Highlands vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Highlands vacation rentals

Stay near Highlands's top sights

Whiteside Mtn Trail10 locals recommend
Whiteside Mountain70 locals recommend
Bridal Veil Falls39 locals recommend
The Ugly Dog Public House- Highlands55 locals recommend
Sunset Rock27 locals recommend
Wild Thyme Gourmet31 locals recommend

House rentals in Highlands

Top guest favorite
A serene river flows gently through a wooded landscape, surrounded by lush greenery. Trees line the riverbanks, while the water reflects the sky above. An atmosphere of tranquility is evident, inviting relaxation and contemplation in nature.
Home in Franklin
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

A Great Riverbend Escape

CarolynRating, 5 stars2 months ago
Always a 5-star place to stay. We have family in Franklin and always want this house and are very disappointed if it is already taken. Quiet, peaceful location. Easy to get to. It's always neat and clean, decorated so beautifully. Plenty of amenities. We've stayed in other houses (when we couldn't get this one) and the host only provided 1 dishwasher pod, 1 laundry pod, 1 trash bag, etc. - certainly not enough for a weekend. Cherisse is always available and helpful. A perfect host.
Guest favorite
A spacious deck is adorned with potted ferns and four black chairs, providing a comfortable spot for relaxation. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting a warm glow on the wooden surface. Interior views show a cozy living area through the open door.
Home in Cullowhee
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 287 reviews

Beautiful Mountain Home-Pets!

RosemaryRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
We really enjoyed our stay! We were looking for a cute and comfortable place to stay while we were in town for my daughters musical performance at WCU. Greta's house was perfect. It was very clean and beautifully decorated and is very close to the university. This is a great house!
Guest favorite
The living area features a cozy leather sectional sofa arranged around a circular coffee table. A colorful area rug lies underneath, contrasting with the light wood flooring. A mounted flat-screen TV is positioned against a stylish blue accent wall, creating a modern and inviting space.
Home in Brevard
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 55 reviews

Modern 2 Bed 1 Bath Walking Distance to Downtown

TimothyRating, 5 stars6 months ago
Really enjoyed our stay here for a couple of days post Helene. Easy walking distance to the wonderful town of Brevard. Quiet place surrounded by attractive trees. Even saw a while squirrel walking into town!
Superhost
A modern cottage exterior is framed by tall trees, showcasing a welcoming front porch with a railing. Large windows offer views into the cozy interior, while a spacious driveway leads up to the entrance. The landscape features natural greenery, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
Home in Cashiers
5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Emerald Ferns Cottage (Short walk to waterfall!)

MissyRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
It was a perfect little cottage! Everything was brand new. We loved the complementary gift basket. We enjoyed sitting on the private back deck and walking to the waterfalls. Will recommended great restaurants! We would definitely stay here again if we come back to Cashiers! Highly recommend!
Superhost
A spacious living area features a brown leather sofa and a sleek coffee table. Natural light floods in through a nearby window, illuminating the concrete floor. A staircase leads to the upper level, while decorative wall art and a neutral color palette create a calm ambiance.
Home in Brevard
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviews

Townie One

MichelleRating, 5 stars1 month ago
This was one of the best airbnbs we stayed at in Brevard - our son plays baseball at Brevard College and we have been traveling to Brevard for 4 years - the home was very clean - Marisa was great - we could not figure out how to adjust the ceiling fans so her husband came by to take a look and he went out and got new batteries which we were fine doing but he wanted to - very impressed! Very nice and easy to communicate with. The house is adorable.
Superhost
The entrance to a charming home is framed by natural wooden arches and lush greenery. Stone pathways lead through vibrant plants and manicured bushes, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere that highlights the surrounding lush garden.
Home in Highlands
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 51 reviews

Highlands Lakefront Home 2 minutes from downtown!

MadelineRating, 5 stars8 months ago
Beautiful cottage on lake. Very peaceful and close to town. The home was clean with all amenities you would need. We so enjoyed sitting on the dock taking in the lovely surroundings. We look forward to booking in the future!
Guest favorite
A single-story house is nestled among lush green trees, featuring a wide porch and a gentle sloping driveway. The exterior is painted in a soft hue, complemented by a peaked roof and natural stone accents, creating a serene ambiance in the surrounding landscape.
Home in Highlands
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 78 reviews

Close to Town, Quiet Cul de Sac

JosephRating, 5 stars2 months ago
Another relaxing and peaceful stay at Anna's home. The exceptional location close to downtown Highlands is perfect. A quality furnished and well equipped home is what continues to be our go to place when in the area. Anna is and has always been accommodating and responsive. We highly recommend and certainly will stay again.
Top guest favorite
A single-story house with a green metal roof is set on a spacious lawn, partially fenced for safety. The exterior features light-colored siding and a stone foundation. A small porch is accessible by steps, providing a welcoming entrance with symmetrical windows on either side.
Home in Whittier
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 86 reviews

House on the Hill

KevinRating, 5 stars1 month ago
Great spot in the mountains! The location was perfect—close to the casino and convenient to everything we needed. The house had plenty of space for our group and was just what we were looking for. Would definitely stay again!

