Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall!
The Butterfly House is a truly one-of-a-kind mountain retreat designed by Jim Fox, inspired by the organic architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright's “Fallingwater.” Built directly into the side of the mountain overlooking Blue Valley, this remarkable home was designed to blur the line between indoors and out, creating a stay that feels completely immersed in nature.
From the moment you arrive, you're surrounded by the sights and sounds of the mountains. A waterfall cascades beside the home, filling the air with the soothing sound of rushing water, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame long-range mountain views in nearly every direction. Natural stone, wood, glass, and flowing outdoor spaces make the home feel like an extension of the landscape itself.
The main living area centers around dramatic dual stone fireplaces that can be enjoyed from both inside and the deck outside. Wraparound decks invite you to step into the cool mountain air, dine outdoors, or simply sit and listen to the waterfall echo through the trees. The galley-style kitchen features granite countertops, a gas cooktop, electric oven, beverage cooler, and easy access to the outdoor living spaces.
Butterfly House offers multiple gathering spaces, including a comfortable family room and lower-level sitting area tucked directly against the mountain itself. On the lower level, exposed rock walls covered with natural moss bring the mountain indoors, creating a space unlike anything you'll find in a traditional vacation home. With the waterfall nearby and the rock surrounding you, it feels as though the mountain is wrapping around the house.
The home sleeps guests comfortably with a queen guest room, a bunk room with two twin bunk beds, and a stunning upstairs primary suite featuring a king platform bed, private balcony, stone fireplace, walk-through closet, and private bath. The suite overlooks both the living space below and the surrounding mountains, adding to the home's open, connected feel. With four wood-burning fireplaces, cool mountain breezes, and nature woven into every detail of the design, The Butterfly House offers a mountain experience that is peaceful, immersive, and unforgettable.
Your reservation includes a damage protection plan. The damage protection plan is $50, and it covers up to $3,000 in damages. In lieu of purchasing the damage protection plan, guests have the option to choose a refundable security deposit. If you would like to pay a refundable security deposit, please contact us. The security deposit is $500 and will be administered subject to the NC Tenant Security Deposit Act.
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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 and a deadlock
About the area
Highlands
Located in Highlands, this holiday home is in the mountains. Highlands Country Club and Scaly Mountain Outdoor Center are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Highlands Biological Station and Black Rock Mountain State Park. Cashiers Farmers Market and Andy's Trout Farm are also worth visiting. Rafting offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking, horse riding and ecotours nearby.
Western Carolina University - 52 min drive - 57.0 km
Lake Keowee - 54 min drive - 69.7 km
Getting around
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 89 min drive
Restaurants
Shell - 6 min drive
Los Vaqueros - 5 min drive
Oak Steakhouse - 13 min drive
Calders Coffee Cafe - 6 min drive
Highlander Mountain House & The Ruffed Grouse Tavern - 5 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall!?
As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall! on 9 August 2026 start from NZ$870, 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 Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall!?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Butterfly House - Unique Mountain Home with Waterfall! located?
Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Nantahala National Forest, Highlands Country Club and Glen Falls. Cullasaja River Gorge and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
Beautiful property with amazing views!! We truly enjoyed this exceptional home!! Close to town location with gorgeous Mountain views!! We had a wonderful stay!!I would suggest the home owner upgrading the outdoor furniture to maximize the stunning views! We also loved all the fireplaces!
Debra M.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 October 2025
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and we look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and we look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
It was awesome except we weren’t able to check in until 5:15 instead of 4:00 but that was a third party management issue. And the upstairs main bedroom was a bit warm but I’m sure that’s not a problem anytime except just or August, which is when we were there.
Andrea Teal S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 July 2025
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time we look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
Beautiful home and perfect location to downtown Highlands, hiking trails and waterfalls ! This is our second time staying at the Butterfly house and the views from every room never disappoint!!
Tara B.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 11 December 2021
Thank you for leaving a review! We are so glad you enjoy Staying at Butterfly House!
