Come experience absolute tranquility... without roughing it!

Grassy Creek, NC, USA

Cottage1600 sq. ft.
Bedrooms2
Sleeps6

Bathrooms1
Half Baths1
Min Stay2 - 3 nights

Escape from the everyday routine. Come up to Ashe County--N.C.'s coolest corner

The Nuthouse Cottage sits on a ridge with hardwoods to the south and a meadow to the east. Grazing cows, sheep or goats are within sight as are evergreens including a crop of Christmas trees for which Ashe County is well-known.

The cottage is a three story structure with a well-appointed and convenient kitchen including gas cooktop and oven and a dishwasher. The comfy living room has a wood-burning fireplace and it opens onto porches with rockers and tables, a gas grill, and gardens filled with perennial flowers in season.

On the second floor, there are two bedrooms with queen beds and a shared bath with a large walk-in tiled shower. The master bedroom features a gas-burning fireplace while the second bedroom has the spiral staircase up to the Crow’s Nest which has wide window seats for viewing the surrounding countryside. These are suitable for sleeping single and one sleeping bag is provided for this as well as blankets.

Amenities also include washer/dryer, DVD player and free WiFi. Firewood is available in season.

2 Bedrooms

Sleeps 6

Owner

Diana and Traylor Renfro

Member Since 2013

Premier Partner

The owner of this property consistently provides great experiences for their guests.

Speaks:
english

Calendar last updated:
Oct 19, 2018

About Diana and Traylor Renfro

We are Diana and Traylor Renfro, originally from Opelika, Alabama, where we grew up in the same church and schools. After college, we moved to Charlotte, NC, where I (Diana) worked as a Registered Dietitian and Traylor taught Economics at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). Traylor soon changed to a career in Human Resources and I turned to artistic endeavors, primarily writing. We both always loved gardening and growing vegetables, flowers, and landscape plants. Our two daughters, raised in Charlotte, learned to love good food and beautiful gardens. We found these 45 acres late in 1999, on a pilgrimage out of the city into the country to the highlands of Ashe County. It was love at first sight. Responding to an ad in the 'Second Hand News' on a drizzly November day, we walked the fence line trying to comprehend just how much land could be included in 45 acres. There was a large bowl of a meadow with a boggy bottom full of springs that drained into a winding branch. To one side, there were bare hardwoods with an under story of Rhododendrons and Mountain Laurel. A couple of hills were too steep and rocky to walk. Other areas were filled with brambles or “freeze-dried” wild-flowers. Spreading over a bluff in the sun, surrounded by barbed wire and locust fencing, was a wide flat hayfield, and, at the bottom, another flat field grew healthy green rye. The old farmhouse, unusable due to a fallen tree which exposed the interior to the elements, would have to come down, but there were two large barns and half a dozen other outbuildings. Everything needed attention. No one had lived on the property for fifteen years. We just knew from the beginning that it was meant to be ours. It was calling to us, showing us its great potential, and we couldn’t wait to get started. Today, it’s the same place with amenities. And we believe as stewards of the land, it is meant to be shared. Come stay for a while and discover North Carolina's "coolest corner."

Diana and Traylor Renfro purchased this Cottage in 2000

Why Diana and Traylor Renfro chose Grassy Creek

Get away from it all! Escape from the phones and the emails, from television and traffic. Hide away in the country where you can hear music in the hills and watch the sky change colors. Come remember what it’s like to live close to the earth, where tree frogs serenade in summer while fireflies twinkle, where butterflies drift through the gardens and dragonflies hover around the pond. In autumn, experience the color changes of the hardwoods and reach for apples and pears as they ripen on the tree. Hike around in the crisp fallen leaves. In winter, suit up and sled down snowy slopes. Then build a crackling fire while the wind howls. By spring, you’ll want to warm in the sun while dandelions pop up. Why not sit on the pier by the pond and toss out a line with some fresh bait and tempt a bass or bluegill for your supper? You will find fresh foods grown organically right here on the farm or on nearby farms in Ashe County. Harvest fresh herbs, fruits and flowers in season. Ashe County North Carolina is a last frontier for exploring the Appalachian lifestyle. The arts venues and eco-tourism available within the natural rural setting create a rich life here. You will love it here.

What makes this Cottage unique

Do you remember where food comes from? What it’s like to breathe deeply of fresh air? How the Milky Way brightens the sky on a moonless night? Need to change your point of view? Escape from the phones and the emails, from television and traffic. Hide away in the country where you can hear music in the hills and watch the sky change colors. Come remember what it’s like to live close to the earth, where tree frogs serenade in summer while fireflies twinkle, where butterflies drift through the gardens and dragonflies hover around the pond. In autumn, experience the color changes of the hardwoods and reach for apples and pears as they ripen on the tree. Hike around in the crisp fallen leaves. In winter, suit up and sled down snowy slopes. Then build a crackling fire while the wind howls. By spring, you’ll want to warm in the sun while dandelions pop up. Why not sit on the pier by the pond and toss out a line with some fresh bait and tempt a bass or bluegill for your supper? You will find fresh foods grown organically right here on the farm or on nearby farms in Ashe County. Harvest fresh herbs, fruits and flowers in season. River sports, hiking/biking trails, trout fishing, antiquing, bluegrass music events, and outstanding artisan creations are accessible nearby, but many who visit here prefer quiet time for reading, reflection and quiet activities like fishing and bonfires beneath the stars.

