Fern Ridge Lodge
Set on over two private acres in an exclusive mountain lake community, this remarkable retreat blends refined luxury with the serenity of the Blue Ridge landscape. Surrounded by fern-covered forest at a refreshing high elevation, the home showcases exceptional craftsmanship, from rich walnut flooring and custom woodwork to curated art and elegant finishes throughout. Expansive living spaces are designed for both comfort and connection, featuring soaring ceilings, grand fireplaces, and walls of windows that frame seasonal mountain views. A chef’s kitchen with premium appliances and generous seating flows effortlessly into indoor and outdoor dining areas, while covered decks invite relaxed evenings immersed in nature. Thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and recreation, the home offers multiple gathering spaces, including a lower-level lounge with a wet bar, fireplace, and an array of entertainment options. Outdoors, a private hot tub, spacious seating areas, and a striking stone fire pit create an inviting setting beneath the stars. Just a short stroll leads to a pristine mountain lake and miles of scenic trails, while nearby Blowing Rock offers charming shops, dining, and year-round activities. Every detail comes together to create an elevated mountain experience that is both peaceful and unforgettable.
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
Amenities
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.
Bedroom details
Location
Inside the destination
Neighborhood: Sweetgrass - Fern Ridge Lodge is a distinctive, luxury mountain home on 2.25 acres in Sweetgrass, Blowing Rock's premier mountain lake community. Sweetgrass features extraordinary lake and hiking amenities that combine with this spectacular lodge to create the absolute perfect vacation experience. Nestled in a forest blanketed with ferns next to the Blue Ridge Parkway at an elevation of 3500 ft., Fern Ridge Lodge offers relaxed, upscale elegance that is sure to surpass your expectations. - 5-minute walk to Sweetgrass Lake, and extensive hiking trails. - Within the neighborhood is Boone Fork Creek, which winds through the middle of Sweetgrass and has been designated as a North Carolina Outstanding Trout Stream. Just a little ways up the road at the heart of SweetGrass is the 22-acre lake fed by Boone Fork Creek! Bring your own canoes/kayaks and paddles to enjoy this beautiful lake. - Sweetgrass features beautiful mountain vistas, a lake and stream, and miles of pristine mountain trails, which are perfect for hiking, riding, and biking. At Sweetgrass you'll find a mountain playground like no other. The springtime is ablaze with wildflowers, the summers are filled with warm days and cool nights, which are perfect for daytime outdoor adventures and evenings around the firepit, fall's foliage is absolutely stunning, and the snows of winter transform the area into a picturesque winter wonderland. - There are also a variety of festivals, community events, upscale shops, and gourmet restaurants to enjoy in Blowing Rock. - Located just 2 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 12 minutes from Main Street Blowing Rock, 15 minutes from Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park and Appalachian Ski Resort, 20 minutes from Boone and Grandfather Mountain, 30 minutes to Hawksnest and Sugar Mountain, you may find that Fern Ridge Lodge is your new favorite place to call home.
Parking information
ATVs are not permitted on the hiking trails.
Getting to the property
4WD/AWD and/or chains are recommended during winter (Nov-March) for all homes. 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
Marcie
This was our 3rd year renting this beautiful home for an annual girls trip, and we absolutely love this property! We cook breakfast and dinner every morning and evening in the chef's dream of a kitchen- it is so well stocked! Another feature we appreciate is the multiple thermostats so everyone can be comfortable. The pictures accurately depict the rooms and decor- it is beautifully maintained. Our group is already looking forward to next year at Fern Ridge Lodge. Thank you!
Policies
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
There are 3 gas log fireplaces operational October-April each year.
Firewood may be added by reaching out to us more than a week in advance. You get two wrapped bundles and a firestarter for $25/night.
The hot tub temperature will remain set at 101* at all times and cannot be adjusted.
The owners use outdoor surveillance cameras to ensure that their home remains safe. No cameras monitor the inside rooms of the home.
Sweetgrass is an environmentally conscious community that observes a catch-and-release fishing policy to ensure a sustained fish population.
The Sweetgrass neighborhood is a peaceful haven, and therefore does not permit firearm discharge, fireworks, golf carts, dirt bikes, four-wheelers, loud music, or other objectionable noises that disrupt the quiet enjoyment of the natural environment
Rental guests have access to the grounds around the lake house, all hiking trails, and may fish in the lake. Guests are not permitted inside the lake house or on its patio.
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.
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