2 Unforgettable Mountain Getaways in NC

A trip to the North Carolina mountains sweeps you away into a dreamscape of lush wooded forests, burbling creeks, and rushing waterfalls. And whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway for two or a family adventure in the great outdoors, the NC mountains do not disappoint. This is especially true when you have the perfect lodging to call home during your travels. In this blog, we’ll introduce you to two charming mountain getaways in NC that you won’t soon forget. Both of these breathtaking boutique outdoor hotels bring you to western North Carolina to the cozy town of Robbinsville, nestled in the foothills of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains. With ideal locations in the heart of mountain country and charming on-site amenities and accommodations, you’ll quickly fall in love with this quaint mountain town.

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains

The spectacular Great Smoky Mountains are a part of the greater Blue Ridge Mountains and a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. Extending along the Tennessee and North Carolina border, the ancient Smokies are the perfect backdrop for your mountain vacation. Their rolling peaks, lush green valleys, and characteristic “smoke” that settles in between the two make for dreamy outdoor scenery that you won’t tire of. And with the landscape teeming with native wildlife and vibrant flora, you’ll feel as if you’ve wandered into a storybook.

Not to mention, outdoor activities abound here in the Smokies. From hiking to horseback riding, to swimming, fishing, and whitewater rafting, the mountainscape of western North Carolina is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur. Moreover, nearby these mountain retreats is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the Nantahala National Forest. Here, you’ll discover one-of-a-kind hiking trails that lead you past rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. But more on this later. Let’s dive into these two picturesque mountain getaways in NC.

Historic Tapoco Lodge

Settled along the banks of the burbling Cheoah River is the Historic Tapoco Lodge, a statement of the Robbinsville, North Carolina, landscape since 1930. In its nearly 100-year history, this 120-acre lodge has been the homebase for countless nature enthusiasts and outdoor explorers soaking in the mountain views or taking a romantic escape in one of the best hotels in the area. What’s more, Tapoco Lodge is near some of the area’s best attractions, so adventure is never far away. However, you won’t have to leave the hotel property for a stunning hike or tasty plate.

This charming lodging boasts eleven groomed trails through lush, forested landscape. Meander peacefully past waterfalls and creeks, and be on the lookout for deer and bear. When you’re ready to unwind in the evening, take a seat beside the crackling riverside fire pits with a chilled glass of wine in hand. Or rather, treat your aching muscles to a massage at the luxurious mountain spa after a day outdoors. Moreover, Tapoco Lodge features casual and fine dining restaurants that don’t disappoint. Indulge in riverside dining at Tapoco Tavern. Or have breakfast at The Cheoah Dining Room, where all plates are locally inspired and always fresh. Now, let’s explore charming accommodations at this top choice among mountain getaways in NC.

Charming Lodges, Rooms, and Cabins

You’ll find that accommodations at Tapoco Lodge lean lovingly into their historical roots while highlighting the beauty of the gardens and stunning views of the river and mountains. With lodgings for both families and solo travelers, any and all guests of Tapoco Lodge will find this inn a welcome place to lay their head at night after a day exploring the Smokies or nearby downtown Robbinsville.

Accommodations

• Evergreen Suite: features a king bed, queen bed, walk-in shower, seating area, small fridge, and overlooks the Cheoah River; ADA accessible. Accommodates four.
• Laurel/Rhododendron Suite: features a king bed, jetted tub and separate shower, seating area, small fridge, garden/river view. Accommodates two.
• Roosevelt/Mellon Suite: features a king bed, jetted tub and separate shower, seating area, outdoor seating area, electric fireplace, and small fridge and microwave. Accommodates two.
• Sunflower/Hemlock/Magnolia/Dogwood/Azalea Room: features a king bed, full private bath, and river/garden view. Accommodates two.
• Hydrangea Room: features a king bed, walk-in shower, and garden view. Accommodates two.
• Santeetlah Cabin: feature king beds and/or twin daybeds, shared or private porch, and small fridge and microwave. Accommodate two to three.
• Alcoa/Chilhowee Cabin: offers two units with a connecting door; each unit features a private bath, two bedroom, and a deck with a hot tub and mountain views. Accommodate four to six per unit.
• Cheoah Cabin: features three units; each unit features a private bath and private porch. Accommodate three to four per unit.
• Mountain View Cabin: features three pet-friendly units; each unit features a private bath and private or shared porch. Accommodate two to three per unit.
• Overlook Cabin: features two pet-friendly units and a shared porch; each with a king bed and private bath. Accommodates two per unit.
• White Oak Cabin: features two connecting units, one with a full kitchen, living room, deck, fire pit, grill, and hot tub. Accommodate two to four per unit.

