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Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center

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A cabin with a porch, two Adirondack chairs, and a fire pit.
A kitchen with wooden cabinets, a stainless steel stove, a microwave, and a dishwasher.
A Christmas tree decorated with lights and ribbons, placed in a room with wooden floors and a window overlooking a deck.
A dining table set for four with a candle centerpiece, wooden chairs, and a view of mountains through the windows.
A cabin surrounded by trees with autumn foliage.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedroomsSleeps 6980 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Bryson City, NC
  • Place, Bryson City Gem Mine
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Fontana Lake
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Nantahala River
    ‪7 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Bryson City

This cottage places you next to Nantahala National Forest and within 2 miles (3 km) of Bryson City Gem Mine. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
View more Cottages in Bryson CityOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Bryson City Gem Mine - 6 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Fontana Lake - 7 min drive - 1.9 miles
  • Nantahala River - 7 min drive - 1.9 miles
  • Ferebee Memorial Picnic Area - 14 min drive - 8.1 miles
  • Swain County Park - 16 min drive - 7.0 miles

Getting around

  • McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) - 134 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Big Wesser BBQ & Brew - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪River's End Restaurant - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Dancing Bear Sweetery - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Cardinal Coffee - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Kallistos - ‬9 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center

2BR /1B Cottage with Hotel like Amenities, Pet Friendly! Total Privacy. Master has queen, 2nd BR has twin beds, sleeps up to 6 on foldout couch . Fireplace, Firepit, Hot tub, Large wrap around Deck. Great Views! 5 mins from Nantahala Outdoor Center with dining options, 15 minutes from Bryson City. Convenient to many outdoor activities: River Rafting, Hiking Trails, Lake Fontana Swimming Hole, Gem Mining for the little ones, Appalachian Trail and Tsali Bike Trails. General Store for convenience close by! Location is secluded but entertainment at your reach.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

Similar properties

Property amenity
Best Western Plus River Escape Inn & Suites
Dillsboro
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Breakfast included
  • Parking included
9.2 out of 10, 1004, 1,004 reviews
$96 nightly
The price is $109
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Plus River Escape Inn & Suites

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchenette
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 980 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 2 total pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: $25 per pet per day

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

Events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Parties and events are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 6
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 indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Parties and events are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 6.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Bryson City, just steps from Nantahala National Forest. You'll also find Nantahala River and Fontana Lake within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center?

No, there isn't parking at this cottage.

Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

What do couples enjoy most about Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this riverfront cottage include a fireplace and a kitchen along with a hot tub.

Does Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this cottage.

Does this cottage provide breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although cats and dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Does Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this cottage.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center?

Yes, every cottage at Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center comes with a patio and some offer mountain views.

Firefly Cottage, Near Bryson City, and Nantahala Outdoor Center Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 60 out of 68 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 68 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 68 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 68 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 68 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Christopher K.

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

Amazing View

This cabin is perfect! The view is amazing! The cabin is small and homey and well stocked. We really enjoyed our stay here and will book it again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Drew H.

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

Spring break get away

We've stayed at this cabin multiple times and know what to expect, always clean, great location to Bryson City or Nantahala outdoor center. The outdoor space is great, we can either enjoy a great view from the deck or hang out by the fire pit. Overall we enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shavon P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This host was beyond excellent. Everything and more was available. The cabin was clean and very inviting. Our family thoroughly enjoyed the experience. This definitely felt like home away from home. The owner was responsive and even provided necessary details to ensure a successful trip upon arrival. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bobby F.

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

Beautiful Mountain Home

The home was excellent and we enjoyed our stay. The view was breathtaking. The road to the cabin was rough, but worth the climb. We will definitley return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was an amazing property. I was on a solo trip to rest, recharge, and celebrate my bday and the location had everything I needed. The view from the porch was my favorite, I had several meals out there. The host was very nice and had great communication. I will be back and hopefully bring my family with me. 10/10 would recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Wonderful

Great location. Cozy and well-equipped, enjoyed using the provided firewood as well. Sad to leave but we will be back with our sweet dog. :)
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Taura S.

