Paws a While - Image 1
Paws a While - Image 2
Paws a While - Image 71
1/71
North Carolina | Banner Elk

Paws a While

6 bedrooms·3 bathrooms·16 guests
Mountains

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the mountains, just a stone's throw from Boone and Blowing Rock, lies "Paws A While," a splendid retreat perfect for large gatherings and family getaways. This 6-bedroom haven comfortably accommodates up to 16 guests, making it an ideal spot for reunions, celebrations, or simply a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The home's inviting atmosphere is further enhanced by its pet-friendly policy, welcoming your four-legged companions to join in the fun. The interior of "Paws A While" exudes warmth and charm, starting with the main level's great room. Vaulted ceilings, a stacked stone gas fireplace, and hardwood floors set a cozy ambiance, while a unique bear mural adds a whimsical touch. Entertainment is at your fingertips with a Smart HDTV, offering over 300 channels and streaming services. The kitchen, boasting granite countertops and stainless appliances, opens to a dining area that comfortably seats up to 14. The lower level unveils a world of fun with its pool table and another Smart HDTV, perfect for guests of all ages. The sleeping arrangements in "Paws A While" promise restful nights for everyone. The main level features a king and a queen bedroom sharing a bathroom, while the upper level hosts a king bedroom, a twin-over-twin bunk room, and a queen-over-queen bunk room sharing another bathroom. The lower level's queen bedroom, complete with an oversized jetted tub, offers a private retreat. Step outside to the expansive decks for a mesmerizing treehouse effect. Enjoy grilling, unwind in the hot tub, or gather around the firepit up the hill for an unforgettable evening under the stars. "Paws A While" is more than a vacation rental; it's a gateway to creating lasting memories in the heart of the mountains.

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

Six bedrooms across three levels sleep up to 16, with a mix of kings, queens, a twin-over-twin bunk, and a queen-over-queen bunk — well-configured for multi-family groups with kids.
The lower-level suite is a standout: a private queen bedroom with its own bathroom and an oversized jetted tub, making it the best room in the house for anyone who wants separation from the rest of the group.
Outdoor space is genuinely generous: a private hot tub, large deck with gas grill and mountain views through the tree canopy, and a separate grass area up the hill with a stone fire pit. Firewood is available as an add-on — request it more than a week out.
A pool table and gas fireplace with stacked stone surround anchor the main living area, which also has vaulted and tongue-in-groove ceilings, a dining table for 10, and four additional island seats.
Location puts you between Boone and Blowing Rock, each under 10 minutes away, with Appalachian Ski Mountain five minutes out. The driveway is steep — AWD or 4WD is required in winter, and chains may be needed in heavy snow.
Basic starter supplies are included; for a group this size, stocking up in town before arrival is worth building into arrival-day plans.

Amenities

Indoor
Fireplace
TV
Internet
Microwave
Pool table
Outdoor
Balcony
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Firepit
Outdoor grill
Garden/Backyard
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: King
Bedroom 2: Two Single Over Single Bunks
Bedroom 3: Double Over Single Bunk
Bedroom 4: King
Bedroom 5: Queen
Bedroom 6: Queen

Location

Inside the destination

- Located less than a mile and a half from Highway 321. - Boone and Blowing Rock are less than 10 minute drive away. - Appalachian Ski Mountain is only 5 minutes away.

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

Whitney

We had a great time for our annual mountain trip. Close to Blowing rock and very private!

Policies

Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
No smoking allowed
No events allowed
Pets welcome

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

AWD/4WD and potentially chains may be needed to access our homes during times of winter snow or ice. Please come safely.

We provide a starter set of toilet tissue, paper towels, bath toiletries, dish soap, and trash bags that is good 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.

Hot tubs are professionally serviced between rentals.

Stocked kitchens with all utensils needed to cook meals.

Towels and linens will be provided.

We do not provide hair dryers.

Firewood may be purchased at the time of booking or with a week's notice. You receive two wrapped, kiln-dried bundles and a fire starter for $25 plus tax per night.

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.