See more homes in North Carolina | Watauga County

1/79

Hawthorn House

4 bedrooms·5 bathrooms·8 guests

Mountains

Perched within an exclusive gated enclave, this beautifully reimagined mountain retreat captures sweeping views of Grandfather Mountain from nearly every room. Clean modern design meets timeless alpine charm, with a stunning chef’s kitchen featuring premium appliances, open shelving, and elegant finishes that flow effortlessly into inviting living spaces anchored by a cozy fireplace. Expansive decks extend the living experience outdoors, offering front-row seats to breathtaking long-range vistas and unforgettable sunsets. Thoughtfully designed for both connection and privacy, the home includes multiple serene suites—each with updated baths and refined touches—along with a private cottage-style retreat ideal for added seclusion. A spacious lower-level lounge with a pool table provides the perfect setting for relaxed evenings, while the surrounding High Country destinations are just a short drive away. Blending comfort, style, and an exceptional location, this mountain escape offers a truly elevated experience in every season.

Our promise

We've reviewed thousands of homes and approve only the best. Each one is professionally managed and vetted for comfort and style, raising the bar for every stay.

KEY Curation Notes

Grandfather Mountain views from a gated mountain community. The home sits within Hound Ears Club between Boone and Banner Elk, with direct views of Grandfather Mountain and the Watauga River a 9-minute walk away.

Five bathrooms for four bedrooms. The ratio points to an en-suite or near-en-suite layout throughout — a meaningful differentiator for groups where privacy matters.

Pool table and updated interiors. The game room is a core feature; the home has been renovated and is well-appointed throughout.

Hound Ears Club amenities are not available to rental guests. The golf course, pool, tennis courts, and club restaurant are member-only — a rule updated in late 2023. The community grounds and walking trails are accessible and worth the visit on their own terms.

Reservations require advance planning. Bookings must be made more than 72 hours before arrival, and each reservation requires a guest information form reviewed and approved by the community before access details are sent.

AWD or 4WD is recommended November through March. Roads within Hound Ears are treated during winter weather events, but the rental agreement makes clear that guests arriving without a capable vehicle are not entitled to refunds or date changes.

Starter supplies cover roughly one night. Paper products, soap, laundry pods, and similar basics are provided in limited quantities. KEY.co can arrange grocery and supply delivery before your arrival.

Amenities

Indoor

Dryer

Drip coffee maker

Game table

Gas stove

Keurig coffee machine

Outdoor

Outdoor grill

Balcony

Deck

Outdoor dining area

Outdoor seating

Misc

WiFi

Elevate your stay with add-on services

Book a home, then customize your experience. From ski delivery to pre-arrival groceries, we coordinate everything you need so you can make memories on the mountain and stories by the fire.

Ski fitting + delivery

Pre-arrival groceries

Private chef

Alcohol delivery

Private driver

Charcuterie board delivery

Bedroom details

Bedroom 1 - Main Level: King

Bedroom 2 - Upper Level: King

Bedroom 3 - Upper Level: Queen

Bedroom 4 - Over-Garage Cottage: Queen

Living Room - Over-Garage Cottage: Sleeper Sofa

Location

Inside the destination

Neighborhood: Hound Ears Club - Located in the highly sought-after gated private Hound Ears Club, located centrally to Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and Grandfather Mountain, features spectacular long-range Grandfather Mountain views from every room. The Hawthorn House has a large deck on the back, looking out to Crystal Mountain and Grandfather Mountain beyond. - From this beautiful home, you are 6 miles to Blowing Rock, 7 miles to Boone, 9 miles to Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, and 7 miles to Hawksnest for ziplining and snow tubing.

Parking information

- Parking space for up to 4 vehicles is available. - Motorcycles are strictly prohibited inside the Hound Ears community.

Getting to the property

AWD or 4WD vehicles are recommended during winter months. The road leading to this home is paved with a paved driveway. Hound Ears Property Services treats and removes snow during any inclement winter weather event. Use caution when traveling during inclement weather, as icy spots may be present.

Policies

Check-in: 4:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

Renter's age: 25+ years old

No smoking allowed

No events allowed

No pets

Cancellation policy

Plans change, we get it.

Enjoy peace of mind when booking with KEY.co.

90% Refund: Receive a 90% refund when you cancel your reservation at least 60 days before check-in.

No Refund: Reservations canceled 59 days or less before check-in are not eligible for a refund.

Refunds subject to a 5% processing fee of the total.

Things you need to know

Due to neighborhood restrictions, reservations may only be booked more than 3 days, or 72 hours, prior to arrival.

Rental guests cannot access any Hound Ears Club amenities or buildings, including golf, pool, tennis, or the restaurant, as per Club rules updated in late 2023.

Towels and linens will be provided for you.

Please observe a quiet hour of 10 PM as there are full-time residents nearby.

Do not leave food or trash outside, as it could attract animals. All trash must be bagged and placed in the trash receptacle indicated in the Welcome Book inside the house or your digital guidebook.

