Vacation Rentals by Owner

Gorgeous - Has It All!

Guest: Kim E.
Date of Stay: 10/23/11 Review Submitted: 11/10/11

This is an exceptional property, it is more of a home than a rental. The owners obviously spend time there themselves as there are personal touches and accoutrements not found in your typical vacation home. Meticulously clean, well appointed, beautiful views and very private; the pictures do not do it justice. Centrally located to Banner Elk, Valle Crucis, Boone, Grandfather Mountain, Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Many thanks for providing this lovely home.

Owner response:Our cabin is your cabin when you rent it and we hope to make it as inviting as possible!

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Change of plans because of Hurricane Irene

Guest: Raleigh, NC guests
Date of Stay: 08/25/11 Review Submitted: 09/14/11

"Thank you for sharing your cabin with us. We have had a very memorable time; the view is remarkable and the cabin very comfortable. We appreciated your flexibility" (concerning the last minute rental).

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Wonderful late summer stay!

Guest: Heidi (Florida)
Date of Stay: 08/22/11 Review Submitted: 09/12/11

The two of us spent a week at the Cabin - really a spacious house! - and found that it was everything promised plus more. We loved the quiet and the seclusion and only hearing a rooster crowing. The views are ever-changing and very dramatic, even at night when there are no lights to compete with the stars. The house is beautifully and thought-fully equipped. Even a crock-pot which came in handy as we spent the better part of several days hiking nearby and also exploring the towns of Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock. It was great to come back to a peaceful retreat, to hang out (literally!) in the hammock and have dinner almost ready to go. By the way, each town has its own personality, some great eateries and we were lucky enough to come across several farmers' markets, craft shows and musical entertainment during our short stay. The house has lots of personality and it is warm and welcoming. There was a dramatic summer thunderstorm one night and the house felt solid, safe and sound. We love the area and would certainly like to come back again next summer.

Owner response:We have equipped our cabin with many amenities that we as owners enjoy. As many of our renters have discovered, the North Carolina mountains offer activities for all ages and interests. We have fallen in love with this area and love to share it with others!! Jan and Fred

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

The most relaxing vacation I have had in years!!!

Guest: Linda A. (Alton Bay, New Hampshire)
Date of Stay: 07/27/11 Review Submitted: 07/30/11

My vacation got off to a great start. When we arrived everything was in place, the house was ready to be lived in. When we have rented other places in the past, there always seemed to have something go wrong but not this time. I loved the views particularly at night when we could sit in the hot tub and look up at the beautiful stars. During the day we were busy going to the many attractions in the area. It was a joy to come back late in the day and relax on the wrap around porch. I thought we were in heaven. I would recomment this place to anyone that wants to have a relaxing and stress free vacation. I hand hardly wait to come back next year.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A lIttle Bit of Heaven

Guest: Tom and Elaine
Date of Stay: 07/16/11 Review Submitted: 07/29/11

My wife and I had such a memorable stay at the mountain cabin. What struck us the most was its warmth and charm. Its decor so well matched the beauty of the surroundings. The cabin was spotless and even I could operate all the appliances. Of course, it helped that all were in good working condition. Oh the hot tub!! What spectacular views of the mountains while sipping on our favorite wine. What a perfect way to end each day. The beds were comfortable and the cool breeze was just the right touch for a good night sleep. Waking up to the sound of chirping birds was a treat. The town of Banner Elk offered many attractions especially good restaurants. Our highlight was attending a Blue Grass music fest put on by local musicians. WOW what a great time. We were so lucky to be there when the bands played. Needless to say, we loved every minute. We can't wait to come back to this "little piece of heaven" nestled in the North Carolina mountains. Tom, Boca Raton, FL

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Wonderful Relaxing Vacation

Guest: karen k.
Date of Stay: 07/11/11 Review Submitted: 07/31/11

What a beautiful, comfortable well appointed home.We enjoyed meals on the balcony and evenings in the hot tub. It was so quiet and peaceful, and the views are specatcular.There are buterflies in the garden all day and fireflies at night.Blowing Rock is such a pretty town and you have to try Crippens Restaurant. We went for lunch 3 days in a row. Great area and house for a family to keep busy or couples to relax. I would love to go back some time to see the fall colors.

Owner response:We're always glad to hear when a renter has enjoyed their stay!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway.

