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North Carolina | Banner Elk

First in Sugar

3 bedrooms·3 bathrooms·12 guests
Mountains

Set high above the High Country with sweeping mountain views, this beautifully designed retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort and style for a memorable escape. Expansive windows fill the main living space with natural light, highlighting the inviting fireplace and open layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Two private suites on the main level provide a peaceful sanctuary, while the spacious deck invites quiet mornings and relaxed evenings surrounded by fresh mountain air. Downstairs, entertainment and relaxation take center stage with a vibrant game room, additional sleeping space, and easy access to a private outdoor haven. A soothing hot tub, barrel sauna, and fire pit create an ideal setting for unwinding under the stars. Thoughtfully equipped for year-round enjoyment and located just minutes from outdoor adventures, this mountain getaway delivers an exceptional balance of recreation, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

Our promise

Satisfaction Guarantee

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

Sugar Mountain Resort is a 7-minute walk. The property sits close enough to the slopes that ski-in access is realistic in season — a genuine convenience for winter stays.
Views of Grandfather Mountain from the main level. A wall of windows frames the view from the living area, with a gas log fireplace and deck with outdoor seating and a grill at the same level.
Three king suites, each with its own bathroom. The lower-level suite adds a set of twin-over-twin bunks alongside the king bed, making it the natural room for kids in the group.
Private hot tub and fire pit on the lower patio. Both are accessed directly from the lower level; the hot tub was newly installed.
Game room on the lower level with air hockey, foosball, and a PS4 — sharing the floor with the third suite and washer/dryer.
A bottle of wine and two glasses from Grandfather Winery are included with every booking. A small but well-considered touch for a mountain arrival.
The driveway requires 4WD or high-clearance. This is flagged consistently and is worth planning for, especially in winter conditions — a low-clearance vehicle is not recommended.
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
Air conditioning
Dryer
Fireplace
Internet
Washer
Outdoor
Outdoor grill
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Firepit
Garden/Backyard
Balcony
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

Ski fitting + delivery

Pre-arrival groceries

Pre-arrival groceries

Private chef

Private chef

Alcohol delivery

Alcohol delivery

Private driver

Private driver

Charcuterie board delivery

Charcuterie board delivery

Bedroom details

Bedroom 1 - Main/Upper Level: King
Bedroom 2 - Main/Upper Level: King
Bedroom 3 - Lower/Ground Level: Single Over Single Bunk + King

Location

Inside the destination

Neighborhood: Grouse Forest II - Located less than 10 minutes by car from Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, this exceptional property offers unparalleled access to thrilling slopes during the winter months, and in the summer, bring your mountain bike and conquer the trails for an unforgettable adventure.

Parking information

Garage is not available for guests.

Getting to the property

AWD/4WD is required to access this home. The driveway is paved, but a steep climb up.

We're here to help

Whether you have questions on this home or want us to source other options, we're a message away!

Reviews

David

We absolutely loved sitting at the fire pit while enjoying the gorgeous view of grandfather mountain. All the beds were comfortable and the house well stocked with necessary supplies. The two 6-year-olds love the game room and even though it rained off and on there were board games to play, gas fire pit and hot tub on the deck to enjoy. The location was great with access to several wineries, some nice restaurants, live music, fun hikes with waterfalls and Tweetsie for the kids. Great family experience.!! Great rental agent and hosts - thank you!!

Policies

Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Renter's age: 25+ years old
No smoking allowed
No events allowed
Pets allowed by request

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

Guests with large groups may also rent Ursa Minor, which is next door to 1st in Sugar.

Firewood for the outdoor firepit may be purchased at the time of booking or with a week's notice. You'll receive two kiln-dried bundles and a firestarter for $25 plus tax.

Homeowner provides a pack n play, high chair, and a gate at the top of the stairs for little ones.

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.