Blessed with breathtaking natural beauty, the state of North Carolina has epic journey written all over it. From the highest mountains to rolling hills to vast stretches of the ocean, North Carolina is one of the most visited states in the US, mainly for prime tourist attractions like Great Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Cape Hatteras. Hike the most scenic trails, rejuvenate at globally recognized spas, savor fresh and sumptuous seafood, stop by the quaint local bars, and visit the historic sites - the state has it all and more. Whether you’re heading towards the frequented tourist hotspots or treading on unbeaten tracks, North Carolina promises the true blue vacation your wander-lusting heart craves for.
Here are some of the best holiday rentals of the state.
1. Lakefront abode with a private dock, Shelby (from USD 195)
Located on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this two-bedroom, lakefront house offers a soothing nature-filled getaway. With the house surrounded by rolling hills and hardwood forests, guests have plenty of outdoor space to play some fun outdoor activities while taking in the serene beauty of nature. The house’s large private dock also invites guests to enjoy some water-based activities like fishing, canoeing, and many more.
Speaking of canoeing, guests will be happy to know that complimentary canoes, paddles, and life vests are provided. And the cherry on top, this house is pet-friendly and allows a maximum of two pets of any size to be brought along though there is an additional fee.
2. Historical cottage in downtown Morehead City (from USD 130)
Located in downtown Morehead City, this single-bedroom historical cottage is only 2.5 blocks away from the intra-coastal waterway. This convenient location makes the cottage close to several restaurants, shops, and attractions including Morehead City Yacht Basin, Morehead Plaza Shopping Center, and Big Rock Stadium.
Built between the 1920s and 1930s, the cottage takes pride in being featured in the Home and Garden Television show, Beachfront Bargain Hunt Renovation. As for amenities, the cottage features a living room and eat-in kitchen that has a Keurig coffee maker and stove.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean and privatevery clean and convenienti wanted a little cottage in a quaint area that felt safe beachy and cleanHost:
owner nicole made us feel welcome from the very beginningthe owner was amazing regarding communication and making sure we received our instructions upon arrivalgreat stay and owner was very flexible with some last minute changesthe owners notes were clear and descriptive making for an easy arrivalRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is fantasticthe neighborhood is friendly and a short walk to shops and short drive to the the oceanwe loved our stay there are two really fun playgrounds within walking distanceadorable cottage and walking distance to everythinggreat location clean and decorated so cute
3. Cozy unit with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains (from USD 211)
Welcome to The Bear Den, a two-bedroom condominium unit that’s located in Seven Devils. With a private deck, the condo showcases a beautiful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding woodland. Inside, guests will find three smart TVs, a gas fireplace, modern bathrooms, and a well-stocked kitchen with a stove, ice maker, and various pantry items. There are also two parking slots available for guests with cars.
As for nearby places to visit, The Bear Den is only 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Hawksnest Tubing Park, 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Sugar Creek Gem Mine, and 3.1 mi (4.9 km) from Apple Hill Farm.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i will never forget the balcony view it is amazing both beds were greatthe property was the cleanest we have ever stayed in and the beds were so comfortableCleanliness:
the condo was so clean and well stockedexceptionally clean and well locatedsuper clean comfortable and centrally locatedHost:
property owners were easy to communicate with and the condo was exceptionalRead more reviewsLocation:
quiet location but close enough to restaurants to make it an ideal locationloved the location peaceful and privatewhat a beautiful place in a beautiful locationgreat location convenient to boone and many trailsplace accommodated our trip perfectly
4. Stunning lakefront family home in Denver (from 150 USD)
With the pretty lake literally at its doorstep, this big, inviting house is newly refurbished with a brand new kitchen, television with cable, Internet coverage, and essential toiletries. Three decks, one lake-view balcony, a pier with two jet ski pads, and two boat slips make this family home an ideal setting for celebrations, fun, and outdoor adventures. A nice, peaceful cove by the property is perfect for a soak and a swim, while the flowing lake waters make for great fishing and water sports. Tucked away in Denver, the property has surrounding areas full of hiking and mountain-biking trails, and other adventure sports - the perfect recipe for brilliant getaways.