The worse cabin ever!!!!!

Guest: Bartek S.
Date of Stay: 07/01/11 Review Submitted: 07/25/11

I rent the cabins and houses in NC area since 10 years and never had worse cabin then this one!! This cabin was terrible, far away to all atractions and when we arrived wasn't clean and beds wasn't made it!! And on top of that it was no hot water!! When you arrived with 3 kids after 16 hours of driving you expect that everything is at least good and you can take hot shower. When I call the owner he wasn't available and call me back after few hours!! He sent the neighbor to fix the problem and he did but that takes more then 24 hours without hot water!! Also there is no AC in the cabin except the small one in the window which is very very loud and doesn't work well!! Owners provide the worse service I've ever have and for this money you will find 100 times better place to stay!! They also charged the cleaning fee but YOU have to clean everything before you leave (do dishes,vacuum,clean and empty refrigerator, put garbage outside) otherwise they gonna charge you extra that mean you paying double cleaning fee, that's ridiculous!!! I would never recommend this cabin to a friend because of the owners and location!!!!!

Owner response:In response to Bart's comments, we would just like to say that all our other reviews speak for themselves. In 24 years of renting houses and condos in NC and NH, I don't believe we've ever had a renter leave out house in such a deplorable state! Our housekeeper was distressed enough to send us pictures, and a normal 4 hour cleaning turned into seven hours. Also in 24 years, this is only the second instance where we have had to hold a portion of a renter's security deposit. Understandably, Bart is very upset at the surcharge and that is reflected in his inaccurate charges and comments. We can assume that he and his family will not choose our cabin again, nor will they be allowed to return. Respectfully, Fred and Jan

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Talk about luxury on vacation!

Guest: Fred W. (Lee, New Hampshire)
Date of Stay: 06/27/11 Review Submitted: 07/30/11

While getting to this cabin was a bit "back woodsy" there was nothing "back woodsy" upon arrival. The cabin is in immaculate condition with all the amenities you could hope for while on vacation. The views are absolutely stunning and with all the comforts available, we rarely wanted to leave. We did, however, and thoroughly enjoyed all the activties that are within an easy drive. Internet reception was excellent, especially considering that you're not exactly in a developed area! Using the hot tub on the deck in the cool evenings was a joy, especially once the sun set and stars took over the skies. While the owners call this a "cabin" it is much, much more. They were very easy to work with and everything was as smooth as could be. If you're looking for some luxury but want to avoid the crowds, this is the perfect place. We'll definitely be back next year.

Owner response:We're always pleased to have a satisfied renter!

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

We'll be back!

Guest: katlin N.
Date of Stay: 05/05/11 Review Submitted: 07/30/11

Our family thanks Fred and Jan Sallah for providing us with a wonderful vacation retreat. We immediately felt welcome and "at home" when we opened the door to their pristine cabin. The charming decor, beautiful master suite, and hot tub were big hits! The Sallahs go the extra mile to ensure guests enjoy their stay by providing information on local attractions, as well as plenty of movies, books, and games. While we weren't as close to towns as we would have been in some other locations (a fact we were fully aware of when we rented), the spectacular views from the large deck and hot tub were well worth it. We had a terrific time and hope to return soon!

Owner response:We always encourage renters to return by offering a 10% discount!

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

Grand View at a Great Price

Guest: Family Oasis (AKron, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 10/16/10 Review Submitted: 11/01/10

This cabin is neat, clean, well-appointed and ready to move into for a great, restful vacation. We appreciated the HDTV, Wireless Wi-Fi access, and Movie selections in the loft amply warmed by the living room fireplace. Nice touches with homey magazines, great couches and comfortable beds made the stay well worth, “staying in” for. The Hot Tub and Views were outstanding. We loved the access to nearby attractions including Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Banner Elk (spa), Boone for pottery (Doe Ridge) and a few meals out. High elevation views, peaceful surroundings and well-stocked kitchen make this an ideal place for the rest we desired.

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

Fantastic Birthday Get-Away!!!

