Mountain Sounds

Get away to these unique rentals in Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk.

The mountains are calling and fall is the perfect time to take advantage of the magnificent outdoors in Western North Carolina. As most North Carolinians know, there’s nothing quite as picturesque as driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway when the leaves are turning to breathtaking shades of red, orange and yellow. For this month’s getaway feature, we rounded up seven unique rentals in and around Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk that are perfect for taking in the views while enjoying the luxuries of a private setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Treehouse | Blowing Rock

What makes this cabin really special is the great room featuring stunning wood paneled walls, vaulted ceilings and a stone gas fireplace. Located less than a mile off the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Treehouse is convenient to downtown Blowing Rock, Sky Valley Zip Lines, Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and Hawksnest Snow Tubing. Within the cabin, a well-equipped kitchen, custom wet bar and back deck furnished with Adirondack furniture, charcoal grill and a wood-burning fire pit will delight guests. With three bedrooms and four beds, this spacious house is perfect for large groups. carolinacabinrentals.com/The-Treehouse

Tiny House | Banner Elk

If you’re going to spend most of your time adventuring out in the mountains and don’t need much space to sleep and store your stuff, this tiny house in Banner Elk is the perfect spot. The cozy cottage consists of just one open room containing a fully-equipped kitchen, dining table, a sectional sofa and a built-in king-sized bed and single bed, as well as a bathroom with a shower. After a night or two in this humble home, you’ll realize just how much room you actually need—turns out, not so much! vrbo.com/1408708

The Tree House | Boone

This charming Airbnb right outside of Boone is a delight. Though it’s tucked up into a unique boulder outcropping in the woods, modern amenities and decor make it feel as though you’re staying in a contemporary hotel in the city—mind the plethora of trees outside your window. Out on the quaint porch you’ll find deck chairs, a grill and firepit and a private hot tub, as well as amazing views of Grandfather Mountain. The Tree House is like something out of a fairytale. airbnb.com/rooms/17169721

The Cabins of Sugar Grove | Banner Elk

This treehouse-style cabin sits on six beautiful acres in the mountain tops of the North Carolina High Country and features a cascading waterfall and clear pond that you should definitely dip your toes in if the weather’s still warm. During the fall and winter, relax in the hot tub with a glass of wine beneath the trees or roast marshmallows over the outdoor fire pit. Guests have enjoyed how quiet and private the area is, making it ideal for those looking to get away from work and other responsibilities. vrbo.com/288276ha

Solar-Powered Luxury Tipi | Boone

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, spend your mountain vacation in this eco-friendly, hand-painted tipi in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The tipi is equipped with a queen-sized bed, a bistro table and chairs and bedside tables with solar-powered lamps, accommodating two to four guests. Shared bathrooms with private toilets and hot showers are scattered throughout the grounds. Outside the tipi, guests can sit out on the private deck and enjoy the gorgeous view of the mountains. glampinghub.com/unitedstatesofamerica/southeast/northcarolina/boone/glamping-tipi-north-carolina

European-Style A-Frame Cabin Rental | Boone

Tucked into the trees of the Cherokee National Forest, this charming European alpine-inspired cabin is professionally designed and decorated with custom carpentry, hardwood floors, natural stone and a cozy fireplace that you’ll never want to leave. Modern amenities include stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, WiFi and a 42-inch HDTV with Netflix access in the master bedroom. The expansive deck offers gorgeous views of Grandfather Mountain on a clear day—the perfect spot for enjoying coffee, drinks and dining al fresco. glampinghub.com/unitedstatesofamerica/southeast/northcarolina/boone/a-frame-cabin-rental-boone-north-carolina

PLUS: Five Great Local Restaurants

Proper – 142 South Water Street, Boone

Artisanal – 1200 Dobbins Road, Banner Elk

Black Cat Burritos – 27 South Depot Street, Boone

Basil’s – 246 Wilson Drive, Boone

The Speckled Trout – 922 Main Street, Blowing Rock