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Your cozy mountain escape awaits at Lake Junaluska!

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A lakeside property with a tennis court, a swimming pool, and a road leading to a residential area.
A porch with a table and chairs, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.
An aerial view of a swimming pool surrounded by a dock, with a lake and mountains in the background.
A stone house with a large tree in the foreground and a lake in the background.
A two-story house with a porch, stone steps, and potted plants.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4980 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Waynesville, NC
  • Place, Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake Junaluska Golf Course
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Cataloochee Valley
    ‪48 min drive‬
  • Airport, Asheville, NC (AVL-Asheville Regional)
    ‪42 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Waynesville

Within a short walk of Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, this cottage is within a mile (2 km) of Lake Junaluska Golf Course. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
View more Cottages in WaynesvilleOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Lake Junaluska Golf Course - 2 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park - 30 min drive - 15.0 miles
  • Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 40 min drive - 27.3 miles
  • Cataloochee Valley - 48 min drive - 18.3 miles

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Sonic Drive In - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬16 min walk

About this property

Entire place

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

Your cozy mountain escape awaits at Lake Junaluska!

**Back to owner management!!** Property is no longer being managed by Vacasa/Vuestay!!**

Pack your bags and leave the little things to us! At Bearcat Cottage, we’ve thought of the details that make a vacation feel easy, comfortable, and like home. Whether you’re enjoying a family getaway, traveling with another couple, or exploring the mountains for a few days, you’ll find this cozy cottage thoughtfully equipped for every season.

Here is a little info on the space:
KITCHEN:
The fully stocked kitchen has a 5-burner gas cooktop, built-in oven, dishwasher, microwave, and all the cookware and essentials you’ll need—including coffee, tea, spices, hot cocoa, paper products, and more.

BEDROOMS/BATHROOMS:
Both bedrooms are designed with your comfort in mind and include ceiling fans, luggage racks, and sound machines.

The twin bedroom is especially family-friendly, with children’s books, a toy bin, T.V. and a sleeping cot for a little one, allowing the cottage to accommodate up to five guests. (Pack 'n Play is also available.)

Bathrooms are stocked with amenities including shampoo/conditioner, soap, hair dryers, robes, slippers, makeup wipes, cotton balls/Q-tips, and towels. The primary ensuite includes a washer/dryer with supplies provided.

LIVING ROOM:
The cozy living room has a fireplace, blankets, record player with Bluetooth speaker, books, games, Echo Dot, and Roku TV with soundbar for streaming your subscriptions.

OUTSIDE:
Take the fun outside and enjoy your morning coffee or evening conversation on the screened-in front porch, or head outside for dinner around the outdoor dining area.

Fire up the gas grill, gather around the fire pit, and make family memories with a s’mores night! We even provide roasting sticks and colorful flame packets for an extra bit of fun for the kiddos.

The kitchen is stocked with outdoor plates and cups, plus a convenient serving tray to make carrying everything outside easy.

Two kayaks included during summer at no additional charge—just transport them to the lake and enjoy! Additionally, coolers, a wagon, and pool floats are provided.

Bearcat Cottage is ideal for two couples or a small family, with two separate bedrooms and two bathrooms. You’ll be close to the Lake Junaluska Conference Center, lake, pool, tennis courts, Blue Ridge Parkway, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, and Western Carolina University, with Asheville and the Biltmore Estate also within easy reach.

Come relax, explore, and make mountain memories at Bearcat Cottage! IT'S THE PERFECT MOUNTAIN HOME BASE!

Staying more than two weeks? Reach out to inquire about discounted extended-stay rates.

Please note: Fees seen as nightly cost include VRBO fees, nightly rate, and cleaning fee. Guest are also charged standard sales taxes for lodging. **Window AC units and Kayaks are added seasonally May-September. Portable fans and space heaters are provided seasonally.**
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio. There's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

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Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing
  • Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Communal pool
  • Outdoor pool

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Mixer
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Firepit
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Gravel flooring in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Single level property
  • Thin carpet in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Pickleball
  • Snow sports gear
  • Tennis
  • Water sports equipment
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Deadbolt lock
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit

General

  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 980 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
FALL/WINTER: Confirm heater panel still shows auto mode and frost. If the panel does not visibly show this, please do not alter, send communication/picture to the host.
Leave lights switch on for the front porch and the side door entry.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Note from host: Young children must be supervised at all times!

Events

No 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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
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: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

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.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Long-term renters welcome.
  • There are no elevators.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Waynesville within a short 19-minute walk of Lake Junaluska Golf Course. You'll also find Waynesville Recreation Center and Pigeon River within a short drive.

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.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this cottage.

Where is the closest airport to this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), which is about 25.7 mi away.

