Located off of the Blue Ridge parkway, we saw the leaves in all their glory on the parkway from Asheville to the house. Incredibly scenic drive. Puling into the area, it seems like a nice suburban neighborhood. When you open the door and step out to the porch, you instantly relax. The trees, the river, the huge rocks - and it all melts away. Additionally, this is close to so much! In Banner Elk, there is a really cool roller coaster - Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. Not scary - just pure fun for even little kids. Great coffee shop there too. Nice restaurants in Banner Elk as well. Stonewalls was a nice escape from the kids for dinner. Otter Falls is in the neighborhood. We started there and hiked all the way down the river to our cabin. With a 12year old and 6 year old. It was so cool to climb the rocks. Ziplining in the neighborhood at Hawksnest is also super fun. We will return in the winter to do the snow tubing. For a few slower days, we could sit outside and watch the river while the kids climbed the rocks and explored the river. They have several seating areas to change your perspective. On the porch, down some steps, or walk about 20 steps to sit on the river banks. The river is the highlight and you are literally right on it. Regardless of the season, this is a beautiful destination. Bonus: Tempurpedic bed in the main bedroom. Other beds are ok. Plenty of games to play with the kids at night. Would be nice to have a tea kettle there.