Guest: GVL_Scott (SC)
Date of Stay: 10/09/10 Review Submitted: 10/17/10

I wanted a beautiful place with a wonderful view for my girlfriend's 40th birthday and let me tell you, this cabin was perfect. The view from the deck is outstanding, the interior of the cabin was amazing, they anything you needed. What a fantastic place. We really thought it was a wonderful experience for the money.... This is a place you'll want to rent!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Family Time

Guest: Millbury, MA guests
Date of Stay: 09/14/10 Review Submitted: 01/14/11

"We were very happy with the cabin the moment we arrived, but as the days passed this place grew on us beyond our expectations. Haven't stayed anywhere else where there is not a sound but crickets, birds and the breeze. Comfortable (extremely) and peaceful, we have been, it will be hard to leave!"

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Guest: NC guest
Date of Stay: 08/25/10 Review Submitted: 08/29/10

"This house is beautiful, comfortable and full of little touches that made our stay a great one. We look forward to a return trip."

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Great View, nice HOT TUB, Quality Hammock with its own stand, comfy furniture etc

Guest: Theresa (Orange Park, Florida)
Date of Stay: 08/01/10 Review Submitted: 08/13/10

We had a lovely stay at the cabin. I think we at more meals on the porch than at the table inside. I liked coming "home" every day and seeing the flowers loaded wiht butterflies. My father and son and I walked up the salt lick but of course didnt see anything because of the noise we were making trapsing thru the woods. We did see wild turkey, hawks, butterflies, possibly a golden eagle, the rabbit that greets you as you come up the driveway. The movie collection is current and has something for any taste. Laundry room is nice and very handy after those hiking and rafting trips. If you decide to stay in this cabin, find Oliver Hill Road, especially 1 hour to 30 min before sunset, the open rolling hills and houses / farms are spectacular and very close to the cabin. No AC for those coming up during really hot times I would say open all the windows and turn on the fans. Only one night was uncomfortable for sleeping, all other nights were nice and cool. My husband is a runner and he tried to run on the gravel roads but there are just too many dogs running about. Most friendly but a couple not so much...

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

Loved this Mountain Cabin

Guest: AL Travelers (Birmingham, AL)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 07/31/10

Great cabin at a great price. Very comfortable sofas and beds. We enjoyed most of our meals on the big table on the porch while we looked out over the amazing mountain top view. The kitchen is the best stocked I have ever experienced in any vacation home I have rented (even some really pricey properties at Seaside and Rosemary Beach)! The owners have a wide selection of movies - many of them recent releases and I think we worked 5 or 6 of their 500 pieces puzzles. The yard is filled with flowers and butterflies, and we saw deer, rabbits and even a wild turkey when we ventured out. We walked to a nearby creek and enjoyed the hike and the scenery. We drove to Boone one day and enjoyed the town and a meal out. Also went White Water Rafting with USA Rafting on the Nolichucky in Poplar, NC. and we drove along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The owners were great to recommend grocery stores (we really loved Ingles) and the directions they provided were EXCELLENT. Don't go by your GPS! If you are looking for a relaxing place to enjoy time with your family, you will LOVE this cabin.

Owner response:We aim to please with both our amenities and helpful suggestions. The cabin is a wonderful family gathering place!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, pet owners, sightseeing.

Family Time

Guest: Hillsborough, NC guest
Date of Stay: 06/26/10 Review Submitted: 01/14/11

"This cabin gave us a great opportunity to spend some special time with our teenage boys before they are completely grown and living away from home. This house is beautiful, comfortable and full of little touches that made our stay a great one. We look forward to a return trip."

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My Family's first reaction was WOW!!!

Guest: Joe (Hillsborough, NC)
Date of Stay: 06/20/10 Review Submitted: 06/30/10

The cabin had a great view and was full of special touches. Board games, videos, books etc. The hot tub on the deck was great. We felt very at home in the cabin. The kids both had a room to themselves. This is the first cabin that we had rented and we were a little worried about renting over the internet. The rental was a very easy process and the owners were great to work with. Banner Elk was a nice area with good restaurants, we liked Stonewalls. The Daniel Boone Inn in Boone is also a must place to eat. The Banner Elk Winery was a great place to visit. Hiking on Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway was challenging and fun. Make sure you check the weather if you go in the summer. The cabin did get a little warm in the afternoon, No A/C. It did not take long to cool off after the sun went down. I think we stayed during a heat wave for the area. I would definitely recommend this property and I hope we can make it back next year.

