Entire home

ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available

Photo gallery for ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available

Exterior
Property grounds
Property grounds
Property grounds
Living area

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
Highlands, NC
  • Bridal Veil Falls
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Highlands Country Club
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Dry Falls
    ‪11 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Master

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower

Bathroom 3

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available

Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, this charming 3-bedroom vacation home offers a tranquil escape from the everyday. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a cozy living room, perfect for gathering with family and friends. Prepare delectable meals in the fully stocked kitchen. Enjoy your culinary creations at the dining table, or step outside and fire up the grill for an al fresco dining experience. After dinner, you can relax on the screened porch and enjoy the evening experience while you listen to the nocturnal chorus of whip-o-wills, tree frogs, and the occasional hoot of the great horned owl.

Unwind by the fireplace or catch up on your favorite shows on the smart TV with satellite/cable channels. For those who love to stay connected, the property offers free WiFi. Refresh in the three bathrooms, stocked with towels and basic toiletries, and take advantage of the in-unit washer and dryer.

When you're ready to explore the area, take a stroll down Main Street to shop at the local retailers, visit Dry Falls, or hike Whiteside Mountain. Spend your days simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. As the sun sets, gather around the fire pit and enjoy the tranquility of your mountain retreat.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 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 and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Pet deposit is required.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 a carbon monoxide detector on the property
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

Highlands

Located in Highlands, this holiday home is in the mountains. Highlands Art Gallery and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Highlands Biological Station and Cashiers Farmers Market. Highlands Aerial Park and Ruby City Gems & Minerals are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
Map
Highlands, NC

What's nearby

  • Highlands-Cashiers Hospital - 3 min drive - 1.7 km
  • Bridal Veil Falls - 9 min drive - 7.4 km
  • Highlands Country Club - 10 min drive - 6.0 km
  • Whiteside Mountain - 11 min drive - 7.4 km
  • Dry Falls - 11 min drive - 8.7 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 83 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shell - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Ugly Dog Public House - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Madison's Restaurant - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Four 65 Woodfire Bistro - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Buck's Coffee Cafe - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is ESCAPE THE HEAT~Charming Highlands mountain home ~ AUG/SEPT dates available located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is steps from Nantahala National Forest and 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. Highlands Dog Park and Highlands Art Gallery are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 116 out of 131 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 131 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 131 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 131 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 131 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Margaret D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazingly nice older house in a beautiful location. There was some trouble with the air conditioner but the host was extremely helpful in correcting the problem quickly.There is a beautiful meadow in front with mowed paths so that you can walk around to look at the wildflowers.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jose M.

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

Quiet Escape

Beautiful cottage on an idyllic setting. Our family enjoyed the quietude! Highly recommended!
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melani R.

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

Wonderful Getaway!

The property was so cute and private. The surrounding area was very peaceful yet it was so close to town. The perfect location and cottage. We truly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff R.

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

Very comfy.

In town for a wedding in Highlands. Everything was great, very convenient and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eloise

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

Beautiful mountain getaway!

Such a cute house with beautiful views! Love that the history of the house was included.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lanier M.

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

Christmas tree weekend

We had a wonderful time! Great location and easy access to highlands!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

8/10 Good

donald b.

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

Flat Mountain visit

Wonderful. Wish we could have enjoyed the firepit and grill areas. Unfortunately we had to leave a day early. No wonder the Wright Cottage is so special to your family. I can imagine the wonderful times you all must have had there. I'm afraid I left a plastic bag of dirty clothes. Sorry. I would definitely recommend to others.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eleas L.

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

Beautiful location near Highlands

We had such a wonderful time in the mountains, getting out of the heat. The home was very comfortable and close to so many sights to see and visit.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Molly H.

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

Loved our stay!

Our family enjoyed our spring break here this spring. The cabin is exactly as pictured and was a great space with room for the kids to run. It was so nice being close to town but feeling like we were out in the country. We will definitely stay again!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim D.

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

Plenty of room

We had a great time. Large cottage with lots of property. Fast Wi-Fi and good tv service. We enjoyed everything about the place.
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah M., Atlanta Ga

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

Highlands Home

Wonderful!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Norman C., Marietta, GA

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

Perfect!

Loved spending the weekend for our nephew’s wedding this weekend. We appreciate the accommodations and hospitality.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly K.

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

Wrights Cottage

Beautiful setting. Very relaxing.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Highlights include a screened in porch that was perfect for reading. I had my new puppy with me, and the property had a beautiful meadow/ old apple orchard with a mowed track that was perfect for walking her.The meadow was full of wild flowers and wild ferns. At night the fire flies put on a show. We were close to town where we had great meals. (Don't miss the ice cream shop.) and also went twice to the performing arts center. Highlands is very dog friendly so our pup often went out to eat with us. Our Host was very responsive when I needed help. I think the photos fairly represented this charming cottage.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynne K.

