Where Mountain Views Meet Modern Workspace: Hotel Arras in Asheville

Ever dream of a workspace with mountain views, craft cocktails just an elevator ride away, and a bed so comfortable you might never want to leave? Hotel Arras in downtown Asheville delivers on all fronts for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of productivity and Blue Ridge Mountain magic.

Corner Rooms: Where Work Meets Views

The corner rooms at Hotel Arras are a game-changer for anyone working remotely. I set up my laptop near the floor-to-ceiling windows, splitting my attention between spreadsheets and the stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The natural light poured in all day, keeping my energy levels up without having to reach for that third cup of coffee. (speaking of coffee - they will provide you with a nespresso or keirig coffeemaker … just ask!) 

What makes these rooms stand out for digital nomads is the smart layout – ample outlets exactly where you need them, ergonomic seating, and enough space to spread out your work materials without feeling cramped. The residential loft-style design with warm woods and marble accents creates an atmosphere that's both professional and cozy.

As someone who's worked from countless hotel rooms over the years, I can say Hotel Arras has truly considered what remote workers need. The high-speed Wi-Fi never faltered during video calls, and I could easily transition between working at the desk or lounging with my laptop on the incredibly comfortable sofa.

Location, Location, Location

Situated in Pack Square at the heart of downtown Asheville, Hotel Arras puts you within walking distance of everything this creative mountain town has to offer. When you need a break from work, you're steps away from galleries, shops, and the famous Asheville breweries.

The central location means you can easily squeeze in coffee meetings at local cafes, take lunch breaks at farm-to-table restaurants, or end your workday with a stroll through vibrant downtown streets. For digital nomads who value exploring local culture between deadlines, this spot is unbeatable.

Fitness That Goes Beyond Basic

Let's talk about that gym. Hotel Arras doesn't offer your standard hotel fitness room with a lonely treadmill and mismatched dumbbells. Their state-of-the-art fitness center features Peloton bikes, Rogue equipment, and plenty of space for yoga – perfect for offsetting those hours at your laptop.

As someone who prioritizes movement during work trips, having access to quality equipment without having to seek out a local gym membership was a major plus. The fitness center's thoughtful design includes natural light and enough space to actually enjoy your workout, not just check a box.

Pet-Friendly Paradise

One of the biggest challenges for digital nomads with pets is finding accommodations that truly welcome your four-legged companions. Hotel Arras doesn't just allow pets – they celebrate them.

My dog received a welcome bag at check-in complete with treats, a ball, and other goodies from a local pet shop. The staff knew him by name within hours, and there were plenty of pet-friendly outdoor spaces for quick breaks during the workday. For those of us who can't bear to leave our pets behind when traveling, these thoughtful touches make all the difference.

Perfect for Business Retreats

If you're planning a team retreat, Hotel Arras offers flexible meeting spaces with a blend of functionality and style. The meeting rooms feature natural light, comfortable seating, and modern design touches that spark creativity far better than windowless conference rooms.

What makes this venue especially appealing for business gatherings is the seamless transition from work to play. After a productive day of meetings, your team can enjoy cocktails at District 42, dinner at Bargello (the on-site Mediterranean restaurant … more on that in a minute!), and then continue conversations in the comfortable shared spaces throughout the hotel.

The central downtown location means team activities are easy to arrange – from group hikes on nearby trails to brewery tours or artistic experiences in the River Arts District. It's the perfect setup for building team connections without the logistical headaches often associated with corporate retreats.

Bargello: Not Your Average Hotel Restaurant

Let's talk about Bargello, the Mediterranean restaurant on the ground floor of Hotel Arras led by Executive Chef Tyler Slade. For anyone who's endured mediocre hotel dining, Bargello is a revelation that will change how you think about eating where you sleep.

The restaurant space itself sets the tone with floor-to-ceiling windows letting in natural light, an open kitchen where you can watch the culinary team at work, and a wood-fired pizza hearth that adds both warmth and aroma to the atmosphere.

But it's the food that steals the show. Their Spanish octopus is something I'm still thinking about weeks later – perfectly grilled with just the right amount of char, tender without being rubbery, and served with thoughtful accompaniments that complement rather than overwhelm the star of the plate. If you typically shy away from octopus, this is the dish that might convert you.

The menu rotates seasonally, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase both Mediterranean traditions and Appalachian influences. From hand-rolled pasta to wood-fired pizzas, everything feels crafted with care rather than churned out for convenience.

Save room for dessert – specifically, their blueberry ice cream. It's not always on the menu, but when it is, don't hesitate. The perfectly balanced sweetness with authentic blueberry flavor (not the artificial kind) makes for a refreshing end to your meal.

What makes Bargello particularly convenient for digital nomads is the ability to pop down for a quality meal between meetings or work sessions without sacrificing time to venture out. Having access to food of this caliber just an elevator ride away is a true luxury.

Weekend Extension Must-Dos

Since you've made it to Asheville for work, here's why you should extend your stay through the weekend:

1. Morning Hike, Afternoon Work - Start your Saturday with an early hike along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, then return to your room to catch up on emails with those mountain views as your backdrop.

2. Brewery Crawl - Asheville's famous craft beer scene is within walking distance. Try Wicked Weed, Burial, and Asheville Brewing Co. without worrying about driving.

3. Massage Recovery - Book a treatment at the hotel's Urban Exhale Massage Spa – the perfect way to reset after a busy work week.

4. Biltmore Estate - Just a short drive from downtown, this historic mansion and its gardens make for an impressive day trip that feels worlds away from your workspace.

5. River Arts District - It’s OPEN! Spend Sunday morning exploring this creative hub where local artists work in converted industrial buildings along the French Broad River.

Hotel Arras proves that with the right setup, work trips can feel more like workations. Those corner rooms with their stunning views might just make you extend your stay – after all, if you can work from anywhere, why not work from somewhere beautiful?