Architectural gem. The home is well stocked with everything possible. We (ages 78 - 9 years old) all thoroughly enjoyed staying in this beautiful home
Robert B.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 August 2023
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you and your family had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
The views out of every window of this home were breathtaking. It surpassed our expectations for our fall mountain vacation. The location to Highlands couldn’t have been better either it was about 5 minutes from the downtown. If you’re looking for a great house with views this is the one!
Paige G.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 5 January 2022
We are so glad you enjoyed the home. Thank you for leaving a review!
Enjoyed the ButterflyHouse, just walking thru the multiple levels was a great. It was also well equipped with everything to make you feel at home. Wonderful fee’s we’re from every place in the house.
Augustus S.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 November 2022
So happy you enjoyed your stay at Butterfly House!
This house is truly a work of art! I would enjoy knowing more about how it was designed/built. We had a marvelous week there. The views were magnificent, even on a rainy day. The house had everything we needed. We'll return for sure...we loved this place!
Robert/Nancy C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 August 2021
Thank you for the review! We look forward to your return!
The Butterfly House was great! It's unique "Frank Lloyd Wright" type of design was a fun change. The views were spectacular. The house is very comfortable and well stocked. The only thing to be aware of is the spotty cell phone service given its mountain side location and somewhat slow internet. Might be a challenge for someone looking to work remotely that needs robust internet connectivity. But, we abosultely loved our stay.
Don T.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 August 2022
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and we look forward to seeing you again!
This property is truly beautiful. The architecture is remarkable, and the view is just grand. The bedrooms are nice and the kitchen is well stocked. One change in comparison to the VRBO listing for this property is that the next door neighbors have installed a dam which blocks flow down the waterfall, apparently at their discretion. This is an extremely small point but might be clarified in the listing for the property. Am very happy we stayed there.
Eleanor K.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 November 2022
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and we look forward to seeing you again!
Nice house, tough to regulate climate, a bee issue
Property was as stated in description. Because of the openness, it was difficult for the heat to really be effective on the single night we were there.
Now, our stay was to be for 3 nights, but on our second day, I noticed a couple of yellow jackets. Not a big deal. However, over the course of the next two hours, the 2 bees multiplied to 35 (yes, I counted). Due to the openness of the house, they were flying from the master bedroom to the living room and back. We went to the real estate management firm, and they were fantastic in understanding our concern (the phone video helped) and got us into another location.
Dave B.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 November 2023
Thank you for taking the time to review your stay and that we were able to make your stay more enjoyable! We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you again!
Landmark Vacations
Verified
6/10 Okay
Chris M.
12 October 2022
Liked: Listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in
Outstanding view but just OK otherwise
The positive: incredible view, functional home with plenty of space for a 3 bedroom. Decent price point for busy season, architectural marvel. The negative: needs some remodeling - deck is not in great shape, especially for being 50+ feet up. The outside was covered in spiders, the windows were dirty (and house is almost all glass), there were 4 dead birds, some in last stages of rotting so must have been there for quite some time, wood floors peeling from UV damage (why don’t the windows have UV or tint?), and the doors are difficult to lock (we have hurricane doors and understand how to operate, but these are in bad shape). One door didn’t lock at all, so we wedged chairs. No cell service, but once we turned on the router we were in decent shape, and in case of emergency you can use the landline. No instructions on how to use the alarm system, and there’s no gate so we felt exposed a bit. Construction next door but didn’t bother us (was loud for a while Saturday afternoon until about 5:30 no work on Sunday, started 8 am Monday - they’re building some kind of dam or waterworks, not sure). The property management was 30-45 minutes late because they couldn’t find the keys. I think this was a delay tactic to have more time to clean the house. The loft master affords great views but the bed is stiff; the sheets and pillows are uncomfortable/cheap quality, there is no master tub, and noises from the kitchen are right below. Lights in the house are tricky to figure out (some are labeled). The dishes and glasses and mugs weren’t super clean, so we had to hand wash everything before use. Overall I would recommend the stay for the view, but I think the house needs a renovation in some areas and we will look elsewhere for our next stay in Highlands.