Lakefront family home in Denver
Price: from 150 USD
Number of Guests: 6
5. Beautiful property with mountain views, Asheville (from USD 365)
This gorgeous Asheville property is a sight for sore eyes. With lots of light and hardwood floors, the house exudes the warmth and charm of a cozy mountain cabin, despite being quite large with three bedrooms and a capacity to sleep 10 people. The covered porch that runs around the length of the house provides stunning views of the mountains - your happy place to enjoy morning coffees and evening cocktails. The modern kitchen is equipped with enough equipment to cook up a storm, and the spacious dining area is meant for big, happy family meals. And the best part is the location. The beautiful rental is only 10 minutes from downtown Asheville and a few minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
all the beds were comfy and the master bathroom was really nicecozy yet spacious super clean views from the deck were amazing the outdoor area for grilling was landscaped beautifullywe loved the fireplace in the living room we would definitely returnbeds were comfy everything was great thank youCleanliness:
it was very well equipped very clean and nicely decoratedthis cottage is clean spacious and well equippedthe home is clean and the bedrooms are very spaciousthe home is clean and is well stocked full of needed utensils in the kitchen for cookingHost:
property manager was very helpfulthe property manager was responsive and helpful from check-in to check-outsteve and louise are wonderful property ownersvery communicative and accommodating the farm fresh eggs they left for us was an added bonusthe owners were very easy to work with and their home had all the amenities you would needRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is superbthe location is close to all the attractionsthe location was perfect for us
6. Luxurious oasis best for families, Pinehurst (from USD 295)
A delightful gateway to the historic village of Pinehurst, Timmel House - a modern, trendy property - is your destination, whether you’re looking for southern adventures or a peaceful hideout to do a spot of writing. Located minutes from the restaurants, local shops, and historic sights, this home for 6 houses three bedrooms, a fully fitted kitchen, a spacious dining hall, and warm, cozy lounging area. A well-screened porch with rocking chairs takes care of evening activities and the open patio with grilling equipment is perfect for hosting barbecue meals. The kid-friendly place should definitely be on your getaway list for a fun vacation surrounded by the charm and history of quaint village life.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the house was spotless organized and nicely decoratedthe house was perfect for us and sparklingly cleanthe house was very clean and comfortable also in a fantastic locationthe property is in a great location and is clean and openHost:
home was wonderful and owner was absolutely fabulousowner is very nice and accommodatingand the owners couldn't be more welcoming and charmingthe owner was exceptional to work with which made the stay even more enjoyablewe were greeted with a bottle of wine and a welcome note from the ownerRead more reviewsLocation:
this location is excellentwalking distance to shops good restaurants and close to groceriesthe location is perfect and within walking distance to many restaurants and shopson top of the great accommodations it was walking distance to townthe location is terrific we walked to the village and to a number of restaurants
7. Private log cabin with an outdoor hot tub, Boone (from USD 325)
Perched atop a forest, this private log cabin is your quintessential adventure in the woods. With stunning panoramic views of the Eastern Continental Divide, this property nestled in Boone, is away from the main house that provides it with 360-degrees of complete privacy. Wooden panelings, cozy decor, a burning fireplace, an outdoor hot tub for 6, a big cantilevered deck, and a spacious green backyard make this the dreamy holiday destination that’s on everyone’s list. In winters, the entire area transforms into a magical crystal wonderland surrounded by breathtaking snowy views.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very roomy clean and all furnishings and kitchen supplies are high qualitythe view is incredible the cabin is spotless and has everything you'll need for a comfortable stayCleanliness:
beautiful extremely clean and has amazing views not one thing i could complain about or suggest to improveHost:
joanie & gary are fabulous hostsjoanie (owner) is very responsive and genuinely concern that you have the best experiencethe kilkellys are wonderful hosts and were lovely from start to finishthe owners are responsive and provide most everything needed for your staythe owners are wonderful people and have done a great job supplying and furnishing this cabinRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful cabin in a beautiful locationexcellent two-bedroom cabin set in secluded mountainside locationa perfect place to wind down after long day of hiking
8. Well-appointed bungalow near downtown, Asheville (from USD 180)
This 1951 bungalow has been given a major face-lift to turn into this stunning designer holiday rental that exudes a Mediterranean charm. Conveniently located 15 minutes from downtown, the cozy home for 4 is one of the most coveted properties in East End - Valley Street, Asheville. The house comes fitted with everything from custom closets to laundry essentials and from kitchen equipment to a private garage, and is a short walk from hiking trails along the ridge of Beaucatcher Mountain. An ideal getaway, the trendy home is surrounded by Ashville’s natural beauty while enjoying easy access to downtown’s entertainment hub.
