The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly
Welcome to The Watchtower, a private mountain retreat perched at the top of the Falling Waters community in Valle Crucis. Surrounded by a predominantly wooded setting, the home offers a rare combination of seclusion and scenery, with a thoughtfully cleared view corridor that provides long-range vistas while maintaining a peaceful, tucked-away feel.
The main level is designed for comfortable gathering and easy flow. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and both Keurig and drip coffee makers, along with a dining table for six conveniently located within the space. Just off the kitchen, you'll find a half bath and a laundry area for added convenience. The kitchen opens directly into the living room, where cathedral ceilings and expansive windows fill the space with natural light. Two sofas provide ample seating around a gas log fireplace and TV, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The primary suite is also located on the main level, offering a spacious and private retreat. This king ensuite includes a ceiling fan, TV, and direct access to the deck. The bathroom is well-appointed with a tiled shower, double vanity, and granite countertops.
Upstairs, a loft overlooks the main living area and serves as a comfortable secondary lounge, complete with an oversized sectional and TV. This level also features a bunk room with its own ensuite bathroom, highlighted by a beautifully tiled shower, making it ideal for groups or younger guests.
The lower level expands the home's living space with both sleeping and entertainment options. A king bedroom with a TV and ceiling fan is located here, along with a full bathroom in the hallway featuring a tiled shower and extended counter space. The den offers a pool table, TV, and additional sleeping with a queen Murphy bed, creating a versatile space for recreation and relaxation.
Outdoor living is just as thoughtfully designed. The main level deck includes a dining table, comfortable seating, and a gas grill, all positioned to enjoy the blend of wooded surroundings and long-range views. The lower level deck offers additional space for fun with cornhole, and a new hot tub installed Spring 2026. On the grounds, guests can gather around the firepit for evenings under the stars, and the property provides ample parking for convenience.
Sleeping Arrangements: Main Level: King ensuite with deck access, TV, ceiling fan, tiled shower, double vanity Upper Level: Bunk ensuite with two twin-over-full bunks, TV, tiled shower Lower Level: King bedroom with TV and ceiling fan Lower Level Den: Queen Murphy bed and sleeper sofa
The Watchtower offers a balanced mountain experience, private, comfortable, and well-equipped, making it an ideal setting for both relaxation and time together.
- This home is accessed by a steep gravel road and driveway. It is plowed in winter, but 4WD or AWD vehicles are recommended year round and are required November-March, and chains may also be necessary to access the property in winter months. - This home allows up to 2 mature, crate-trained dogs for an additional rent of $25 per pet per night plus taxes.
- All BRMR homes offer well stocked kitchens with all utensils needed to cook meals. There is also a "starter set" of paper products at the house: a roll of toilet paper per bath, a couple garbage bags, a small vial of dishwashing liquid, a few tablets of dishwasher detergent, some laundry pods, a roll of paper towels, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and some makeup remover cloths. There are enough of these items for one night, or maybe two. - Firewood for the outdoor firepit may be purchased with a week's notice or at the time of booking. You receive two wrapped, kiln-dried bundles and a fire starter for $25 plus tax. - Check in is after 4pm - Checkout by 10am - Must be at least 25 years old to reserve. This person is required to be one of the persons staying in the property for the reserved dates. - No smoking inside the home. No trace of smoking left outside the home. - Do not leave food or trash outside as it could attract animals. - No parties or gatherings above the posted occupancy allowed. Keep outside noise respectable. - Guest is responsible for any damages caused by intentional (non-accidental) actions. - Host is not responsible for items left in the home.
CANCELLATION POLICY - Bookings canceled 30+ days before arrival will receive a refund of the deposit. Bookings canceled between 15-29 days before arrival will receive a refund of half of the deposit. Bookings canceled within 14 days of arrival are not entitled to a refund unless the reservation dates are rebooked to another guest. All bookings are subject to a $50 cancellation fee.
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
About the area
Banner Elk
Located in Banner Elk, this cabin is near theme parks and in the mountains. Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Grandfather Mountain and The Blowing Rock. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Kidd Brewer Stadium or Holmes Convocation Center. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and ice skating.
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery - 13 min drive - 6.3 km
The Greater Foscoe Mining Co. - 14 min drive - 7.1 km
Grandfather Mountain State Park - 14 min drive - 7.7 km
Hawksnest Tubing Park - 15 min drive - 8.7 km
Getting around
Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 95 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 25 min drive
Banner Elk Cafe - 20 min drive
Blink Elk Tap Room - 21 min drive
Town Tavern of Banner Elk - 19 min drive
Kettell Beerworks - 19 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly?
As of 5 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly on 8 June 2026 start from NZ$1,088, 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 The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Watchtower - hot tub, game room, private retreat, fire pit, pet friendly located?
