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SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah

Photo gallery for SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah

Mountain & lake view from cabin front porch & back deck.
View of cabin, parking for 3 cars. 2 upper spaces and 1 lower space.
Entrance walkway/ramp next to parking, wheelchair accessible.
Front porch rocking chairs & 2 ceiling fans.
Out pet bear "Boo Boo", hangs on front porch posts.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View in a map
Robbinsville, NC
  • Place, Santeetlah Lake
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
    ‪55 min drive‬
  • Place, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1 (Master)

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2 (Guest)

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Queen Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1 (Master)

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2 (Guest)

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Number of living rooms
Garden

About this property

SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah

WHERE THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS MEET THE CLOUDS

Perched at 2,200 feet & bordering the pristine Nantahala National Forest, Sundance Cottage offers a rare blend of rugged mountain beauty & effortless accessibility. Whether you’re here to conquer the "Tail of the Dragon" or simply to watch the birds of prey soar over Lake Santeetlah from your covered porch, this 1.28-acre private retreat is your gateway to the best of the Smokies.

THE SPACE – Accessible & Open! Rare for the region, this thoughtfully designed 1,100 SF cottage features zero-entry access (no stairs) & 3-foot-wide doors, making it a premier choice for guests with mobility needs or families with strollers. An airy, open-concept living area anchored by a cozy gas stove. A culinary haven features a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a bread maker for fresh morning loaves, and a crockpot for post-hike meals. Two spacious bedrooms (King & Queen) plus a sleeper sofa to comfortably host up to 6 guests. The master suite features private French doors to back deck and an oversized, wheelchair accessible shower with 4 shower heads for a spa-like experience.

OUTDOOR LIVING & LAKE ACCESS – Truly nature at its most majestic. Breathtaking, year-round panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountain ranges & the shimmering waters of Lake Santeetlah. You are just 1/2 mile from the USFS boat launch. Bring your own kayaks or visit nearby watercraft rentals to experience one of the most beautiful lakes in the U.S. Finish out the day with some evening magic gathered around the private fire pit for s'mores under some of the darkest, starriest skies in North Carolina (telescope included).

ADVENTURE AT YOUR DOORSTEP – Sundance Cottage is a basecamp for enthusiasts. Road warriors are just minutes from the Tail of the Dragon, Moonshiner 28, & the Cherohala Skyway. The woods are calling… hikers are close to Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, the Appalachian Trail, and many other trailheads. Avid fishermen can surround themselves with world-class fishing on Lake Santeetlah or Fontana Lake and the many local mountain streams. Whitewater rafting and ziplining awaits along the Nantahala River. Mountain biking is also available in Tsala Recreation area and Fontana Village.

CONNECTIVITY – Stay connected with satellite Wi-Fi and Dish TV. Verified strong cell service for Verizon and AT&T.

COMFORT – The cottage provides year-round comfort with central AC/Heat and a gas heater for colder months. The cottage features crisp spring-fed community well water.

ROADS & PARKING – Space for 3 vehicles; additional trailer parking available ½ mile away at the public boat launch. Mountain road charm will have you winding along the lake side on a USFS maintained gravel road for a mile before ascending the mountain side to the cottage. There are some inclines and a few tight turns (steepest portion has been paved for ease). If there is any question or concern regarding community roads or specific vehicle clearance, please contact owner prior to booking for additional information.

A STEP BACK INTO APPALACHIAN HISTORY – Experience the authentic heart of the Southern Appalachians in nearby Robbinsville. This isn't just a mountain town; it’s a cultural crossroads where history is woven into the landscape. As you stroll through town, you’ll notice a beautiful nod to the area’s roots: the street signs are written in both English and Cherokee. You can pay your respects at the gravesite of the famous Cherokee leader Chief Junaluska or walk a preserved portion of the historic Trail of Tears. Visit the local courthouse to see the marker commemorating this as the last area to surrender at the end of the Civil War in 1865, a testament to the rugged remoteness that makes this region so peaceful today. If you visit during the summer, don't miss the Stecoah Valley Center festivals (June–August) or the annual Azalea Festival in mid-June. It’s the perfect way to experience local music, crafts, and true Southern hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a quiet place to grab a bite, Robbinsville offers a charming, slow-paced lifestyle that feels worlds away from the hustle of the city.