Pet-friendly vacation rentals in Highlands

Guest favorite
Home in Waynesville
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

1920s cottage- walk to DT WVL!

KatrinaRating, 5 stars3 weeks ago
We had a wonderful stay at Jennica’s Airbnb. She was very friendly and responsive to our booking and messages, and she provided a great guide for things to do, dining, and shopping. We’ve visited Waynesville often, and her guide is filled with our favorites. The cottage is nicely decorated and furnished, very clean, and comfortable, especially the very comfortable and stylish living room recliners and couch. The kitchen and bathroom have everything you need. Best of all, the location is perfect! Some of our favorite places (diner, bakery, and bookstore) are in Hazelwood Village and are only a short walk down the street. Downtown is within walking distance (for some) or just a couple of minutes drive to park and walk in downtown. And the surrounding area is beautiful for outdoor adventures. We also attended an event at WCU, which is only a 30-minute drive. We are so glad that we have found Jennica’s Airbnb and hope to stay again. Thanks!
Guest favorite
Apartment in Brevard
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

Blue Ridge Mountain Getaway,Pet Friendly

DonnaRating, 5 stars1 week ago
Kathy is an amazing host, and the accommodations are exactly like the photos. We enjoyed our stay so much we requested to extend another night! Very welcoming peaceful surroundings. Gorgeous stone FP and kitchen backsplash. Decorated beautifully. The bed was very comfortable, and the bath towels were excellent. We had everything we needed. Our dog was welcomed with treats and a dog toy. We would recommend this property to anyone wishing to be close to Brevard and the surrounding areas. We will stay again when in the neighborhood. Thanks again Kathy, Glenn and Charlie!
Guest favorite
A charming cabin is nestled among trees, showcasing a spacious deck with railings and a covered porch. Surrounding foliage displays autumn colors, with fallen leaves covering the ground. A stack of firewood is neatly arranged near the base of the cabin, enhancing the rustic ambiance.
Home in Maggie Valley
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

Maggie’s Lane cottage~Come visit the Elk!

HaroldRating, 5 stars1 month ago
Enjoyed our stay in this lovely cabin. The noise from the main road was a distraction however the quality of the cabin and its contents made up for this hindrance. We did not see any Elk but enjoyed the beautiful Mountain View!
Guest favorite
A covered porch features comfortable seating options, including a blue tufted cushioned chair and woven armchairs. A wooden dining table is visible in the background. The surrounding greenery enhances the serene outdoor space, providing a relaxing atmosphere.
Guest suite in Lake Junaluska
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Farmhouse Charmer

PeggyRating, 5 stars6 months ago
This is the 3rd time I have stayed at Brenda's place and I love it there❤️Every detail is thought out. We would have loved to stay longer. Brenda is very thoughtful and a great communicator The big fireplace is so welcome with these cool nights !!
Superhost
A wooden dock extends over a tranquil lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Two individuals are captured mid-swim near the dock, showcasing the inviting nature of the water. The backdrop features gently rolling hills under a clear sky, enhancing the sense of serenity in the setting.
Cabin in Almond
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 230 reviews

Pet Friendly, Hot Tub, Fireplace, Grill, Lake.

JonathanRating, 5 stars1 month ago
This is my second stay at Michelle's cabin and it's always a great experience. The view is beautiful and the amenities are perfect 👌🏻. Highly recommended!
Guest favorite
Cabin in Bryson City
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 279 reviews

Pet & kid friendly Cabin in Bryson City!

Echo Concrete Foundations IncRating, 5 stars3 days ago
We enjoyed our stay at Gina's Airbnb. The house is furnished so beautifully, and the kitchen is well-equipped with everything you need. There was plenty of space for our group. We would highly recommend this home for a place to stay when in the area.
Top guest favorite
A cozy living area features a modern desk space with a lamp beside a fireplace. Large windows provide views of the outdoors, while warm tones from the furnishings create an inviting environment. A comfortable couch with textured pillows is positioned in the foreground.
Home in Sylva
5 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

Mountain Creek Escape! 2 Living Rooms & 2 Decks!

