X6 takes the high road

The sound of rushing water fills my ears as we sit transfixed in our leather-clad cocoon. Outside, a glistening waterfall pounds a tuneful beat, splashing with delight over the outer shell of the Black Sapphire metallic BMW X6. Designed to be different, it seems even nature is impressed with this unique vehicle built in nearby Spartanburg, SC.

The high country of North Carolina presents the perfect destination in which to stretch the legs of the 2009 BMW X6. Available with two engine choices; a V8 and twin-turbo six-cylinder, this sport activity vehicle is one of the most extraordinary ideas to come from the great minds at BMW in the recent past.

Matched with xDrive All-Wheel Drive, the potential for tackling back roads at better than average speeds is enough to get me up and out the door, even if the king-size bed at the inn is doing its best to hold me inside.

Located in the picturesque village of Highlands, North Carolina, Old Edwards Inn and Spa offers a blissful setting in which to get away from it all. Access to the area is remote, but the many visitors who come year-round wouldn’t want it any other way.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Old Edwards Inn is a Mobil Travel Guide 4-star, AAA Four Diamond Award winning inn that offers something for everyone.

A total of 61 elegantly appointed guestrooms, suites and cottages stretch throughout the sprawling property in downtown Highlands. Warm, rich fabrics adorn each room while soft Frette linens decorate the bed, encouraging you to curl up with a favourite book and forget about the day. Bathrooms feature marble countertops, oversized bathtubs and rainfall showers.

Dining options abound at the inn. Elegant, New Southern cuisine is served at the Wine Spectator award-winning Madison’s Restaurant. A patio-side waterfall sets the mood for umbrella-topped tables in the Wine Garden. The Hummingbird Bar offers an extensive mixed drink list and casual fare, with additional informal dining available Poolside or around the corner at The Rib Shack and Sports Corner.

The day starts out cool and rainy, but it isn’t too long before bright sunshine fractures the clouds and we are able to enjoy a winding drive under the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains. Unlike Charlotte, N.C. to the east which showcases winding roads on mostly flat ground, Highlands and the surrounding area is mountainous and filled with endless adventure as you round each successive blind corner.

The 2009 BMW X6 xDrive35i absorbs bumps and dips via a well-engineered double-wishbone front; integral rear suspension setup. Power steering is weighted towards feel, with speeds decreasing the amount of assistance to provide additional driver feedback.

Dynamic Performance Control removes much of the guess work when driving fast, but none of the fun. Distributing power evenly to the left or right side allows for quicker entrances and exits on the tight two-lane twists for which this area is famous. Run-flat tires ensure there are no surprises capable of slowing down the BMW X6 for too long.

Inside, seats provide superb support in all the right places. Designed as a four seat touring coupe, the 2009 BMW X6 xDrive35i features a rear center console with individually sculpted seats. Headroom is somewhat tight in rear, but leg and shoulder room is more than sufficient. Trunk space offers adjustability plus significant room for four large suitcases and some accessories.

Pushed hard, the BMW X6 demonstrates sport activity vehicle drive characteristics first, sport coupe second. That is not to say it doesn’t handle the road in a manner worthy of the brand. On the contrary, having driven the X6 on a race track, I can attest to how quick it can be when pushed to the limit.

Nonetheless, at 2200 kg, the desire to go fast requires a little extra attention as minor body roll is always present. Chasing down 30 km/h corners at speed in the early morning mist will wake you up faster than a double espresso with a triple shot of Red Bull. Hold the sugar.

Where to Stay
Old Edwards Inn & Spa
445 Main St
Highlands, NC 28741
Tel: 866-526-8008
www.oldedwardsinn.com