5 Cabin Rentals for Large Groups

Whether you’re planning a family reunion or friends getaway, Nook has cozy cabins large enough for you and those you love. Browse rentals today, and get exploring!

Huffman Creek Retreat

Next on our list of mountain getaways in NC is the enchanting Huffman Creek Retreat. This homey 700-acre property is nestled along the burbling Huffman Creek that winds through the Smoky Mountain landscape. What’s more, the Huffman Creek Retreat features seven distinct cabins of all different sizes to accommodate your party. But no matter which cabin you choose, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular views of the magical mountainscape and dense green forests.

Relish in the beauty of nature with miles upon miles of private hiking trails tucked throughout the woods, as well as three on-site waterfalls. Or take an afternoon siesta in the creekside hammocks with the trickle of the water lulling you to sleep. You can also spend the days fishing in the private trout creeks for a fresh fish dinner on the grill. And every night, roast s’mores around the campfire before heading to bed in your cozy cabin.

Cabins at Mountain Getaways in NC

Relax at these beautiful cabins, secluded and surrounded by undisturbed North Carolina wilderness. You’ll find that these cozy cabin cottages make the best homebase for your mountain getaways in NC. Not to mention, you’re close to all the action both on and off-site. Not only are they pet-friendly and steps away from the hammocks and hiking trails, but they feature vacation-enhancing amenities. This includes fire pits, generous living spaces, board games, as well as wi-fi. Choose your ideal accommodation below.

Accommodations

• Creekside Lodge: features five bedrooms, three bathrooms, fireplace, front and back porch, grill, and fire pit. Accommodates fourteen.
• Trout House: features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, movie theater, multi-level porch, fire pit, grill. Accommodates six.
• Homestead: features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, front and back porch, grill, fire pit, and game room. Accommodates ten.
• The Barn: features two loft bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, full kitchen, front and back porch, fire pit, and grill. Accommodates four.
• Hemlock Cabin: features one bedroom and sleeping nook, two baths, wood fireplace, fire pit, and grill. Accommodates three.
• Chestnut Lodge: features four bedrooms and a loft bedroom, four bathrooms and two half bathrooms, outdoor shower, fireplace, front and back porch, fire pit, pool table, and grill. Accommodates nine.
• The Treehouse: features two sleeping pods, two private baths, outdoor shower, fire pit, grill, and covered porches. Accommodates five.

Escape to the Catskills

Looking to retreat in the Catskills mountain range? Consider staying at Callicoon Hills! This dreamy escape makes for a one-of-a-kind getaway just two hours from the Big Apple.

Things to Do Nearby Mountain Getaways in NC

Of course, you’ll need a handful of activities to complement your mountain getaways in NC. Luckily, we know a few places. When you’re not exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Nantahala National Forest, you’ll want to check out these top local attractions.

Days on the Water

For a peaceful day on the water, make the short drive to Lake Santeetlah. Few lakes can compare to the beauty of Lake Santeetlah. In fact, Travel + Leisure consider this lake as one of the “11 Most Beautiful Lakes in the U.S.” With a thick forested shoreline and mountains rising in the horizon, going for a swim or boat ride has never been more magnificent. Not to mention, this lake is filled with large mouth bass, walleye, crappie, and more, making this a haven for fishermen.

However, if a day on the lake is a bit too boring for you, consider whitewater river rafting and kayaking on the Cheoah or Nantahala Rivers! Local tours, such as Carolina Outfitters Whitewater Rafting, are guided by professionals and bring you down both scenic and exciting portions of these river rapids. But be warned, you’re sure to get wet.

Scenic Drives Near Mountain Getaways in NC

What’s more, western North Carolina is known for its stunning mountain highways that make for great sightseeing. Two of the most popular, though, are the Tail of the Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway. The former is designated US 129, which winds in between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest. Here, you’ll encounter 318 curves in eleven miles, with no intersecting roads to interrupt your scenic cruise. Throughout the spring, summer, and fall, thousands of motorcyclists and sports car fans travel down this road to admire the sights and mild weather, and you should too!

Similarly, the Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile national scenic byway that runs from the Tellico Plains in Tennessee through Robbinsville, passing through both the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests (hence the name “Chero-Hala”). This road climbs mountains over 5,000 feet tall before making its elegant descent in Tennessee backcountry. Yet, this breathtaking drive is known for its graceful curves, sweeping mountain views, and blissful seclusion.

Book Serene Mountain Getaways in NC with Nook Outdoors

So, ready to start planning mountain getaways in NC? We all need to reconnect with nature every once in a while, but that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our comfort. Better than typical luxury resorts or a tent in the woods, Nook Outdoors’ curated collection of boutique hotels and glamping opportunities immerse you in nature without forgoing the modernity and comforts of home. So, next time you need to retreat to the outdoors, book with Nook!