CathyRating, 5 stars1 week ago
We appreciated the attention to detail! Overall very nicely decorated. Well stocked with games, dog supplies, and even two coffee bars (upstairs and downstairs). The sound of the small babbling brook below was peaceful.
Guest favorite
Cabin in Bryson City
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 136 reviews

Dog-friendly cabin w/ views, HOT TUB, game room

CorinneRating, 5 stars4 days ago
We had an amazing stay at Jennifer’s cabin. It was a beautiful secluded mountain stay but close to Bryson City’s breweries, restaurants, and the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Spent our days mostly on the trails, but the game room is well equipped if you encounter any rainy days or just want to stay close to home. Would definitely recommend!

Pet-friendly house rentals Highlands

Guest favorite
A spacious, grassy yard enclosed by a white wooden fence stands under a canopy of lush green trees. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting gentle shadows on the lawn, creating a serene outdoor space for relaxation and play.
Home in Brevard
5 out of 5 average rating, 11 reviews

Cheerful 3 bedroom with great screened in porch!

LynnRating, 5 stars3 months ago
Our family had the privilege of staying at Andrea's charming home in Brevard. We are actually locals, utilizing the space while completing some home repairs, and it was a wonderful experience! The house has a cozy, vintage appeal, and was incredibly well stocked, from spare toiletries in the bathroom, to essentials in the kitchen, which we appreciated. There were clearly printed directions with all the info we needed, and we greatly enjoyed the fireplace on chilly nights. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs a spot in Brevard!
Superhost
A covered deck with two rocking chairs and a small side table overlooks the river and surrounding trees. Autumn foliage features vibrant colors, enhancing the serene view. The deck is framed by wooden beams, providing a warm and inviting outdoor space.
Home in Canton
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 33 reviews

River Bank Retreat by CM | Cozy Hot Tub & View

AlexRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
Easy check-in and it looked like the photos. Great stay for a large group. They have board games and ping pong and plenty of space. You may want to bring your own glasses and silverware.
Guest favorite
A circular fire pit is surrounded by four turquoise Adirondack chairs, arranged on a gravel area. The setting is framed by lush greenery and trees, providing a serene outdoor space for gatherings.
Home in Bryson City
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews

Deep Creek Hideaway - PET FRIENDLY

JessicaRating, 5 stars4 weeks ago
This was our second time staying in this beautiful mountain hide-away in the Deep Creek / Bryson City area. We love the hike all around the property - it's amazing in itself - but also very easy to get to 'the road to nowhere', the Great Smokey Mountain National Park is basically connected to the property, it's so close! If you want to get away from the city / noise of urban areas, this is for you! Large, open home with two full baths, so great for a family (and our pups love it here, too)!!
Superhost
A spacious porch features large windows that reveal a scenic view of rolling hills and trees. The landscape shows a mix of greenery and bare branches, with distant mountains under a cloudy sky. A dining table with chairs is visible on the porch.
Home in Franklin
4.72 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews

Dogwood Haven - Green

JenniferRating, 5 stars22 months ago
Easy check in. Hosts allowed early check-in because we arrived too early. Dog run available for use while we needed to get ready for different events. Well centered between Franklin and Sylva. Short drive to Georgia state line going South. Short ride to Waynesville going east. Follow hosts direction not to take Brendle to home. We have a 4WD Jeep and used it but would not recommend for small sedans or SUV’s/trucks. We also were able to get a delivery from Instacart for our groceries.
Top guest favorite
An aerial view highlights a secluded ranch home bordered by a spacious, fenced-in yard, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. The property blends harmoniously into the natural landscape, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility.
Home in Candler
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 187 reviews

Amazing Views! Updated, warm & cozy ranch. Dogs Ok

LibbyRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
This stay was amazing! The view of the mountains is incredible and having the privacy of the fence and just being up in the mountains was so great and so much fun! Liz responded quick when I had a question. I would definitely recommend if you just want some peace and quiet, or if you need a cool place to stay while visiting Asheville!
Guest favorite
A shaded front porch features two rocking chairs positioned on a concrete floor. A doorway with white paneling is centrally situated, flanked by two large windows adorned with navy blue shutters. Lush greenery is visible in the background.
Home in Brevard
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

