Entire home·Private host

Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit

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Property grounds
Exterior
Interior
Interior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathrooms204 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
Cherokee, NC
  • Place, Soco Falls
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Soco Gap
    ‪9 min drive‬

Room options

Similar properties

About this property

Entire place

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

Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit

Water Rock Garden Retreat was designed specifically to showcase the incredible natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Water Rock Garden Retreat is located on a 15-acre knoll just outside of Cherokee, North Carolina. At an elevation of 4500 feet, there are breathtaking 360-degree views with a 30-mile view of Tennessee and the great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is located at a high elevation in a rare location. From the 4500 elevation knoll and to the West you can see most of the entire length of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Clingman's Dome the center of the view. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. To the south you face directly up to the 5800 peaks of the Plott Balsam Range. To the East is our namesake Waterrock Knob. It is the highest peak in the Plott Balsams and is the 16th-highest mountain in the Eastern United States.
Within a short hike is a private trail to a stunning series of waterfalls on Black Rock Creek culminating in 100 feet plus Kobe Falls.
Extremely private, there are no other homes within site or sound. The retreat has large terraced grounds covered with an abundance of gorgeous flowers for the enjoyment of our guests. There is lots of flat yard space for the kids to run around and a great firepit area for nights around the campfire.
Located within easy driving distance of the finest outdoor recreation areas in Western North Carolina for both hiking and rafting, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, Nantahala wilderness area, Cataloochee Ski Area , and Cherokee Indian Reservation.

Water Rock Garden Retreat is ideal for people who love solitude, unspoiled views, spectacular gardens, wildlife, starry nights and full moons, and the sound of rushing mountain streams in the distance. It is beautiful any time of year!

The Retreat's ground floor is open and spacious with ten-foot ceilings and a fireplace. The house has four bedrooms (three upstairs, one downstairs), including a large master bedroom. The rooms are equipped with two queen-sized beds, one full-sized bed, two twin beds, one twin-sized futon, and two twin-sized bunkies. The house has two full baths, an antique claw foot tub and a wood-fired hot tub! We will provide one set of sheets and blankets for each bed as well as plenty of towels.

The large custom kitchen is well equipped with utensils, dinnerware, pots, pans, and an outdoor grill. The house also has a 500-square-foot, partially covered, cedar deck and an enclosed crow's nest atop for all-weather viewing of the incredible, panoramic view.

Waterrock Garden Retreat may not be for everyone! This is a very remote location. You will feel like you are the only ones in the world! It is best enjoyed by those looking to get away from it all and unplugging in the cathedral of nature. While you are located at the heart of outdoor recreation many guests report they get there and don't want to leave for the duration of their stay! The Retreat is located three-point-seven miles up a well-maintained (but bumpy in spots) gravel road. Water Rock Garden Retreat is easily accessible by car, SUV and even trucks with trailers. The road dead ends at the retreat. The road is passable by almost any car except under snowy or icy conditions when a four-wheel drive would be necessary. Four wheel drive is required November 15- April 1. It takes approximately 15 minutes to travel the road. Cars that ride extra low (such as some luxury or sport cars) may not be appropriate. Ask us if you are not sure about yours.

Located 10 miles from Harrah's Casino in Cherokee and the Blue Ridge Parkway, central to the Smoky Mountains Country Club Golf Course and the Great Smoky Mountain Railway Station in Historic Dillsboro where you will find unique shops, galleries, collectables, and crafts.

Centrally located to Maggie Valley, Cherokee, Bryson City and to Rafting and Tubing in the Nantahala Gorge with numerous hiking and biking trails throughout the area. Enjoy outdoor recreation along nearby waterfalls, hike and commune with nature, float the many rivers and streams on tubes or rafts, or visit local area flea markets.

No hunting or shooting permitted at the retreat. We encourage wildlife to stay in the area.
Keywords: Home
During your stay at this holiday home, you'll be close to Soco Falls. You'll find features such as 1 hot tub and laundry facilities. The holiday home includes amenities such as a kitchen and 2 bathrooms.
  • The holiday home offers a kitchen, a washing machine and 2 bathrooms
  • Amenities include laundry facilities
  • On-site recreation includes a sauna
  • 12 minutes by car from Harrahs Cherokee Casino and 8 minutes from Nantahala National Forest
Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit offers its guests a hot tub and a sauna. Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit also features barbecue grills, a garden, and laundry facilities.

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing
  • Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub
  • Sauna

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

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

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In the mountains

Things to do

  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 2,200 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

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 to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Leave heat on low if temperatures below freezing
Leave all dishes clean and put away
Strip beds of sheets, pillow cases only and leave in laundry room . Leave used towels in laundry room.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 pets
  • Service animals are exempt from fees.
  • Note from host: Dogs love Water Rock! Plenty of room to explore!

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
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
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, which will enable you to manage your booking.

Property is also known as

House
Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views Low Rates Hot Tub Fire Pit

Secluded Retreat Panoramic Views, Low Rates, Hot Tub, Fire Pit Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 85 out of 98 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 98 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 98 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 98 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 98 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Malesa M., Old Town

Liked: Cleanliness
The host is very welcoming, has great communication, and made us feel at home!
The gorgeous sunset view!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne A.

Liked: Cleanliness
The view and the location are unbeatable!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

T F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Secluded, exceptional views. Fair warni g the last 3.5 miles is a bit rugged gravel road that gains 5000 feet. It is a commitment to go up and down. But once there, its a bit of heaven on the top of a mountain.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Blake D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Visited family in cherokee and stayed for an extended weekend. Beautiful view from every angle. Very private. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Cindy S.

