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Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit

Holiday home in Cherokee with kitchen and patio

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Enjoy panoramic views from the top of the Mountain
Authentic cedar wood fired hot tub.  Perfectly relaxing anytime of year!
Four season stargazing the wood fired hot tub-views of the Blue Ridge Parkway
Spectacular western sunset views into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
The view from Water Rock front lawn- the views are panoramic and spectacular!

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8204.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
Cherokee, NC
  • Place, Soco Falls
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Harrahs Cherokee Casino
    ‪15 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Single Bed and 1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit

Water Rock Garden Retreat was designed specifically to showcase the incredible natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Water Rock Garden Retreat is located on a 15-acre knoll just outside of Cherokee, North Carolina. At an elevation of 4500 feet, there are breathtaking 360-degree views with a 30-mile view of Tennessee and the great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is located at a high elevation in a rare location. From the 4500 elevation knoll and to the West you can see most of the entire length of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Clingman's Dome the center of the view. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. To the south you face directly up to the 5800 peaks of the Plott Balsam Range. To the East is our namesake Waterrock Knob. It is the highest peak in the Plott Balsams and is the 16th-highest mountain in the Eastern United States.
Within a short hike is a private trail to a stunning series of waterfalls on Black Rock Creek culminating in 100 feet plus Kobe Falls.
Extremely private, there are no other homes within site or sound. The retreat has large terraced grounds covered with an abundance of gorgeous flowers for the enjoyment of our guests. There is lots of flat yard space for the kids to run around and a great firepit area for nights around the campfire.
Located within easy driving distance of the finest outdoor recreation areas in Western North Carolina for both hiking and rafting, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, Nantahala wilderness area, Cataloochee Ski Area , and Cherokee Indian Reservation.

Water Rock Garden Retreat is ideal for people who love solitude, unspoiled views, spectacular gardens, wildlife, starry nights and full moons, and the sound of rushing mountain streams in the distance. It is beautiful any time of year!

The Retreat's ground floor is open and spacious with ten-foot ceilings and a fireplace. The house has four bedrooms (three upstairs, one downstairs), including a large master bedroom. The rooms are equipped with two queen-sized beds, one full-sized bed, two twin beds, one twin-sized futon, and two twin-sized bunkies. The house has two full baths, an antique claw foot tub and a wood-fired hot tub! We will provide one set of sheets and blankets for each bed as well as plenty of towels.

The large custom kitchen is well equipped with utensils, dinnerware, pots, pans, and an outdoor grill. The house also has a 500-square-foot, partially covered, cedar deck and an enclosed crow's nest atop for all-weather viewing of the incredible, panoramic view.

Waterrock Garden Retreat may not be for everyone! This is a very remote location. You will feel like you are the only ones in the world! It is best enjoyed by those looking to get away from it all and unplugging in the cathedral of nature. While you are located at the heart of outdoor recreation many guests report they get there and don't want to leave for the duration of their stay! The Retreat is located three-point-seven miles up a well-maintained (but bumpy in spots) gravel road. Water Rock Garden Retreat is easily accessible by car, SUV and even trucks with trailers. The road dead ends at the retreat. The road is passable by almost any car except under snowy or icy conditions when a four-wheel drive would be necessary. Four wheel drive is required November 15- April 1. It takes approximately 15 minutes to travel the road. Cars that ride extra low (such as some luxury or sport cars) may not be appropriate. Ask us if you are not sure about yours.

Located 10 miles from Harrah's Casino in Cherokee and the Blue Ridge Parkway, central to the Smoky Mountains Country Club Golf Course and the Great Smoky Mountain Railway Station in Historic Dillsboro where you will find unique shops, galleries, collectables, and crafts.

Centrally located to Maggie Valley, Cherokee, Bryson City and to Rafting and Tubing in the Nantahala Gorge with numerous hiking and biking trails throughout the area. Enjoy outdoor recreation along nearby waterfalls, hike and commune with nature, float the many rivers and streams on tubes or rafts, or visit local area flea markets.

No hunting or shooting permitted at the retreat. We encourage wildlife to stay in the area.
Keywords: Home

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Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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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: dogs (limit 2 total)
Dogs love Water Rock! Plenty of room to explore!
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE REQUIRED NOVEMBER 1- APRIL 1 DUE TO HIGH ELEVATION AND POSSIBILITY OF SNOW/ICE

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Cherokee

Located in Cherokee, this holiday home is near theme parks and in the mountains. Cherokee Mountainside Theatre and Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo and Cherokee Botanical Garden and Nature Trail. Fantasy Golf & Game Room and Maggie Valley Festival Grounds are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
Map
Cherokee, NC

What's nearby

  • Soco Falls - 9 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo - 10 min drive - 8.7 km
  • Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 15 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Museum of the Cherokee Indian - 20 min drive - 16.3 km
  • Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama - 21 min drive - 16.3 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 65 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Guy Fieri's Cherokee Kitchen + Bar - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Wicked Weed Pub at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Granny's Kitchen - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Noodle Bar - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Soundbytes - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Nantahala National Forest, Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo and Soco Falls. Harrahs Cherokee Casino and Soco Gap are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 84 out of 97 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 97 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 97 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 97 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 97 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ashley L.

