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Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!

Lakefront cottage with private pool and kitchen

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Property grounds
Exterior
Smart TV, fireplace, table tennis, books
Outdoor dining
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 82750 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
Highlands, NC
  • Place, Bridal Veil Falls
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Dry Falls
    ‪5 min drive‬

Room options

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Trailborn Highlands, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

Highlands
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, 254 reviews
$149 nightly
The price is $164
Dec 22 - Dec 23
Total with taxes and fees
Trailborn Highlands, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

About the neighborhood

Highlands

This cottage places you next to Nantahala National Forest and within a 3 miles (5 km) of Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. The cottage includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a fireplace.
View more Cottages in HighlandsOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Bridal Veil Falls - 4 min drive - 1.5 miles
  • The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts - 4 min drive - 2.2 miles
  • Cullasaja River Gorge - 5 min drive - 2.4 miles
  • Highlands Playhouse - 5 min drive - 2.6 miles
  • Dry Falls - 5 min drive - 2.3 miles

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 84 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shell - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Oak Steakhouse - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Calders Coffee Cafe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Blue Bike Cafe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Highlands BBQ Company - ‬5 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.

Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!

UPCOMIMG EVENTS:
- November 7-10 - Highlands Food & Wine Festival
- November 26th - December 24th: Trim Our Town
- December 7th -: Olde Mountain Christmas Parade

Upscale private cottage nestled within quiet & serene woods. Escape to the backyard for a private swim hole in Big Creek river. It doesn’t sound more idyllic than vacationing steps away from the shores of Big Creek. With mountain chic décor and all the comforts and spaciousness of a true home, this mountain retreat is perfectly cozy for a couple or family, and shines as a place to entertain. The Property: suitably named, On the Rocks, is a tranquil cottage situated on 3.9 acres right on Big Creek. You and your family will enjoy panoramic water views from the screened-in porch, have the chance to curl up in Adirondack chairs by the fire pit or spend a relaxing evening unwinding on the large outdoor hammock. This hidden jewel is just 2 hours drive north of Atlanta surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and situated atop a plateau at an elevation of 4118 feet. The Layout: The configuration of the living quarters at On the Rocks is ideal for two to three pairs to enjoy their personal living spaces. The chef’s kitchen and bar open up to the great room with a wood-burning fireplace. French doors lead you to a peaceful screened-in porch that comfortably seats 10. The main level houses two private suites that share a nice bath. The king suite is situated on the second level and includes a full bath, office, dressing room/nursery, and two walk in closets large enough for a pack-n-play. Enjoy the bright and airiness of the room that is accentuated by the vaulted ceilings. Entertain the night away with a full entertainment suite and additional bedroom that includes a flat screen TV & game table. French doors open up to a second screened porch with a private path leading to Big Creek. The Details: Hardwood floors throughout the property. The kitchen is outfitted with serving dishes, china and stemware. Fresh white linens provided (sheets and towels). Experience the feeling of residing in a luxury Bed and Breakfast with all the comforts of home. The Location: This private cottage is neighboring to three other properties located off Billy Cabin Road.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 3 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a fireplace. Housekeeping is available on request.

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Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Limited onsite parking (max 4 spaces)

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Ice maker
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

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

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the city center
  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Boat
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Table tennis
  • Tennis
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours 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

  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • Recycling
  • Reusable coffee/tea filters
  • Unit size: 2,750 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 35

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 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

Rules

Signed Rental Agreement Required. $400 Pet fee. Pets - not allowed on furniture or allowed to sleep in beds. Host must verify to confirm booking.
No rafts or swimmers beyond first bend going downstream or beyond No Trespassing sign upstream.
Please Take excess garbage to Dump.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 1 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: $400 pet fee. Host must verify to confirm booking.

Children and extra beds

  • Note from host: Creek play under adult supervision.

Events

No events allowed
Parking limited to 4 cars.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Parking limited to 4 cars.
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: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 35

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.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Note from host: Parking limited to 4 cars.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Highlands, just steps from Nantahala National Forest. You'll also find Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at this cottage?

Yes, though there is a max of 4 spaces.

Is this cottage associated with a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?

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

Is Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! a good place to stay for couples?

At this lakeside cottage, couples will welcome the many amenities including a private pool and a fireplace along with an outdoor pool.

Does Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! have a hot tub?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage include breakfast service?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

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

Does this cottage have connecting rooms?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches!?

Yes, every accommodation at Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! comes with a balcony with some featuring water views.

Minutes to town! Mountain chic/ waters swim hole firepit. Game room and porches! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 126 out of 132 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 132 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 132 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 132 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 132 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Rob E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Terry's mountain home was amazing. The kids and grandkids enjoyed fishing in the river and fires in the riverside firepit. We loved the clean home and well stocked kitchen. You will love escaping to this home!
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jess E., Charlotte, NC

This home is all about the creek. Absolutely gorgeous water behind the home perfect for the kids to play and fish. We did s’mores in the firepit and the hammock was lovely. Would love to come back in the summer. Pool table and games in the basement were great too. The only downside is that the furnishings overall were pretty worse for wear and the interior spaces need a deep clean (found other peoples trash in the couch cushion). May not be an issue for some but for us that part wasn’t ideal.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Yes the layout of the house for 3 couples and a toddler waa perfect. Confortable beds, great common area and kitchen to hang out in! The screened in porch overlooking the stream was an extra bonus. We enjoyed fishing and also had a wonderful time around the firepit roasting marshmallows. So peaceful listening to the water!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin R.

