Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat- 12 acres, hot tub, EV charger, fire pits
At Thistle Ridge Mountain and River Retreat, wake up to birdsong, sip your morning coffee on the wraparound porch, and watch the morning mist drift through the trees. Set on 12 private acres that stretch from the mountaintop to the banks of the historic New River, this custom log home offers a rare combination of mountain-top privacy and riverfront recreation.
The property feels like two retreats in one. At the top of the mountain, the cabin is surrounded by woods, wildlife, and peaceful views. Below, the land opens to a private riverfront meadow with direct access to the New River, where guests can kayak, tube, fish, wade, or simply relax by the water and fire pit.
Designed for gathering and making memories, the home comfortably accommodates up to six guests with three bedrooms, including a king suite on the main floor and two queen bedrooms upstairs. The open-concept living, dining, and kitchen areas create a welcoming space for conversation, shared meals, family game nights, and quiet evenings by the fire.
The kitchen is thoughtfully equipped for cooks and entertainers alike, featuring a gas range, All-Clad and Le Creuset cookware, and a dedicated hosting nook stocked with charcuterie boards, serving pieces, flower vases, and other entertaining essentials. Whether you're preparing a holiday meal or a simple breakfast before a day on the river, you'll find everything you need.
After a day of exploring, relax in the sunken hot tub, enjoy a fire in the outdoor fireplace on the porch, or gather around the fire pit beneath a canopy of stars. The peaceful setting makes it easy to slow down and reconnect with family, friends, and nature.
A short drive down the private tree-lined lane leads to the riverfront portion of the property. Here, you'll find a grassy meadow, stone steps into the river, and a riverside fire pit perfect for evening gatherings. Spend the afternoon floating the New River, casting a fishing line, launching a kayak, picnicking, or simply listening to the gentle flow of one of the oldest rivers in the world.
Inside, you'll quickly discover that this is far more than a typical mountain cabin. Hand-hewn logs and exposed timber showcase the craftsmanship of the home, while custom furnishings and original artwork collected throughout Latin America reflect a lifetime of travel and appreciation for artisanship. Rather than traditional cabin décor, the home offers a warm, curated atmosphere that feels both distinctive and personal.
The property also retains a touch of its homesteading history. Fresh eggs are often available from the chicken coop, and wildlife is a regular part of the experience. Deer are frequent visitors, and guests may spot wild turkeys, songbirds, hawks, and, on occasion, black bears or bobcats moving through the surrounding forest.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, peaceful solitude, family time, or a place to celebrate special occasions, this mountain-and-river retreat offers the perfect setting. Here, you can spend the morning on the porch, the afternoon on the river, and the evening around the fire—all without ever leaving the property.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
A $250.00 cleaning fee will be charged for events.
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Pets
Pets allowed: dogs less than 453 kg per pet (limit 3 pets total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 5191039vb
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
Note from host: A $250.00 cleaning fee will be charged for events.
Long-term renters welcome
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
Lansing
Located in Lansing, this cabin is in the mountains. Jefferson Landing and Mountain Aire Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore New River State Park and Mount Jefferson State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with water tubing, rafting and fishing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hunting.
Museum of Ashe County History - 11 min drive - 14.0 km
New River - 12 min drive - 12.1 km
Phoenix Mountain - 13 min drive - 13.8 km
New River State Park - 15 min drive - 19.6 km
Restaurants
Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits - 14 min drive
Bobby D's - 13 min drive
Pretty Possum Bar - 13 min drive
The Liar's Bench - 10 min drive
Hardee's - 14 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat- 12 acres, hot tub, EV charger, fire pits pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total) with a maximum weight of up to 453 kg per pet.
How much is parking at Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat- 12 acres, hot tub, EV charger, fire pits?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat- 12 acres, hot tub, EV charger, fire pits?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat- 12 acres, hot tub, EV charger, fire pits?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat- 12 acres, hot tub, EV charger, fire pits located?
Situated in the mountains, this cabin is within 9 miles (15 km) of New River, Ash County Park and Phoenix Mountain. Museum of Ashe County History and Rhododendron Trail are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Beautiful property and home! Owner very good attention to detail, everything you needed and then some was available. Would definitely recommend and will stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Aug 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review. We're delighted that you enjoyed both the home and the property and that you found everything you needed during your stay. We put a great deal of thought into creating a comfortable, relaxing retreat, so it's especially rewarding to hear that the attention to detail made a difference. Thank you for recommending Thistle Ridge, and we look forward to welcoming you back to the mountains!