LARGE GROUPS – We can connect you with a neighboring property that is just a short walk away & sleeps an additional 6 guests.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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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
Contact owner for exceptions.
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Pets

No pets allowed
No exceptions allowed.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Only outside smoking & outside vaping allowed.

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
All garbage must be disposed of at Robbinsville trash sites at check-out. Trash left may forfeit security deposit.
Never leave trash outside due to cabin location inside National Forest, will attract wild animals to cabin.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1093066vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
Note from host: Contact owner for exceptions.
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

Robbinsville

Located in Robbinsville, this cottage is in a rural area and in the mountains. Tail of the Dragon Dragon Statue and Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Junaluska Medicine Trail and Fontana Village Resort Marina. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking nearby.
Map
Robbinsville, NC

What's nearby

  • Santeetlah Lake - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest - 12 min drive - 6.4 km
  • Fontana Lake - 36 min drive - 43.2 km
  • Great Smoky Mountains Railroad - 55 min drive - 75.0 km
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park - 59 min drive - 79.4 km

Getting around

  • Alcoa - Knoxville Airport (TYS) - 115 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kin Cafe - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Caffe De Olla - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Lynn's Place - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬20 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is SUNDANCE COTTAGE: Accessible Comfort Above Lake Santeetlah located?

Situated in the mountains, this cottage is within 1 mile (2 km) of Nantahala National Forest and Santeetlah Lake. Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness and Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 50 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 54 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Taccara E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place! Very clean and cozy with amazing views of the mountains throughout the cabin! Very kind hosts as well.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy cabin! Beautiful views! Peaceful setting!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kryssa L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded area. Nice and quiet. Fully equipped kitchen that made cooking easy. Very relaxing. We will definitely return. We booked this cabin to stay 3 nights after road tripping and hiking thru the Smokey mountains. I only wished it had a hot tub.
Sun rise
Sun set
Lake
Secluded gravel road to Blue Boar Community
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allan T.

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

relaxing weekend in the mountains

Beautiful home and location. We sure enjoyed exploring the Cherohala skyway and learning a little about the area around Robbinsville. This area is definitely a special place, and we look forward to visiting again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam S.

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

We Love Sundance Cottage

Another amazing stay at this wonderful cottage!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Aug 2021
We love our repeat guests!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol R.

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

Beautiful Views!

Had a great time! Lots of porch rocking and being amazed at the every changing views! Kitchen was well stocked.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Oct 2020
Thank you, glad you enjoyed your stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Raymond S.

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

Great view

Very quite
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tina L.

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

Great rental

Our third time at Sundance. Never disappoints
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mark m.

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

Most desirable home in the community with views that take your breath away. Home is incredible!

This place totally exceeded our expectations in every way. The home is beautifully decorated and they views are simply to die for. We did not want to leave!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jun 2022
Thank you very much for the wonderful review.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine D.

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

Perfect Cabin Experience

Thoroughly enjoyed everything about this property! The pictures don't do it justice. Long range views are spectacular, nicely appointed kitchen, so welcoming & cozy! Close proximity to Cherohala & Joyce Kilmer...will definitely be planning a return trip!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline B.

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

What a view!!!

This adorable cottage is perfect - the space inside and out is great. The view of the mountains and lake is so beautiful. It is a very peaceful and quiet place, exactly what we needed. There's so much to do close by, our days were full of fun and we were able to come back to this very comfortable cottage and totally relax. We will definitely return and can't wait!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept 2021
Thank you for the lovely review, glad you had a great time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Art M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sundance Cottage is on a beautiful section of Lake Santeetlah. The house is well-maintained, very clean, and amply provisioned. Small details, like the kitchen knives being sharp, were much appreciated. It's a great space for cooking, and the big central table can accommodate family meals, games and puzzles. The view from the front porch is fabulous. We had excellent cell service (T-Mobile). There is a boat dock in the neighborhood where you can leave a boat during your stay for easy lake access. It's also a nice place to swim. There really is nothing like Lake Santeetlah. It's one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Most of the shoreline is undeveloped, and boat traffic, esp. on weekdays, is moderate. A great retreat for the body and soul.
Swimming at the boat dock
View from the front porch
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth D.

