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North Carolina | Banner Elk

Ursa Minor

3 bedrooms·2 bathrooms·8 guests
Mountains

Ursa Minor, a newly built gem on Sugar Mountain, promises an exceptional retreat with stunning views and top-tier amenities. The welcoming driveway brings you to the main level, where a modern kitchen and dining area await. The kitchen, featuring granite counters, a stylish copper hammered sink, and both Keurig and standard coffee makers, ensures meal preparation is a delight. Gather around the dining table that seats up to eight, or enjoy a casual meal at the nearby island. The living room, centered around a cozy gas log fireplace, is perfect for relaxing and watching your favorite shows with cable TV and HBO Max at your disposal. Step out to the covered deck to soak in breathtaking mountain views, and in the evenings, marvel at the constellation that gave Ursa Minor its name. A loft with a second TV area and a foosball table add to the fun. Accommodations are designed for comfort and convenience, with two bedrooms on the main level sharing a full bath featuring a tub/shower combination. The first bedroom offers a king-sized bed, ceiling fan, TV, and USB charging ports in the end tables. The second bedroom is ideal for children, with two sets of twin-over-twin bunks. The primary suite upstairs boasts a king-sized bed, a Peloton with dumbbells and a yoga mat (BYO account), and an attached bath with a beautifully tiled shower. For the ultimate relaxation, head to the private back deck and unwind in the newly installed hot tub. Ursa Minor is not just a place to stay; it's a sanctuary where luxury and nature seamlessly blend for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

Our promise

Satisfaction Guarantee

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KEY Curation Notes

3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 8, on Sugar Mountain. The main level has a king bedroom and a bunk room with two sets of twin-over-twin bunks. The upper primary suite has a second king and houses the Peloton. Two living areas — the main-level lounge with gas fireplace and the loft with foosball and a second TV — mean the group isn't sharing one space all day.
Sugar Mountain Resort is a 4-minute walk. In winter that means ski-in/ski-out proximity — no shuttle needed, no car logistics to manage. The resort also offers tubing, skating, and a mountain coaster, so it's a genuine asset year-round.
Private hot tub on the back deck with long-range mountain views. The covered front deck adds another outdoor sitting area with the same views, making the outdoor space more usable across different weather.
The Peloton is a nice differentiator for a group where not everyone skis or wants to be on the slopes every day. Dumbbells and yoga mat included; bring your own account.
AWD or 4WD required. The driveway is steep — plan for it in all seasons, not just winter.
Not pet-friendly. The adjacent property "1st in Sugar" next door accommodates dogs if needed. Starter supplies cover the first night or two; Banner Elk has full grocery options about 2.5 miles down the mountain. KEY.co can arrange delivery before you arrive.

Amenities

Indoor
Air conditioning
Dryer
Fireplace
Entertainment room
Internet
Outdoor
Outdoor grill
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Misc
WiFi
Peloton with dumbbells
Yoga mat
Built in USB charging ports

Bedroom details

Bedroom 1: King
Bedroom 2: Two Single Over Single Bunks
Bedroom 3: King

Location

Inside the destination

Neighborhood: Grouse Forest II

Getting to the property

- 4WD/AWD and/or chains are recommended during winter (Nov-March). - Travelers visiting during the winter months where inclement weather may be possible should come prepared with an AWD or 4WD vehicle, and chains may also be required if it snows.

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Reviews

Ashlea

Our stay at Ursa Minor was incredible. The house was impeccable, the views were great and the check in process was seamless. I appreciated the text and email updates regarding the address and pass code as well as early check in. Our trip was so much fun and the ease of this rental process certainly helped us relax and enjoy our time!

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

This home is stocked with all utensils needed to cook meals. There is also a "starter set" of paper products at the house: a roll of toilet paper per bath, several garbage bags, a small vial of dishwashing liquid, a few tablets of dishwasher detergent, some laundry pods, a roll of paper towels, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and some makeup remover cloths. There are enough of these items for one night, or maybe two.

We do not provide hair dryers.

Towels and linens will be provided.

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.