This is a lovely "cabin", big enough for a large family. It was clean, thoroughly furnished, and well supplied (plenty of towels). With modern appliances, internet and a strong air conditioning system, it's definitely not roughing it.One of the main things we were looking for was a deck with a wonderful view, and we were not disappointed. The view from the deck excels any overlook along the parkway from Mabry Mill to Doughton Park (70 miles).And yes, you really do need AWD for the last mile to the cabin, once you leave pavement behind. Our Subaru Crosstrek had no problem with it, and it was fun to have a real excuse to use X-mode.Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway around here is worth it, though not as grand as other sections. A few of the overlooks are so overgrown with trees that there is no longer a view. Drive slowly and watch for deer in the evening. Coming back from one short evening jaunt we saw around 40 deer in seven miles.If you follow Wards Gap Road a half hour south to the very end, it becomes Main Street in Mt. Airy, where all the Andy of Mayberry stuff and and tourist shops are. You'll want AWD for the first couple miles, but once you are down the mountain it's paved the rest of the way. Stop at Ayers Apple Cooler along the way (they only sell by the bushel). We liked Barney's Cafe for lunch.While you are here, save an afternoon for Meadows of Dan, with lunch at Papa's Country Cooking.