Highlands, North Carolina Vacation Rentals

Nestled in the heart of the southern Appalachian Mountains, Highlands, North Carolina, is a gem of a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with upscale charm. This enchanting town is not just a retreat; it's an experience that caters to the discerning traveler looking for tranquility and luxury in equal measure. Imagine waking up in your own private home, surrounded by the whispering pines and the crisp mountain air, with the freedom to plan your day at your own pace. In Highlands, an array of exquisite private homes awaits, offering you the privacy and comfort of a personal retreat. Many of these homes come with the added luxury of swimming pools, providing a refreshing respite after a day of exploring. And for those who can't bear to leave their furry friends behind, you'll be delighted to find that many properties are pet-friendly, ensuring your entire family can enjoy the getaway. The town's most famous attractions are a testament to its natural splendor. Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are just two of the breathtaking waterfalls accessible by scenic trails, offering awe-inspiring sights and the music of cascading waters. The Cullasaja Gorge presents a picturesque drive, with spots to stop and immerse yourself in the panoramic vistas. For a more tranquil pursuit, the Highlands Botanical Garden is a haven of native plants and peaceful paths. Highlands' Main Street is a treasure trove of sophistication, with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops that invite leisurely exploration. The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts is a cultural hub, showcasing the region's artistic spirit through diverse exhibitions and workshops. Culinary delights abound in Highlands, with a surprising array of fine dining establishments that celebrate the local farm-to-table movement. Seasonal menus feature the freshest ingredients, while wine connoisseurs will revel in the local wine shops and the annual Highlands Food & Wine Festival, a highlight that brings together the finest flavors of the region. While Highlands may not boast a beach or waterfront, the allure of its mountain landscapes more than compensates, offering a different kind of waterside serenity found in the gentle streams and majestic waterfalls that dot the area. For a touch of history, the Highlands Historical Society and Museum delves into the town's rich past, housed in the historic Prince House. It's a fascinating glimpse into the origins of this mountain paradise. Highlands, North Carolina, is a destination that promises not just a getaway, but a complete immersion into a world where nature's grandeur meets refined living. It's a place where memories are made, where the beauty of the mountains will enchant you, and the luxury of a private home will ensure your stay is as exclusive as it is unforgettable.

Highlands, North Carolina, nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains, offers a serene and culturally rich getaway for travelers who revel in the arts, history, and local customs. This charming town, though small, is a haven for cultural enthusiasts seeking a blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. Begin your cultural exploration at The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts. This facility is not only an architectural delight but also a hub for creativity, featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, studio art classes, and workshops that invite interaction and appreciation of the visual arts. The center's commitment to showcasing regional talent makes it a true reflection of the Appalachian spirit. For those with a passion for history, the Highlands Historical Society & Museum provides a window into the past of this mountain community. The museum, located in the historic Prince House, offers exhibits that tell the story of Highlands from its founding in 1875 to the present day. The annual Highlands Historic Village Tour is a delightful way to experience the town's heritage firsthand, with docents guiding visitors through restored historic buildings. Live music thrives in Highlands, with the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival bringing classical music to the mountains each summer. Concerts are held in intimate settings, allowing for a personal connection with the music and performers. Additionally, local venues often host live bands and musicians, offering a taste of Appalachian music culture. Art galleries abound in Highlands, with establishments like the Ann Jacob Gallery and the Highlands Fine Art and Estate Jewelry providing a showcase for both traditional and contemporary art. These galleries, along with several others, feature works by local and regional artists, including fine paintings, sculpture, and handcrafted jewelry, reflecting the rich artistic talent of the area. Highlands also celebrates its local customs through seasonal events and festivals. The annual Highlands Food & Wine Festival is a gastronomic delight, offering the chance to sample local cuisine and spirits while enjoying live music. The Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, a beloved tradition, brings the community together in a festive celebration of the holiday season. For a more immersive experience, visitors can engage with local artisans and craftspeople. Pottery, weaving, and woodworking are among the crafts that thrive here, with many studios open to the public for demonstrations and workshops. In Highlands, the combination of cultural offerings and the tranquil beauty of the surrounding mountains creates a unique and enriching experience for travelers. It's a place where the arts are celebrated, history is preserved, and local customs are cherished, all set against the backdrop of the stunning southern Appalachians.

