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Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel

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Property grounds
Exterior
Million Dollar View!
Firepit is located in the front of the duplex.
Spring of 2023!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61894.4 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Hot tub
  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer

Explore the area

View in a map
Mars Hill, NC
  • Hatley Pointe Ski Resort
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville
    ‪33 min drive‬
  • Biltmore Estate
    ‪41 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Guest Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Living Room

1 Queen Bed

Master King Bed

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Shower only

Master Bathroom

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel

Bear Branch Bliss is a cozy mountain retreat near Wolf Laurel with breathtaking Blue Ridge views. Relax in the hot tub, gather around the new smokeless fire pit, or cook outdoors on the new 4-burner grill with griddle option. Wildlife abounds — watch yellow finches, hummingbirds, deer, and wild turkeys in a serene, peaceful setting.

The region is abundant with outdoor activities and just 20 mins south, Asheville offers EVERYTHING-from historical Biltmore Estate to contemporary arts and crafts.

Make yourself at home at Bear Branch Bliss, a newly built 1,800 sq. ft. craftsman-style duplex set on six scenic acres. From the moment you arrive, the spectacular Appalachian vistas welcome you — visible from nearly every room.

The chef’s kitchen is fully stocked with modern appliances, highlighted by a statement Big Chill refrigerator and a massive island perfect for gathering. A cozy coffee bar with multiple brewing options comes stocked with coffee and tea for your mornings.

The open-plan living and dining areas provide ample space to gather. The dining table seats six, with room for two more at the kitchen bar. A gas fireplace and sitting area invite relaxation, while the bright sunroom features a 65” Smart TV with major streaming services.

Work or study with ease in the dedicated office nook (with printer) and enjoy high-speed WiFi strong enough for video calls, streaming, and all your social feeds. Five mini-splits and ceiling fans throughout the home let you set the perfect temperature in every room.

Step outside to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the home. Unwind in the decked “infinity” hot tub with breathtaking mountain views, gather around the smokeless fire pit, or fire up the 4-burner grill with griddle option on the spacious deck.

For hikers, the Appalachian Trail is nearby. A 10-minute drive to Sam’s Gap offers parking and access to the trail leading to Big Bald (5,516 ft) — a rewarding, moderately strenuous hike to stunning 360° views.

And yes, we’re pet-friendly. Bear Branch Bliss was designed with dogs in mind, featuring a private pet spa for washing up after adventures and a fenced dog run for safe, late-night outings.

Be sure to check the Additional Photos section for local points of interest, including nearby attractions such as Cherokee, Bailey Mountain, Big Bald Mountain, and Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort for winter skiing.

The adjacent unit is occupied by the property owners, however, the guests' privacy is fully respected. The quality construction ensures that you will not hear any disturbance. Upon arrival, guests will receive a brief introduction, and a fire can be started upon request. Otherwise, the property owners are discreet, allowing for a peaceful and private stay.

Some guests have been reluctant to book Bear Branch Bliss because of the close proximity of the owners; however, all reviews that have addressed this issue have been extremely postive. For example, our most recent guest from January 2023, wrote, "My wife was a little worried about the host, Shelley, and her parents being connected on the same property, as we planned to stay out/up late, but we absolutely loved everything about it. If you are at all worried do not hesitate! Shelley is the perfect, most accommodating host."

Property manager

Shelley Suzanna Willis

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Breakfast included
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 12:00 PM
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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: limit 4 total
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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

About the area

Mars Hill

Located in Mars Hill, this holiday home is next to a golf course and in the mountains. Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre and Marshall High Studios are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Dream Guitars and Flow. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Mars Hill, NC

What's nearby

  • Appalachian Trail Sams Gap Trailhead - 6 min drive - 7.6 km
  • Hatley Pointe Ski Resort - 11 min drive - 11.6 km
  • University of North Carolina at Asheville - 30 min drive - 43.0 km
  • Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville - 33 min drive - 46.4 km
  • Biltmore Estate - 41 min drive - 53.6 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hickory Nut Gorge Craf - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Taco Fiesta - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Wagon Wheel - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Original Papa Nick’s Italian Restaurant - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 4 total).

What time is check-in at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel located?

Located in the mountains, this Mars Hill holiday home offering ski-in/ski-out access is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Upper Laurel Community Center Park and within 6 mi (10 km) of Pisgah National Forest and Appalachian Trail Sams Gap Trailhead. Hatley Pointe Ski Resort and Sams Gap 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.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 20 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Dan K.

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

Hidden Gem!

Couldn’t have been happier
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terry B.