Maple St dogs OK walk to DT Brevard, Biltmore Pass

LindaRating, 5 stars5 months ago
We had a wonderful stay at Pete's place! It's in a great neighborhood, walkable to downtown Brevard and Silvermont park. It was very clean, comfortable, and had a well equipped kitchen.
Guest favorite
A spacious, fenced-in backyard features a well-maintained grassy area surrounded by trees and shrubs. A shed is visible in one corner, while flower beds line the perimeter, adding to the outdoor space's natural appeal.
Home in Brevard
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews

3BDR Water + Power+ Internet, 2BLKS from Downtown

AnitaRating, 5 stars1 week ago
We loved staying at this sweet bungalow. It was comfortable, quiet, and spotless. Hosts were welcoming and responsive. It’s easy to walk anywhere you want to go and the entire stay was peaceful. Thank you! We will stay again.
Superhost
A charming A-frame cabin is nestled among lush greenery, with a striking red roof. Stone accents are visible, and a wooden deck extends from the front, surrounded by vibrant flowering plants and shrubbery. Steps lead to the entrance, inviting guests into a serene woodland setting.
Home in Clayton
4.74 out of 5 average rating, 213 reviews

Affordable, cute, clean Near everything

SynthaRating, 5 stars2 months ago
Excellent place to stay. All instructions were clear and concise. Perfect for a weekend getaway with a few friends or small family/couple. Enjoyed hiking Blood Mountain and the Fashing Festival in Helen, GA

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Highlands

  • Total rentals

    230 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $90 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    11K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    160 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    100 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    100 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Highlands

All About Highlands

Highlands is one of the highest towns east of the Mississippi River, located within North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest. The surrounding Appalachian Mountains offer miles of hiking trails where you just may catch a deer drinking from a nearby stream, or raccoons meandering near a rushing waterfall. Occasionally people have reported seeing black bears in this rich ecosystem, which is home to a variety of birds as well.

While the area is known for its serene outdoor atmosphere, Highlands’ Main Street and the nearby town of Cashiers boast an assortment of unique shops and dining experiences. Clothing boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and bookstores line the wide sidewalks. Many of the restaurants feature live music, craft beers, local wines, and an eclectic menu of local produce courtesy of the fertile mountain soil.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Highlands

Due to Highlands’ elevation among the Appalachian Mountains, the summers remain cool and pleasant, making May through September the perfect time to book a Highlands vacation rental. You can enjoy the numerous hiking paths, as well as the outdoor dining opportunities available during this time. As the temperatures drop for the winter months, switch gears for ice skating and snow tubing. Warm clothes and waterproof boots will be necessary during this time, as snowfall is common during Highlands’ winter months. In addition to the regular activities found in Highlands, numerous events are held throughout the year. A multi-day music festival in April features performances from a variety of genres. The Highlands Food and Wine Festival is another popular event held in November, featuring an assortment of delicious food and wine, and more live music.


Top things to do in Highlands

Highlands Nature Center

The Highlands Nature Center features year-round exhibits, interactive displays, and special events that focus on the unique biodiversity of the southern Appalachian region. The onsite botanical gardens showcase nearly 500 species of wildflowers, mosses, ferns, shrubs, and trees. The wooded trails around the center’s lake and pond provide visitors with the chance to see some of the local wildlife.

Dry Falls

Located just minutes outside of Highlands, Dry Falls is a stunning 80-foot waterfall. The paved pathway from the parking lot makes Dry Falls easily accessible. Due to the way the water flows from the overhead cliff, you could have the unique experience of walking behind the falling water without getting wet, although when the rain volume is higher than normal, you just might get sprayed.

Secret Falls

Commonly referred to as Big Shoals Falls, this hidden 50-foot waterfall is located just 6.5 miles from downtown Highlands on Big Creek. The half-mile trail from the parking lot to the waterfall is only marked with one staked sign and blue rectangles on the trees, adding to the clandestine feel of the falls. Once you make the hike, a small sandy beach will be waiting for you, with shallow creek waters providing a place to wade and swim while enjoying the cascading waters from above.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Highlands?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 100 vacation rentals in Highlands featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Highlands?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Highlands. Choose from more than 100 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Highlands?

    Experience the best of Highlands with our house rentals, starting at about $120 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

  • Do house rentals in Highlands have self check-in?

    Absolutely! We offer over 60 house rentals with self check-in in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Highlands have a bbq area?

    Absolutely! We offer over 70 house rentals with a bbq area in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Are there family-friendly house rentals in Highlands?

    Highlands has more than 100 family-friendly house rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.

Destinations to explore

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