Highlands, North Carolina, nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains, is a picturesque destination that offers a wealth of activities for families traveling with children. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its small-town charm, makes it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories with your little ones. Start your adventure at the Highlands Nature Center, where kids can learn about the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits and nature trails. The center often hosts educational programs that are both fun and informative, allowing children to get up close and personal with the natural world. For a day of outdoor fun, visit the Sunset Rock and Ravenel Park. This area provides easy hiking trails that are perfect for families. The hike to Sunset Rock offers a relatively short walk to a stunning overlook where you can enjoy a picnic while taking in the breathtaking views of Highlands and the surrounding mountains. The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts is a cultural gem where children can appreciate art and even participate in art classes and workshops designed for young creators. The center's campus is also a lovely place to explore, with outdoor sculptures and a nature trail. Highlands also boasts beautiful waterfalls that are accessible for families. Bridal Veil Falls, just a short drive from downtown, is a unique waterfall that you can actually drive behind, and Dry Falls features a walkway that allows you to walk under the cascade, providing an exhilarating experience for kids and adults alike. For a relaxing afternoon, take the family to Harris Lake, located in the center of town. The lake has a small park with a picnic area and a pier where children can feed the ducks or try their hand at fishing. If your children are interested in the stars and planets, the Highlands Astronomical Society occasionally offers stargazing events that are perfect for sparking curiosity about the cosmos. Dining in Highlands is also family-friendly, with many restaurants offering menus that cater to younger palates. After a meal, treat the kids to homemade ice cream or sweets from one of the local shops. In Highlands, North Carolina, the combination of educational opportunities, outdoor adventures, and family-oriented activities ensures that children will have an engaging and enjoyable experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Highlands, North Carolina, is a serene mountain retreat that offers an abundance of natural wonders and outdoor activities for those who seek to immerse themselves in nature's splendor. Nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains, this picturesque town is a gateway to breathtaking landscapes and a variety of outdoor pursuits. The area's crowning jewel is the Nantahala National Forest, which surrounds Highlands on all sides. This vast expanse of wilderness is a paradise for hikers, with trails ranging from leisurely walks to challenging treks. One of the most popular trails is the Whiteside Mountain Trail, which leads to stunning views of sheer cliffs that are among the highest in the Eastern United States. For waterfall enthusiasts, Highlands is a dream come true. The Cullasaja Gorge offers a series of cascades, including the majestic Dry Falls, which visitors can walk behind without getting wet. Nearby, Bridal Veil Falls provides a unique experience as it tumbles over an overhanging bluff, and the powerful Cullasaja Falls is a sight to behold. The Highlands Plateau Greenway is a network of walking trails and boardwalks that connect natural attractions with the cultural and commercial heart of Highlands. It's perfect for a peaceful morning jog or an afternoon of bird-watching and plant identification. Outdoor adventurers will also appreciate the opportunities for fly fishing in the clear mountain streams, where rainbow and brown trout abound. The area's rivers and lakes offer serene spots for kayaking and canoeing, with the calm waters of Lake Glenville being a particular favorite. For those who enjoy a round of golf with a view, the mountain courses in Highlands provide not only challenging play but also panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Botanical enthusiasts will find the Highlands Biological Station, Nature Center, and Botanical Gardens a treasure trove of native plant species, with nature trails that meander through a variety of mountain habitats. As the day winds down, visitors can drive up to the Sunset Rock to witness the sky painted in vibrant hues as the sun dips below the horizon, offering a tranquil end to an active day. Highlands, North Carolina, with its combination of accessible natural wonders and outdoor activities, is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Highlands, North Carolina, nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains, offers a temperate climate with distinct seasons that attract visitors year-round for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Winter, from December to February, is cool to cold, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 3-7°C). Lows can dip into the 20s (-6°C) or colder, and snowfall is possible, though not as heavy as in more northern climates. This season is quieter in terms of tourism, but it offers a serene, frosty landscape and the chance for winter sports in nearby areas. Spring, from March to May, brings a gradual warming trend with temperatures ranging from the high 50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 14-22°C). This season sees the mountains come alive with blooming flora and fauna, and while it can be wet with occasional showers, the rainfall nurtures the lush greenery that the region is known for. Summer, from June to August, is the most popular time to visit Highlands. Temperatures are comfortable, with highs typically in the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 25-28°C), and the humidity is moderate compared to the sweltering heat found in much of the Southeastern United States. This is the perfect time for hiking, waterfalls exploration, and enjoying the town's many outdoor festivals and events. Autumn, from September to November, is a particularly enchanting time as the foliage turns to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Temperatures range from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-24°C) in early autumn, cooling off as the season progresses. This is a favorite time for leaf-peeping, and the crisp air is ideal for outdoor adventures. The climate in Highlands is especially pleasant during the late spring to early autumn months, with moderate temperatures and the natural beauty of the mountains on full display. The summer offers the warmest weather and the most activities, while the fall provides stunning foliage and comfortable conditions for exploring the outdoors. Each season has its own unique appeal, making Highlands a versatile destination for travelers seeking a mountain escape.

Highlands, North Carolina, is a charming mountain retreat known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, it is not served by major airports or train stations, so visitors typically arrive by car. The nearest airports are in Asheville, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia, both of which are a few hours' drive away. Car rentals are available at these airports for those flying in. Driving to Highlands offers a picturesque journey, with winding roads that showcase the region's natural splendor. Once in Highlands, the town itself is relatively small and can be quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and some accommodations are clustered. Walking around town not only provides a leisurely pace to take in the sights but also allows visitors to appreciate the fresh mountain air and charming local architecture. For those staying outside of the town center or wishing to explore the surrounding areas, such as the Nantahala National Forest or nearby waterfalls, a car is necessary. There is no public transportation system in Highlands, so having a vehicle is the most convenient way to access the various natural attractions and outdoor activities the area has to offer, such as hiking, fishing, and golfing. Taxis and ride-sharing services may be limited, so it's advisable to plan transportation needs in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season or if attending special events. Some local accommodations may offer shuttle services to popular spots or events, so it's worth checking with your hotel or inn. For those who enjoy cycling, bringing or renting a bike can be a delightful way to explore the town and its immediate surroundings. However, the hilly terrain may be challenging for some, so it's best suited for those who are comfortable with more strenuous rides. In summary, while Highlands is a small and walkable town, having access to a car is essential for those looking to fully explore the wider area and all the natural beauty it has to offer. The town's remote location adds to its charm and serenity, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.