Vacation Rentals by Owner

A Time to Remember

Guest: salsagirl (Mint Hill)
Date of Stay: 02/05/11 Review Submitted: 02/10/11

Our annual girl's weekend was once again "delightful, restful, and divine" at our beloved "Riverbend". Each visit has enabled us to draw closer to each other and to our Lord as we enjoy His beauty in this wonderful place. If the setting, surroundings and views were not enough... the owners continue to make improvements each time we come and it just gets better and better...My favorite things are the wood burning fireplace, gorgeous views of the river and woods, and the very comfy beds. Did I mention how very clean and well equipped it is too? Yes, I give it 5 stars!!! We have made many wonderful memories at Riverbend over the years. I highly recommend this charming and spacious cabin...it is a very special place that refreshes the soul and restores your peace. Experience it once and you will return. Until next time Riverbend....

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Riverbend 11/14-11/21

Guest: Jerry & Martha (Raleigh)
Date of Stay: 11/14/09 Review Submitted: 11/23/09

We've stayed at Riverbend so many times now that I'm loosing count. We keep coming back for many reasons, among which are the location, the views and the amenities. Having Sparta 15 minutes away is a huge convenience in such a rural area. It's a great place for a stroll, a little window shopping and to grab a bite to eat on a crisp autumn afternoon. We had a nice picnic on the Parkway another afternoon. We spent an afternoon at Mount Rogers as well. It's wonderful to be at either place on a weekday when you can almost have the mountains to yourself. We missed the height of the fall colors this time, but the views of the river from Riverbend really open up with the leaves gone. It's special to be able to take advantage of that view - and the sound - from almost any room in the house! We always try to spend a few hours roaming the property in good weather. I've never been so close to a flock of wild turkeys before this visit. Apparently they live on the property or somewhere nearby because we saw them several times. Of course the deer and smaller wildlife were plentiful as usual. We were also lucky enough to have several cold and rainy days. A rainy day inside of Riverbend is almost as good as a nice day tromping around outside. A good meal and a warm fire certainly take your mind off of the dampness outside. A special thank you to the owners for supplying the firewood! This was the first time we have used the WiFi capabilites and found that easy and very convenient as well. It's nice to have it if you want - and to be able to shut it off if you don't! Riverbend has always met our expectations as advertised. We have recommended it to friends and will continue to do so. We plan to visit again as soon as possible!

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Girl's Weekend Retreat

Guest: Lizajanie (Charlotte, NC)
Date of Stay: 01/23/09 Review Submitted: 01/26/09

This is the most FABULOUS cabin ever! Six of us girlfriends spent the weekend at Riverbend and had the time of our lives. The kitchen was wonderful and very well equipped. We cooked homemade "zuppa Tuscana" and barbequed Asian steak on the huge gas grill! Fireplace was AWESOME as was the fire pit beside the New River. Ample wood supply already cut and stacked!!! Bathrooms are beautiful and we loved the jacuzzi tub! Everything, from furniture to appliances to decor is impecable! The owners have lovingly made this into a home, not just some rental. I'm sure many great memories have been made here! I'll definitely be back, next time with my hubby and three sons!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Spectacular Retreat!

Guest: Marc and Alison (Severna Park, MD)
Date of Stay: 07/13/08 Review Submitted: 07/23/08

We just spent a week at Riverbend with our family (husband/wife and three young children), and hated to leave! The cabin is incredible with every amenity possible, to include ping pong, board games, a great DVD selection, and an extensive kitchenware selection. You could never step foot outside of the great front porch and your vacation would be a blast. However, you would miss out on the rushing river, the gorgeous mountains, the wildlife, and all the other fun stuff the area has to offer. We spent hours tubing, fishing, and just playing the river, which is just about right outside your front door. The kids loved catching crayfish and the other interesting water creatures that abound. I would recommend taking a long drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway and exploring a quiet side of life that is rare these days. From a trip to Grandfather Mountain to going to the Farmer's Market in Galax, VA on Saturday morning, the area has it all (except crowds, annoying traffic, and high priced junk souvenirs)! Other "must do's" include catfish and trout fishing in the stocked ponds in Sparta, a trip to Mt. Airy to see the original Mayberry town (don't miss the world-famous pork chop sandwiches at Snappy Lunch), gem mining in Little Switzerland, and the great but strenuous waterfall path hike at Stone Mountain Park. We also enjoyed the Foggy Ridge Cider orchard and "factory" in Dugspur, VA where they make and bottle the best hard apple cider I have ever had, making s'mores at the great campfire site next to the river, and just reading in the two hammocks next to the river. This vacation allowed our family to reconnect, enjoy nature, and to see a side of life as it existed years ago in term of small town living. While it was a rustic area, the cabin is first-class all the way, and allows you to step inside from the forest to extreme luxury. We also had the pleasure of meeting the owners, and they are great people who I think really want to make sure you are well taken care of and that you enjoy your stay as their guest. Simply put, you can't go wrong with Riverbend!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/01/08 Review Submitted: 07/15/08