This place was incredible! Every little detail was absolutely beautiful! This is truly a hidden treasure!! We will definitely be back and tell others ! Thank you for sharing such a blessing!!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Sept 2026
We’re so happy you enjoyed your time at Thistle Ridge! Thank you for your kind words and for taking such wonderful care of the house. It was a pleasure to share this special place with you and your friends.
This place was amazing! Everything you could possibly need was available, including makings for s'mores and fresh eggs from the resident chickens. The property was expansive, very clean, quiet, and beautiful. The hot tub on the deck was great for easing all the joys of hiking. And Kimberly was very responsive and helpful. We'll be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Sept 2026
We loved hearing that you enjoyed your time at Thistle Ridge! The hot tub after a day of hiking sounds like a perfect way to end the day. We would be delighted to have you back for another mountain getaway.
This mountain cabin is beautiful. Clean, decorated exquisitely, and surrounded by wildlife. Kim made the whole process smooth, was very easy to work with and quick to reply. We had everything we needed and the place was prepared for our arrival. The s’more fixings were a treat but so were the soap and fresh eggs. Didn’t want to leave and can’t wait to go back. One of my overall favorite VRBOs.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug 2026
I am so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your time at the cabin. We look forward to welcoming you back.
Of all the houses we have ever stayed in, this one was the best. I love staying at a place that was obviously someone's home - as it always shows more care, love and personality. The house itself is gorgeous, the bathrooms fabulous, the kitchen has everything you could want, the coffee station is perfect.We spent DAYS sitting on the deck watching the birds.The walk down to the river access wasn't arduous at all, and the river was perfect for casting practice.Having chickens on the property brought back memories of our old flocks & were sweet to throw treats at & collect eggs.The waterfall in front of the house was the perfect addition as the sound of running water is so soothingParking was easy. Having to many fireplaces/ firepits available was fun!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Sept 2026
Thank you for such a thoughtful review. Your kind words about Thistle Ridge mean so much to us. I especially loved hearing that you spent days watching the birds and that the chickens brought back memories of your own flocks. It sounds like you enjoyed Thistle Ridge in much the same way we did when we lived there, and we are so grateful that you chose to spend your time in the mountains with us.
This was absolutely the most amazing VRBO my wife and I have ever stayed in! The house was immaculate.The grounds were gorgeous, they include a wonderful waterfall for guests private enjoyment. My wife fell in love with the friendly chickens(whose eggs were delicious).We were able to see alot of deer, and the birdfeeders constantly attracted hummingbirds, and others.The multiple outdoor seating arrangements are wonderful. The inside is just beautiful, with artwork and pottery from around the world. The master bedroom is great (I'm running out of adjectives), with a classy bathroom with a gorgeous soaking tub attached to it. It has a cook's kitchen where a sandwich or a feast can easily be prepared. I have barely touched the virtues of this home! If you are lucky, you will get to stay here
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Aug 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It means a great deal to us that you and your wife enjoyed not only the house, but the property, wildlife, and all of the little details that make Thistle Ridge special to us. We loved having you as our guests and hope to welcome you back again!
Our stay at Thistle Ridge was truly something special. We live in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and over the course of our 30-year marriage, we’ve been fortunate enough to travel to many beautiful places. We can honestly say that Thistle Ridge is by far one of the nicest, cleanest, and most peaceful places we have ever stayed.From the moment we arrived, we felt an incredible sense of peace and relaxation. The home is absolutely beautiful, warm, inviting, and comfortable, with the kind of natural surroundings that make you want to slow down and simply enjoy being together.Our stay became even more memorable when our daughter got engaged while we were there. It was such a beautiful and meaningful moment, and we feel incredibly grateful that Thistle Ridge was the setting for this special milestone in our family’s life.We left feeling refreshed, grateful, and already looking forward to our next visit. Thistle Ridge isn’t just a beautiful vacation home—it’s a place where wonderful memories are made and cherished for years to come.Thank you for sharing such a special place with us. We truly loved our stay and cannot wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Aug 2026
What a wonderful memory for your family! We are honored that Thistle Ridge could be the setting for your daughter’s engagement. We hope your family will always have fond memories of your time together in the mountains.
