Cabin

The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River

Photo gallery for The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River

Property grounds
Mirror Lake Dam
Entry
Entry
Living Room with Wood Burning Fireplace, Main Level

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View in a map
Highlands, NC
  • Place, The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Place, Bridal Veil Falls
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Cullasaja River Gorge
    ‪2 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1 Main Level

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2 Main Level

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3 Upper Level

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4 Upper Level

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5 Upper Level

2 Single Bunk Beds

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Bathroom 4

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River

This Rent In Highlands vacation rental home is pet friendly for one small dog, under 50 pounds. Pets must be pre-approved. An additional non-refundable pet fee is required and is not included in the rental fee. Please call our office for approval and to pay the pet  fee. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in a $1000.00 fine.

Only adults (25 years old and older) may reserve this property and an adult must occupy the property at all times.

What is The 100 Collection™?

The 100 Collection™ imprint on a property indicates it is part of a collaborative effort to set the gold standard for vacation rentals. The professionals caring for these properties must meet the highest hospitality standards. Additionally, properties in this collection must pass specific quality, safety, and cleanliness inspections. Only locally owned and/or operated vacation rental brands are invited to be considered for this stamp of approval, which is issued by a trusted peer-to-peer collective of leading industry owners and managers.

The Mill House is located on one of the most beautiful and tranquil settings you will ever see. Overlooking the lake spillway on beautiful Mirror Lake, the Cullasaja River wraps the house surrounded by Native Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. Outside, enjoy the beauty of the property, with a water wheel, rushing water, two canoes, a river, and Mirror Lake full of fish, all available for your enjoyment. With over 100 years of history, this completely renovated mill offers a unique, peaceful retreat. The large deck is great for outdoor dining, and the big kitchen table is perfect for indoor meals.

Main Level:
The recently renovated kitchen offers all the modern amenities, perfect for preparing meals for both small and large groups. The spacious family room and den provide plenty of room for relaxation. A comfortable sitting area in the primary bedroom offers a fireplace and beautiful views of the surrounding nature. This level also includes a large deck, a screened porch with a water view, and easy access to the kitchen and den.

Upper Level:
The upper level features a covered porch overlooking the river on two sides of the house. There are three bedrooms on this level, plus a bunk room with two sets of bunk beds (four bunk beds in total), making it ideal for larger groups or families. Each bedroom offers a peaceful retreat with views of the river and surrounding nature.

Lower Level:
The lower level offers another screened porch by the river, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sound of rushing water. The sitting area next to a goldfish pond overlooks the river and Mirror Lake, providing a peaceful setting. This level also has easy access to the family fire pit and offers plenty of private spaces to relax, read, or enjoy the cool mountain air.

Outdoor Spaces:
Just off the dining room, step onto the open deck set right beside the river, complete with an outdoor dining set and extra seating—perfect for meals with a view. On the opposite side of the kitchen, a screened-in porch with plush patio furniture offers a cozy place to unwind and connects directly to the den. The main-level primary bedroom features its own private deck with seating, while the upper-level primary suite has a private balcony for two that wraps around to the guest room. At the front of the home, gather around the firepit for cozy evenings under the stars.

What our guests are saying…

"Great home, minutes from downtown Highlands, but very private with the sound of the spillway and the river flowing around the property. Enjoyed the firepit overlooking the spillway of Mirror Lake and had fun fishing. Very comfortable for adults, teens, and children." - Rent In Highlands Vacation Rental Guest, Carl

Rent In Highlands Vacation Rental Cancellation Policy

Policy (A)  for reservations less than 20 days:
A reservation canceled between 0-45 days prior to arrival is not eligible to receive a refund. If more than 45 days notice is given, the renter shall receive a refund of all payments made, less a cancellation fee of 10% of the Total Cost of the Reservation.

Policy (B) for reservations of 20 days or more and reservations made 6 months in advance:
NO refund is given unless the property is re-rented under the same terms (Trip insurance is available and recommended to help protect your trip).

Special Amenities:

Firepit
1 Wood Burning Fireplace
2 Gas Fireplaces
1 Canoe
Screen Porch
Water View

This home is professionally managed by Rent in Highlands, a division of Country Club Properties. Your premier source for Vacation Rentals in Highlands NC.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
One dog, under 50 pounds
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Highlands

Located in Mirror Lake, a neighbourhood in Highlands, this cabin is in the mountains and on the waterfront. The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts and Highlands Playhouse are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Highlands Biological Station and Cashiers Farmers Market. Andy's Trout Farm and Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts are also worth visiting. Kayaking and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and hiking nearby.
Map
Highlands, NC

What's nearby

  • The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts - 20 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Bridal Veil Falls - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Cullasaja River Gorge - 2 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Highlands Playhouse - 2 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Highlands Dog Park - 3 min drive - 2.1 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 84 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shell - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Los Vaqueros - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Oak Steakhouse - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Calders Coffee Cafe - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Highlander Mountain House & The Ruffed Grouse Tavern - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Millhouse | The historic Mill House on Mirror Lake and Cullasaja River located?

