If the culinary talents of Highlands’ innkeepers are any indication, the 2009 Highlands Holiday Cookbook Tour on Saturday, December 12 is going to be a Christmas culinary delight! One of the best things about working in the hospitality industry is that you get to sample a lot of sumptuous food and wine (not to mention indulgent spa treatments and wellness products). And everyone knows about the amazing restaurants in Highlands. But who knew one of the best food experiences would come from the local innkeepers?

It was just a couple of weeks ago that these keepers of the local mountain inns got together for their monthly meeting and revealed they were keepers of some local secrets as well. This was no ordinary meeting. It was the pre-holiday meeting, and it was pot luck.

Everyone arrived as usual, sipped some wines and talked about some business. Then it was on to the “buffet” where the culinary creations were uncovered. We all chatted amiably as we absentmindedly filling our plates with a little of everything—savory dips and entrees to sumptuous side dishes, sauces and desserts. We then found our places at the big wooden table or conversation areas by the fire to dig into our feasts.

That’s when the murmurings began. “Oh my, who made this unique sweet potato pie?” “What’s in this delicious dip?” “I want the recipe for this pork roast.” “You have to try these cheesy potatoes.” At that moment, we all realized what talents we had hiding behind the rustic walls of our cozy inns. And the owners had pulled out their best-kept “secret recipes” for the occasion.

Many of the talented cooks at the table announced that this was the very recipe that visitors to their inn would be sampling during the 2009 Highlands Innkeepers Holiday Cookbook Tour on December 12. In this event, visitors to Highlands and local residents begin at the Highlands Visitor’s Center, where they pick up a “cookbook shell.” It’s a pre-designed cover with the contents waiting to be filled by recipes that collect as they visit the local inns. During the inn visits, each guest gets to sample the recipe that is being featured in the cookbook—so you get to taste the recipes before you make them! A map is provided at the Highlands Visitor’s Center, where you begin your journey.

This year, some Highlands restaurants are also participating. And—no secret here—the restaurateurs from this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains are well-known for their culinary prowess. A couple of them—including Old Edwards and Paoletti’s are even having wine tastings that afternoon, and Old Edwards’Wine Tasting is free! Paoletti’s has limited seating and requires a reservation. Be sure to make a reservation for dinner following your tour so you can experience this yourself. Madison’s Acclaimed Executive Chef, Johannes Klapdohr looks forward to welcoming you.

So on December 12th, pack up a couple of girlfriends—or the family and head to Highlands. You won’t want to miss this culinary journey that leaves you with a keepsake cookbook, a satisfied tummy, and a lot of great ideas just waiting for your next meal or party!

For more information, you can call the Visitor’s Center toll-free at 866-526-5841.