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

Beautiful!

This is a beautiful home in an equally beautiful setting. The home is clean and well appointed and had everything you could ask for. The owner described the property perfectly and provided lots of helpful information. There was even a binder that included local history, restaurant menus and activities - they went above and beyond to make sure we had all the information we needed to make the most of our trip. The property is a little off the beaten path and since these are mountain roads it takes time (and patience) to get anywhere. That being said, at the end of the road the view from the porch makes it all worthwhile!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Beth, thank you so much for the nice review. I appreciate it. Susan
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim M.

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

Fantastic Rental with Awesome View

I cannot express how amazing this property is. Other reviewers are right - the pictures do not do the view justice. I could have sat there all week and just soaked it in! All the amenities you want and more. Very nicely furnished and CLEAN. Owner's communication was fast and helpful I would rent this house again in a heartbeat (and probably will)! It is a pretty steep gravel road to get up to the house, but I had no issue with my front wheel drive mini-van. One thing to be aware of - the county it's located in is a dry county. Not a big deal - just wanted to buy a bottle of wine to enjoy on the awesome deck, but wish I would have know that in advance.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2021
Jim, thank you very much for the nice review.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily M.

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

Lake View

This home was great -- nice and clean with all the needed amenities. It was very helpful being able to lock up our canoe at the lake and drive down to go paddling on a whim. The lake is pristine with clear water and our cove did not have much water traffic so it was nice and quiet. We were close to Joyce Kilmer Forest and enjoyed visiting that beautiful place one morning. The dirt road up to the house was well graded and we had no problem driving up it in our all wheel drive car. Our guests drove up the road with no issue in a Lexus sedan. It was lovely sitting on the porch gazing out at the view at all times of the day. It was the perfect place to unwind and relax! The internet connection was spotty at best so don't plan on trying to work while you are there. Overall I highly recommend this place.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jul 2020
Thank you so much for the lovely review. A new HOA was formed 2 yrs ago & annual maintance & upkeep of the gravel roads is now a top priority all the homeowners. As for the internet, high speed quality you get in the lower elevations just isn't available yet in the mountain region. Satellite service is the best available so far.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

April H.

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

Mental Reset

This was our summer vacation where we go somewhere remote to escape all the hustle and bustle of this chaotic world. The view was to die for. We ate all our meals on the front porch just to watch the clouds roll by in the distance. The cabin was immaculate and had everything we could have possibly needed. We brought our kayaks. The water access was very close and all that we needed to launch and have a great day of fishing and swimming. At one point a storm rolled thru and a tree fell across the road. The homeowner was extremely responsive to contact someone that could cut up the tree so we could drive out. The road up to the cabin is all gravel and steep in some locations. A car could make it up just fine, but I did feel more comfortable in my AWD SUV. Excellent trip and will definitely book again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul 2021
Thank you for the wonderful review. It too is our getaway from the noise of the city. When a storm passes through I find it very relaxing just to watch the clouds, rain & thunder over the distant mountain ranges. We are very lucky in the area with such a responsive team of USFS rangers and locals who clear the roadways quickly whenever needed. Glad you have a great time. Look forward to hosting you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dale W.

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

The view is stunning!

I had booked this cabin for Thanksgiving and I’m so glad it was available! Susan did such a wonderful job assisting with emails, directions and suggestions to do around the area and places to eat. Her check in and out instructions were simple enough that made the process smooth. The cabin had such an amazing view. There were lots of rocking chairs that made sunrises beautiful to watch. Everything was clean when we arrived, and the house was the perfect size for lots of people. There’s a patio in the backyard where my son spent most of his time jumping up and down the steps, running around the trees, and having bonfires! I couldn’t have asked for a better holiday, cabin and host! The one thing that worried me a little bit was how inclined the way to the mountain was. It was not impossible, but it sure brought some fear to me when our van almost didn’t make it up! I wouldn’t drive so much at night in my opinion. All that to say, the incline only made the view that much more beautiful to experience. I highly recommend this place for any family!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Thank you for the review. I've had a few "flatlanders" mention the incline road leading up to the cabins. In can be challenging the 1st time, especially in the dark; which is why I recommend arriving during daylight hours. I've had guests with all types of vehicles, so far none have had issues with their vehicles.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel M.