Your cozy mountain escape awaits at Lake Junaluska! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 19 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Stay

Wonderful setting.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our time in this cabin was truly wonderful. If you're looking for a hassle-free getaway where you can relax and unwind without a care in the world, this is the place. The area is beautiful, and the mountains are breathtaking. The cabin itself is equipped with everything you could possibly need, and the decor is perfect, with everything in its proper place. It's a place I would definitely return to.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very cute house but not too small. Very useful amenities (space heaters, WiFi, pots and pans, linens, etc.). Very comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ashley is a great host. The house is excellently appointed, even had terrycloth towels. She was very responsive to any questions I had.
fireplace with Christmas tree in LR
Stayed 11 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Such a wonderful trip..

This was the cutest place, perfect for my girls trip, but would be great for a couple or small family as well. The cottage had everything we needed for a comfortable stay and MUCH more. It truly felt like a spa with all of the accommodations provided. I will definitely book this cottage again as I plan to go back to Lake Junaluska in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great location for a week in the North Carolina mountains

Lake Junaluska is a great area to stay during a visit to the mountains of western North Carolina. This house is located in the nice, quiet Lake Junaluska neighborhood and it's an easy 5 to 10 minute drive to grocery stores, department stores and restaurants in Waynesville NC. Great location. We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great cottage

My stay at Bearcat was nice and cozy. She is an older gal with a lot of personality. Owner was very nice and communication was easy.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cute Cottage at Lake Junaluska

Very nice and cozy Cottage near Lake Junaluska. It is just a few minutes from Maggie Valley and Waynesville. Host was very nice and thoughtful. Would recommend to anyone.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect getaway~

Cute and cozy cottage. It was stocked with toiletries if you needed any.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wasn't much the host had not thought about. Very clean.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Lovely and peaceful

We had a wonderful time at the cottage. It was perfect for my wife and our little girls. Communication with the property manager was great. The property itself was really nice. We will book again. Highly recommended this VRBO.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Short getaway

We really enjoyed our stay at this five-star, quaint and cozy cottage. Bearcat was absolutely spotless and was very well stocked with everything that we could possibly need from linens to the pots-pans-utensils in the kitchen. It was comfortable, beautifully decorated, and the front porch was a nice place to sit back and relax. We would definitely come back and also recommend to our friends and family.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Couldn't ask for a more cozy place to stay

This house is perfect for a cozy place to stay while traveling around the Smoky Mountain area. It is centrally located to hit all the big areas, Ashville and Gatlinburg, without all the tourists. Lake Junaluska is just down the hill. BEAUTIFUL. The owners have made available all the amenities of home. Just perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Loved it

We had a wonderful time at Bearcat. Lake Junaluska has so much to offer and Bearcat was close and central to everything. The cottage was well stocked with everything and anything you could possibly want. Ashley was very communicative and helpful with anything we wanted or needed. You should put this one on your list.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Location for a Cozy Getaway

My wife and I enjoyed our stay immensely. The place has a really cozy feeling, with a perfect mix of antique furniture and modern conveniences. The host was wonderful and it was well stocked with just about everything you could need. Just bring a suitcase and some food and you are all set. We stayed in October and the weather was cool, but not really cold. Not sure how well the heat works in very cold temperatures. Also, as with a lot of rentals, the mattresses leave something to be desired. Overall, we had a very good experience and the location is absolutely perfect for getting away without being too out of the way.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Charming Retreat

We had a wonderful stay and definitely recommend this property. The owner clearly thought through all of the details to make our stay relaxing and enjoyable. We traveled with our four year old son and appreciated the night lights, sound machines and small step stool in the bathroom. We also enjoyed playing Uno together and love that games were provided. We were new to the area and utilized the detailed binder with restaurant menus and travel brochures that were provided. We were able to cook meals with ease, since the kitchen was well stocked and everything was in excellent condition. The house was spotless, cute and provided plenty of space for us to relax. We would love to return to this lovely retreat!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

The most adorable cottage

The Cottage was the perfect home away from home for our girls weekend trip. Nestled in the heart of Waynesville, N.C., and a stones throw from Lake Junaluska, the home was adorable and conveniently located, but also tucked away for a quiet refuge of peace and restoration the mountains provide! The cottage is spacious, adorable and thoughtfully decorated throughout with everything you need to make your stay perfect! Well-stocked kitchen, with a few surprises like a record player for winding down, games for families, an adorable porch, fire pit for an evening by the fire, linens, robes, and so much more! The cottage was super clean and the check-in and check-out procedures were super simple, and quick, to also support and enjoyable experience. The host is very communicative and a five-star host in our book!! If you’re in town, checkout the Buttered Biscuit - so good we are there twice! Thank you for a wonderful stay and sharing your adorable cottage with us.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024