We had a three generation family vacation (ages 8-72) at Riverbend in June, and everyone had a wonderful time. My brother had researched hundreds or rentals, emailing me and my sister each time, but none could compare to Riverbend. And the reality did not disappoint! I don't know what got more use, the rocking chairs, the hammocks, the ping pong table, or the fire pit by the river... we enjoyed them all! My personal favorite was sleeping with the windows open and hearing the river. And then there were the lightening bugs! It got dark around 9 p.m., and they entertained us each night. The location is great - secluded, yet close enough for some fun day trips, if you so desire. We enjoyed Mt. Airy and Blowing Rock, as well as drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. On the practical side, it is about a 12 hr drive from South Florida, but definitely worth it. If you go into Sparta for groceries, Lowes is the place to shop (and yes, it is for food, not the home improvement store!). We had a delicious and inexpensive lunch at The Pines Restaurant in Sparta. One caveat, it is a bit of a hike down to the River, about 40 steps I think. If you are traveling with an elderly person, or someone with mobility issues, you would want to be aware of this. All in all, I can't say enough nice things about Riverbend. We plan to go back, hopefully at a time cold enough to enjoy the fireplace. If your family loves nature and relaxation, while still being entertained, this is the place for you. If you need nonstop action, theme parks, putt putt golf, go carts, etc, you better look elsewhere!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 01/01/08 Review Submitted: 01/17/08

Early on a Thursday morning I set out for the cabin at Riverbend, a 350 mile drive from my little villa in the city to this little piece of heaven in North Carolina. Sitting right smack dab on the New River, the place is a near Rockwellian portrait, an idyllic home with huge rocking chair porches, mountain river views and cool temperatures that keep life vibrant yet relaxed. On the drive to the cabin, we passed by a restaurant in Sparta called the Knife and Fork where a person can get salt and pepper catfish and a tall glass of sweet tea. The hardware store was brimming with customers. In March, the temperature was supposed to be in the low 50s during the day and the 20s at night. Perfect weather, I think, for bonfires and one of my favorite sights and sounds: the hypnotic glow and the crackle and hiss from real logs burning in a fire place. Nearly a year has passed since my trip to Riverbend but just the thought of it soothes me. Unburdened and unshackled from the daily rigors of life, instead, I put on my play things and for three days I meandered around mountains, sat by fires, read books, skipped stones and walked along the shores of the New River that lazily floated past the cabin. We sat on the huge rocks and thought about our lives, not in terms of to do lists, goals or careers but in terms of just being with each other and what games we might play later as a group. We built bonfires, took long, leg aching walks, and laughed for hours. My dog Conner smiled in the wild and even with bad legs and aging eyes he ran the way he did once when he was little. He seemed to belong here in the wild, in the cold. From time to time, the tranquility and peacefulness of Riverwood stops me in my tracks. How beautiful an artist God is, I think and how kind of him to leave Riverbend on the canvas for so many of us to view.

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A wonderful peek among in the mountains

Guest: Kman (Charlotte, NC)
Date of Stay: 12/07/07 Review Submitted: 07/30/08

What a wonderful place to get away from it all in the North Carolina mountains. If you want to get away to rest, read and recline this place has it. If you want to take a crew and play you will find plenty of toys for all to be entertained. If you like to play in the great outdoors there are several attractions nearby. My wife and I have gone alone, we have taken our children, and we have gone with other friends and family, and every time we have had a blast. We always look forward to being there and enjoying the company of others and the surroundings. The river is wonderful. You can see and hear it from the house. There is a great place down by the river to sit around a campfire and talk, roast marshmellows or hot dogs. You will just have to go there to see it for yourself. I am very confident you will come away reluctantly, and return frequently.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/29/07

We discovered Riverbend during an Internet search for last minute get aways about four years ago. It's undoubtedly our best find ever. We've seen all sorts of weather there in half a dozen visits - but whether it's snowing or a pleasant spring day, there's always something enjoyable to see or do. The amenities are outstanding, especially considering the seclusion, and each time we stay the place is better. The last time we ventured to the mountains, we decided to stay at the Grove Park in Asheville for a change of pace. Frankly, I wish we had decided on Riverbend instead! We've already booked our next stay.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/29/07