Situated in the mountains, this cabin is within 9 miles (15 km) of Alta Vista Gallery and B & B, Apple Hill Farm and The Greater Foscoe Mining Co.. Banner Elk Winery and Foggy Mountain Gem Mine are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Very secluded, nice & clean property. Great location, kitchen & rec area. Could house 2-3 families at once.
It will need blinds, as there’s a cabin being built close by. Drive way is a little steep but my sons Corolla made it up just fine.
Highly recommend this property.
Philip S.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you had a relaxing getaway! We'd love to have you back again! - BRMR
Clean, everything was nice. Property well kept. Would have liked to have TV in Master and larger TV in living room. Beds 3/5. Overall nice stay and would come back. Convenient location.
Paulette H.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Hi Paulette,
Thanks for staying with us. We appreciate your feedback about this home and we look forward to your next stay with us.
Best wishes,
Kaytlyn
Beautiful property!! Would love to stay again, didn't think the steep gravel to get there was that steep thank goodness. Once your up there the trees are grown tall, so not much of a view. Very nice cabin and had everything we needed for a relaxing get away. Thank yall so much! Would highly recommend!
Rebecca W.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Hi Rebecca,
Thank you for your review. We are glad to hear you had everything you needed for your stay and we hope you will visit again.
Best wishes,
Kaytlyn
Verified
8/10 Good
William W.
18 March 2019
Very clean and neat cabin.
The overall experience was amazing. Check in was very easy no one disturbing our time alone and very peaceful location. Ping pong balls need replaced but good enough to play a game or two. We enjoyed the hot tub and the fireplace. We very much look forward to using VRBO for other bookings down the road. Well done very easy way to book stay and enjoy every minute of the vacation in peace.
William W.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Hi William,
Thank you for the review. We are happy to hear your overall experience was amazing and you found this cabin very clean. Our staff look forward to working with you again in the near future.
Kind Regards,
Brooklin
We had a fabulous stay at Deer Run with our family for Christmas. The cabin was perfect. Very clean and just as advertised! The snow made it all the more perfect. We will certainly stay again.
If you are visiting in snow months, be sure and have your 4 wheel drive/chains. We had ours and still a little trouble on last leg up the mountain.
Victoria C.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you had a fabulous stay and enjoyed the snow! We'd love to have you visit with us again! - BRMR
It is hard to say what we liked most about this property. Maybe the wrap around porch with its beautiful views, maybe the large eat-in kitchen, or maybe the roominess of the bedrooms/closets? Of course the spa was wonderful after long hikes, the comfy king beds slept well, and there is plenty of space to “find your own space” when needed. Bathrooms are generous and the wood-covered walls throughout the house feel cozy and spacious at the same time. We reported a few maintenance items needing repair; hopefully they will be fixed soon because we will be back!
Verified traveller
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay overall! We are sharing your feedback with our team so they can look into this closer. Please come back anytime! - BRMR
Cute house for a ski trip. House could use some additions to make it more comfortable. More dishes and glasses, more towels. Large trash can in kitchen, large TV in living room. More blankets on beds. Beds are very cheap and not comfortable. Small touches make a huge difference.
jeanette4491@hotmail.com H.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are very glad you enjoyed your getaway! We are sharing your feedback with our team. Please come back anytime! - BRMR
We were looking for an easy getaway during Christmas with things to do and this was it. The beds are comfortable. The ping pong table downstairs and the hot tub were just perfect to keep us busy when we were not skiing at Sugar Mountain, an easy drive from the cabin. Do not let the steep driveway scare you away. No issues at all getting up. We had good weather with only one day of rain. Would need 4WD or chains during snow. Would recommend bringing pans and silverware if cooking for large families otherwise the kitchen is well equipped. Thank you for sharing your home with us- great visit!!
Kimberly T.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay! We are sharing your feedback about the pans and silverware with our team. Please come back anytime! - BRMR
We enjoyed the quiet, beautiful location of this house! There was plenty of space for our party of 6. We laughed, watched football and baseball, and relaxed in the hot tub! A few in our party had a difficult time getting up the steep driveway in the dark. There were only 5 chairs and the kitchen table, so we had to use one of our own. The fireplace didn’t stay on, and we never heard from maintenance after I emailed the property manager. We would definitely rented this house again.
Jackie R.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you had a great stay, but we are so sorry our team didn't get back to you about the fireplace in a timely manner. We'd love to have you visit again! - BRMR
Verified
6/10 Okay
Trish M.
