Hendersonville, Brevard, Waynesville (Asheville, Flat Rock: employment, neighborhood, live in)

[Millipooh]

These cities have been voted good retirement places, so I am thinking that since I feel like I am still youngin lower fifties, what amenities could I enjoy there. I would absolutely love self containment, meaning I don't have to drive over a mountain and thru the woods to get to a grocery store, or a gas station. I enjoy walking, biking, and an exciting thriving downtown, which I heard these places are. I would also like to be able to go to the library, maybe take aerobics thru the parks and recreation. Live in a fairly decent neighborhood. I know this is alot to ask for but if I could get a feel for these places I would appreciate it. I would really not have to run to say Asheville to do things. If anyone could jump in here that is familiar with the area please do so. Employment would not be an issue!
I know you wonderful and insightful people can help me out.

[histo320]

Sounds like Hendersonville is the perfect fit. Like all mountain towns it is somewhat spread out and you can't really tell where it ends. The Blue Ridge Parkway is great for bike riding and there are several trails and other activities right along the trail. Golfing is very plentiful (can be somewhat expensive) but there is a fairly nice and cheap course in neary E. Flat Rock. Grocery stores and gas stations are not hard to get to.

[meredith71402]

I agree Hendersonville would be a good fit. Brevard is very nice too... Brevard has a little more of that backwoods feel with a historic downtown area. Both areas are very nice and not too far from eachother. Although, they both have different feels to them. I would suggest a visit to the area to decide what atmosphere you like best. One thing that WNC does not lack are good parks and outdoor activities... I think no matter where you choose, you will find that type of activity plentiful!