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

Our new favorite mountain VRBO rental

There are no words in the property description or in a review that can do justice to our experience here and the property itself. By far, this was the cleanest VRBO mountain property we’ve ever stayed at. Even with a little mixup on our arrival date, the property owner was immediately available to provide access. Perfect place for a couple, and four people would have been just fine too. Clean, well appointed, love the mountain decor and comfortable furniture, nice bathrooms, two decks to enjoy the amazing view that continuously changes with the sun and clouds and fog, quiet and serene, fire pit (bring your own wood ... there was some provided but one of the previous renters left it uncovered so it was wet), and the stars ... wow. We explored a lot of the area and found some off the beaten path (literally) hikes to hidden waterfalls, watched the sunset over Tennessee from the skyway, found The Fugitive Dam, and so much more in just four days. Thank you, Susan, for being a wonderful, gracious host. We will return.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Nov 2020
Wow Daniel, thank you for the best review ever! We fell in love with place the minute the realtor showed it to us for exactly the same reasons.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristina W.

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

Our 50th Anniversary Trip

Unfortunately, due to GPS problems, we arrived at night. Believe them when they say not to do that ...... we did finally find the cottage. When we opened the door, it was beautiful and welcoming. Some food in the fridge, anything you could need in kitchen and in the rest of the cottage. The beds were high for me (I am 4'10") so we found a solution and enjoyed the stay. Our first morning was great since the day was clear, warm and the view was just as advertised. We only left the cottage to see more of the lake. Due to my health problems, we didn't take advantage of all that is available. We did puzzles, worked on crafts, watched TV, rocked on the front deck and toasted marshmallows in the fire pit. My husband said that it was an adventure, in a good way. We encourage anyone looking for a great place to stay, a great owner and manager who are available to you, if needed, and lots to do will choose Sundance Cottage. Chris & Kris Wagner, PA
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica N.

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

We had a great vacation! The views are breathtaking!

Sundance cottage was an amazing and special place to stay. The house is beautiful, clean, comfortable and inviting. The house was fully stocked with all supplies needed. The only things we really needed to bring was food, drinks and alcohol. There is even a bread maker and crock pot which worked great. Even the water and ice tasted good! The views of the mountains are even better than the pictures. We spent most of our time on the front porch relaxing and admiring the beauty before us. It is very serene and private as well. We brought our own boat which was left at the dock and nobody messed with it. The lake is gorgeous as well. We swam in the clear waters, kayaked around and fished. Fishing was unsuccessful, but it didn’t matter. We still enjoyed the time. We hiked to waterfalls and went white water rafting. We shopped at the local grocery store and ate at Lynn’s place one evening. If you are in town head past the Hub and stop by the Hawaiian Whip for a sweet treat. The roads are very curvy, but the gravel is well maintained. At first the roads were intimidating, but after a few days we figured out the best way to maneuver the roads and actually became quite comfortable driving. Sundance cottage was absolutely perfect for our family and I look forward to returning someday.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Jul 2021
Jessica, thank you so much for the wonderful review. Sounds like you had an amazing time. Look forward to hosting you again, you were perfect guests, housekeeper commented how clean you left the place. Thank you.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy L.

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

Beautiful Home and perfect view!

We truly enjoyed our Thanksgiving getaway at Sundance Cottage. We had everything we needed and then some. Thanks to the host for thinking of every little detail to make this a comfy home away from home! Cindy.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mickey B.

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

Mountain View Property

This cozy "cottage" was excellent what we wanted. It was easy to find and road was good. the beautiful view from both decks is of surrounding mountains and lake (in distance). good combination of a "cabin feel." combined with all modern conveniences. excellent contact with owner. EVERYTHING worked great with no problems. we will be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bryan R.

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

Beautiful view, beautiful cottage.

Waking up in the morning to coffee and the most beautiful view of the mountains and lake was so relaxing. Quick drive or walk to pier and boat/kayak access. Enjoyed using bread maker and crockpot for easy family meals. Cottage was super clean and fun to stay in.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd J.

