We've been in Greensboro, NC for 18+ years now and will only leave to move for retirement on the coast of North or South Carolina. Raleigh has a completely different vibe than the Piedmont area here does-we are less political, a bit slower pace, smaller footprint but growing. Depending on how far you want to commute in the Raleigh area you can easily find property that is rural in nature, rolling hills and lots of pine trees. For instance, when we go into Chapel Hill the back way the last 20 miles is all rural farmland.
Asheville is truly a mini Austin and, I think, may even have a higher yuppie douche bag ratio. It can't really grow because of the surrounding terrain but it is beautiful. Dupont National Park is just north of Asheville and is a gem. Beer scene is booming in Asheville, BBQ is of the NC style but there are some great places to eat. I like to visit Asheville but don't have any interest in moving there, unless a new job were to take me there.
I despise Charlotte for the same reason I dislike all magalopolis cities. Sprawling concrete jungle with no identity and huge traffic issues. Raleigh has it's share of traffic issues as well but seem to manage them better.
From here in Greensboro we can be on the beach south (way south) of Myrtle Beach at Pawley's Island in 4.5 hours and correct, no interstate carrying you all the way in...which I like. Can be in Ashevile in 3.5 hours. Charolotte is 90 minutes. Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill is 45-90 depending. Can be in Wilmington in 3.5 hours.
My kids are at East Carolina in Greeneville, NC and one is at UNC-Greensboro right now after starting at Chapel Hill. Let's just say the culture and academic pressure at Chapel Hill was not for her so we took her out, even though she pulled a 3.75 in her 1st semester. Great school and some great kids there. Also many social retards.
Anyway, PM me if you have specific questions or interests.