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

Wonderful Christmas Stay

The view was phenomenal! It was the perfect place for our family to celebrate Christmas together.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

James C.

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

Great place to get away from it all

We spent five days here, and the best days were when we never left the house. It's such a great property, with hikes, views, etc. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly E., Franklin

Breathtaking views and lovely grounds

We loved the sunsets while enjoying dinner on the deck. S'mores every night at the fire pit gave us all a chance to relax and laugh. We will definitely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Emma B., Thousand Oaks California USA

A secluded and beautiful place

We wanted a secluded place that worked for outdoor activities and quality family time away from a hectic life. This place delivered on every level, situated at the top of a mountain road, the views were stunning and the house situated in a lovely place to spend a few (too short) days exploring the Smokies. The hikes around the areas were great for the whole family (Grandparent, first grader plus dog) and the house very comfortable. The owner was great and on hand to answer our queries promptly and effectively. I would definitely recommend this place and hope to return someday.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Melissa E., Grasonville, Maryland

mastock

The views are amazing from this property. The road leading up to the property is long and in some places a bit bumpy, but we were able to travel this road every day without a four wheel drive vehicle. I might add, the journey was worth it. The house some age to it, but was very well suited to us. The only thing I would add would be cable. As much as I liked lounging and watching the sunsets, I am ashamed to say I missed seeing what was going on in the world. Thank you for a relaxing vacation, we hope to be back!

6/10 Okay

Laura B.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Check-in

Quiet Getaway

The location of the property was perfect. The drive up is long, but the road is in good condition. Make sure you are comfortable driving on mountain roads and read directions carefully. The views are great and I’m certain even prettier in the spring/summer. The wood fired hot tub was a fun experience for adults and kids. The water is a little difficult to adjust since we weren’t used to it, but it was a fun experience. The house was in need of a lot of repairs. There were minimal curtains/blind on the windows, visible water damage on ceilings, and the stove handle was broke upon our arrival. There were several lightbulbs that were blown and we actually replaced a few during our stay. The couch had some tears and furniture didn’t match. Games in the closets were missing pieces. The downstairs bedroom is TINY and even though there are two bathrooms, there is only one shower which made it difficult for two families (although the wet sauna was nice in the shower). There were enough towels but only a handful of wash cloths. There is no dishwasher. There is an advertised walking trail, but so grown up we couldn’t find it until messaging the owner. The owner was prompt to respond but didn’t include check in instructions until we requested. A map of the area would be helpful. Overall the area and view was perfect for a secluded Covid getaway, but the place is definitely in need of some love, and some easy fixes would greatly increase the value!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

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

Stunning views and Mountain vibes - house is aging

Our family enjoyed this property in October 2020. The views are stunning and unlikely to be found elsewhere. We, however, had pretty rainy weather so we were limited in our ability to truly enjoy the grounds. Therefore, we noticed the areas where the house has been showing its age probably more than the average guest who would have been outside more than we were able to be. The lighting in the house (esp. the kitchen) was harsh and less than desirable. The photos are not accurate as the bar chairs have no cushions in the kitchen bar area, nor the hanging light fixture shown - the ceilings are very high and there is a flush mount light above the beautiful kitchen table - this gave the feeling of being interrogated by cool LED lighting instead of a warm cabin feel. Knives need to be sharpened, there was no pan to bake brownies, and we had no pot holders. These seem like small details of course, but because we were in the kitchen a lot we felt the negative impact. The road up was an adventure! We actually never left the property, but it is a proper 15 minutes to get down the mountain road as others have indicated. We have an SUV and did just fine, but the gravel road made it so we were glad to have all provisions and not have to go up and down unnecessarily. We loved the wood burning hot tub and the process of waiting for it to get warm - it will take a good day before being hot but it was fun to tend to it and anticipate getting in. We liked sitting by the outdoor firepit at night and were grateful that we had a break in the weather to do so. The fully stocked wood shed was wonderful to have plentiful dry wood at the ready. The emailed instructions to us for check in seemed like they could be updated. You can get a decent cell signal, but not great. We could stream some music, but never could figure out how to play the CDC player with the receiver - even though we brought our entire case of CD's with us in case the music situation was really dismal streaming! We did really enjoy the steam shower upstairs! That was a great treat to sit and relax. This is a quirky house in a magnificently beautiful and remote location. The gardens around the home were not in peak season being October, but I can see how the spring and summer months it would really shine. The colors of the mountains were breath taking. Just know what kind of home experience you are looking for, and I'm sure you'll have a great time!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view and the location are unbeatable!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

T F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded, exceptional views. Fair warni g the last 3.5 miles is a bit rugged gravel road that gains 5000 feet. It is a commitment to go up and down. But once there, its a bit of heaven on the top of a mountain.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Blake D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Visited family in cherokee and stayed for an extended weekend. Beautiful view from every angle. Very private. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Cindy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful property with mountain views usually only seen in the Parks. Water fall on road as you're going up is wonderful. Home is mostly comfortable with all amenities needed available. Upstairs beds very comfortable, downstairs bed not at all comfortable. I think the mattress is just worn out. The road going up to retreat is pretty rough , I'm thinking recent rains have caused many rust. But, property itself is amazing.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff D.

