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Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!

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Relax in Adirondack chairs keeping grilling chef company on front porch
This is the entrance to this darling cottage, home to your perfect vacation!
"On The Rocks", minutes from town, boasts private swim hole, fishing, & firepit
Kids swim & raft on shoals of Big Creek. Very fun!
Natural firepit with Adirondeck chairs situated right on Big Creek.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 8255.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Highlands, NC
  • Place, Bridal Veil Falls
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Dry Falls
    ‪5 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

2 King Beds

Bedroom 1

2 Queen Beds

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Double Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!

UPCOMIMG EVENTS:
- November 7-10 - Highlands Food & Wine Festival
- November 26th - December 24th: Trim Our Town
- December 7th -: Olde Mountain Christmas Parade

Upscale private cottage nestled within quiet & serene woods. Escape to the backyard for a private swim hole in Big Creek river. It doesn’t sound more idyllic than vacationing steps away from the shores of Big Creek. With mountain chic décor and all the comforts and spaciousness of a true home, this mountain retreat is perfectly cozy for a couple or family, and shines as a place to entertain. The Property: suitably named, On the Rocks, is a tranquil cottage situated on 3.9 acres right on Big Creek. You and your family will enjoy panoramic water views from the screened-in porch, have the chance to curl up in Adirondack chairs by the fire pit or spend a relaxing evening unwinding on the large outdoor hammock. This hidden jewel is just 2 hours drive north of Atlanta surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and situated atop a plateau at an elevation of 4118 feet. The Layout: The configuration of the living quarters at On the Rocks is ideal for two to three pairs to enjoy their personal living spaces. The chef’s kitchen and bar open up to the great room with a wood-burning fireplace. French doors lead you to a peaceful screened-in porch that comfortably seats 10. The main level houses two private suites that share a nice bath. The king suite is situated on the second level and includes a full bath, office, dressing room/nursery, and two walk in closets large enough for a pack-n-play. Enjoy the bright and airiness of the room that is accentuated by the vaulted ceilings. Entertain the night away with a full entertainment suite and additional bedroom that includes a flat screen TV & game table. French doors open up to a second screened porch with a private path leading to Big Creek. The Details: Hardwood floors throughout the property. The kitchen is outfitted with serving dishes, china and stemware. Fresh white linens provided (sheets and towels). Experience the feeling of residing in a luxury Bed and Breakfast with all the comforts of home. The Location: This private cottage is neighboring to three other properties located off Billy Cabin Road.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 32
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Creek play under adult supervision.
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Events

No events allowed
Parking limited to 4 cars.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
$200 pet fee. Host must verify to confirm booking.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Checkin time 3pm unless otherwise approved in advance by Owner
Lockbox key at door. Access code provided by Owner
Checkout 10AM last rental day
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Signed Rental Agreement Required. $200 Pet fee. Pets - not allowed on furniture or allowed to sleep in beds. Host must verify to confirm booking.
No rafts or swimmers beyond first bend going downstream or beyond No Trespassing sign upstream.
Please take excess garbage to Dump.

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
Note from host: Parking limited to 4 cars.
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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Highlands

Located in Highlands, this cottage is in the city centre and on the waterfront. The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts and Highlands Playhouse are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Highlands Biological Station and Cashiers Farmers Market. Travelling with kids? Consider Ruby City Gems & Minerals and Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and waterskiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and hunting.
View more Cottages in HighlandsOpens in a new window
Map
Highlands, NC

What's nearby

  • Bridal Veil Falls - 4 min drive - 2.3 km
  • The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts - 4 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Cullasaja River Gorge - 5 min drive - 3.8 km
  • Dry Falls - 5 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Highlands Country Club - 6 min drive - 3.8 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 84 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shell - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Calders Coffee Cafe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Oak Steakhouse - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Los Vaqueros - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Highlander Mountain House & The Ruffed Grouse Tavern - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!?

As of 3 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! on 19 May 2026 start from NZ$1,229, 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.

Is Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much is parking at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! located?