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

Mountain Vacation

Wonderful place and host. Your host makes sure you and your pets are comfortable. We loved our visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natalie P.

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

Such a great place to stay near Asheville!

Such a beautiful property! Owners were so kind and helpful throughout the entire stay. Would most definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jamie C.

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

In town for meteor shower

Property was perfect location, away from Asheville just enough to reduce the light pollution but close enough to easily get to town.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

PJ M.

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

Excellent Property

The photos do not do justice as to how well the property is decorated, furnished, and how excellent the views are! Excellent communication with Shelly from booking and through out entire stay. 25 min drive from Asheville, so still very easy to get in and out of the downtown area or even to the Blue Ridge Trail.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kevin M.

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

Recommend 10x’s over

Communication was fast with any questions I had, helpful details about hikes and the area available once in site, loved the decor, the grounds were perfect for our 1 1/2 yr old and dog to run around in. Coming back for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mark G.

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

Mountain Retreat

We backed up a long weekend in the mountains after a week in Kiawah. Wow, what amazing views and peace. And my wife said the interior was adorable! Only 25 minutes to Asheville. Weaverville is a very quaint town just a few minutes away. Shelley and her parents are very kind and gracious hosts. We’ll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erin D.

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

fabulous mountain house

the house was perfect and better than advertised! very comfortable for myself and my husband who is in a power wheelchair. no accessibility issues. the roll in shower is about the best I have seen. as you may be aware from the listing, it is a duplex but that is not an issue! you have all the privacy you want or need. rent this place!!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roxane F.

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

Beautiful View, Great Accommodations, Wonderful Hosts

Gorgeous view, beautifully decorated, well appointed home conveniently located just off I-26. Though you can hear road noise, my son said it made him feel connected to civilization because it feels remote, though it is not. Busy bird feeders greeted us each morning along with a private view of the mountains. Our dog could run as she pleased. We were very comfortable and would love to visit again. My husband is completely paralyzed from ALS so we had a mechanical bed delivered. The hosts put it together for us!! It was ready to go along with the room being rearranged to allow for all of the necessary equipment we travel with. Shelley was in constant communication with us before we arrived to ensure that everything would go smoothly - and it did. She really bent over backwards to take good care of us, along with her parents who, though they live on site, are very quiet and we rarely saw them, but when we did they felt like good friends. This is truly a special place with lovely people that will make your stay perfect. We used the hot tub and they came out to make sure we had everything we needed and set it all up for us. If there were 10 stars to give I would. Really exceptional, and I feel like a made a new set of friends.
Stayed 14 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cece D.

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

Winter Wonderland

This was hands down the best VRBO stay we've ever had. First, we were travelling from the North Georgia mountains to Mars Hill on the day Artic Storm Elliot was headed our way and got very nervous about the possibility of icy roads and Shelley was so accommodating and let us head up a day earlier - which we could not have been more thankful for since we woke up on December 23rd to a full Winter Wonderland of snow (which started out as rain the night before). Shelley's dad, Offrand, greeted us when we arrived and was very helpful in explaining everything about the place. The actual space is beautifully appointed, decorated for Christmas and meticulously clean and organized. The beds are super comfortable and the gas fireplace was so cozy on our "snowed-in day". On Christmas Eve, thanks to Offrand, we were able to make it to our ski time (he lent us his windshield scraper) when it was -5 outside! (cold for anyone but did I mention we are Floridians?) Let's just say the family was very happy to return to Bear Branch Bliss and warm up in that amazing shower! I could really go on but I will end with this - I thought we were going to miss our holiday trip and was so sad, but because of Shelley's hospitality and thoughtfulness we ended up having a beautiful white Christmas in warm, cozy place that will be in our family memories forever. Whenever we travel again to the area this Bear Branch Bliss will always be our first choice. PS. Our pup Lilly loved it there too and had her first snow experience running around the property!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Darla H.

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

Gorgeous and Relaxing Home Away From Home

We absolutely loved this place and didn’t want to leave. The house is beautifully decorated, beautiful and great location and so peaceful. The owner was awesome and we really appreciated her hospitality and personal touch. Highly recommend this rental. We plan to go back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah C.

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

Absolutely amazing!

