John is a wonderful host. We found Emerald Gate Farms to be the perfect spot to retreat from the hustle bustle of everyday life. We woke each morning to the simple joy of a coffee, a porch rocker, the awesome sight of a morning mountain emerging from the mist, and the sounds of a babbling creek and the hilarious cacophony of begging waddling ducks eager for the corn meal handout John provides guests. We enjoyed leisurely walks around the ponds, the companionship of the farm's two working Great Pyrenees, Polly and Clyde, and cool evening dinners on the porch with a free sunset show. We found the farm's proximity to Waynesville, I-40 W, and Blue Ridge Parkway afforded us and our own Great Pyrenees, Gidget, the opportunity to enjoy downtown strolls, pet-friendly restaurants, a brew pub, sunset mountain picnics, challenging hikes, concerts by the creek, a farmer's market, Lake Junaluska walks, and visits with family and friends throughout the area. We'll be back!