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Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit

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Enjoy panoramic views from the top of the Mountain
The open-concept great room is spacious enough to accommodate large groups
Large, fully equipped kitchen with incredible views
Large custom dining table hand built by a local craftsman
Downstairs Bathroom

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8204.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Hot tub
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Cherokee, NC
  • Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Soco Falls
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Harrahs Cherokee Casino
    ‪12 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Single Bed and 1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit

Water Rock Garden Retreat was designed specifically to showcase the incredible natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Water Rock Garden Retreat is located on a 15-acre knoll just outside of Cherokee, North Carolina. At an elevation of 4500 feet, there are breathtaking 360-degree views with a 30-mile view of Tennessee and the great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is located at a high elevation in a rare location. From the 4500 elevation knoll and to the West you can see most of the entire length of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Clingman's Dome the center of the view. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. To the south you face directly up to the 5800 peaks of the Plott Balsam Range. To the East is our namesake Waterrock Knob. It is the highest peak in the Plott Balsams and is the 16th-highest mountain in the Eastern United States.
Within a short hike is a private trail to a stunning series of waterfalls on Black Rock Creek culminating in 100 feet plus Kobe Falls.
Extremely private, there are no other homes within site or sound. The retreat has large terraced grounds covered with an abundance of gorgeous flowers for the enjoyment of our guests. There is lots of flat yard space for the kids to run around and a great firepit area for nights around the campfire.
Located within easy driving distance of the finest outdoor recreation areas in Western North Carolina for both hiking and rafting, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, Nantahala wilderness area, Cataloochee Ski Area , and Cherokee Indian Reservation.

Water Rock Garden Retreat is ideal for people who love solitude, unspoiled views, spectacular gardens, wildlife, starry nights and full moons, and the sound of rushing mountain streams in the distance. It is beautiful any time of year!

The Retreat's ground floor is open and spacious with ten-foot ceilings and a fireplace. The house has four bedrooms (three upstairs, one downstairs), including a large master bedroom. The rooms are equipped with two queen-sized beds, one full-sized bed, two twin beds, one twin-sized futon, and two twin-sized bunkies. The house has two full baths, an antique claw foot tub and a wood-fired hot tub! We will provide one set of sheets and blankets for each bed as well as plenty of towels.

The large custom kitchen is well equipped with utensils, dinnerware, pots, pans, and an outdoor grill. The house also has a 500-square-foot, partially covered, cedar deck and an enclosed crow's nest atop for all-weather viewing of the incredible, panoramic view.

Waterrock Garden Retreat may not be for everyone! This is a very remote location. You will feel like you are the only ones in the world! It is best enjoyed by those looking to get away from it all and unplugging in the cathedral of nature. While you are located at the heart of outdoor recreation many guests report they get there and don't want to leave for the duration of their stay! The Retreat is located three-point-seven miles up a well-maintained (but bumpy in spots) gravel road. Water Rock Garden Retreat is easily accessible by car, SUV and even trucks with trailers. The road dead ends at the retreat. The road is passable by almost any car except under snowy or icy conditions when a four-wheel drive would be necessary. Four wheel drive is required November 15- April 1. It takes approximately 15 minutes to travel the road. Cars that ride extra low (such as some luxury or sport cars) may not be appropriate. Ask us if you are not sure about yours.

Located 10 miles from Harrah's Casino in Cherokee and the Blue Ridge Parkway, central to the Smoky Mountains Country Club Golf Course and the Great Smoky Mountain Railway Station in Historic Dillsboro where you will find unique shops, galleries, collectables, and crafts.

Centrally located to Maggie Valley, Cherokee, Bryson City and to Rafting and Tubing in the Nantahala Gorge with numerous hiking and biking trails throughout the area. Enjoy outdoor recreation along nearby waterfalls, hike and commune with nature, float the many rivers and streams on tubes or rafts, or visit local area flea markets.