This family-friendly Highlands cottage is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Nantahala National Forest, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Highlands Dog Park and Cullasaja River Gorge are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

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. 129 out of 135 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 135 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 135 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 135 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 135 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Justin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay and wonderful area to explore!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brett J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Archie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Set up of home was ideal for our family. Suite upstairs and apartment downstairs was ideal for our adult children and their families. Great location for walks and privacy.We would love to return this summer!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We love staying here. It's a very comfortable, beautifully decorated home with the added bonus of a creek to play in.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rob E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Terry's mountain home was amazing. The kids and grandkids enjoyed fishing in the river and fires in the riverside firepit. We loved the clean home and well stocked kitchen. You will love escaping to this home!
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Betsy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Iconic home on a creek in Highlands made for a perfect family getaway!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yes the layout of the house for 3 couples and a toddler waa perfect. Confortable beds, great common area and kitchen to hang out in! The screened in porch overlooking the stream was an extra bonus. We enjoyed fishing and also had a wonderful time around the firepit roasting marshmallows. So peaceful listening to the water!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten G.

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

Perfect getaway

We loved staying here! Great layout and close proximity to town made it ideal!
Stayed 12 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just a great house. Loved the sound of the stream flowing in the back of the house. Our kids loved the pool table and ping pong. We would rent this house again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David T.

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

Lovely getaway!

Plenty of space and great activities both inside and out!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather B.

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

Beautiful property

We loved our stay, thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jess E.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This home is all about the creek. Absolutely gorgeous water behind the home perfect for the kids to play and fish. We did s’mores in the firepit and the hammock was lovely. Would love to come back in the summer. Pool table and games in the basement were great too. The only downside is that the furnishings overall were pretty worse for wear and the interior spaces need a deep clean (found other peoples trash in the couch cushion). May not be an issue for some but for us that part wasn’t ideal.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jean B.

Great location and views!

We had a great weekend. The house was great and the views amazing. Great house for family get aways.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

allison g.

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

Great house in highlands

We had a great few days in highlands - house was fantastic and enjoyed being next to the river!!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Virginia M.

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

Great stay in Highlands.

Wonderful house with plenty of space for family and lovely screened porches to enjoy the breeze and the wash of the stream. Very relaxing.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brad J.

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

Fun Highlands House

We enjoyed our stay with fun activities at the house and nice to be close to downtown Highlands.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Beautiful house and very convenient to both Highlands and Cashiers.

Really beautiful house in a gorgeous setting
Stayed 12 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason S.

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

Wonderful Cozy Stay!

Fantastic property, loved our stay! Running stream you can hear from the porch 24-7. Very peaceful place to relax and home has everything you need.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin R.

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

The best!

We have stayed at this property four times. It is our favorite for Highlands trips.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Betsy C.

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

We’ll Be Back!

On The Rocks was the perfect home for our mountain trip this summer.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hillary B.

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

Perfect mountain getaway

We had the best time at the house. It was perfect for 3 couples. We enjoyed the fire pit by the water and cozy nights by the fire.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Renee E.

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

Location was ideal

We visited the area for a wedding at Flat Mountain Farm. The proximity to the venue was perfect and we were also so close to downtown for shopping trips, fabulous dining and great coffee. We loved our visit and will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin R.

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

Love On The Rocks

On The Rocks has become a favorite destination for our family -- such a cozy, peaceful property.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andi L.

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

Great “Get a Way”

Nice home surrounded by the beauty of nature. Loved the sound of the creek and the beautiful porch! We really enjoyed our stay. Our host was very nice!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

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

Beautiful and relaxing

We had a wonderful time staying at this beautiful house. It was so nice relaxing on the screen porch listening to the water. We will definitely rent again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

About the host

Your host

Host profile image
My husband and I live in Atlanta, Georgia. As realtors with Sotheby's International Realty Atlanta Fine Homes, we enjoy helping our clients find their forever places.
When our busy lives in Atlanta slow down we head to our little piece of heaven in Highlands. We re happy to share it with you!
Upon arrival you'll see why we affectionately named it "On-The-Rocks".

Why they chose this property

While only minutes away from restaurants and shops of the village "On-The-Rocks" has the feeling of being tucked away in the serenity of mountain wilderness. We have this amazing big creek in our back yard that creates the ongoing sound of rushing waters - so relaxing and fun for kids to raft and swim in and cook s'mores in the rustic firepit!

What makes this property unique

The Area: Highlands, NC is a gem nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina. Lined with shopping, dining, museums and galleries, the bustling mountain village centering around Main Street is straight from a Hallmark movie. This hidden jewel is just 2 hours drive north of Atlanta surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and situated atop a plateau at an elevation of 4118 feet.

Languages:

English

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