage of horse racing at Churchill Downs and indulge in the art of bourbon crafting. As we stroll through the historic mansions of Old Louisville and embark on a choice of museum visits, we’ll share stories and create new ones. Moving through Kentucky’s picturesque countryside, we’ll visit storied bourbon distilleries and private horse farms, embracing the beauty and craftsmanship that define this beloved region. Every experience is curated to deepen our connection, celebrate our joys, and enrich our understanding of the South’s vibrant culture.
As we ascend into the enchanting realm of the Great Smoky Mountains and arrive in the eclectic city of Asheville, our journey together evolves into a celebration of natural beauty, artistic expression, and the enduring power of female friendship. From the majestic Biltmore Estate to the cozy craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants, every moment is an opportunity to connect, laugh, and grow. This is a journey of the heart, designed to forge lasting bonds and empower us through shared adventures. Join Sisterhood Travels, and let’s create memories that will inspire us for years to come.
Welcome to Louisville, Kentucky, famous for thoroughbreds, bourbon, and baseball! Upon arrival, you’ll be transported to our hotel. No meals are included today.
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Louisville Downtown
Today, we’ll enjoy a visit to Churchill downs, the Thoroughbred racetrack famous for hosting the pinnacle of all horse races: the Kentucky Derby. Then, we’ll tour the Kentucky Derby Museum and learn about the legendary history of the “Sport of Kings.” We’ll enjoy a walking tour of Old Louisville, a historic neighborhood of Victorian mansions. Later, we’ll head to “Museum Row” where it’s your choice: Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory for an All-Star baseball experience, OR, explore the Frazier Kentucky History Museum, and its Spirit of Kentucky exhibit, the official start of the Bourbon Trail. Tonight, we’ll join together for our official Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Louisville Downtown
This morning, we’ll visit Buffalo Trace, the oldest continuously operating Bourbon distillery in America. You’ll be able to learn about the subtle craft, meet some of the people who make it all happen, and taste some of the home-grown spirit. We’ll stop in the quaint, historic town of Midway before exploring Kentucky’s horse country where we’ll learn about the area from a local guide and take in the rolling bluegrass pastureland and the horse farms that dot the landscape. We’ll even hear about time-honored traditions during visits to private horse farms before arriving in Lexington. (Breakfast)
Hotel: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Lexington
Today, we’ll travel to Berea, the historic college town known as the arts-and-crafts center of Kentucky where we’ll meet a few artisans while they demonstrate their craft. Then, we’ll explore musical artifacts and memorabilia during a visit to the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame. Tonight, we’ll gather together to take in the tastes of Kentucky at a local restaurant. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Lexington
This morning, we’re going to travel through Daniel Boone National Forest. Extending across the western plateau region of the Appalachian Mountains, it’s named for the larger-than-life American pioneer who once blazed a trail across these rugged and wild lands. We’ll arrive in the lively mountain resort of Gatlinburg, gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where the rest of the day is yours to explore and have fun with your Sisters. (Breakfast and Lunch)
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Gatlinburg
With a local guide, we’ll explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park (UNESCO), the United States’ most visited national park. We’ll stop at various lookouts on our way to Newfound Gap, which boasts views of both Tennessee and North Carolina. Then, we’re going to enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic location before continuing through the park to Cherokee and spend time at Qualla, the oldest Native American arts cooperative where you’ll learn about traditional crafts and customs over a discussion with an artist. Afterwards, we’ll tour the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery with a tasting before enjoying an evening at leisure with your Sisters. (Breakfast and Lunch)
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Gatlinburg
This morning, we’ll depart for Asheville, North Carolina, your Blue Ridge Mountains Home for two nights. The afternoon and evening are yours for independent exploration with your Sisters in this city known for craft breweries, chocolate, and farm-to-table cuisine. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville
Back in 1895, George Vanderbilt II decided to build himself a “little mountain escape” in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The result was the impressive and decadent grandeur of the Biltmore Estate, which we will tour today. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville
Sadly, our tour comes to an end today. As you venture home, take the spirit and the warmth of the incredible new friendships you’ve made along the way. (Breakfast)
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
This is a leisurely paced itinerary and is full of cultural and interesting sightseeing and some free time to relax. Some excursion days may include reasonably early starts, some longer coach travel and possibly walking over uneven terrain. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility.