Private Honeymooners/Writer's Cabin W/ Bold Stream and Parkway Access

• Find your peace here

  Find your peace here

  • Guest Anna C.
  • Date of stay 04/26/13
  • Review Submitted 05/07/13
  My first vacation with my 2 children, ages 9 & 11, since the breakup of my marriage from their father. The lack of cell service, internet and television threw us for a moment but what a blessing that turned out to be! We played in the river, caught a couple salamanders which of course we put back before leaving, found many beautiful stones in the river as well. Ah, the river! How lovely to hear it at night while sleeping and all day while enjoying the porch and the amazing green views. I have found a gem in the holler of the NC mountains and I will return with my children. My 11yo daughter insisted on signing the guest book before we left. She doesn't know that I came behind her and read her precious words that touched a mother's heart deeply. It became clear that my children enjoyed the "off the grid" status as much as I did. This was a turning point in our new circumstances and really served its purpose of bringing us closer together with no distractions. As close to the Creator as I've ever been. Peaceful, we all were. It was a miraculous experience. Thank you for making the cabin available for a special Merlefest rate. I would love to be put on the list for the same time next year. I will definitely be coming back sooner than later. A rare find indeed.

  Recommended for: Pet owners, romantic getaway, families with young children, girls getaway.

  Owner response: Anna, Thank you so much for leaving such a heart-felt review of your stay at Stargazer. Your experience is exactly what I hope for when guests come here to get away. Hearing your response about the impact that staying at the cabin had on you and your kids gives me great satisfaction in owning/managing it and opening it up for others to enjoy. I really do hope you will visit again; I look forward to having you and your family as guests again!

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

• Know Before You Go!!!

  Know Before You Go!!!

  • Guest kimberly w.
  • Date of stay 03/29/13
  • Review Submitted 04/03/13
  This is a pet friendly property without any hidden fees! I love that! So many owners tack on another $100.00-200.00 in extra fees. The area is very nice and my son had a blast playing outside around the creek. All of the linens are provided and so is a cleaning service which is extremely nice not to have to worry about those things. The house was very clean and comfortable. Nice location away from traffic and neighbors. IMPORTANT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The BIGGEST problem was the stairs!!! Neither stairway is Pictured. No handrails on either set of stairs and the incredibly narrow staircase leading to the upstairs was Dangerous! The stairs leading to the upstairs were only 5 inches at most. The stairs were so small only half my foot would fit! There is a nice slant or tilt on the first or second stair. I hit that with socks on and tumbled down the rest.I fell down them not once but twice. I moved all of our things downstairs only going upstairs to sleep, which made it cramped. There is one bedroom downstairs the other beds are upstairs. There is a stone stairway from the parking area to the house, 16 long stone stairs with NO handrail.I had to hold on to my mother to get her up and down these stairs. We were afraid she would fall down the stone stairway. The rocks were slippery and there was NOTHING to hold on to. This is a very dangerous situation and your guests that might be traveling with young children, elderly or disabled need to be aware!!!! The other problem was with the amount of hot water or lack of it. The nice tub Pictured is unusable unless you like cold water. I was really looking forward to bathing in the large tub but was SO disappointed when I was only able to get 2 inches of hot water. The warm water didn't even come up to the first set of jets. :-((( I was going to look for a water heater to see if it could be adjusted but the water temp wasn't the problem. The water got very hot...just not for long. It was a problem taking showers as well. Had to hurry up...no time to relax in a nice warm shower. The last issue we had was the lack of kitchen utensils. Not one sharp knife. Not one mixing bowl. No scissors. No measuring cups or spoons. Not one baking dish. These are things that are usually included in even the basic of kitchens in rental properties. So bring you own if you plan on cooking your meals at home. I did try to contact the owner twice through phone and email and got no response.

  Recommended for: Sightseeing, families with teenagers, pet owners.

  Owner response: Not only did I allow this guest to bring pets, I charged for just one dog when two were brought out of courtesy. If stairs were an issue, then the guest should have read the description of the property explaining that the house has 2 levels, had limited accessibility for handicapped, and that it is a 1920s farmhouse... These homes were built to a different standard than today. This guest did not inform me that stairs were a problem, and did not notify me that they had an elderly guest that needed special attention. Nothing was hidden. I have added even more notes about this in case someone else is scared of stairs. I lived in this house for many years with my master bedroom being on the second floor, and with feet much bigger than hers, and have never fallen. The steps are not "5 inches", but are not as deep as current code would require, and are probably around 10 inches. No other guests have ever complained about this, so I will not be adding pictures of stairs. As far as the water temperature for the shower, this is the first I have heard of the problem, and will be adjusting the temperature for the new guests. This guest also mentioned a cold "hot tub", but really meant the inside jacuzzi. The hot tub on the deck is very hot, and can be turned up from 98 to 104 degrees if desired. I'm not sure how many people look for scissors and baking equipment while they are on vacation, but I will see what I can do about adding additional items for this. Also, after I sent the detailed instructions (which answered her questions about cleaning and check-out times) concerning the cabin on the day before, I did not answer her two calls because I had left the country for a much needed vacation and did not have service. Though many people have really enjoyed their time at Stargazer, it seems that it just wasn't a fit for this guests needs.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