Liked: Cleanliness
We love staying here. It's a very comfortable, beautifully decorated home with the added bonus of a creek to play in.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steve M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just a great house. Loved the sound of the stream flowing in the back of the house. Our kids loved the pool table and ping pong. We would rent this house again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Betsy C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Iconic home on a creek in Highlands made for a perfect family getaway!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn M., Atlanta

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brett J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

allison g.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great house in highlands

We had a great few days in highlands - house was fantastic and enjoyed being next to the river!!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steven G.

Liked: Cleanliness

On The Rocks Vacation

Excellent family vacation, 6 adults, 2 children. Plenty of room and space for everyone. Indoor wood burning fireplace and outdoor fire pit were both used and cleaned out before our arrival. Plenty of firewood as promised, in fact delivered more within 4 hours when we needed to be restocked. Caught 2 trout in Big Creek right on the property. Screened porches with furniture were in excellent condition and also used. All utensils, dishes, pots/pots were abundant and also used. This home was wonderful and 20 minutes from downtown Highlands. Terry Vawter was excellent to communicate with via email as well as text. The accuracy of the listing and photos was outstanding. Steve Gabrielle
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

David T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely getaway!

Plenty of space and great activities both inside and out!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Virginia M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay in Highlands.

Wonderful house with plenty of space for family and lovely screened porches to enjoy the breeze and the wash of the stream. Very relaxing.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Erin R.

Liked: Cleanliness

So relaxing

This Highlands home is situated in the most beautiful setting. I love sitting on the porch and listening to the creek below. The inside is just as lovely and cozy, and the owners are such wonderful, gracious hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect getaway

We loved staying here! Great layout and close proximity to town made it ideal!
Stayed 12 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brad J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fun Highlands House

We enjoyed our stay with fun activities at the house and nice to be close to downtown Highlands.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great memories

This house is perfect for two families each with two kids. IT has all of the creature comforts with a secluded feel and the loud rush of Big Creek in the background.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hillary B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect mountain getaway

We had the best time at the house. It was perfect for 3 couples. We enjoyed the fire pit by the water and cozy nights by the fire.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Dream Vacation Home!

We had an amazing time at this upscale home in Highlands, NC! The rushing creek was a tranquil and refreshing spot to relax and enjoy some adventure. This home was a perfect fit for our family vacation, especially with three boys! Exploring the nearby trails, fishing, and visiting local shops made for a memorable experience. The fact that the owner was accommodating and quick to respond to all our questions shows their dedication to making our stay enjoyable. Having a variety of activity recommendations added to the excitement, even if it was impossible to do everything in one visit. We are already looking forward to returning to this wonderful vacation spot.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

julie w., Baton Rouge, LA

Liked: Cleanliness

Thanksgiving Family Trip

We booked this gorgeous vacation home for our family of four and brought along my husband’s mother. The location of this home is absolutely amazing. This house backs up to a beautiful scenic creek with a peaceful sound of constant water flowing over the rocks. In the backyard was a nice area with four large chairs and a hammock to gather around a homemade fire. The downstairs game room was the perfect place to gather for cardplaying, a pool table and ping-pong. The main living area boasts high ceilings with a wood-burning fireplace and a comfortable large dining table where we ate our Thanksgiving dinner. The upstairs master suite was large and comfortable, and we used the office space for our luggage and closet to hang clothes in. The house was cozy and comfortable and very close to the town of the Highlands. we enjoyed hiking Whiteside mountain, flyfishing, eating at the Old Edwards Inn, shopping at the market & shops in town and snow tubing at the Highlands outpost. We also drove over to Brevard for a horseback riding adventure with Saddle Up and visited friends in the Sapphire area. This area of North Carolina is absolutely beautiful and we definitely hope to visit again! I highly recommend this house! The property manager was easy to communicate with and full of knowledge of the area.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alex M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent

We loved staying at this cozy home nestled in the woods. It was clean and owner was so kind and very responsive. The house was close to town. We will be back! Great weekend with friends.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Russ F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome!

We loved the home and the location was perfect. Having morning coffee on the porch listening to Big Creek bubble in the background was pure bliss!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erin R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Love On The Rocks

On The Rocks has become a favorite destination for our family -- such a cozy, peaceful property.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness

lovely mountain escape

We had a wonderful time in the Highlands. It was so peaceful sitting on the screen porch listening to the river behind the house. the house was very clean upon our arrival, except for the grill. We tried to clean it, however, could not get it clean enough to use. Location was great. Easy to get downtown, but far enough to escape the busy town of Highlands.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nancy P.

Liked: Cleanliness

On the Rocks

This house is beautifully situated by a stream that is picturesque and sounds wonderful as you relax on the wraparound screened porch. We spent so much time out there reading, playing with the grandchild, eating, etc. very comfortable and relaxing.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Betsy C.

Liked: Cleanliness

We’ll Be Back!

On The Rocks was the perfect home for our mountain trip this summer.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

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