9. Most affordable cottage with outdoor decks, Hatteras (from USD 80)
If you’re looking for an easy, breezy time amid sun, sea, and sands, The Lost Shaker of Salt - as the house name goes - in Hatteras is the answer to your vacation prayers. While the tiny cottage is more of a cabana with beach-house decor, it is bang on the beach with the mighty Atlantic staring you right in the face. With a queen bed, a pull-out sofa, a fully stocked kitchenette, and four outdoor decks, the affordable property has you sorted for a week of sunshine and good times.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
and clean the shower & toilet regularlyperfect for 2 people the condo was clean and steps away from the oceannice clean room close to beachHost:
the property owners are non responsive if you calli would stay at this location again for sure i'd think twice about this specific owner thoughbeautiful location but the owner does not know what communication isRead more reviewsLocation:
the cabanas were cute the location was perfectit was a great locationthis is the perfect location and was exactly what we were looking forloved staying at the hatteras cabanas could not have asked for a better locationgreat location in a quiet peaceful part of the outer banks
10. Gorgeous hideaway with a hot tub, Badin Lake (from USD 249)
The property by Lake Badin is nothing short of a slice of heaven. The cozy two-bedroom brick home boasts a great layout meant for all kinds of travelers and comes with a spacious living area overlooking the lake, a fully equipped kitchen, a big screen porch with a hot tub, outdoor patio with gas grill and fire pit, a covered gazebo, and a large green yard with a hammock. But the highlight of this hideout is the private dock with incredible views and a small canoe for fishing and paddling. Spend your days boating, swimming, relaxing on the pier or you can also drive down to the Uwharrie National Forest for hiking and biking.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
cozy setting with a perfect night view of the lakelaundry wi-fi cable nice linens great flow between kitchen/living roomCleanliness:
the house was very clean and comfortablethe house was very clean and comfortable we hope to go back oftenHost:
they were helpful every time we calledwe had a fabulous stay we arrived to find a lovely welcome gift and note by the ownersRead more reviewsLocation:
i know i want to stop shopping shopping around and come back here again for sure
11. Oceanfront family house on Emerald Isle
The huge oceanfront home is literally a few yards from the beach. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, the property not only exudes island-life vibes but also provides easy access to the shops, eateries, movie theaters, adventure parks, supermarkets, and more. The upper deck with rocking chairs is meant for savoring morning coffee while staring at the waves, and the backyard with picnic tables is where you enjoy blazing sunsets. Once you’ve had your fill of the sands and the sea, enjoy the cold/hot outdoor shower and, on lazy days, hang the hammock on the shaded lower deck with a book from the extensive library. And, better still, take languid strolls along the private walkway to the dune deck and spend some crazy moments under the stars.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the rooms are comfortably furnishedCleanliness:
clean the kitchen was well stocked everything one could need for food prep and storagethe house was very clean and i can't say enough about how well stocked the kitchen wasfantastic house terrific location remarkably clean and well appointed kitchenHost:
the owners austin and margaret made sure that our stay was pleasantthe owner has provided everything a house needs to make for a relaxing vacationexcellent communications with owner looking forward to staying againaustin is a great landlord and very accommodatingthe owners put a lot of love and care into this house and it showsRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was perfectthis will definitely be the only place we stay in our future trips to the crystal coastthis was an outstanding place to stay
12. A modern ranch house near Carrboro
For the townies looking to have a short break from busy city lives, head to this rustic getaway that has all the comforts of a modern life. The charming ranch-turned-trendy-house is located in a private wooded area near Carrboro and is minutes away from farmers markets, grocery stores, and Chapel Hill and Carrboro attractions. This private accommodation for 6 is professionally decorated with layouts designed specifically for travelers with families - perfect for spending time with each other in quiet seclusion surrounded by nature but close to town amenities.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
it was very clean and had everything we neededit is super clean and well appointedso clean and in a great locationclean nicely decorated well labeled with clear instructions for arrival and departurethe house was clean and well designed/decorated to make it comfortable and easy to live inHost:
owner and property managers are very easily reached for any questionsthe process was easy and the owner was very responsive as well as the property managerwe rented this home to host some of our family and friends for a surprise birthday partythe owner also made sure we had a grill with a full tank of gasRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was great for a nearby event
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of NC
A state so rich and diverse in flora and fauna deserves multiple trips, and still it won’t be enough for the nature-loving, travel-hungry souls. Especially when such holiday homes dot its different parts and play havoc with our travel goals - each more stunning than the other. And these gems almost always top the list of all kinds of travelers. So if you’re planning on a getaway, book now!
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