13 July 2018
Tranquil Cabin
Peaceful location away from neighbors. Heavily wooded around the cabin perimeter. Very clean and spacious inside with lots of places to sit or hangout. Basement and upstairs loft both have sitting areas. Great size for families. If you like to cook, you will be disappointed with the cookware and crockery. They are very cheap and really not useable. The deck is narrow so don’t expect to be able to seat 6 people around the table. The kitchen is large so it could fit a larger table to accommodate 8 seats. Picking up keys in Blowing Rock is a little inconvenient for the customer. Overall, cabin was nice, clean and located in a very quiet yet convenient location.
Trish M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Hi Trish,
Thank you for the review of your time spent with us here at Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals. We are pleased to hear you found the cabin very clean, spacious and in a convenient location. We are sorry to hear about the cookware and will let the homeowner know about this issue. Thank you for letting us know and we hope you decide to come back again soon.
Kind Regards,
Brooklin
This home was beautiful and secluded very quiet and clean and comfortable . Loved the hot tub and ping pong table and all of the beds were comfy! The gas grill was not working at all. We bought steaks and we literally could not use the grill had to finish on the stove/ oven. The kitchen equipment needs to be updated. The knives were dull, there were only two wine glasses, the ice maker was not working at all, the kitchen needs some help! The gas grill would not work . Probably would not rent this home due to the driveway . Beautiful home but needs some TLC!
Suzanne L.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We appreciate your feedback and are sharing it with our team. We'd love to help you find the perfect home and driveway for your next mountain getaway! - BRMR
This property was exactly as described! The house was beautiful and amenities were perfect for our stay. We’d recommend this to others and come back again.
Hannah B.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you so much! We'd love to have you back anytime! - BRMR
We survived “the Road to Deer Run”! Believe me, you too will be proud of yourself.
VERY secluded. And a real adventure finding and getting to and from the cabin each day if you’re there to go skiing. Make sure you do the driving in the daylight as it’s super scary after dark! Zero street lights! And I pray anyone who stays here is in great shape as it would take an ambulance, police or fire dept at least 25-30 mins to get up to this cabin with all of the narrow winding hairpin turns along the way, not to forget the steep grade of the long driveway.... mot sure an ambulance could hack it..... maybe if it were AWD! Let’s just say you certainly don’t want to forget to buy the milk when you go to the trouble of driving to and from the grocery store!😳 But the cabin itself was nice....could just use a few amenities like window coverings in the bedrooms and bathrooms. Couldn’t help feeling really vulnerable out there....Just a bit creepy at night.
Liza S.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are glad you enjoyed the home itself! This home is between Valle Crucis and Seven Devils which is a remote and peaceful area. We also mention in the listing that there is a steep gravel road to access the home, and we do recommend having an AWD/4WD year round. We'd love to help you find a home that you would feel comfortable accessing for your next mountain getaway! - BRMR
Cabin was great for privacy deep in the mountains. Recommend 4 wheel drive.
Experience was good. Loved how there were 3 levels. Nice secluded area and nice size cabin for a big family. 4 wheel drive is needed to drive up to the cabin, the road is quite steep.
Kierra W.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are very glad you enjoyed your getaway! We'd love to have you back anytime! - BRMR
Loved the Hot Tub. Large comfortable. Very Clean.
Wish there had been blinds or window covering at least in the bathrooms and bedrooms. Ice Maker did not work. TV in bedrooms would have been nice. Great cabin for a large family or 2 families.
Linda S.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are glad you enjoyed the cabin! We are sharing your feedback with our team. Please come back anytime! - BRMR
This is a very nice cabin conveniently located in Valle Crucis. Well equipped kitchen was great for Thanksgiving cooking. Downstairs living area and TV allowed kids to have their space. We enjoyed the Ping pong table and hot tub. And the main floor living area with gas fireplace was very comfortable. Other houses in sight, but nice private setting in the woods.
Raymond D.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you enjoyed your stay! We'd love to have you back again! - BRMR
The house is amazingly beautiful. If you like a great get away for quiet or just to be in the area this is a great place to stay. I would come back and rent this house for sure.
Susan L.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you had a relaxing getaway! We'd love to have you back anytime! -BRMR
My wife and I had a 4 nights stay. The cabin is beautiful, secluded on the side of a mountain. Very clean, well equipped, and taken care of. However, the bed was very firm for our liking and the ice maker didn’t work. All in all, a great place to stay.
Jeff L.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2023
Thank you! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay overall! We are sharing your feedback with our team. Please come back anytime! - BRMR
About the host
Hosted by Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals
This property is managed by Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals. Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals is the High Country's leading vacation rental company. Our mission is to be a respite for thousands of guests each year from their hectic lives. Founded in 2002, we have succeeded with a singular mission: We strive to treat all homeowners, guests, and co-workers with the utmost care and respect. We truly care about all guests because we know that most endure stressful lives back home, and they cherish the times that they can escape to a restful haven in these beautiful North Carolina mountains. Let our team help you find the perfect vacation getaway!