Endless opportunities surround the coastal area with two stretches of stunning beaches to explore; the gentle inner waters of the sounds which are ideal for families with young children and the rugged Atlantic coast of the Outer Bank islands which draw surfers and hang gliders alike. Together they provide some of the most unspoiled beaches anywhere in the world.

For those who prefer their activities on dry land, North Carolina can proudly claim to be one of the greatest golf destinations in the world, with over 500 golf courses scattered throughout the state offering year round golf. The village of Pinehurst, which lives and breathes golf lays claim to being the spiritual home of the sport and has hosted the US Open three times (1999, 2005 and 2014).

The state features a selection of outstanding spa resorts, two of the best can be found at The Grove Park Inn, tucked away in the mountains and The Umstead sitting just outside Raleigh. The Umstead was North Carolinas first five star hotel and boasts membership in ‘The Leading Spas of the World’. The Grove Park Inn is a unique property located just outside the town of Asheville whose spa is built deep into the rock, preserving the unusual look of the property. The outside deck offers unsurpassed views across the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.