Some lakes really do have it all, and Lake Lure – home to an idyllic town of the same name – is one of those. Its shoreline is a lacy delight of beaches and coves, leading to forests and hidden waterfalls – all backed by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and with views of Chimney Rock. The manmade lake, close to Asheville, is particularly lovely in autumn, when the trees around the shore and surrounding slopes dress up in rich jewel colours.

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