• Delightful get-away

  Delightful get-away

  • Guest SKY
  • Date of stay 10/13/12
  • Review Submitted 02/26/13
  My husband and I stayed here for a weekend get away, and we both wished we could have stayed longer! Being from the DC area, having the opportunity to stay in a cozy, remote area that's still not too far from "civilization" was a treat. The location is just beautiful. We would definitely recommend it for a couple or for a group of friends!

  Recommended for: Sightseeing, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, families with young children, girls getaway.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

• Rhododendron express

  Rhododendron express

  • Guest Gaston B.
  • Date of stay 02/15/13
  • Review Submitted 02/19/13
  This little cabin is a great getaway. It is hard to beat seeing my little one running along the creek on this 5 acre property without the sound of traffic or city life. Cabin has all amenities needed, uge movie selection, great rhododendrons everywhere and beautiful stone steps leading to the front door. Highly recommend to honeymooners or families wanting to get away. Thank you for the good memories!

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

  Owner response: Thank you Gaston! I'm really glad you and the family had a relaxing time together at my little cabin in the woods (: It was great to have you as guests.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

• Simply Beautiful

  Simply Beautiful

  • Guest cntrygrl4ever
  • Date of stay 10/05/12
  • Review Submitted 10/09/12
  This rental is one of the most beautiful, tranquil, and relaxing places we have visited, The decor made you feel at home as soon as you walked in the door. Sitting on porch drinking coffee in the morning listening to the sounds of nature and the stream was a wonderful way to start the day. Then after a full day of activities on the parkway the hot tub in the night air looking up at the stars!!! HEAVENLY. Great people to rent from got lost on the way to the property and was very kind and helpful. House was clean and well kept. We hope to visit again.

  Recommended for: Sightseeing, age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway, families with young children.

  Owner response: Thank you so much for your feedback and we are glad you enjoyed your stay. Hope to have you stay with us again soon.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

Additional information about rental rates

Ask about our custom Wedding packages

Fees:

• Pet Fee: $50 + tax
• Tax Rate 8%

Cancellation policy:

