Blue Ridge

"We wanted to mingle through the southern smokies on our way to see a relative in Georgia, so we didn't want to commit to two-plus nights in this area. Typically, one night stays are not as comfortable as the multi-day stay places in tourist-friendly areas. This place was cozy and had some nice features in that you can fish for trout in a couple of small pools that have stocked trout from upstream. Another great feature was the washer/dryer option, hard to find in a place that only required a one-night stay. Only downsides (and they were very minor) were that the property was close to a small highway, and the setting was more ideal for a small family with kids as opposed to a more secluded, romantic getaway that we would have preferred. Amenities were clean and soft, and the neighbor overseeing the property was nice to have available, should there have been a need to address any problems (which we didn't have). Very friendly and helpful owner and caretakers. Would rate 4.5 or 5 if we had caught this option with more fishing options available (larger creek pools/higher amounts of trout on site), but we didn't stay during the optimal trout season. The owner & neighbor caretaker (Don) did offer some good advice on nearby places to explore for convenient fishing options that were close to the property. If stocked trout were more concentrated in the upstream pool, the overhead light from the cabin would make for a fun way to spend an evening."

"We were looking for a cabin with a view and we got that and so much more! This cabin has everything that you need even down to a crate for the dog. The kitchen/dining/living room are all one big room with a bedroom/bathroom on either side. There are windows all around so you have beautiful views from inside or outside on one of the wide, long decks. One nice feature is the gates on the end of the decks so our dog could be with us on the deck and not need the leash. The cabin is beautifully decorated and very, very clean. The beds are very comfortable with the softest sheets ever. Each bedroom has a sliding door to the porch so you can even wake up to mountain views. The hot tub was clean and well maintained. Besides the road to the cabin, there are a couple of other roads branching off that one to take walks on if you want to get more exercise than just sitting on the deck. However, sitting on the deck with a glass of iced tea (or wine) watching the trees and mountains was #1 for me! Be sure to go outside and look at the stars at night! We also enjoyed several scenic drives, a visit to some apple houses, the Rumcake Lady on Hwy. 5 and the town of Blue Ridge. Unfortunately we had to leave a day early due to an impending hurricane on our route home to Florida, but we really enjoyed our time spent at Talking Leaves. The owner was easy to work with and our security deposit was promptly returned to us. PS Other reviews mentioned the "blind hill" as you drive up the gravel road to the cabin. It was a little scary and I don't know if there is any "protocol" but we tooted our horn before going over. I also shut my eyes and hoped my husband wasn't doing the same :)"