“We had a wildly successful first weekend,” says NOC Asheville General Manager Ross Ryan. “Our presence was well received by The Grove Park Inn’s guests, and we look forward to launching our unique variety of outdoor activity programs in the near future. We’re delighted that our products and services are adding value and scope to the already rich guest experience.”
The shop’s retail space provides a comprehensive offering of quality outdoor gear, fine casual apparel, and local souvenirs for local Asheville residents, as well guests of The Grove Park Inn. Guests can shop men’s, women’s and children’s apparel, footwear and accessories from leading outdoor brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, ExOfficio, Smith, Vibram FiveFingers and Keen.
NOC will also provide an on-site activity concierge for hotel guests, and serve as Asheville’s definitive local resource for outdoor trip planning and provide expert advice for exploring the mountains.
Grove Park Inn guests will be able to book guided outdoor adventures prior to arrival and on site at NOC Asheville, located immediately off The Grove Park Inn’s Great Hall. Off-site activities will include:
Guided rafting trips on seven Southeastern rivers; Guided hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains; Guided fly-fishing and kayak fishing; Ziplines and canopy tours; Kayaking lessons and tours; Mountain bike rentals; and more.
The opening comes just a few years after NOC opened a store in Gattlinburg, Tenn.
“Our mission is to provide an authentic outdoor experience for families as well as high-adventure seekers,” says Ryan.
In keeping with The Grove Park Inn’s sustainability efforts and NOC’s green culture, NOC Asheville has applied for LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Upon completion it will become downtown Asheville’s first LEED retail project and one of the nation’s first LEED renovations within a historic hotel.
A community grand opening event is scheduled for NOC Asheville at The Grove Park Inn in Spring 2012.
Info: www.noc.com