Amenities

Internet
Air Conditioning
Pets Welcome
Fireplace
TV
Washer & Dryer
Children Welcome
Parking
No Smoking
Heater

Bathrooms

1 Bathroom, 1 Half Bath

Bathroom 1
toilet, shower
Bathroom 2
toilet, First floor, by the kitchen.

The upstairs bath has a fully tiled walk-in shower, large vanity and screened toilet. Plenty of storage space. Bath linens are provided. Downstairs, half-bath near kitchen and porches.

Location Type

Rural
Come remember what it’s like to live close to the earth, where tree frogs serenade in summer while fireflies twinkle, where butterflies drift through the gardens and dragonflies hover around the pond. In autumn, experience the color changes of the hardwoods and reach for apples and pears as they ripen on the tree. Hike around in the crisp fallen leaves. In winter, suit up and sled down snowy slopes. Then build a crackling fire while the wind howls. By spring, you’ll want to warm in the sun while dandelions pop up. Why not sit on the pier by the pond and toss out a line with some fresh bait and tempt a bass or bluegill for your supper?
Mountain View
The Nuthouse Cottage sits on a hill with views of hardwoods and meadows. Cows, sheep and goats graze and wildlife abounds. Ashe County Christmas trees grow within view. Our pond is stocked.
Waterfront
Stocked pond with boathouse, pier, catwalk, picnic shelter, grill and bonfire ring.

Meals

Guests provide their own meals

General

Parking
Private, beside the cottage. Space for 3 cars.
Air Conditioning
Linens Provided
Washing Machine
Full size
Clothes Dryer
Full size
Fireplace
Wood burning fireplace in the living room and a gas-log fireplace in the master bedroom. Firewood is provided. FOR USE ONLY WHEN OUTSIDE TEMPS ARE BELOW 45F.
Heating
Internet
Free WiFi. Download speed >= 30 Mbps (for streaming)
Towels Provided
Iron & Board
Hair Dryer
Living Room
Spacious with windows. Opens onto porches.
Free Wifi

Kitchen

Dishwasher
Refrigerator
Stove
Gas cook-top separate from oven. Pop-up vent.
Oven
Convection and conventional.
Microwave
Coffee Maker
Funnel type with filters (#4 cone) provided. Table seats 6 comfortably.
Toaster
Pantry Items
Standard paper and plastic products are provided, including paper towels, table napkins, wraps, food storage bags, etc.
Dishes & Utensils
We intend to provide everything you would need for a dine-at-home stay.
Kitchen
Fully equipped for those who love to cook.

Dining

Dining Area
Dining
Table linens are provided.
comfy seating for 6 people

Entertainment

Television
Yes... NO CABLE OR SATELLITE but Smart TV (43" 4k UHD) with Samsung Smart Hub®. Easily find and play your favorite movies, TV shows, sports, music, and games--with or without your own device.
Stereo
(see Television)
DVD Player
Books
Games
Music Library
Video Library
Something suitable for most ages.
Video Games
(see Television)

Outside

Lawn / Garden
48 acres of farmland with meadows, hardwoods, walking trails, gardens: flowers, herbs, vegetables, trial vineyard with both red and white varieties of grapes, blueberries in July, apples in autumn.
Balcony
Indoor crow's nest with window seats for reading or computing in an elevated spot. 360-degree views.
Kayak / Canoe
2 kayaks and one canoe available for use by renters.
Outdoor Grill
Gas grill behind the cottage near a second porch with table and chairs and the patio.
Deck / Patio
Stone patio with a chiminea surrounded by gardens. Wood for chiminea is provided. Picnic table with mountain view.
Lanai / Gazebo
Picnic shelter beside pond and boathouse with a pier on the pond. Picnic tables, hammock, charcoal grill and fire circle nearby.
Water Sports Gear
Life jackets. Some fishing gear.
Ski & Snowboard
About 1 hour drive to several NC ski resorts.
Golf
Two golf courses are within half an hour: Jefferson Landing in Jefferson, NC and Mountain Aire Golf Club in West Jefferson, NC

Suitability

wheelchair inaccessible
Long-term Renters Welcome

Pool / Spa

Communal Pool
Reflection Pond has kayaks, fishing pier and boathouse, catwalk over the far end near a picnic shelter with tables and chairs, charcoal grill and a larger fire-pit. Some fishing gear is available.

Notes

When fishing on our pond, no license is required. You are also five minutes from Helton Creek a popular trout fishing location where NC fishing licenses are required. So catch some fish and cook them up! You can kayak, canoe or go tubing down the New River in summer. (Outfitters are available if needed.) You can hear first class bluegrass music, attend cultural festivals, visit arts and literary venues and shop antique stores in Jefferson and West Jefferson, NC. Since we are close to the Virginia state line, Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and Grayson Highlands State Park are both a short drive away. The Appalachian Trail is nearby for hiking and the Virginia Creeper Trail for biking starts at Whitetop, VA. Life is simple here, and unbelievably quiet. Enjoy birding, watching wildlife, and rocking on the porch or floating in the pond. Starlit nights are a specialty.

