The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands
Welcome to The Shakespeare, one of Highlands' most distinctive luxury accommodations. Located adjacent to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park and just one block from Main Street, this beautifully designed three-bedroom, three-bathroom retreat pays homage to the beloved Shakespeare bookstore that occupied this location for more than 25 years. Walk to award-winning restaurants, charming boutiques, galleries, parks, and seasonal events. Wedding venues, rehearsal dinners, and celebrations are all easily accessible, making The Shakespeare an ideal home base for wedding weekends and special occasions.
Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway, mountain adventure, family gathering, or wedding celebration, The Shakespeare offers a truly unique Highlands’s experience where luxury accommodations and local history come together beautifully.
More than simply a place to stay, The Shakespeare is an experience. Original books used in creative ways, curated artwork, and thoughtful touches are woven throughout the space, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere that celebrates the history of this cherished Highlands landmark. Shelves of carefully selected volumes, original bookstore-inspired elements, and literary details throughout the property create a sense of place unlike any other vacation rental in Highlands. Guests often find themselves lingering over coffee with a favorite novel, discovering unexpected titles tucked throughout the space. Every detail has been carefully considered to honor the bookstore's legacy while providing the elevated comforts of a luxury mountain getaway.
The Space Designed with both luxury and comfort in mind, The Shakespeare features an open-concept, vaulted ceiling living space perfect for gathering after a day exploring town. The inviting living room offers ample seating, an electric fireplace, and plenty of space to unwind with a good book or enjoy an evening together.
The fully equipped kitchen features a 12-foot island with 7 bar stools, quartz countertops, wine refrigerator, generous workspace, and everything needed to prepare meals at home. Adjacent dining and gathering spaces make entertaining effortless, whether you're hosting family breakfast before a wedding or enjoying wine and conversation after dinner downtown.
Step outside to the small porch off the kitchen and dining area, where you can enjoy Highlands' cool mountain air and peaceful surroundings.
Sleeping Arrangements The Shakespeare comfortably accommodates up to 8 guests: • Primary Suite – King bed with en-suite bathroom • Guest Suite – King bed with en-suite bathroom • Third Bedroom – King bed with access to a full bathroom with an oversized tub/shower • Premium Queen Sleeper Sofa – Ideal for additional guests
Every bedroom is designed as a relaxing retreat, featuring luxury Italian Frette sheets and towels to provide the comfort and quality of a boutique hotel. Every bathroom has hair dryers and mirrored makeup tables.
Luxury Amenities Guests enjoy an elevated hospitality experience with thoughtful touches throughout: • Heated bathroom floors • Heated towel racks • Zweisel stemware • Complimentary bottle of prosecco, dishwasher pods, laundry pods, coffee pods and bath bomb • 4 65-inch TV’s • Molton Brown shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and body lotion • Frette Italian luxury sheets and towels • Fully equipped kitchen • Full size washer and dryer • 2 work desks • Private porch with seating • High-speed Wi-Fi • Kid-friendly loft game area with board games and activities • Mahjong card table • Safe • Keurig, drip coffee maker and tea kettle
COME WRITE YOUR NEXT CHAPTER AT THE SHAKESPEARE!
ACCEPTANCE OF RENTAL CONSTITUES ACCEPTANCE OF THESE ADDITIONAL TERMS: The unit contains a ladder to a loft area. You agree to use the ladder and loft at your own risk. Take extra care if you use the ladder to climb up to the loft or climb down from the loft. Do not permit children to use the loft or the ladder without the supervision of an adult. Owner disclaims any liability to the fullest extent of the law for use of the ladder or loft. Guests assume all responsibility for use of the ladder or loft by themselves or by their guests, including any children.
Check out our sister property, The Fifth. Located less than a block from The Shakespeare this stunning luxury 2 bedroom / 2 bath apartment is perfect for a trip to Highlands with family or friends. https://www.vrbo.com/3112240?dateless=true
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Charming 3/2.5 Cottage in Mirror Lake Near Downtown!!!
Mirror Lake
Charming 3/2.5 Cottage in Mirror Lake Near Downtown!!!
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 5328011vb
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Highlands
Highlands is home to this apartment. Highlands Playhouse and Highlands Art Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Highlands Biological Station and Cashiers Farmers Market.
The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
Highlands Country Club - 3 min drive - 2.7 km
Restaurants
Wildcat Cliffs Country Club - 10 min drive
Los Vaqueros - 10 min walk
Shell - 5 min walk
Oak Steakhouse - 9 min drive
Highlander Mountain House & The Ruffed Grouse Tavern - 4 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands?
As of 30 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands on 21 Sept 2026 start from AU$1,580, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
What time is check-in at The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Shakespeare - Three Bedroom Luxury Retreat Steps from Main Street Highlands located?
Situated in Highlands, this apartment building is steps away from Nantahala National Forest, Highlands Playhouse and Highlands Art Gallery. Highlands Dog Park and Cullasaja River Gorge are also within 10 minutes.