Chris M.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 October 2022
Thank you for your review. The items mentioned below will be addressed with the management team as well as the owner. We are so glad that you had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you again!
Beautiful architecture , everything you need , peaceful , spacious and location was perfect. The waterfall in the back was the icing on the cake !
Mindy S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified
8/10 Good
Paula B.
25 October 2021
Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Butterfly House
Spectacular views. Great for a total disconnect from internet and cellular service. A couple of our group were in need of internet for work related issues and were unable to get consistent working service. Not even through the wireless provide with the house.
House had a leak in master bedroom window bringing a puddle of water to the floor and some items near were dampened.
Both were reported in person at the Landmark office to a less than cordial woman. She did have a person come reset the modem and stated she would make a note of the leak. Otherwise was not at all welcoming.
The property was in a fantastic location for shopping and dining. Overall wonderful experience here with a great group of girlfriends.
While the area is wonderful, the house is so fabulous that it is a destination in itself. It is comfy space as well. The waterfall at the house can be heard from anywhere in the house with the window cracked, and sitting on any of the 9 decks is lovely with the slight breeze and the sound of the waterfall. The negative ions give a very zen feeling to the setting and the ambiance of the house. We kept hopping around trying the rocking chairs, sling chairs, table and chairs, all with available chair cushions on the various decks. A few things to note that are not necessarily a problem, but nice to know. There is a flight of steps from the parking to the front door, and 5 levels in the house. The second and third bedrooms share a bathroom (separate sinks, and there is an available half bath on the same level) and open on to the family room. The master bedroom is open to the living room and kitchen. The living room does not have a TV, but there are TVs in the family room, master (streaming only), and second bedrooms. WiFi can be slow at times, and basically no cell phone service (WiFi calling works fine). None of that would keep us from returning. The location is 10 minutes to Highlands, and access is by good, paved roads. The details of the house design are amazing. We absolutely loved our stay.
The home is an attraction in itself. Best views of mountains with it's own waterfall. Exterior of home and windows in need of pressure washing. Shower could use grout cleaning.
Debs P.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 4 May 2021
We're so happy you enjoyed the house and the views! The spring cleaning, exterior and window cleaning has been completed. We hope you have the opportunity to come back and stay with us again!
The pictures do not do the Butterfly House justice. It is a unique, architectural masterpiece with stunning views outside every window. The constant sound of the waterfall below was peaceful. The view of the mountains was majestic.
The amenities were great. It was so easy to cook in the kitchen. The owners had thought of everything. It was close to town and many outdoor activities, but we also felt so wonderfully secluded. Heated floors were amazing!
The one drawback was the substandard internet. For the adults, this was workable and probably a gift. However, during one of the days of our stay, my kids still had to be in virtual school. Zoom lagged terribly. They could not both be in "class" at the same time. It was challenging for my 11th grader to even access emails from teachers and Google classroom.
The poor internet is not nearly enough to deter us from another visit, though. We will just need to come when we can ALL disconnect for a while.
Thank you for an AMAZING stay.
When building this home, they thought of every thing! Landmark, the leasing company, they too thought of everything too! We enjoyed our stay and we will try to rent again on our next trip to the Highlands.
GIna P.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 22 October 2020
We're so happy you enjoyed the house and staying with us! We hope to see you again on your next trip to Highlands.
Great house and views along with the waterfall. The only thing I did not like was the jack and Jill bathroom for two adults to share with kids. Could use another garage can
Carolyn s.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Peter R.
20 October 2018
Beautiful home!
My family stayed here for four nights and loved it. We had plenty of room. Our daughters (age 10 and 13) loved the home. The views are fantastic. It is very close to town, and does not require lots of driving down precipitous mountain roads to get there.