Owner response:We try to keep the cabin supplied with all the amenities anyone could possible want. We pride ourselves on the number of return renters!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 01/18/10 Review Submitted: 01/17/10

Special Highlights-"Being in the clouds,hearing the coyotes howl,and seeing the deer walk in the backyard"

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 01/18/10 Review Submitted: 01/17/10

This is truly a magical place; it was like a commercial Hallmark Christmas... We were blown away when we walked through the door; the pictures on the website just don't do it justice.

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Wonderful home. Beautiful view.

Guest: Haven & Nicole's mom (Wade, NC, USA)
Date of Stay: 11/25/09 Review Submitted: 12/08/09

Our family had a terrific time here. We were even blessed to see a light snowfall on Thanksgiving Day. The location is so close to great destinations like Grandfather Mountain, Blowing Rock, and the Mast General Store. Our kids thoroughly enjoyed having access to their favorite TV channels and we all enjoyed playing foosball. The kitchen has all utensils and pots that you could ever need. It's just a wonderful getaway and we hope to return very soon!

Owner response:Thanksgiving is a wonderful time in the mountains-the early snowfalls and cutting a Christmas tree add to the enjoyment of this special time. We love to share our cabin for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

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

Amazing Cabin

Guest: adventurelovers (Swansea, SC, USA)
Date of Stay: 11/06/09 Review Submitted: 11/20/09

This cabin could not have been better. My family has rented other cabins in the mountains before, and truly none compare to this one. We will definitely be returning for future stays. This home is equipped with everything to make anyone's stay pleasurable. It is situated in a wonderful setting. Plenty of wildlife to see and the creek is beautiful. The views were spectacular and the hot tub heaven sent. I have recommended this cabin to friends and family and will continue to do so in the future.

Owner response:We are pleased when our renters enjoy their stay. Our attempt is to have one of the best rentals in the mountains- well maintained- and well furnished!

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

A Wonderful Mountain Experience

Guest: Searching for a name that is not taken (Ocean Isle Beach, NC)
Date of Stay: 10/14/09 Review Submitted: 10/29/09

The cabin offers a fantastic mountain experience. We loved the view from the living room. You see beautuful trees and foilage and a barn. There are waterfalls and streams nearby and the moon and stars are beautiful at night. The kitchen has everything that is needed for a gourmet meal and the beds are very comfortable. There is a loft above the living room that has a large tv, lots of videos , and a foosball table that our grandson loved. We all enjoyed the hot tub located on the deck. We look forward to going back!!

Owner response:These renters have been to the cabin 3 times- I believe that speaks for itself! We're pleased when we have repeat guests.

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

Guest: Jacksonville, FL Guest
Date of Stay: 09/29/09 Review Submitted: 09/28/09

"We were thrilled when we woke up Tuesday morning- loved the privacy and being able to sleep with the windows open."

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Guest: Florida Guest
Date of Stay: 09/29/09 Review Submitted: 09/28/09

"This is our third trip to this cabin. It feels like home! We are so comfortable and do not feel the need to venture out as there is so much to enjoy here!"

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Guest: Ohio Guest
Date of Stay: 09/29/09 Review Submitted: 09/28/09

"Nature abounds here... this is a bird-lovers paradise- how wonderful to see God's beauty!"

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4 great days in the sky

Guest: Mac P (Raleigh, NC)
Date of Stay: 09/23/09 Review Submitted: 10/07/09

The cabin is more than the pictures show. It is a great place to stay while you are on vacation or any other reason. The view from the deck is breathing and for solitude it would be hard to find a more perfect place to just relax and enjoy nature. I will rent the cabin again.

Owner response:We're pleased to share our special place in the mountains!

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

Two Glorious Weeks

Guest: Lady W. (North Carolina)
Date of Stay: 08/06/08 Review Submitted: 08/30/08

Had a wonderful time in this lovely home and am already planning a return trip! The accomodations were everything we expected and the owners could not have been more helpful but the best part of all for me was the privacy at the cabin and the access to all the wonderful day hikes off the Blue Ridge Parkway.There's a great book in the cabin to guide you. Of course the hot tub is wonderful to watch the moon come up in and take in the wonderful mountain view. We had wonderful visitors everyday...wild turkeys with they young,deer,hummingbirds everywhere due to the beautiful wild flowers in bloom ,an occaisional woodchuck,thousands of butterflies,and bunnies galore.It was just wonderful. Both Banner Elk and Blowing Rock are great little towns loaded with good restaurants and shopping.If you are pizza lovers The Mellow Mushroom is a must. And so is a trip to this cabin.