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

Phenomenal view

The house was well-equipped and so clean. The owner was very helpful and answered all our questions. The view was spectacular! You don’t even need to leave the front porch rocking chairs! The outdoor fans kept us cool. This is the place to stay if you want to be on top of a mountain!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela B.

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

We Will Return!

I use a manual wheelchair, so my husband and I are always looking for an accessible rental with a beautiful view. Sundance Cottage worked well with my special needs and gave us an awe-inspiring view too. There are several reasons why this rental stands out. First, there are two accessible outside areas. In the mornings, we enjoyed the deck and having lunch under the umbrella. And when the day was at its warmest (low 80's) we enjoyed sitting on the covered porch, running the fans, and feeling the breeze from the surrounding tress. At first, we were taken aback by the bees that live in the ground near the porch until we identified them as carpenter bees -- they don't sting unless provoked or handled. So, we relaxed and just shooed them away if one got too close. Second, Sundance stands out because of its location. The area surrounding the cottage is filled with lots of great "outdoorsy" things to do. The owner, Susan, did a wonderful job suggesting accessible picnic areas and overlooks to visit. And the nearby scenic drive will remind you of the Blue Ridge Parkway, but with less traffic. Thirdly, Susan makes this rental very special. Even before we reserved the cottage, she promptly answered my questions about its accessibility so that we could determine if the property would be right for us. And after we reserved it, she provided a list of accessible places to visit including the Topoco Tavern which offers a yummy pizza and has a magnificent view of the river. My husband and I rate our experience at Sundance Cottage a 5-star. And we are looking forward to returning hopefully in the fall.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Susan Knoepfel

Host profile image
Welcome! We are Florida natives who lost our hearts to the North Carolina mountains. There is nothing quite like trading humidity for a crisp mountain breeze. Whether we’re out touring the local roads (that’s us in the Slingshot!) or relaxing on the porch overlooking the lake, this area is our ultimate 'Zen' space. We’ve put a lot of love into making this cabin accessible & comfortable for everyone. We can’t wait to share our favorite slice of heaven with you.

Why they chose this property

The "Blue Ridge Parkway" Experience — Right from Your Porch.

We have spent decades exploring the Appalachian Mountains, but the moment we stepped onto this porch, we knew our search was over. Finding a 'majestic' view was our top priority, & the panoramic vista of Lake Santeetlah & the Smoky Mountain ranges here are truly comparable to the most famous overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

What clinched the deal for us was the rare combination of high-elevation seclusion & modern comfort. At 2,200 feet, the air is noticeably cooler and crisper. The cottage is wrapped in the Nantahala National Forest.

We also fell in love with the approach to the property; the one-mile drive along the lake’s edge is incredibly scenic and sets the tone for a peaceful stay. Combining that wilderness feel with a modern, one-story open-concept home meant we didn't have to sacrifice comfort for scenery. It is our ultimate escape, & we think you’ll feel that magic the second you pull into the drive.

What makes this property unique

True Mountain Accessibility: A Rare Find at 2,200 Feet

What truly sets Sundance Cottage apart from other mountain retreats is that we believe everyone should be able to enjoy a majestic view—regardless of mobility. While most area cabins are defined by steep stairs & narrow lofts, our home offers a seamless, one-story living experience.

Key Accessibility Features:
Effortless Entry: Double French doors provide a wide, welcoming entrance. The transition from the driveway to the front walkway is nearly level (with only a minor 2-inch ledge), allowing for easy navigation.
Thoughtful Bathrooms: Both bathrooms feature oversized, zero-entry showers (no step-overs) with adjustable hand-held nozzles. The master suite includes a built-in sitting bench, while the guest bath is equipped with sturdy safety handrails.
Room to Maneuver: All interior doors are a full 36 inches wide, specifically designed to accommodate wheelchairs & walkers with ease.
Open Concept: The spacious, single-level layout ensures that whether you are in the kitchen, the living room, or out on the deck, you are always part of the conversation.

We have included specific photos of the walkway and interior thresholds so you can book with total confidence, knowing your stay will be as comfortable as it is beautiful.

Languages:

English

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