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Balsam Mountain Inn

2.0 star property
Hotel in Sylva with free breakfast and spa services

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Photo gallery for Balsam Mountain Inn

Exterior
Lobby
Front of property
Restaurant
Front of property

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Spa
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant

Explore the area

View in a map
68 7 Springs Dr, Sylva, NC, 28707
  • Place, Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Cataloochee Ski Area
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Place, Harrahs Cherokee Casino
    ‪32 min drive‬
  • Airport, Asheville, NC (AVL-Asheville Regional)
    ‪51 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room

Individually decorated, free WiFi

Standard Room

  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Room

Individually decorated, free WiFi

Standard Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Step In Shower Pet Friendly

Individually decorated, free WiFi

Standard Step In Shower Pet Friendly

  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Clawfoot Tub Pet Friendly

Individually decorated, free WiFi

Standard Clawfoot Tub Pet Friendly

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Sylva

Balsam Mountain Inn places you next to Nantahala National Forest and within a mile (2 km) of Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance. This 50-room hotel has conveniences like free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance - 2 min drive - 1.3 miles
  • Maggie Valley Festival Grounds - 22 min drive - 14.7 miles
  • Cataloochee Ski Area - 31 min drive - 18.3 miles
  • Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 32 min drive - 22.4 miles
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park - 36 min drive - 25.8 miles

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Maggie's Galley - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Papas & Beer - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Beach Mountain Diner - ‬9 min drive

About this property

Balsam Mountain Inn

Hotel in Sylva with free breakfast and spa services
At Balsam Mountain Inn, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, spa services, and a library. A stay here includes free parking. Front-desk staff can help with concierge services, and provide local restaurant recommendations. Additional amenities include a picnic area, wedding services, and a garden.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Hair dryers are also included. Housekeeping is available on request.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
Guests can pamper themselves by indulging in the onsite spa services. Services include massages.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant
  • Private picnics

Restaurants on site

  • Coffee Shop
  • Spirit of The Inn
  • Spirit of The Inn Bar

Things to do

  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Library
  • Shopping

Family friendly

  • Children's books
  • Children's games

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In the mountains
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Spa

  • In-room massages

Accessibility

  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • No elevator

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Champagne service

More

  • Electrical adapters
  • Heating
  • Individual decor

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 9:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 50 per accommodation, per stay, plus a deposit of USD 250 per stay
  • Dogs only
  • Pet weight must not exceed 50 lbs per pet
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet deposit: USD 250 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

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
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • 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.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services. Contact the hotel at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of Balsam Mountain Inn?

This hotel is located in Sylva, just steps from Nantahala National Forest. You'll also find Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance and Barber Orchard Fruitstand within a short drive.

How much does it cost to stay at Balsam Mountain Inn?

As of Jan 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Balsam Mountain Inn on Jan 15, 2026 start from $112.5, excluding 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.

Is there parking available at Balsam Mountain Inn?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Is a spa located at Balsam Mountain Inn?

Spa services at the hotel include massages.

Does Balsam Mountain Inn feature a casino?

No, Balsam Mountain Inn doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Balsam Mountain Inn?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What do couples enjoy most about Balsam Mountain Inn?

There are many amenities for couples at this hotel, including Champagne service and in-room massages as well as a bar.

Does Balsam Mountain Inn have a hot tub?

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

Does Balsam Mountain Inn have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Balsam Mountain Inn serves free continental breakfast at Spirit of The Inn each morning.

Does Balsam Mountain Inn allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Balsam Mountain Inn for a fee of USD 50 per accommodation, per stay. A deposit of USD 250 per stay is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Balsam Mountain Inn?

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

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Balsam Mountain Inn?

No, at Balsam Mountain Inn, there aren't any guestrooms that list a balcony.

Does Balsam Mountain Inn have a wedding venue on site?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at Balsam Mountain Inn.

Balsam Mountain Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 46 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 46 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 46 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 46 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 46 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

WILLIAM

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

It’s an Old School B&B

The description did not clearly state this was a rustic inn so there were certain normal hotel amenities that were not available. With that being said, the staff were super-helpful, friendly, and engaging. Loved the bar area and the bartender. He was awesome. Glad we tried it. We just weren’t ready for the bed and breakfast experience and lack of heat without a space heater. Otherwise, we had a good stay for a two night visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Franca

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

George Tracy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Edward

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Breakfast was delicious!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Margaret

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

We Found Our Mountain Inn

If you love history and nostalgic places, this is your Inn. The new owners are in the process of restoring the Inn so expect some imperfections. Since the original inn had communal bathrooms when rooms were converted to en-suites, the bathrooms are small. The rooms are large and comfortable. The is no AC but as it sits on Balsam Mountain there is no need. The porch is huge with rocking chairs to enjoy the view and just relax. The weekend breakfast buffet is tasty and substantial. Finally, the staff is very friendly and accommodating. We are so glad we found this hidden gem and plan to stay every time we return. WARNING….if you expect spa-like accommodations you WILL be disappointed but if you like a relaxing spot to unwind this is your spot.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ernest

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Connie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly, excellent staff and breakfast!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melinda

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I really liked staying here. The setting is just beautiful! The inn reminded me of the setting for Dirty Dancing. Our room had a claw foot tub. I loved all the historic aspects of the inn. I would have liked to have more time to explore the property around the inn. Nancy was the lady who greeted us and was there the next day as well. She was super nice. I also enjoyed the breakfast. The grits were top notch! The inn is very quiet-they give you a notebook with info on the site. There is an explanation that the inn is 100 years old, and made of wood, so sound travels. They have quiet hours from 10pm to 7 am. There are no TVs. I did not mind this at all. They have activities scheduled at different nights. I would love to come back for one of their specialty weekends. Highly recommend.
ballroom/restaurant
view from the breakfast area
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Chris

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Do not recommend, will never stay

This place is absolutely horrible. No AC that was never mentioned, requested a refund due to health reasons and would not give a refund. Asked to speak to a manager and would not be called by a manager! Photos do not match what is seen in person! Do not recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Dee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

Mixed emotions.