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

Secluded and Awesome

If you are looking for complete seclusion, this is the place. WONDERFUL VIEW of mountains while you sit and soak in the hot tub. My hunny and I loved our time in your cabin. Thank you so much for everything, we will be returning in 6 weeks.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

tracy g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy to get to. Anything we forgot was already there. Clean. Comfortable. Feels like you’re home. Easy communication and easy check-in/check-out instructions. BEAUTIFUL views and close to any activities you might have planned but far enough up and away for quiet mornings or nights.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Callie W.

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

Beautiful Views

We picked this for the view and it really delivered! There’s a cute little bar/seating area overlooking the mountains and next to the hot tub - which is perfect. The property was clean and well maintained, and we loved the fire pit. We had a great time getting away, and it’s so close to the Nantahala Outdoor Center (under 5 min), which was great for grabbing a meal or a drink and sitting by the river. We hope to return!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Erica I.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Nice spot

This property was well situated for a weekend of hiking and water fun. Right near the NOC. Hot tub and full both worked great! The place could have been a little cleaner but overall it was a good stay and we had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Jennifer P.

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

Quiet Mountian Escape

Stayed in this cabin for a few days before heading to a wedding in South Carolina to get some R & R. This was definitely the place! Beautiful views, fire pit and hot tub. We did not want to leave. It had everything you needed to cook a meal so we ended up cooking most of our meals there just so we could enjoy the cabin and scenery around us there. We hope to stay again in the future!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Haley L.

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

A perfect mini-moon destination!

My husband and I visited the Firefly to celebrate our marriage and we had a lovely time. It’s the perfect place to cozy up with a good book near the fire. We also brought our dog, and she probably had more fun than we did running around the yard. Overall, a great stay and we would absolutely come back. My only suggestion would be getting some new cooking utensils because the ones provided are a bit melted and chipping.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rick C.

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

Great getaway

Our trip was to get away from city life for a couple days. Plan your trip as far as food, it’s a bit of a run to Bryson City if you need a stick of butter. We were there for the fall colors and it didn’t disappoint. Sitting in the hot tub during a sunset, while watching the bats fly around, just couldn’t be beat. The furniture and bedding was comfortable, the view from the dining room table made breakfast and dinner very enjoyable. I’d definitely return!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Andrew E.

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

Getaway during the pandemic

Firefly was the perfect getaway during the pandemic; but is also a wonderful retreat for anyone that enjoys the peace and quiet in the Smokies. The property is isolated away from close-by neighbors, perched on the knob of a ridge and provides beautiful view to the southern vistas. The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) on the Nantahala River is only a 10-minute drive and downtown Bryson City is approximately 20 minutes away. My wife and I would definitely consider staying at this property in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

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

Beautiful property!

Firefly Cottage was just as described. Patrick responded quickly to our questions. Spotless on the inside and out. Road to the cottage was a bit of a challenge but our Honda CRV handled it with just taking it slow. This property is located about 10 minutes from the NOC Natnahala Outdoor Center making it a nice location. And the hot tube was a perfect way to end the day... Thank you for opening your home up for others to enjoy!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Joseph C.

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

Mountain geraway

We are from Eastern NC, very different from the mountains. With my parents now retired and getting older, I decided to take them on a mountain getaway for 4 nights. Firefly turned out to be the best stay we could have hoped for! The location was remote enough to give us the scenery and relaxation we wanted, but still only about 10 minutes from downtown Bryson City. Overall, probably the best mountain trip ever! My thanks to Patrick and Shauna for allowing us to stay in their incredible cabin!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nancy T.

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

Didn't want to leave!

This cabin definitely exceeded our expectations. The cabin was clean when when we arrived. The views were breathtaking, especially when the colors were changing! The host was easy to get a hold of and was willing to give opinions on what was good to enjoy in the area. The fireplace was AMAZING! We used the indoor fireplace daily. They supplied plenty of firewood and firestarter items. The beds were comfortable. Overall, our stay was very relaxing and beautiful. It was also a major plus that this place was pet friendly. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth G.

