[Spirited]

Have any suggestions as to Counties?
Are you in zone 7b for growing zones?

[ncpatriot]

I'm in 6A if I remember correctly.

The Northern counties are definitely cooler than Asheville area to the South.

Try Ashe, Watauga or Avery. Ashe County borders Virginia - nice county, quiet. Young folks have left. Watauga County has a state university Appalachian State University. Avery County is ski country.

Hope this helps