House Rules

Check-in: Flexible

Check-out: Flexible

Cancellation Policy

100% refund if canceled at least 14 days before arrival date. 50% refund if canceled at least 7 days before arrival date.

61 Reviews

Exceptional5/5

1 - 6 of 61

Lovely home and property

5/5

Stayed Sep 2018

Anne R.

The Nuthouse was the perfect choice for a weekend of hiking and relaxing for two friends who wanted to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The home and property were well maintained and clean. The kitchen was nice, and well stocked with cooking tools. The property had thoughtful landscaping and capitalized on the natural beauty of the landscape. We enjoyed wandering around and enjoying the views. The location was about 25 minutes from Grayson Highlands Park, which was our main activity for the weekend.

We absolutely loved The Nuthouse!

5/5

Stayed Jul 2018

Penelope H.

Our stay at The Nuthouse cottage was exactly what our family needed. The cottage and property is beautiful, the attention to detail shows in every area. Traylor was a wonderful host, and was so dear to show us all the marvelous nooks and crannies of his fabulous property, and we enjoyed revisiting every one. Our family was sad to leave, and we’re already trying to decide when we can return.

Absolutely Fantastic!

5/5

Stayed Jun 2018

Matthew E.Washington, DC

Overall, this place is absolutely fantastic. From the well decorated rooms and superbly stocked kitchen, to the fun little lake and walking trails, we couldn't have asked for more. And Traylor was a great host, very helpful and personable! I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway!

Perfect Getaway

5/5

Stayed Apr 2018

Andrew H.

The most incredible place to stay. Sunrise walks to the top of an overlook, daily pond swimming for the dog, local hiking, Helton creek fishing. This place has it all. Plus great owners who go the extra mile!

Weather doesn't matter

5/5

Stayed Apr 2018

Jason F.

I suppose that an abundance of snow might make getting to this cottage more of an adventure, I see enjoyment for all seasons at the Nuthouse. For our visit, we had 4 days of rain out of 6, but that just made the sun all the more lovely when it came out.

Note for allergy sufferers: This is a "pet friendly" place. While it was very clean, my wife did have some allergies flare up.

Perfect in every way!

5/5

Stayed Mar 2018

Marilyn M.Collingswood, New Jersey

One of our favorite vacations ever! The host, Traylor and family have created an vacation spot that does not disappoint. The pictures do not give the Nuthouse or the grounds justice. Care has been given with every detail, from the chefs kitchen, to the bed linens, to the bath towels, to the paper towels! No expenses have been spared.

Cabin is close to West Jefferson, which has amazing shops, Grayson Highland Ponies & Virginia Creeper Trail to name a few. However, you don’t even have to leave the property. The grounds, trails and reflection pond had us busy for hours.

Truly a fantastic vacation and one you will not regret booking. Fantastic in every sense.

1 - 6 of 61

Map

Grassy Creek, NC, USA

Here in the highlands of Ashe County we have old-time mountain music, arts events, and unique hand crafts within an unspoiled rural environment near the New River and the Appalachian Trail.

Grayson Highlands State Park is just over the state line in Virginia as is Mt. Rogers National Recreation area while Jefferson State Park and the New River State Park are just south. These areas as well as Bluff Mountain Nature Preserve offer hiking, birding and observation of native wildflowers.

The Virginia Creeper Trailhead (Whitetop) is within half an hour. Biking is mostly downhill unless you are a champ and turn around and come back up.

Phipps Country Store is the place to be on Friday nights to hear bluegrass music. Sometimes you can't tell the pros from the amateurs!

On our property, there is a pond stocked with bream and bass, a funky boathouse and pier, a picnic shelter and a charcoal grill. There are grazing animals and we are also a registered wildlife preserve.

The Nuthouse Cottage is well-equipped for those who like to cook and there is a gas grill out back. A chiminea is available on the patio for outdoor fires and there are two porches with rockers and tables. There are indoor fireplaces as well.

For fine dining, weddings and events we recommend the River House Inn and Restaurant located just ten minutes away, on the New River. They have an excellent chef in a beautiful setting, home of the annual Wine Fest in July.

For shopping, arts and crafts, and more restaurants, the towns of East and West Jefferson are within half an hour. Be sure to see cheese made at the Ashe Cheese Factory. Arts events are frequent including monthly gallery crawls in season.

Nearby golf courses are Mountain Aire Golf Club and Jefferson Landing.

There is so much to discover when driving around the county. Save time for a 'Sunday drive' even if it's not Sunday.

Rates & Availability

Taxes and fees are additional

Additional information about rental rates

Pet Fee

$20

We do our best to accommodate early check-in (noon) and late check-out (2 pm). Contact owner for availability.

Feedback

61 Reviews

Exceptional 5/5