Romantic forest safari tent for two next to the Smoky Mountains National Park

Shakonohey, (pronounced Sha-Kon-O-Hey) refers to the Cherokee term meaning Land of Blue Smoke. Guests will be at a prime location to explore The Great Smoky Mountains via the Deep Creek National Park area. This property is perfect for couples seeking a quiet retreat in the woods with all the amenities of a home. As Dolly Parton sings in her song sharing the same name, “makes no difference where you roam, the land of blue smoke is your home.” Come away to this sacred place in the land of blue smoke for a tranquil mountain escape.

If you’ve never been in a safari tent before, prepare to be charmed by Shakonohey! Everything needed for a restful stay is contained within this peaceful woodland retreat. Guests arrive to walk down the steps and onto a large wrap-around deck to enter the front doors. Upon entering you are greeted by a relaxed, well-appointed living area all under one big top tent! The seating area contains a plush loveseat and chair, a rustic dining table for two, and a wall-mounted TV. Plenty of natural light streams through the three large front doors and several windows throughout the tent. There is no limit on the modern amenities as Wi-fi, Direct TV, heat, and AC are all accounted for.

Rounding out the central area of the tent is the full kitchen complete with granite countertops, gas range/oven, microwave, dishwasher, and fridge/freezer. All the kitchenware one needs to prepare a meal is provided. Guests can sit down for dinner at the live edge table for two.

On one side of the tent is the inviting bedroom area with a log-style king-size bed made up with a gorgeous quilt and luxury linens. Guests can sink deep into bed and gaze out to the woods through the wrap-around windows while the sounds of nature are all around. The abundant windows provide light and a breeze if desired, but thick curtains can also be drawn for soothing darkness and tranquility. The bedroom is complete with bedside tables with lamps, a ceiling fan, and a desk.

On the other side of the living area is the romantic bathroom suite where guests can enjoy a serene soak in the tub while taking in the sprawling mountain views. The spacious bathroom area also offers a walk-in tile shower with a bench and rain shower, and a sink vanity with a mirror.

If you seek a place to relax comfortably while being in a romantic and undisturbed setting, Shakonohey is the perfect couples getaway. The massive wrap-around deck platform surrounds the entire tent and is perched up on a hill, providing sweeping elevated forest views with privacy. The tent has been carefully placed into the forest hillside setting so you’ll feel tucked in the trees in this soothing environment. Pour yourself a glass of wine and take in the panoramic wooded views from the elevated deck. The front doors have an extended overhang under which you’ll find a lounge area with cushioned swivel chairs and a table surrounded by string lights for an inviting nighttime glow. Guests have use of a propane BBQ grill to prepare and enjoy meals alfresco. After a day of exploring the trails in the national park, unwind with a soak in the hot tub under the night sky, or make a campfire in the nearby firepit.

Shakonohey is nestled into the Elk Hollow Vacation Rental Community. You'll be just steps from the national forest and minutes from Bryson City, which is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Deep Creek Park Area will provide visitors with miles of trails, waterfalls, creeks, and breathtaking views of the mountain area. From a stay in Elk Hollow, visitors can enjoy day trips to horseback ride, tube, white river raft, bike, hike, and more. Take a train ride through the park aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad!

Bryson City, NC is a charming Smoky Mountain town. This sleepy town invites a leisurely stroll up and down main street where one can find bookstores, galleries, unique shopping, fly-shops, antique stores, and plenty of down-to-earth eateries. Mountain Layers Brewing on the corner of Everett St. & Island St. is perched on the banks of Tuckasegee River where local food trucks serve up a variety of dishes to compliment the craft beer. Or take advantage of the comfy diner food at Boxcar Cafe and Cones on Depot Square.

No animals. Exterior cameras are utilized to remotely monitor the property & access points, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detector and fire extinguisher on-site.