Liked: Cleanliness
This is a beautiful property with mountain views usually only seen in the Parks. Water fall on road as you're going up is wonderful. Home is mostly comfortable with all amenities needed available. Upstairs beds very comfortable, downstairs bed not at all comfortable. I think the mattress is just worn out. The road going up to retreat is pretty rough , I'm thinking recent rains have caused many rust. But, property itself is amazing.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff D., Marietta, Ga

Liked: Cleanliness

A special place.

Waterrock is a special place. The view, seclusion, and the property grounds are unmatched. There is no better place to relax and recenter.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

tim d.

Liked: Cleanliness

A little piece of heaven

This is a great place to unwind surrounded by nature. We brought everything we needed only went down the mountain 3 times. It accommodated my large family and their pets. Thank you for letting us use your place. It was amazing.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Delaina H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Place

The experience was amazing. Thank You.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

James C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to get away from it all

We spent five days here, and the best days were when we never left the house. It's such a great property, with hikes, views, etc. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Meaningful

Revetting
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa E., Grasonville, Maryland

Liked: Cleanliness

Mountain get away

The views from this property are absolutely breathtaking! Be prepared for a long drive up, 15 minutes on gravel Road, but it is well worth it! This is our third trip here, we will be back! Thank you so much for everything.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful retreat

Lovely, secluded and quiet mountain top stay with sweeping views of the mountains. The hot tub was a real highlight, particularly as we approached the full moon. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randall B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Million Dollar Views

While the pictures are accurate, you don't get the whole effect until you arrive how amazing the views are. We stayed as a surprise for my wife's birthday and she literally had tears in her eyes when we arrived and she looked out over the mountains. We are both avid outdoors people and enjoy hiking trips and this location put us close to some good trails. I would highly recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Christmas Stay

The view was phenomenal! It was the perfect place for our family to celebrate Christmas together.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gretten G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing retreat

This property is amazing if you want to rest and be in touch with nature. It's secluded and it can be difficult to arrive if you don't follow the instrucctions provided. Tama the owner is a wonderful host, very attentive and keep the house and surrounding areas in excellent conditions.The house has spectacular views from all the rooms.The heater works fine so the house is always cozy. All mattresses are confortable and the same for bed sheets. The kitchen is ample and has plenty of pans and cutlery for a large group and there is also a carbon grill. Dining table also large enough and you'll have beautiful panoramic views of the mountain while eating. Be aware that Internet signal is not very good! The fire pit was a favorite and wood is supplied. We loved to roast marshmallows and drinking wine near the fire at nights. It was a true lovely experience and all my family really enjoyed to stay ( mostly our husky as the property is pet friendly) We highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

carol t.

Liked: Cleanliness

A.azing property

The place was spacious and well kept. The boys enjoyed the hot tub and fire pit. The stove was Hughes. It was close to Cherokee and Smokey mountain pRkway
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roberta K., Louisville

Liked: Cleanliness

It was an awesome cabin. The view was awesome.

There were 5 of us and only 2 wash cloths. There was food left in fridge and pantry when we got there but that is all. Our over all stay was awesome and I do recommend this cabin. I would rent again
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eric B.

Liked: Cleanliness

breathtaking

best views in WNC
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lauren N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Long Weekend

Beautiful views, hot tub was a little tedious but overall had a great time
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barbara M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful get away

Very good place to stay would stay again and again. The view was amazing
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ken E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous View

The view from the property is breathtaking. It was very peaceful with beautiful flowers galore. This property is for people who love nature, peaceful isolation, and relaxation. We did spend time in the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee, but we didn't want to go up and down the gravel road more than once a day. This property is rustic and not for those that prefer fancy accommodations. If you love wild flowers more than cultivated roses, this is the place for you.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Danielle F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Home for a Getaway

This place was perfect for a week long getaway just to relax. We came for ten days and only left twice, which was perfect. All the other reviews are pretty spot on - views are amazing, place is very comfortable, no AC is needed as with windows open it stays cool, fully stocked kitchen, and very peaceful. We had no trouble getting up and down the mountain (and I have a sporty car) but it is a longer drive and as others say best to do it first in the day time and follow the instructions provided. We had good signal with Verizon at the house just as an FYI. The place is amazing, the only thing I would say is if you are used to pristine brand new things then this may not be for you as some things are a bit older and show wear (though the owners are clearly updating items too). Overall would definitely recommend and would definitely go back in the future!
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2022

6/10 Okay

Timothy H.

Perfect location, but dated and in need of deck repairs.

Pros: Location is on top of the mountain with exquisite views! Cons: The HUGE deck the is on the second floor is rotting and needs replaced. We stayed off the deck, which was a shame, we would have preferred to be on the deck. We went during a heat wave, and no air conditioning. It was recommended to leave the crows nest open and all the windows to create a draft. It was breezy, but only if you wanted NO PRIVACY and left all the doors open. The gardens needed more kept and trimmed out. You cant see the house from where you park. It is a long walk to the house and not ADA friendly. So, It is not a perfect fit for everyone. We had a daily slithering visitor, a (not exaggerating) 9 ft. long black snake. We were cautious of him, I don't recommend walking thru the overgrown garden from the back porch to the hot tub. Especially, at the pond , where it sunbathed on the rocks surrounding the pond. It's a critter-eater, rat snake and not poisonous, so, don't kill it. We were warned about bears, but did not see any or evidence of any.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Much needed getaway

The property is a great remote getaway. With Amazing views. It's high elevation offers great views and cooler Temps. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dylan S.

Liked: Cleanliness

All about the views

Interesting place saw a giant black bear add some paranormal experiences overall a good time was had by all
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022