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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
Authentic cedar wood fired hot tub.  Perfectly relaxing anytime of year!
Four season stargazing the wood fired hot tub-views of the Blue Ridge Parkway
Spectacular western sunset views into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
The view from Water Rock front lawn- the views are panoramic and spectacular!

Reviews

9.6 out of 10, Loved by Guests
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8204.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Cherokee, NC
  • Place, Soco Falls
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Soco Gap
    ‪9 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.
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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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Leave heat on low if temperatures below freezing
Leave all dishes clean and put away
Strip beds of sheets, pillow cases only and leave in laundry room . Leave used towels in laundry room.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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 indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that 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 Oconaluftee Visitor Center reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo and Cherokee Botanical Garden and Nature Trail. Fantasy Golf & Game Room and Maggie Valley Festival Grounds 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

  • Soco Falls - 7 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo - 8 min drive - 9.4 km
  • Soco Gap - 9 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 12 min drive - 13.4 km
  • Tube World - 14 min drive - 16.9 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 65 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wicked Weed Pub at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Guy Fieri's Cherokee Kitchen + Bar - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Granny's Kitchen - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Noodle Bar - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬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).

How much does it cost to stay at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit?

As of 26 March 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit on 29 March 2026 start from NZ$474, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit?

On-site parking is available at the property.

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.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 85 out of 98 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 98 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 98 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 98 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 98 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Malesa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host is very welcoming, has great communication, and made us feel at home!
The gorgeous sunset view!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view and the location are unbeatable!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 November 2025
Thanks Roxanne !
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Blake D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Visited family in cherokee and stayed for an extended weekend. Beautiful view from every angle. Very private. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

T F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded, exceptional views. Fair warni g the last 3.5 miles is a bit rugged gravel road that gains 5000 feet. It is a commitment to go up and down. But once there, its a bit of heaven on the top of a mountain.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 September 2025
Thanks for the kind review! You did happen to hit a time when high speed internet cable was just buried in the road and that made it rougher than usual . Generally well maintained gravel road can be expected in usual circumstances . Sorry you hit that time ! I do appreciate you informing potential guests that you are going to remote mountain top to get to a slice of Smoky Mountain Heaven . Having been 39 years on the mountain I have learned that by not being in a hurry the drive is like a drive through a park and can be very enjoyable as well . I recommend Waterrock as a refuge and retreat and a place you want to plan ahead and bring everything as you may not want to leave this slice of heaven much once you see it !
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff D.

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

A special place.

Waterrock is a special place. The view, seclusion, and the property grounds are unmatched. There is no better place to relax and recenter.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2025
Thank you Jeff! It is great to have you say again and thank you for taking such good care of the retreat! Best, Tama
Verified

8/10 Good

Cindy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful property with mountain views usually only seen in the Parks. Water fall on road as you're going up is wonderful. Home is mostly comfortable with all amenities needed available. Upstairs beds very comfortable, downstairs bed not at all comfortable. I think the mattress is just worn out. The road going up to retreat is pretty rough , I'm thinking recent rains have caused many rust. But, property itself is amazing.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 August 2025
Thank you for your mostly favorable review Cindy ! I always appreciate the opportunity to improve Waterrock . To address your two single concerns , yes I appreciate your comment on the mattress. This is the first comment made to me regarding the downstairs mattress . I always wish a guest would let me know on arrival of an issue like this as it would have given me the opportunity to bring a new mattress during your stay to make your stay more comfortable and maintain my desire for guests to have a 5 star experience . The road was in less than ideal shape during your stay due to construction of the fiber optic wi-fi cable being brought up . We are super happy about that but sorry the construction occurred during your stay . Thank you for taking good care of the retreat ! Tama
Verified

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
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 13 October 2022
Thanks Barbara! We do hope to host you again! Thanks for leaving our home so clean and well cared for!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 12 August 2024
Thanks James! I believe myself that the best way to enjoy a stay at Waterrock is to stay at Waterrock! Thanks for taking good care of my retreat. Best, Tama
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thanks Michael! I am glad Waterrock was your "cup of tea" ! Best, Tama
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 4 November 2022
Hi Lauren, Thanks for the 5 star and thanks for leaving our place so well cared for! Also for mentioning the hot tub. It is a big commitment to take the time to tend it and get it right , usually 5-6 hours and several fillings of the firebox. Once its ready it can be kept so easily for the stay. Well worth it in the end for most people who are willing to put the effort in but not for everyone! Best, Tama
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2024
Thank you for the kind review and taking such care of our retreat!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 19 August 2024
Hi Delaina, Thank you for caring so well for the retreat! I appreciate that you used the word "experience`" for your stay here as it is a unique place to stay, most enjoyed by those who appreciate the grandeur of the location in the beauty and wildness of the Great Smoky Mountains! Best, Tama
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric B.

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

breathtaking

best views in WNC
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 November 2022
Thanks Eric!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2024
Thank you for your kind review and for returning to Waterrock! We love our return guests!
Archival

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
Response from VrboOwner on 2 April 2020
I do not often have the chance to meet our guests. I had the good fortune of being onsite when these guests arrived. They were very gracious and had a great attitude after getting mildly stuck after taking a wrong turn on the mountain. Yes, especially the first time you go up to Waterrock, even though it is an excellent road, if you are not used to the experience of secluded mountain destinations, we do recommend coming after dark the first time. We are going to work on extra directional signs this year so if you arrive after dark it will be easy. We also recommend bringing everything you need at least for the first night so you do not have to go back down to town for anything. Many guests once they have arrived at Waterrock don't want to leave at all as it is such an amazing destination!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly E.

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
Response from VrboOwner on 2 April 2020
Thank you for your kind review and for being an extraordinary guest!! I recommend returning at different times of year as each season at Waterrock offers something unique. Best wishes!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 29 October 2024
Hi Tim and family, Thanks for being an easy guest to communicate with, the kind review, and for taking good care of the retreat! Best, Tama
Verified

8/10 Good

Charles M.

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

Beautiful

Secluded
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 3 August 2020
If I am reading this review right it has two words, beautiful and secluded! I think that is very accurate on both counts! Definitely the right choice if you want to be on your own mountain top feeling like you may be the only ones in the world!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roberta K.

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason J.

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

Meaningful

Revetting
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 19 August 2020
Thank you John! The magic is there at Waterrock in its unmatchable location in the Smokies and mother nature has everything to do with that. We are diligently working on improving the retreat itself this year to make it better, So far new doors, and we just replaced all the large picture windows this week! More improvements on the way to make the house as spectacular as the site. Best, Tama
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 31 October 2023
Thanks for the the kind review Carol!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 21 February 2024
Hi Randall, Your 5 star review is so appreciated and that you and your wife really got what Waterrock is all about means everything to me! This makes the continued effort to keep this place going way up here when I live almost two hours away worth it! Tama
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Emma B.

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.
Response from VrboOwner on 2 April 2020
Thank you for your kind review. I appreciate that you captured what the essence of Waterrrock is, Nature, Family, and a retreat from the hectic world. In that spirit we have chosen to not have cable t.v. for the entire 20 years to give guests a chance to connect with nature and their loved ones on a deeper level without distraction. We are glad you "GOT IT"

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
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