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Guest: Florida guest
Date of Stay: 01/05/08 Review Submitted: 01/04/08

"Gorgeous mountain view! Congratulations on your beautiful retreat."

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Guest: Pennsylvania Guest
Date of Stay: 01/05/08 Review Submitted: 01/04/08

"Thank you for providing a wonderful settinG for a great vacation! We look forward to returning"

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Guest: Arizona/Virginia Guest
Date of Stay: 01/05/08 Review Submitted: 01/04/08

"Thank you for the tranquil rest-stop. It was such a special time for the children and their Papa. We feel blessed to have made these memories."

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Guest: Florida Guest
Date of Stay: 01/05/08 Review Submitted: 01/04/08

"The web site photos do not do this place justice. It is much nicer than portrayed."

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: The Becks_HAC35323 (Winter Haven, Florida)
Date of Stay: 09/01/07 Review Submitted: 09/24/07

This is a lovely newer cabin, perched at the top of a mountain. Getting up to the cabin from the main road takes a little while, but the view is spectacular and the setting very private. The owners have provided all the amenities you could possibly want. Banner Elk Winery at the bottom of the mountain was a fun experience. We would definitely rent this cabin again.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 11/05/06 Review Submitted: 11/04/06

"This place is truly wonderful! Rentals are never this warm and homey! Thank you sooo much for the memories you've enabled us to make!"

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 11/05/06 Review Submitted: 11/04/06

The house was very pleasant, decorations were warm and cozy and the items available in the kitchen were great!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 11/05/06 Review Submitted: 11/04/06

We absolutely love this house...the deck, all your special touches made us feel very much at home!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/13/06 Review Submitted: 09/12/06

"We loved the privacy and seclusion of the cabin"

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/13/06 Review Submitted: 09/12/06

"We loved the house...everything inside the cabin is first class. Thank you so much for renting such a nice house. We are so glad to have found it."

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/13/06 Review Submitted: 09/12/06

Highlights- "enchanted by the phenomenal view and loving this wonderful, comfortable cabin... been here 6 times before, but this is by far the best cabin."

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/13/06 Review Submitted: 09/12/06

"The house is beautiful and has everything you need within reach. Thanks so much for a much needed and restful vacation. Vacation highlights-The beautiful streams nearby and gorgeous waterfalls...Waking up to the sounds of birds singing."

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/13/06 Review Submitted: 09/12/06

Highlights-"clear mountain air smell"

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 11/27/05 Review Submitted: 11/26/05

You have done an amazing job of making whoever stays here feel comfortable and peaceful.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/07/05 Review Submitted: 09/06/05

I think our favorite thing to do was to hike up and down the creeks near the cabin. We just love the sound (and sight) of water rushing over the rocks.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/07/05 Review Submitted: 09/06/05

The cabin was very comfortable and well equipped. We had a wonderful time and hate to leave. This is truly a beautiful part of the country. We will be back!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/07/05 Review Submitted: 09/06/05

We loved the cabin and jacuzzi. It was so refreshing looking out over the mountains while relaxing in the hot tub.

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Guest: Fred and Jan Sallah
Date of Stay: 06/20/05 Review Submitted: 06/19/05

This log home is new to the NC high country rental market, and so are we. Having recently purchased this home, we decided to utilize our 18 years’ experience from NC’s Outer Banks, where we owned a condo in Duck and had a very loyal following.We have tried to make our Banner Elk cabin as comfortable as possible with all the amenities you would expect from a quality rental. Cleanliness and maintenance are always foremost, but we’ve added a few unexpected touches such as binoculars for wildlife viewing or stargazing, an umbrella (just in case!), a DVD movie library, some paperbacks and puzzles, and eventually even more ideas gleaned from your suggestions. We try to be very responsive, and hope to also build a loyal following here in the beautiful hills of NC. As we get better acquainted with the area we will leave sample menus, comments on area restaurants, and notes and suggestions on the many area attraction, as well as maps and guidebooks. We hope you’ll add to these comments in our guest book. Everyone has their own vacation style and if you like to spend a clear starry night on the outside deck soaking in the hot tub, well, we haven’t found too many things much more enjoyable ourselves. Welcome to the High Country, and please, make yourself at home!

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