I have mixed feelings about the Inn. Pretty location with easy access to Sylva and Waynesville. But, if you want amenities you have to look elsewhere. Peace and quiet are great but don’t expect coffee or breakfast early or even on time. If you like sleeping in and no ac, then this place is for you. The staff are all very pleasant! The Inn still needs work. Mold and rot around the tub in the bathroom. I felt guilty taking a shower and adding to the moisture. Not sure I would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great place!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marlyn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Beautiful Inn with rich history.

Balsam mountain inn is a place for someone who wants to be away from the hassle and busyness of life. If you want peace and quiet with picturesque view, then this is your place. No TV, no AC but since you are at high elevation, it is nice and cool. Has great hot fresh Buffett breakfast on the weekends. Sandwiches on the weekdays. I just wish they can start breakfast promptly at 8 am as advertised for it was about 20 min late the whole weekend we were there. Our bathroom was small with a small walk in shower but they do have rooms with bigger bathroom and you can surely request for that. My husband is over 200 #s and it was an inconvenience for him. People are very cordial and very helpful. The building has a rich history and beautiful antique furnitures. Will definitely return.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janet

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Balsam Mountain Inn

The owner made us feel welcome and went out of her way to ensure we had something to eat even though it was late. The rooms were wonderful; it was like stepping back in time, but they had modern comforts. Breakfast was amazing! I am looking forward to returning for a longer stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Lisa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The staff are all friendly, a plus, but disorganized. Our room had no sink stopper and no hangers in the closet. Had to ask. We were not given enough towels--had to ask. The weekend breakfast was good, but we didn't know about the breakfast sandwiches on other days till our 5th day there. Coffee was served late. Okay, we're early risers. If one looks at the lovely rooms online and then sees our room, it was very different. Our room was all right. The bed was comfortable. It's a good thing we are not obese, could not have used the toilet. We found the Inn relaxing. We loved sitting on the front porch reading. Bar prices were reasonable, bartenders were very friendly. It took us a day or so to relax and the Inn did that. We loved the history too.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rick

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The restaurant wasn't open due to staffing, but the building was beautiful and the staff was very welcoming and friendly. The inn has wonderful character you don't find most hotels these days.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shana

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Historical Charm

What a great stay at this historical inn! If you are looking for a relaxing place to stay this is it. It's quaint and charming. While there is no air conditioning, the fans were plenty to keep the room cool (mid August visit). It's the perfect spot to get away from the stress of everyday life.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Enrique, North Dinwiddie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Historical stories of area and the Inn itself were interesting. Staff and fellow guest were nice. Comfortable beds and delicious breakfast. Will recommend to friends and family.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
After a crazy week of travel and stuff, we ended our vacation here. It was so laid back and quiet. We didn’t eat in their restaurant for supper because we wanted to try other local businesses, but the breakfast was amazing. This place is full of history and it's peaceful and pleasant.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

hongjiao

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nestled in a tranquil mountain village, this charming 19th‑century building offers a perfect blend of history and nature. Ideally located in the mid‑section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s just a short drive downhill to reach. Friendly staff, delicious breakfast, and clear guest instructions make the stay even more enjoyable. Nights are peaceful, accompanied by the gentle chorus of insects. However, as with any historic property, a faint musty scent lingers. The pillows carried an oily smell, and the bathroom sink seemed in need of a deeper clean. The water‑saving faucet, required by local environmental regulations, can be a bit awkward to use—an infrared sensor option might be more convenient. Despite these small drawbacks, the serene setting, warm hospitality, and tasty breakfast make this a place well worth considering.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Blake

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Originally couldn't make my Saturday night reservation due to circumstances beyond my control but the staff graciously (and without hesitation) changing it to the night after, even though this was a fully paid reservation and they didn't have to do so. My son ended up staying and he loved it! Thanks BMI for being so understanding and gracious! It helped the stressful weekend be much less so!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandon

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We have stayed at the inn before several years back, and decided to stay again. We love the historic look of the Balsam mountain Inn, we learned that it changed ownership a few years back and the new owners are looking to preserve the classic look that appeals to everyone so much. They want to keep it as original as possible which is great, the down side of that is they removed the window units from the rooms. This may sound bad to some but for me it was a welcomed trip back to my childhood of sleeping with the window open and a fan blowing which is surprisingly soothing. The property is secure so I felt safe and secure the whole time and the nighttime temperature was in the low 70’s and high 60’s so it was comfortable. After a full nights rest the continental breakfast is waiting for you, it was a full breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, grits and muffins or yogurt if you desired. The staff was friendly and courteous, if you are looking for an escape to unplug this is your place, there are no televisions and they do have WiFi but they also have puzzles and board games to help reconnect with each other and disconnect from technology. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025