Equestrian:

Polk County leads all counties in North Carolina in the number of horses per capita, according to an inventory completed as part of the state's equine industry study for 2008. Foxhunting is the cornerstone of the area's equestrian heritage. The Tryon Hounds Horse Show is one of t he oldest and most prestigious hunts in the southeast, dating back to the 1920's. Foothills Equestrian Nature Center(FENCE), located down the mountain about 15 minutes, is a 394 acre recreational area with equestrian trails, open to the public. FENCE also operates for-profit facilities that include 11 barns, four show rings, one covered arena, steeplechase and cross-country courses and 302 permanent stalls. The first Blockhouse Steeplechase was held here in 1946. Other events include Dressage, Carriage Driving, Hunter/Jumper, and Progressive Show Jumping. A 10.000 square foot expansion has been planned.

Cycling:

Cycling enthusiasts come from all over the world to Saluda to cycle its local mountain roads. The Greenriver Watershed trail, a favorite, begins at the center of Main Street Saluda. There is a major bike shop in Saluda.

Fly Fishing, Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, Tubing:

Experience the local rivers by yourself or with professional. Curtis Wright Outfitters located in downtown Saluda can both outfit you and coordinate your trip.

Hiking:

The trails around here are numerous. They start with easy then progress to moderate and strenuous. You can pick up a Visitor Guide and map downtown and choose your level. My favorites are Pearson's Falls, one half mile walk to beautiful cascading falls, owned by the Tryon Garden Club, but less than 10 minutes from Sunflower Cottage, and DuPont State Forest, with five waterfalls and a beautiful area.

Golf:

To list some that I know about - Highland Lake Golf Club, Red Fox Golf Club, Links of Tryon. and Etowah Valley Country Club.

Tennis:

These are too numerous to list since my husband, a great tennis player, has tried every one within 50 miles. But, for those less enthusiastic, there is a private court just behind Sunflower Cottage with friendly owners who are willing to share.

Wineries, Wine Shops, and Wine Cellars:

We are experiencing a growth in vineyards. There are about 13 producing grapes for winemaking, and since the early 1900's grapes have been grown in the area. My two favorite wineries are Rockhouse Vineyards and Winery, with award-winning wines, tours and tastings, and Green Creek Winery that not only has great wine but great mountain views. The Wine Cellar at The Saluda Inn on Greenville Street is excellent, like walking into a wine cellar in Europe, but with friendly hosts. There is also a wine shop on Main Street.

Antiquing:

This area is a mother-load for those interested in finding special treasures. There is Saluda, Tryon, Hendersonville Main Street and surrounding area, and Landrum to explore. All within a 30 minute drive.