We loved our stay at Thistle Ridge and plan to go back! The cabin and property are beautiful, clean and so relaxing. The cabin has everything you need for a fun, relaxing vacation. You immediately feel at home upon arrival. We had fresh eggs for breakfast every morning provided by the on site chickens! Also enjoyed delicious coffee made at the coffee bar. The kitchen has more than you need for any type of meal prep.The beds are super comfy and all of the furniture in the cabin is well appointed for relaxing. We enjoyed eating on the covered deck, playing foosball, playing cornhole in the front yard, eating freshly made popcorn and s’mores (provided by our hosts) by the fire pit and watching birds come and go on the back deck. And then there’s the river lot! So much fun hanging in and out of the river. Kim is a super gracious host and very communicative. Highly recommend staying at Thistle Ridge!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jul 2026
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! It means so much to us that Thistle Ridge felt like home from the moment you arrived. We love hearing that you enjoyed everything from the fresh eggs and coffee bar to evenings around the fire pit, birdwatching on the porch, and time spent at our private river lot. We created Thistle Ridge to be a place where families and friends can slow down, reconnect, and make lasting memories, and it brings us great joy to know that was your experience. We truly appreciate your kind words and recommendation and would be delighted to welcome you back to the mountains anytime!
Thoroughly enjoyed our time at this beautiful home. Front porch sitting, rockers and swings were the best spot to enjoy the sunrise and sunset. Outdoor living was enjoyable, with the outdoor games, jacuzzi, fireplace and/or fire pit, bbq grill and many more amenities. The beds were extremely comfortable, and the kitchen very well equipped. We look forward to returning in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Sept 2026
It was a pleasure having you stay at Thistle Ridge. We especially appreciate the extraordinary care you took of the house—it was incredibly thoughtful and did not go unnoticed. I loved hearing that you enjoyed so much time on the porch and in the outdoor spaces. We would be delighted to have you return.
House has everything! The outdoor entertainment space is incredible! Indoor / outdoor fireplaces and plenty of comfortable seating. Kitchen is equipped with everything you could ever need. The interior is beautiful and very comfortable. Beds are extra comfy and the bathrooms are deluxe. The entire property has been managed to the greatest detail for guest enjoyment. Hosts were kind and accommodating. Check in/out was a breeze. 10/10 we will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jul 2026
I am so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We look forward to your next visit.
About the host
Hosted by Kimberly Pitts
Welcome to Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat.
After spending more than a decade living abroad, we returned to the mountains of North Carolina, where our family has deep roots stretching back generations. This home became our retreat, a place to gather with family, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories. We are grateful for the opportunity to share it with others.
We hope you enjoy the peace of the mountains, the beauty of the New River, and the unique character of a home that has been thoughtfully shaped by a lifetime of travel, craftsmanship, and family traditions.
Why they chose this property
We chose Woods on New River because it offers something that is increasingly rare—a peaceful mountain community where nature still takes center stage. Large lots, abundant green space, and thoughtfully preserved undeveloped land create a sense of privacy and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.
One of our favorite things about the neighborhood is the long, winding road that follows the river. Whether walking, driving, or simply exploring, there is a relaxed pace here that encourages guests to slow down and enjoy their surroundings. During the summer months, it's common to see seasonal homeowners out enjoying the neighborhood on golf carts or ATVs, adding to the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
The preservation of so much natural habitat also means wildlife is part of everyday life. Deer are frequent visitors, and it's not unusual to spot squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, wild turkeys, and a wide variety of birds. On occasion, we've even been fortunate enough to see black bears passing through the area.
Over the years, we've visited many mountain communities, but we've never found another neighborhood quite like Woods on New River. Its unique blend of privacy, natural beauty, river access, and respect for the surrounding landscape is what made us fall in love with it—and why we think our guests will too.
What makes this property unique
Thistle Ridge Mountain & River Retreat is named for the wild thistles that grow throughout the property and for our family's Scottish heritage. The thistle symbolizes resilience, strength, and endurance—qualities that reflect both the land and our connection to it.
What truly sets the property apart is its rare combination of mountain-top privacy and private New River access. The 12-acre property stretches from a custom hand-hewn log home on the ridge to an exclusive riverfront meadow below, creating two distinct experiences in one destination.
As longtime beekeepers, we continue to manage the property with pollinators, wildlife, and the surrounding ecosystem in mind. Guests will find a natural mountain landscape filled with clover, native plants, birds, butterflies, deer, and other wildlife rather than a manicured resort setting.
Combined with custom furnishings, original Latin American artwork, and thoughtfully designed gathering spaces, Thistle Ridge offers an experience that is both authentic and difficult to find elsewhere.
More than anything, this property offers a sense of place. It combines the comfort of a well-loved home, the privacy of a mountain estate, and the recreation of a river retreat—an experience that is difficult to find anywhere else.