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

Highlands Getaway

We loved our stay at the Wright House. It is very comfortable, nicely furnished. It was convenient to town, restaurants and activities. We would definitely choose it again. Thanks for a great experience, Lynne, Alan and Nancy
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

David F.

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

Sweet Mountain Cottage

We loved everything about the cottage - so homey and vintage, but every modern convenience. The beds were very comfortable. Sunrise over the lawn was beautiful. The hosts quickly responded to our questions.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen H.

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

Perfect Mountain Stay

The cabin was absolutely perfect! Everything was spotless, the beds were comfortable, the kitchen and baths had everything we needed. We built a fire in the fire pit one night and spent the next evening just curled on the sofa with blankets…very relaxing. Hopefully we can return soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heidi H.

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

A wonderful Christmas get a way!

The Wright Cottage was as beautiful as its pictures. It was just lovely , beautifully situated, and inviting. Our host had taken the extra step to decorate for Christmas! It was a wonderful experience!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leigh C.

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

Delightful stay.

We had a wonderful time and we were able to spend some time outside before the weather got too cool. Have the fireplace was wonderful and it kept the great room at a good temperature. Everything we needed was provided and we hope to return in the Bew Year.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nico R.

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

HOME AWAY FROM HOME!!

My Friends and I were visiting highlands for the first time for a wedding and this house was just perfect. Quiet, cozy and felt just like home! Host was very quick to respond and made us feel welcomed!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary D.

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

Beautiful House

Beautiful house, wonderful host. It's a big historic house with many original features. The wood walls throughout are gorgeous. Lisa was amazing. We went after the storm and she kept me apprised of the conditions in the area. I'm so glad we were able to go.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carter E.

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

Wright Cottage

Always love staying here. This time, we stayed 5 weeks. Cottage is very comfortable. Lisa is very responsive to all our needs. Kitchen is well stocked, beds are comfy. A/C is strong. Perfect location for us, as we have friends nearby. Will definitely return to the Wright Cottage!
Stayed 31 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Candy C.

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

Girls getaway

Very clean and well equipped. Appreciated the quick response to questions. Just what you would expect for a mountain retreat. This house has lots of history and character. Also perfect location to Highlands and Cashiers Main Street.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heidi H.

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

The Wright Cottage- A Warm Farmhouse Christmas

The is the second year my adult daughters and I have spent Christmas at the Wright Cottage. It is such a warm, sweet setting to spend time together as a family and share the holiday. The home is a traditional farm house with a big fire place. We appreciate all the Christmas decorations. It was so inviting. We read books, played a board game, went on hikes and then went into town. It was a lovely holiday.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

David S.

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

Amazing

Want for nothing. Beautiful home and gardens. Peacefull
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Lisa Gunter

Host profile image
The owner, Maxie Wright Duke, was born and raised in Highlands in a home located in Wright Square, Her mother, Helen Cabe Wright Wilson, owned and operated Helen's Barn which still stands on Helen's Barn Avenue, Wright Square. The dance hall was the favorite of local and summer folks and provided a means to feed, clothe, house and educate her children. After marring Albert A. Duke, Maxie moved to Walhalla, SC The family has a Log Cabin on Turtle Pond Road where many memories have been made. Maxie's children, Lisa, Margaret, and Hal manages the property. Maxie passed away in December of 2020 and we miss her very day.

Why they chose this property

We feel that the Wright Cottage is a great place to relax & enjoy nature. It is close enough to Highlands(3.7 miles) & Cashiers (8 miles) to enjoy everything both towns has to offer. It is big enough to sleep 6 but affordable for a smaller group. The screened porch is an absolute haven for relaxing with a drink, reading or just visiting. The fire pit offers seating and warmth to enjoy the outdoors and view of Shortoff Mountain. The front yard is great for children playing or running with your dogs. The gas log fireplace inside will knock the chill off on the fall & winter days.

What makes this property unique

The cottage was built in the early 1930's on one acre of land that was given to the First Presbyterian Church to be used as a manse for their preacher. The land surrounding it was owned by Maxie's uncle, Henry R. Wright & inherited. She purchased the house in 1993. It has been renovated several times but still has the original hardwood floors. The timbers were cut from the land including the wormy chestnut in the living room & dining areas. The dining table is a hand crafted solid cherry wood table made by a local craftsman and given to Helen's people on Turtle Pond. We are continually making improvements to keep the house up-to-date including new windows, interior & exterior paint, new washer & dryer, new stove, new heating & cooling system & new metal roof. The house was renamed The Wright Cottage and became a seasonal rental in 2003.

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