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

A special place.

Waterrock is a special place. The view, seclusion, and the property grounds are unmatched. There is no better place to relax and recenter.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

tim d.

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

A little piece of heaven

This is a great place to unwind surrounded by nature. We brought everything we needed only went down the mountain 3 times. It accommodated my large family and their pets. Thank you for letting us use your place. It was amazing.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Delaina H.

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

Beautiful Place

The experience was amazing. Thank You.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason J.

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

Meaningful

Revetting
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa E.

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

Mountain get away

The views from this property are absolutely breathtaking! Be prepared for a long drive up, 15 minutes on gravel Road, but it is well worth it! This is our third trip here, we will be back! Thank you so much for everything.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly P.

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

Peaceful retreat

Lovely, secluded and quiet mountain top stay with sweeping views of the mountains. The hot tub was a real highlight, particularly as we approached the full moon. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randall B.

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

Million Dollar Views

While the pictures are accurate, you don't get the whole effect until you arrive how amazing the views are. We stayed as a surprise for my wife's birthday and she literally had tears in her eyes when we arrived and she looked out over the mountains. We are both avid outdoors people and enjoy hiking trips and this location put us close to some good trails. I would highly recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gretten G.

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

Amazing retreat

This property is amazing if you want to rest and be in touch with nature. It's secluded and it can be difficult to arrive if you don't follow the instrucctions provided. Tama the owner is a wonderful host, very attentive and keep the house and surrounding areas in excellent conditions.The house has spectacular views from all the rooms.The heater works fine so the house is always cozy. All mattresses are confortable and the same for bed sheets. The kitchen is ample and has plenty of pans and cutlery for a large group and there is also a carbon grill. Dining table also large enough and you'll have beautiful panoramic views of the mountain while eating. Be aware that Internet signal is not very good! The fire pit was a favorite and wood is supplied. We loved to roast marshmallows and drinking wine near the fire at nights. It was a true lovely experience and all my family really enjoyed to stay ( mostly our husky as the property is pet friendly) We highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

carol t.

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

A.azing property

The place was spacious and well kept. The boys enjoyed the hot tub and fire pit. The stove was Hughes. It was close to Cherokee and Smokey mountain pRkway
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roberta K., Louisville

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

It was an awesome cabin. The view was awesome.

There were 5 of us and only 2 wash cloths. There was food left in fridge and pantry when we got there but that is all. Our over all stay was awesome and I do recommend this cabin. I would rent again
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eric B.

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

breathtaking

best views in WNC
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lauren N.

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

Great Long Weekend

Beautiful views, hot tub was a little tedious but overall had a great time
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barbara M.

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

Beautiful get away

Very good place to stay would stay again and again. The view was amazing
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ken E.

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

Fabulous View

The view from the property is breathtaking. It was very peaceful with beautiful flowers galore. This property is for people who love nature, peaceful isolation, and relaxation. We did spend time in the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee, but we didn't want to go up and down the gravel road more than once a day. This property is rustic and not for those that prefer fancy accommodations. If you love wild flowers more than cultivated roses, this is the place for you.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Tama Dickerson

Host profile image
I am a long time preservationist and developer who first came to this area in 1980 after falling in love with the Smoky Mountains at first sight. The mountains you will see surrounding Waterrock Garden Retreat were my first delopment project. I succeeded in largely preserving land adjoining our 15 acres with only 5 homes to date to 240 acres with 70 acres going into preservation with the Nature Conservancy. Currently, I am developing Olivette Riverside Community and Farm in Asheville NC.
National Association of Home Builders 2019 Best Green Community in US
NC Home Builders Association 2019 Community of the Year
NC Home Builders Association 2018 Community of the Year
NC Home Builders Association 2018 Best Sustainable Community
My other main project currently is Paint Rock Farm a Glamping Retreat, wedding venue , and hemp farm located on 160 acres in Hot Springs NC. i am happy to say we have been able to place 111 acres of our farm here into a permanent conservation forest through Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy.
My other true love in life is spirituality and healing. I am a LRT (Loving Relationship
Training) teacher, Breathworker , and Ordained Ministerial Counselor and devoted a large part of my life pursing my desire to bring peace, love, and healing to both the Earth and those of us who share it.

Why they chose this property

I would consider choosing Waterrock Garden Retreat if you value the incomparable location in the Great Smoky Mountains over anything.

What makes this property unique

Solitude, incomparable views , nature at its finest, waterfalls, an impossible to beat experience of the mountains at a high elevation.

Languages:

English