If renter cancels 30 day prior to their scheduled stay, they are entitled to a full refund minus a $25 management processing fee. If cancellation happens in less than 30 days from stay, owner will continue to market for rent, and if rented, a full/partial refund will be given according to days rented minus a $25 processing fee RENTAL POLICIES Stargazer is privately owned and rented on behalf of the property owner, subject to the provisions of the Rental Agreement. Each unit is furnished by the owner to reflect their taste and certain standards recommended by us. Since most reservations are made by phone or online, it is important for you to communicate your needs to the owner. If you have any special requirements of a particular quality in mind, we strongly suggest a personal visit to the property prior to confirming the reservation. It is unfortunate, but we will be unable to make other arrangements upon your arrival. OCCUPANCY The occupancy limit of each property is designated in unit description as SLEEPS. Only infants who sleep in cribs are not counted in the total occupancy. All units and cabins are rented for family vacations only. We rent to responsible adults over 25. NO SORORITIES, FRATERNITIES, WEDDING RECEPTIONS, “HOUSE PARTIES”, or other such groups are permitted unless pre-approved by the Agent and Landlord at time of reservation. Requests must be in writing. If your request is approved, a substantial Damage Deposit will be required. A rent increase may also be required. Exceeding the occupancy limit, misrepresentation or subletting is grounds for eviction. If your tenancy is for 30 days or less, the expedited eviction procedures will begin. Owner reserves the right to enter any rental property to inspect for violation of rules. RESERVATIONS Reservations can be made in person, by phone or Internet. After making your reservation we will send you a RENTAL AGREEMENT that must be signed and returned with a FULL RENT PAYMENT within 15 days after making your reservation. Once we have received your payment and signed Agreement, we will send you a CONFIRMATION. If your arrival date is within 30 days of making your reservation the full amount will be due at time of booking. While we strive to provide accurate information, please note that verbal misquotes on rental rates, unit descriptions or policies will not be honored. ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES When you receive your RENTAL AGREEMENT and CONFIRMATION please read them carefully paying particular attention to the arrival and departure dates. CHECK-IN is 3 p.m. and CHECK-OUT is 11 a.m. We will adhere strictly to these time schedules so that we can inspect and clean after each departure. Please do not attempt to arrive early or check out late. If the premises are not vacated by 11 a.m. a late check-out fee of $25/hour will be charged. If you are planning to arrive after 5 p.m., please notify us so that we can make arrangements for your check-in. Our after hours emergency number is 828-414-1216. FINAL PAYMENT The balance due on your rental must be paid (in US funds) at least 15 days prior to arrival. We accept cash, certified funds, travelers’ checks, money orders, personal checks and MasterCard or Visa. Any check returned unpaid by the bank for any reason will incur a $25 Returned Check Fee. Reservations made within 2 weeks of arrival must be paid in full by cash, certified funds or credit card. No personal checks accepted at check-in or 15 days less than arrival date.. DAMAGES/DAMAGE DEPOSIT Tenants will be held liable for any and all damages resulting from their occupancy. Your reservation does not require a Damage Deposit, but you will be invoiced for any damages, excess cleaning charges, phone calls, cable TV charges, loss or damage to rental linens, etc. Any charges billed to you must be paid immediately or future rentals will be denied. Any extra services ordered after your arrival (sheets, towels, crib, or high chair, etc.) must be paid at the time of the order. These charges cannot be billed after you go home. FURNISHINGS AND EQUIPMENT All of the cabins and condominiums are furnished with basic housekeeping accessories, dishes, cookware, flatware and various small appliances. Re-arrangement of furniture is prohibited. MAID SERVICE, LINENS AND TOWELS ARE PROVIDED. There will only be the initial set up of these items. Units will not be cleaned on a daily bases nor are towels and linens changed out. You are encouraged to bring extra towels, trash bags, toilet tissue, etc. We have done everything possible to assure accuracy of the description; however we CANNOT be held responsible for printing errors, changes in furnishings by owners, or equipment failure. MAINTENANCE All equipment should be in proper working order, but you should promptly report anything inoperative. After-hours repairs will be limited to emergency situations only please call 828-414-1216. All efforts will be made to expedite repair but NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE. Guests will be charged for unwarranted service calls. Please keep a key with you when you leave your unit to prevent accidental lock-outs. If we have to come to your unit to let you back in, a key delivery fee of $25 will be charged. If, at the time tenant is to begin occupancy of the property, the landlord or agent cannot provide the unit in a fit and habitable condition or substitute a reasonably comparable property in such condition, tenant shall receive a full refund. CLEANING Upon your arrival, please notify us immediately if you do not find the unit clean. If we have not heard from you within one hour of your check-in, we will assume that you found the accommodations in an acceptable condition. All rentals are provided with vacuum, mop and broom. If these items are missing, please call our office. All other cleaning supplies are the responsibility of the renter. Please follow the Check-Out Procedure described in your check-in package or inside the rental unit. Any extra cleaning required by failure to abide by these procedures will result in charges to your rental account. “Maid Service” is available during your stay or on check-out at an additional cost. PETS This rental unit will allow one mature, housebroken dog with payment of a $50 non-refundable Pet Fee. These properties are designated in the unit’s description. NO CATS ALLOWED. You must disclose the pet when making your reservation. If a pet is discovered at a “No Pet” property or without advance notice at a “Pet Allowed” property, there will be a $100 charge, the pet must be removed and your occupancy may be cancelled with no refund given. Any damage or excess cleaning required due to pet hair, odor, etc. will be charged to your rental account. TELEPHONE/CABLE TV CHARGES All properties are equipped with phones for local calls unless otherwise noted. Most units have a “block” to restrict direct-dialed long distance calls. Do not attempt to bypass the blocking system. No long distance or toll calls are to be charged to the unit phone. Use your cell phone, calling card or a pre-paid phone card. If you plan to use dial-up Internet during your stay, be sure that your Internet Access number is a local number. Any unpaid telephone or cable TV charges will incur a $15 Administrative Fee. HOUSE FOR SALE Occasionally a rental house may go on the market for sale. In such case we reserve the right to show the property to qualified buyers. We will make every effort to schedule the showing at a convenient time and not interrupt your vacation. Your cooperation is appreciated. If your rental unit is sold within 180 days of your rental departure date, your Lease may be enforceable. If sold more than 180 days and no longer offered for rent, we will make every effort to accommodate your needs or refund your advance rent payment. PROPERTY SUBSTITUTION Owner reserves the right to cancel the Agreement at any time prior to tenant taking occupancy. All payments will be refunded, and neither management firm nor owner will be liable for any damages of any sort incurred by tenant as a result of such cancellation. If tenant desires to be placed in an alternative rental unit, agent will make a good faith effort to relocate tenant, but tenant agrees to pay difference in cost of rental. INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS Tenant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Agent and the owner from and against any liability for personal injury or property damage sustained by any person (including Tenant’s guests) as a result of any cause, unless caused by the negligent or willful act of Agent or the owner, or the failure of Agent or the owner to comply with the Vacation Rental Act. CANCELLATION POLICY If less than a 30-day notice is given and the unit is not re-rented, there is NO REFUND unless your claim is covered by Travel Insurance. ALL CANCELLATIONS MUST BE CONFIRMED IN WRITING.

100% refund if canceled at least 30 days before arrival date.