No hunting or shooting permitted at the retreat. We encourage wildlife to stay in the area.
Keywords: Home

Property manager

Tama Dickerson

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Dogs love Water Rock! Plenty of room to explore!
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE REQUIRED NOVEMBER 1- APRIL 1 DUE TO HIGH ELEVATION AND POSSIBILITY OF SNOW/ICE

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Cherokee

Located in Cherokee, this holiday home is near theme parks and in the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo and Fantasy Golf & Game Room. Maggie Valley Festival Grounds and Queen's Farm Stables are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
Map
Cherokee, NC

What's nearby

  • Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo - 8 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Soco Falls - 9 min drive - 8.2 km
  • Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 12 min drive - 10.1 km
  • Museum of the Cherokee Indian - 16 min drive - 13.1 km
  • Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama - 17 min drive - 13.7 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 65 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Wicked Weed Pub at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Granny's Kitchen - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪SoundBytes - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Brio Restaurant Group - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Nantahala National Forest, Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo and Soco Falls. Harrahs Cherokee Casino and Soco Gap are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 81 out of 92 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 92 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 92 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 92 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 92 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

tim d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little piece of heaven

This is a great place to unwind surrounded by nature. We brought everything we needed only went down the mountain 3 times. It accommodated my large family and their pets. Thank you for letting us use your place. It was amazing.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

James C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to get away from it all

We spent five days here, and the best days were when we never left the house. It's such a great property, with hikes, views, etc. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Delaina H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Place

The experience was amazing. Thank You.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful retreat

Lovely, secluded and quiet mountain top stay with sweeping views of the mountains. The hot tub was a real highlight, particularly as we approached the full moon. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Christmas Stay

The view was phenomenal! It was the perfect place for our family to celebrate Christmas together.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melissa E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain get away

The views from this property are absolutely breathtaking! Be prepared for a long drive up, 15 minutes on gravel Road, but it is well worth it! This is our third trip here, we will be back! Thank you so much for everything.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Meaningful

Revetting
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful get away

Very good place to stay would stay again and again. The view was amazing
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Much needed getaway

The property is a great remote getaway. With Amazing views. It's high elevation offers great views and cooler Temps. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lauren N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Long Weekend

Beautiful views, hot tub was a little tedious but overall had a great time
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Eric B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

breathtaking

best views in WNC
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Randall B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Million Dollar Views

While the pictures are accurate, you don't get the whole effect until you arrive how amazing the views are. We stayed as a surprise for my wife's birthday and she literally had tears in her eyes when we arrived and she looked out over the mountains. We are both avid outdoors people and enjoy hiking trips and this location put us close to some good trails. I would highly recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Michele G.

Great getaway

We had a party of 12 coming from different states.. enjoyed the stay.. definitely arrive during the day if you are not prone to mountain driving ... the owners were great and very helpful, loved the book collection located in the home
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly E., Franklin

Breathtaking views and lovely grounds

We loved the sunsets while enjoying dinner on the deck. S'mores every night at the fire pit gave us all a chance to relax and laugh. We will definitely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2017

8/10 Good

Charles M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

Secluded
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

carol t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A.azing property

The place was spacious and well kept. The boys enjoyed the hot tub and fire pit. The stove was Hughes. It was close to Cherokee and Smokey mountain pRkway
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roberta K., Louisville

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It was an awesome cabin. The view was awesome.

There were 5 of us and only 2 wash cloths. There was food left in fridge and pantry when we got there but that is all. Our over all stay was awesome and I do recommend this cabin. I would rent again
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical place

We had a great time. Road is a little hairy when you first come up, but fine. The place is magic. This is not a fussy spot with perfect everything; it's a family retreat in an amazing place. So beautiful and peaceful and wild. Hike to Black Rock is excellent if you can find it.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2020
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Emma B., Thousand Oaks California USA

A secluded and beautiful place

We wanted a secluded place that worked for outdoor activities and quality family time away from a hectic life. This place delivered on every level, situated at the top of a mountain road, the views were stunning and the house situated in a lovely place to spend a few (too short) days exploring the Smokies. The hikes around the areas were great for the whole family (Grandparent, first grader plus dog) and the house very comfortable. The owner was great and on hand to answer our queries promptly and effectively. I would definitely recommend this place and hope to return someday.

10/10 Excellent

John A., Raleigh, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location Location Location!