Located in Mirror Lake, this cabin is within 1 mile (2 km) of Nantahala National Forest and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Bridal Veil Falls and Cullasaja River Gorge are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 85 out of 92 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 92 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 92 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 92 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 92 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Charming house! Perfect for a girls trip.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Apr, 2026
Thank you so much! We love hearing that the house was a great fit for a girls trip — Highlands is such a perfect destination for one! We hope you and your crew made some wonderful memories together and that we'll get to host you all again soon. Come back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

rachel m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the perfect mountain retreat. Wonderful location, beautiful site, and a cozy, relaxing stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jan, 2026
Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re thrilled to hear the home was the perfect mountain retreat and that you enjoyed the wonderful location, beautiful setting, and cozy, relaxing atmosphere. We’d love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonas G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Was a magical Christmas vacation. It exceeded all of our expectations
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Jan, 2026
Thank you so much for your great feedback! We’re so happy to hear your Christmas stay was truly magical and even better than expected. It means a great deal to us, and we’d love to welcome you back for another memorable visit!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the Mill House! Close to downtown. House was clean and beautifully decorated. Waterfall and water views were amazing! It was perfect for our family Christmas trip!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Dec, 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you loved the Mill House and that it was the perfect setting for your family Christmas trip. It’s great to know you enjoyed the clean, beautifully decorated space, the amazing waterfall and water views, and the convenient location close to downtown. We’d love to welcome you back for another special stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Clare A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great home on a beautiful stream.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Dec, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the home and its beautiful streamside setting. It’s such a peaceful spot, and we’re glad you loved it. We’d be happy to host you again anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

hank j.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a great house and was perfect for 4 couples. It would also be great for families with kids. The lake and creek, as well as the other outdoor spaces, create a relaxing atmosphere.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Nov, 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear the house worked perfectly for your group of four couples. It’s great to know the outdoor spaces—the lake, the creek, and the surrounding area—helped create a relaxing atmosphere. We agree it’s a great fit for families as well, and we truly appreciate you sharing your experience. We’d love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Mill House did not disappoint! It’s one of the most unique, fun, and whimsical places we’ve ever stayed — truly one of a kind. The home was very comfortable and conveniently close to town. We’ll definitely look forward to staying here again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Nov, 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed your stay at The Mill House and appreciated its unique, whimsical charm. It’s great to know the home’s comfort and convenient location made your visit even better. We’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is amazing. Very convenient to town. The fire pit is great and multiple porches with views of the lake/stream are fantastic.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Sept, 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the home’s convenient location, the fire pit, and the beautiful views from the porches. It sounds like the perfect spot to relax and take in the surroundings. We’d love to host you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Getaway

Amazing property and location.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May, 2025
Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you enjoyed the property and its location. It’s always great to hear when guests have a wonderful weekend getaway. We’d love to have you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Partlow W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect family getaway. The property easily housed our family of five, was convenient to Highlands and Cashiers, and is as advertised. Awesome.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept, 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad the home was a perfect fit for your family and that you found the location convenient to both Highlands and Cashiers. It’s great to hear everything was just as expected—we’d love to welcome you back for another family getaway!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We love everything that the Mill House has to offer! It was wonderful!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

john t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot!

Fabulous family getaway!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Dec, 2024
Thanks for the great review! So happy to hear you had a fabulous family getaway!
Verified

8/10 Good

William D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very enjoyable stay at an interesting property.

Waterfall makes for great sleeping.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept, 2020
Thank you William and especially for pointing out the grill. We have purchased a new grill and installed this week. We hope you will stay with us again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rex W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Whiddon Family Stay at Mill House

We had an amazing visit and will want to return in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Dec, 2024
Thanks for the great review!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terre and Henry S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

great cottage

Wonderful family house!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Nov, 2020
Thank and please come back! Ken
Verified

8/10 Good

R Lyman O.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We had a wonderful time with our family over Mother's Day Weekend

It is great to be in the Highlands area with the beautiful scenery, wonderful restaurants,golf courses,and other places to visit.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jun, 2024
Thank you!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house.

Mill House has tons of character, great views, flexible sleeping. My family loves staying there.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jan, 2023
Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We are glad that you enjoyed your stay with us. Please come back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robin W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday celebration

Amazing weekend, beautiful house.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Mar, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear you had an amazing weekend and that our home could be part of your birthday celebration. Wishing you many more special moments ahead, and we'd love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristina N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mirror Lake

Such a great location and fun place to stay. We loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Aug, 2021
Thank you for taking the time to review Kristina and we hope you can come back! Ken
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Spring Break!

We had a wonderful, relaxing trip! Views from the home are amazing!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May, 2022
Thank you for taking the time to comment on your stay! It makes us happy to hear that you had a wonderful time and enjoyed the unique Mill House mountain lake and River setting. Please come back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ashley c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great restful vacation

Thank you for a wonderful relaxing trip! This was just what we needed.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Dec, 2024
Thanks for the 5 star review! Relaxing vacations are the best kind!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooks A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Hidden Spot Close to Highlands

Outstanding experience close to town but with views to die for. This classic lake cabin has it all!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Nov, 2021
Thank you, Brooks! Please consider another stay with us.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynn G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect mountain cabin for 3 generations

The Old Mill house is one of our favorite Highlands cabins of all time! Easily 5 stars!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Dec, 2024
Thanks for the review! Glad you enjoyed your stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patty D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful respite!

Was looking for accomodations that had the feel of High Hampton Inn. I found it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jul, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to write! We enjoyed having you and hope that you can return one day!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Phillip S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great experience

We loved this place and created amazing memories here. Thanks for hosting us.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jun, 2022
So glad you all enjoyed the Mill House please come back for another visit. The summer and fall are awesome

About the host

Hosted by Rent In Highlands

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Languages:

English

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