Brandon and I celebrated our 22nd wedding anniversary last Friday. In honor of the occasion, we fled the city for a weekend in the Uwharries.

Have you ever heard of the Uwharries? If not, you’ve probably driven through them a time or two.

The Uwharrie Mountain range spans Randolph, Mongomery, Stanly, and Davidson counties. At 500 million years old, it is the oldest mountain range in America – and one of my favorite places in the whole state.

So what did we do while we were out of town? Good question! I’ve dropped all the details below.

A Weekend in the Uwharries

Bennett & Coleridge

Brandon and I had an ulterior motive for taking an anniversary weekend getaway – we wanted to take a peek at some of the small towns in the Uwharries and Sandhills. Why? We want to move to the country.

So we drove through the countryside in Bennett & Coleridge. Both are beautiful, but Coleridge, with its dilapidated historic cotton mill, was precious.

Will we end up there? Probably not. We both have our hearts set on Seagrove.

Seagrove

Granddaddy was born in Seagrove, embedding deep roots in me from the Owens, Chrisco, and Latham families, each celebrated for their artisan pottery.

As we neared Seagrove, our conviction solidified: this is where we want to purchase our next home. With that decision made, our journey shifted from town exploration to a pottery shopping spree.

We made stops at Jugtown Pottery, the Original Owens Pottery, and Seagrove Pottery, gathering unique Christmas gifts. And, in a moment of serendipity, Boyd Owens gave me a photograph — a timeless capture of our relatives standing before the very church Granddaddy frequented in his youth.

The Horse Farm

Our Airbnb didn’t promise luxury, but what it lacked in opulence, it made up for in charm. We stayed on a rescue horse farm, and while the pony was a touch reserved, I found an instant soulmate in Chief.

Chief, the horse, was a lovable giant who trotted over the moment I called, showering me with kisses as if he were an oversized puppy. His warm welcome made this Airbnb not just a place to stay, but the best one I’ve ever experienced.

Ironwood Cafe

We celebrated our anniversary at Ironwood Cafe, which leaned a little on the upscale side for my taste. However, the enchanting atmosphere of the patio was undeniable, and the cuisine was respectable.

Would I return? Considering the price, probably not, but for a special occasion, it made for a memorable evening.

Morrow Mountain State Park

The next morning, we got up early and went to Morrow Mountain State Park. We soaked up the spectacular views from the top – which are arguably among the finest in North Carolina, save for the Appalachians.

Then we explored Dr. Kron’s house. Someone, please explain to me why we don’t build houses like that anymore! The craftsmanship and charm were so inviting that, if given the opportunity, I’d happily move in right now.

The Buffalo Farm

After a short hike, we made our way over to the buffalo farm just outside of Mt. Gilead. We parked on the roadside to snap a few pictures. It’s something I do every time I pass through on my way to the Town Creek Indian Mound.

Town Creek Indian Mound

I’m obsessed with Town Creek Indian Mound. Brandon took me on our first family vacation, and it’s become a must-visit destination for us ever since.

Town Creek was a ceremonial site and village center for the Pee Dee tribe from 1150-1400 AD. No one knows why the site was abandoned but the National Historic Landmark is the only Pee Dee mound located in North Carolina.

The Pik N Pig

Our last stop? The Pik N Pig in Carthage. Y’all! The experience there was nothing short of phenomenal! Nestled on a private airfield, you can watch the planes come and go while you wait to be seated.

The pork at Pik N Pig is divine, and though I longed for an Eastern North Carolina-style BBQ sauce, the flavors were still impeccable. Every bite, from the succulent barbecue to the exquisite sides, was a delight. The jalapeño butter for the hushpuppies was a revelation, and don’t even get me started on the dessert—make sure to spring for the nanner puddin’!

This is one place I will undoubtedly revisit time and time again for its unique atmosphere and exceptional food.

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After filling up on amazing food at Pik N Pig, we made our way back to the Airbnb, where we spent the afternoon relaxing, napping, and dreaming of what life might be like in a place like Seagrove. With the peacefulness of the Uwharries all around, it was easy to imagine trading city noise for quiet country nights, and long workdays for leisurely strolls through fields and forests.

Our weekend in the Uwharries was everything we’d hoped for—quiet, rejuvenating, and full of reminders about what truly matters. We left feeling more connected, not only to each other but to this beautiful part of North Carolina that we both love so much. Whether or not we make a move to the Uwharries, weekends like this remind us to keep dreaming, to savor good food, and to take the time to appreciate the beauty of both the past and the present.

So, here’s to 22 years with my best friend and partner in all things—and to the simple joys of life, love, and adventure.

Until next time, Uwharries!