I have been to Riverbend on two amazing "girls' weekend away" and indeed it was a little piece of heaven with my friends. The cabin is extremely warm and comfortable and just the place to get away and dream, laugh, connect and disconnect! The beds are extremely comfortable, the furnishings are beautiful and so cozy. Love that fireplace! Overall it is just that perfect place in the mountains by the river....I highly recommend it and look forward to returning again...I cannot say enough about how special Riverbend is...discover it for yourself!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/28/07

We arrived late on a Friday night, so we weren't able to see the lay of the land when we arrived. We instantly fell in love with the cabin when we saw it. The real treat, though, was waking up the next morning. Wow! There was no other cabin or structure of any kind in sight. We were on a bend in the river (thus, Riverbend. The hammocks and fire pit down by the river beckoned us. The sound of the river day and night was quite soothing and lovely. It was a place we instantly wanted to come back to again and again. Fabulous fireplace and great room, and many amenities, including pet and kid friendliness in all the details. Wait till you see the downstairs shower! When we think of somewhere to get away from it all, this is our first pick.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/27/07

We stayed at Riverbend for several days and had a wonderful time. The property is gorgeous and very private, as the closest neighbors are hundreds of yards away and out-of-sight. The house sits on a hill overlooking the river below, which provides the relaxing sound of rushing water. If the kids can brave the cold water, they really would enjoy hunting for rocks (obviously, with supervision). I found some very interesting samples that I now proudly display on the desk in my office. On the river's bank is a campfire area. We had a cookout, and it felt as though we were miles away from civilization. We ate, drank and socialized, surrounded by thick forest and, of course, the crisp waters just a few feet away. Inside, the cabin provides all of the amenities that a family would want on vacation. Each room is decorated to reflect the log cabin theme. It was very clean and the furniture was in excellent condition. The cabin has plenty of places to sit and relax, play games or just watch TV. The ping-pong table downstairs is great for kids. All-in-all, I would recommend staying there if you want to spend some quality outdoor time with the family. It also makes for a great romantic getaway without the kids.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/27/07

My wife and I have stayed at Riverbend close to six times in the past three or so years. We have taken our four teens a few times too. We all love it there. The river is great and the view of it from the cabin is awesome! There is a nice area near the river for roasting marshmellows and hot dogs etc. The cabin is well furnished and very comfortable. If stuck indoors, there are several things to do. There is a table tennis table, TV, movies, games etc. There are several attractions within a relatively short drive from the cabin - hiking, rafting, biking etc. The nearest town, Sparta, is a quaint town with several interesting stores for the shopper in you. Personally, I enjoyed visiting the local bookstore. A visit to Riverbend will prove to you that I have not adequately described it, so go take a look and soak it all in. I know you will go back.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/26/07

Riverbend was/is as ideal as it gets! In addition to a gorgeous and secluded setting, handsome cabin, and all the amenities, the owners bent over backwards to make our experience a taste of rapture. I could not conceive of a more spendid retreat. My heart, soul, and body rested well at Riverbend.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/26/07

My husband and I stayed at Riverbend a few months ago and just loved it. A number of months earlier my extended family (from Connecticut) held a family reunion there, and we all agreed it was one of the best ever. The river is fun to play in, the fire-pit and chairs by the river are relaxing (mmmmm - s'mores)and add a nice touch, and we had a great time at RiverCamp tubing, kayaking and canoeing. (Our own on-the-river parade!) We didn't fish but read some great fish stories in the guest book. The cabin is very private and there are woods all around. Will we go to Riverbend again? Absolutely - can't wait!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/13/07

Here are some of the written comments in our guest book at the cabin, unedited just as they were written by guests: "You can't find a nicer place this secluded. We caught some fish and saw a turkey. The cabin is classic but by far the best part is the firepit by the rive. Spent most of the time down there. All the utensils and chairs made it perfect. Riverbend is definitely on our A list and we look forward to our return." 4/12/07 The Coventry Family... "This was our third trip to Riverbend ad we chose this beautiful spot to renew our marriage vows on our 10th anniversary. This place is very special.. Call us if you ever decide to sell it." 10/8/07 Vosberg Family... "Thank you so much for the use of your home this week. It ws the most relaxing vacation we have ever had!" 8/12/06 Scarboro Family