I can't rave enough about this amazing property--the gorgeous view, the wonderful amenities, the relaxed atmosphere, the fantastic hosts, the thoughtful touches in and around the property--everything that made our visit truly one of the best vrbo experiences we've every had. The home was gorgeously decorated with attention to detail and little luxuries that you don't often enjoy in a vrbo: extra towels (not the one-per-person that most places have); wood and blankets for the outdoor fire pit; an outdoor swing; plenty of throw blankets around the home; lovely set-ups at the dining table and kitchen bar; delicious-smelling wax warmers, treats to enjoy in the tv room...they even provided us champagne, bacon, eggs, and other breakfast items for our first morning! The view is spectacular--nestled in the trees and overlooking the mountains--the bird feeders were a nice touch! The owner was absolutely wonderful, with helpful tips and thoughtful suggestions--she even provided us fresh tomatoes from her garden! This was the perfect place for us to relax and unwind away from everything but still close enough to drive into town or into the mountains. We would absolutely stay here again and are already looking for free weekends to return.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dyan H., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

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

Mountain Getaway

Six days in August at Bear Branch Bliss went by too quickly. And, there is no better review than to report that we're returning in October. Stay tuned for another rave review for the Willis family.....
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lynn M., Warner Robins, Ga USA

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

Relaxing get-a-way

Was looking for a get-a-way to celebrate my husband’s birthday. This house was perfect. From providing restaurant recommendations to making every step of the rental process seamless and easy. Every day was more enjoyable then the next. From watching the birds to fireside chats we were able to celebrate and catch up with old friends. We loved it so much we will be coming back soon. Highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Milo N.

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

Incredible Views

This place is really something special. Ophard and Shelley do a phenomenal job of making sure you have everything you could need and still giving you your privacy. Everything about this place is amazing from the incredibly comfy interior to the astonishing views outside. This is a must stay if you're going to be in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christy H.

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

Heaven on a hill

Big bear is a beautiful place to stay when visiting North Carolina. Every detail has been thought of to ensure you feel right at home from your moment of arrival through the entire stay. From luxurious bedding & towels, games and a long list of recommended places to eat and sites to see! We absolutely loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lynn C.

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

Awesome house with great amenities in lovely setting

One of our best rentals. The house is great with so many lovely touches and thoughtfully well stocked. The fire pit and hot tub are great and there are short hikes right around the property. It’s 20 minute from Asheville but worth the extra car time The host and her family are great. And it’s super dog friendly!!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Pat P., Summerton SC USA

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

The Best In The Mountains

Spent Thanksgiving with some local family members at the most beautiful place in the mountains! The views are breathtaking! I am a native of the area and never miss a chance to return. The house and property are immaculate and everything you need is in that house ! Shelley and her family are wonderful people and made us feel like one of thier own. I will go back any time I am in the area. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Fabulous place to relax !!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Andrea S.

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

Fall Getaway

From the moment we walked in the inviting warm vanilla smell coupled with the amazing view I knew this was going to be the relaxing vacation we needed. Shelly was the perfect host with the fire pit at the ready, the hot tub at the most satisfying temperature, and a home that is well stocked for anything you can think of. Wouldn’t hesitate to stay again, and again, and again.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey F.

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

Best Experience!

Our stay at Bear Branch Bliss was probably the best experience I've had with a VRBO property. The house was perfect and the host was amazing! We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

About the host

Hosted by Shelley Suzanna Willis

Host profile image
Welcome to our brand-new home (completed in 2021)!
This house is the result of a five-year dream my parents and I brought to life together. We built a beautiful duplex—my parents live on one side, and I share the other with my doodle, Skylarr-Blue. The finished home and property turned out even more stunning than I ever imagined, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Why they chose this property

Experience the Blue Ridge Mountains in Every Season
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge, our home offers a front-row seat to nature’s beauty. Watch clouds drift and dance across the peaks, see fog transform the valleys into floating islands, and enjoy the magic of rainbows after a refreshing mountain shower. Whether it’s snow in winter, blossoms in spring, summer greenery, or vibrant autumn colors, the mountains put on a spectacular show all year long.

Why not come see it for yourself?

What makes this property unique

Our home is a brand-new build tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, designed to showcase all four seasons in their full beauty. Guests can watch clouds drift across the peaks, fog settle like floating islands, and rainbows appear after mountain showers.

We’ve added thoughtful touches that create both comfort and adventure:
• A grilling deck with gazebo for outdoor dining.
• Hammocks for peaceful relaxation in the fresh mountain air.
• A smokeless fire pit, perfect for gathering under the stars.
• A private hot tub deck overlooking the Smoky Mountains.
• Indoor comfort with a 65” Sony TV and sound bar, complete with Hulu, Netflix, and Prime.

This combination of stunning natural scenery, year-round seasonal charm, and modern comforts makes our property a truly one-of-a-kind mountain escape.

Languages:

English