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

Perfection

Everything was perfect. Owner super nice and responsive to questions. The scenery was beautiful. Leaves were at peak color. House was well supplied and clean. We used the fireplace every night. Super place to relax. One thing we liked was the house wasn’t over the top with tacky nicknacks like most of the previous places we’ve stayed at. The porch was the perfect place to relax and take in the mountain views. This cabin just became our favorite and we are looking forward to returning asap.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sheila S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a great place to stay and the hosts were awesome to deal with. The road up to the cabin is intimidating. I'm sure it could be driven by a car, but you might get beat up by the gravel. We had an all wheel drive SUV and it was perfectly fine, although when you get halfway up the road, there's a lot of "No trespassing" signs that may make you think you're on the wrong road, but if you're following Google maps directions and the directions on the website, you're on the right road. Not sure how passable the road would be in wet weather, though. The place was great and the views and privacy are awesome. You are definitely off the grid here. After the first couple days, you get comfortable with the road.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James R.

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

Mountain Top Retreat

A perfect place for restorative rest and complete get-away. It is up a mountain, and I mean up. Secluded and tranquil. Very private setting in the trees with incredible views of the sunset. Really spectacular! This is a simple cabin, very nicely remodeled, and accommodating for a family of six. Nicely furnished and comfy. My adult children chose to spend a day just handing out around the fire pit - in July! It is so peaceful. There is almost a constant breeze through the trees that creates such a relaxing setting. Minutes from the NOC and a general store, even though if feels so remote. It will be on our Return-To list.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Katelyn R.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday getaway to go to NOC

I was told upon arrival that there had been a renter there before us for multiple months and had trashed the place. Under those circumstances I think the cleaning crew did a great job cleaning the hot tub and providing linens by the time we got there. The issues that we had during our stay were noted to the owners and I’m sure will be fixed for the future. The location is very convient to NOC and Bryson city. We were not in a 4x4 vehicle but I would recommended one if you stay here as it is way up on a mountain on all gravel roads. The twin beds were not comfortable at all and the bedroom carpet should be replaced as it is not in the best shape. Other than that the view was beautiful, fire pit area very relaxing, and kitchen is spacious.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne M.

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

Perfect unplugged getaway

This property is a perfect home-away-from-home getaway in the mountains. The house is on the smaller side and perfectly laid out for an intimate and quiet vacation. I adored the views, the hot tub, and the fireplace in the living room. We had a great few days staying unplugged (our cell phone service - tmo - doesn't have signal up there ) vacation gaming, puzzling, and watching old movies. I could not have asked for a better or more relaxing getaway for the holidays.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Charles P.

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

Peaceful

Such an amazing hidden gem. The host communicated excellent and timely. The property HS everything we needed and the firewood was an amazing touch.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

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

Absolutely perfect getaway!

The views of all the fall colors is prettier than we even imagined. Perfect cabin with a beautiful clearing out back for the fire pit. Very secluded and great for a weekend getaway with views!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Verified review

8/10 Good

Maria D.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

Beautiful location and cabin

The property was beautiful and stay was great. We did have issues getting in touch with the owner, and there was alot of conflicting information with what was expected at checkout, but we managed to get in touch before checkout and get some stuff sorted, so it wasn't an issue in the end, and the owner seems very kind. The driveway was pretty terrifying and we couldn't believe, looking at it, that it was 2 wheel drive, but we made it in, and it got less frightening throughout the week. Just definitely plan to get there during the day so it's easy to see. There was a good amount of pet hair, but that's expected at a pet friendly cabin. Definitely bring some basics stuff(such as toilet paper) as there wasn't much provided. But all in all, gorgeous view, comfortable stay, and quiet, so we definitely enjoyed our stay and loved the drive to and from town. So few lights makes a gorgeous night sky also!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021