Although we were rained out of many of our planned activities, including an opportunity we had hoped to have had in remarking one of the trails, the storms lifted long enough to enjoy several of the most spectacular sunsets on the planet! We were told that several planned renovations are in store for the home, and look forward to returning again in the future to enjoy this amazing property. Thanks for sharing your home.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Spectactular and Peaceful

What a way to relieve stress - back to nature. Wonderful hiking and spectactular 360 views wherever you looked was amazing. hit the fall color just right. The home is exactly that - a home not just a rental. Wonderful kitchen and the master bedroom - what a treat to wake up to such a view. The hot tub was fantastic after a day of hiking - just get the fire started go hiking and 5 hours later it is nice and toasty. We will definitely be staying here again.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Vicki B.

Wonderfully relaxing and beautiful!

The perfect place for a quiet and beautiful retreat! The views are amazing with gorgeous wellkept grounds! The house is well stocked and comfortable! Everything you need for a quiet secluded 'back to nature' getaway! We really enjoyed it because our two furry family members were welcome and had a blast exploring. We hiked the trails and spent a lot of time on the deck upstairs watching sunsets with wine and cheese! The drive up is long, so pack your supplies well - but well worth it! We highly recommend this location and hopefully will be back again next year! Thank you!!

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

WOW!!!! Breathtaking Property

Hands down, best place I've ever stayed. Pictures don't do it justice. The views are so amazing on this property you don't even need a cabin, I would've been happy with just a bedroll and a tarp! The cabin is just as beautiful as the views. The decor was very thoughtful and well done. It felt more like a home than a vacation spot. We didn't want to leave. The wood fired hot tub is perfect and I loved having the wood stove in the living room. Couldn't recommend this place enough. Oh yeah...STEAM SHOWER!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Michelle S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Mountain View!

Very serene beautiful location on top of mountain. Incredible views! House was clean and comfortable although there was seriously a lot of lady bugs. We had a lot of fun with the 3.5 mile windy gravel road but definitely do it in day light first time. Firewood was unfortunately wet so had a tough time with fire for hot tub. Nearby hike to waterfalls was nice once we figured out where the path was. Furniture needs upgrade and a gas grill would have been nice but regardless we HIGHLY recommend this place for an adventurous family or just a romantic getaway.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Melissa E., Grasonville, Maryland

mastock

The views are amazing from this property. The road leading up to the property is long and in some places a bit bumpy, but we were able to travel this road every day without a four wheel drive vehicle. I might add, the journey was worth it. The house some age to it, but was very well suited to us. The only thing I would add would be cable. As much as I liked lounging and watching the sunsets, I am ashamed to say I missed seeing what was going on in the world. Thank you for a relaxing vacation, we hope to be back!

About the host

Hosted by Tama Dickerson

Host profile image
I am a long time preservationist and developer who first came to this area in 1980 after falling in love with the Smoky Mountains at first sight. The mountains you will see surrounding Waterrock Garden Retreat were my first delopment project. I succeeded in largely preserving land adjoining our 15 acres with only 5 homes to date to 240 acres with 70 acres going into preservation with the Nature Conservancy. Currently, I am developing Olivette Riverside Community and Farm in Asheville NC.
National Association of Home Builders 2019 Best Green Community in US
NC Home Builders Association 2019 Community of the Year
NC Home Builders Association 2018 Community of the Year
NC Home Builders Association 2018 Best Sustainable Community
My other main project currently is Paint Rock Farm a Glamping Retreat, wedding venue , and hemp farm located on 160 acres in Hot Springs NC. i am happy to say we have been able to place 111 acres of our farm here into a permanent conservation forest through Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy.
My other true love in life is spirituality and healing. I am a LRT (Loving Relationship
Training) teacher, Breathworker , and Ordained Ministerial Counselor and devoted a large part of my life pursing my desire to bring peace, love, and healing to both the Earth and those of us who share it.

Why they chose this property

I would consider choosing Waterrock Garden Retreat if you value the incomparable location in the Great Smoky Mountains over anything.

What makes this property unique

Solitude, incomparable views , nature at its finest, waterfalls, an impossible to beat experience of the mountains at a high elevation.

Languages:

English