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Loved Riverbend - definitely recommend

Guest: 5454 (Greensboro, NC)
Date of Stay: 07/08/07 Review Submitted: 05/20/08

We had a family reunion at Riverbend and loved it. The privacy, playing in the river, s'mores down at the river's edge, sitting in those wonderful rockers on the front porch... nothing but relaxation and enjoyment! And there were so many things to do in the general area... We agree we will definitely return and we'll also recommend Riverbend to friends and other family members.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Amazing Getaway

Guest: SKing (Princeton, New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 06/24/07 Review Submitted: 05/22/08

We have had the privilege of staying at Riverbend 3 times. Each time it was glorious. We have been there in the Spring, Summer and Fall. The house is beautiful and beautifully appointed. The view is spectacular. The river is vibrant and fun. If you love to soak up the outdoors and need a private getaway, go to Riverbend.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great property but some debatable details

Guest: Birdie (coastal NC)
Date of Stay: 06/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/19/07

The property itself is gorgeous. It is clean and well-maintained, with plenty of amenities. The view is stunning and the setting is quiet and somewhat secluded. If you happen to have pets though and are unsure of how they will respond to strangers, you should know that there are other homes fairly close by and the people who stay there DO come down to the stream at another access, not far from the property. The people we encountered were not very friendly... This is no reflection on the property, or the owners, just an FYI. Also, while technically the water running past the property is a river, at the time when we were there, it was not rushing. Also, unless you go to the few deep holes, most of it is just inches deep (barely enough in which to go tubing). I assume that if the trout are really there, they are in the deeper holes, but even wading down to the holes and fishing there, we had no luck. The best thing about the property is that if you are in need or rest and relaxation, you can definitely find it here! Just don't bring an avid fisherman with you. There are several golf courses within a short distance and they are absolutely beautiful. In Sparta you can find some quaint little shops to visit. There are also restaurants and grocery stores close by to meet your needs. All in all, this was a great place to stay and I would highly recommend it! While the property is pet-friendly, I would only recommend it IF you plan to watch your pet closely. There is a drop-off over which our dog jumped and without Divine intervention, he could have been badly injured or worse. Please keep an eye on pets and small children if you visit this property!

Owner response:Thank you for your lovely review! We are so thrilled that you loved the views, the golf, the amenities, and "that you would highly recommend it" to others! We love that. As to the fishing, we have three years of entries in our written guest book with wonderful fishing stories! Many renters have had tremendous luck fishing in the river. Unfortunately, you came after a drought in the dry season and in the winter when the river can be low at times. It is rare, but does happen. We hope you have better luck with the fish next time. We highly recommend to all our guests that they visit one of the canoe rental places on the New River where fishing can also be grand. And if all else fails, Dean's Trout farm has been a great hit with the kids, and a catch is always guaranteed. Thank you for loving our Ultimate Mountain Retreat and for highly recommending it to others. The owners.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/06 Review Submitted: 12/06/06

WOW, what an awesome home and area. We had an extended family Thanskgiving there and a great time was had by all. I think that our golden had the best time of all. With the amount of room to run and swimming in the river plus playing with kids he truly was in heaven, as we all were. I can't thnk you enough for sharing your beautiful home. PS - My sister-in-law and I tried to add to the bottle collection but just couldn't do it! Maybe another time.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/06 Review Submitted: 05/25/06

We enjoyed our stay...we have four golden retrievers, and we brought three of them with us, a ten hour drive, but they did just wonderful...they had a great time romping in the woods and taking daily walks. We usually go to island get-aways; but cannot take the dogs across the Pacific...it was a nice relaxing week with our dogs and just the two of us!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/06 Review Submitted: 05/01/06

My husband and I spent our honey moon here in March 2002. The owners actually cared enough to hang wedding bells in 2 places. The cabin was breath taking inside and out. Any body that loves the outdoors will fall in love with the cabin and surroundings.

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Guest: Kat Silverglate, member Riverbend
Date of Stay: 01/31/06 Review Submitted: 01/30/06

We are so excited to open our first guest book this first day of February 2006! And we are even more thrilled to announce great additions to Riverbend! Last summer and fall, we were booked almost every single day. This winter, we added a 1,000 square foot Bunk Room with hand made built in bunks, entertainment center, game room [with ping pong] and a separate laundry room. Riverbend went from a great rental [we have mostly repeat customers] to a superior rental. Please call me personally if you have ANY questions. We know you will love this place! Kat, 305-710-2935 [member, Riverbend of Alleghany, llc]

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