The property is set up for light housekeeping, including linens and towels. We provide a STARTER SET of toilet tissue, paper towels, bath toiletries, dish soap, and trash bags. This is enough for one or two nights, but if you are staying for an extended length of time, you should plan to bring some supplies from home or plan to purchase these items at a grocery store when you arrive.

We provide one towel and washcloth per person that each respective house accommodates, plus a few extra towels if there is a hot tub. The beds are made up with clean linens (except bunks, sleepers, and futons, but linens are provided on site). If you routinely use two towels after bathing, you may need to bring some of your own.

This home comes equipped with a basic set of cookware, sufficient plates & silverware for the occupancy of the home, and basic serving and baking dishes. Most homes do not have unusual items such as crockpots or blenders, so if you’re planning a dish that requires an unusual item, it is best to bring that from your home.

This home is not stocked with cooking oils or spices, hairdryers, condiments, coffee, coffee filters, or food storage items, including plastic wrap or foil.

Restrictions

Guests & Occupancy

Age requirements: Primary guest must be at least 25 years old and must remain on-site for the full stay.
Maximum occupancy: Occupancy limits (including children) must not be exceeded at any time.
Guest accountability: The booking guest is responsible for all occupants, compliance with rules, and any damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Unauthorized guests: $25 per person per day for exceeding occupancy; may result in immediate removal.
Approved use of property: Use is limited to vacation purposes unless prior written approval is obtained. Subletting or assignment is not permitted without written approval.

Events & Noise

Events & gatherings: Not permitted without prior written approval; unauthorized events may result in fines, immediate removal without refund, and charges for damages/cleaning.
Noise restrictions: Must comply with local noise regulations at all times.

Prohibited Activities

Pets: Allowed only in designated homes with prior approval and a non-refundable pet fee. Unauthorized pets: $200 fee + $500 cleaning fee; may require removal or termination without refund. Pets must meet all listing restrictions and be pre-treated for pests.
Smoking/vaping: Strictly prohibited indoors; $300 smoke remediation fee.
Illegal activities: Any violation of laws or regulations is prohibited and may result in termination of stay.
Fireworks & firearms: Strictly prohibited at all times.
Fire/fireplace misuse: No burning wood in gas fireplaces. No roasting food in fireplaces. Unauthorized outdoor fires prohibited (fees apply).
EV charging: Prohibited unless specifically approved; $500 fine.

Equipment & Amenities

Seasonal requirements: (if applicable) 4WD/AWD and/or tire chains strongly recommended November–April; no refunds for lack of preparation.
Hot tubs _(if equipped)_: Use at your own risk; not suitable for individuals with infections or open wounds. Must follow all sanitation and usage rules (no additives, glass, or tampering). $500 fee for cover damage; additional fees for misuse or extra cleaning.
HVAC & utilities: Some homes may not have air conditioning; no refunds due to weather or lack of AC.
Internet/TV/phone: No refunds for outages or service issues. Pay-per-view is prohibited; charges will be billed if used. Long-distance calls must not be billed to the home.
Appliances & equipment: No refunds for malfunctions (TV, hot tub, appliances, etc.).
Equipment reporting: Issues must be reported promptly; repairs will be attempted but are not guaranteed.
Parking rules: Vehicle limits apply; some areas restrict motorcycles, RVs, or trailers. No roadside parking if prohibited.
Restricted areas: Locked closets/areas are off-limits.
Firewood: Available for purchase ($25/day) with 7-day advance notice.

Checkout & Care

Check-in: Begins at 4:00 PM (may vary up to 5:00 PM depending on home/season). No early check-in guarantees or compensation.
Checkout: By 10:00 AM.
Key return: $25 fee for lost keys.
Cleaning expectations: Leave the property in reasonable condition. Bag and dispose of trash, start dishwasher, and place used towels as instructed.
Furniture & home care: Maintain cleanliness and avoid unsafe or unsanitary conditions.
Supplies: Starter supplies only; additional items must be purchased by guests.

Liability & Disclaimers

Accidental damage may be covered under a waiver (not insurance); exclusions apply (intentional acts, negligence, misuse, etc.). Additional charges may apply.
Not responsible for lost items; return attempts may incur cost.
No liability for injuries related to hot tub or amenities; use at your own risk.
No refunds for outages, mechanical failures, pests, cleaning issues, or similar inconveniences.
No refunds for weather conditions, hazardous roads, or inability to access property due to lack of preparation.
No refunds for nearby construction or environmental conditions.
Furnishings, decor, and amenities may vary; no refunds for preference differences or listing discrepancies.
Mandatory evacuations may qualify for prorated refunds (subject to conditions).
Alternative accommodations or a full refund will be provided if the property becomes unavailable.
Authorized personnel may enter for inspection, repair, or maintenance during reasonable hours.
Guests assume responsibility for personal injury or property damage unless caused by the negligence of the owner.