Skytop Retreat
A breathtaking mountain escape showcases panoramic 50-mile layered views over the Johns River Gorge, creating a truly unforgettable setting from nearly every room. Thoughtfully designed for both comfort and elegance, the home welcomes with a spacious dining area perfect for gathering, flowing seamlessly into a dramatic great room with soaring ceilings, a stone fireplace, and expansive glass doors that frame the ever-changing mountain backdrop. The chef’s kitchen is equally impressive, featuring high-end appliances, granite countertops, and a large island that invites connection, whether preparing a quiet meal or hosting a lively evening. The lower level offers a relaxed atmosphere for entertainment, complete with a media area, classic games, and direct access to outdoor spaces where the scenery takes center stage. Multiple sleeping areas, including private suites and a charming loft, provide flexibility and comfort, while spa-inspired bathrooms add a touch of indulgence. Outside, decks invite moments of stillness and awe, from morning coffee with sweeping views to evenings spent unwinding in the hot tub beneath the stars. This exceptional retreat captures the essence of elevated mountain living, where natural beauty and refined comfort come together seamlessly.
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
Bedroom details
Location
Inside the destination
Neighborhood: Grandfather Mountain Heights - A spectacular home overlooking the Johns River Gorge and offering 50-mile layered mountain views from nearly every room.
Parking information
- There is a garage with room for 2 cars, and room for 2 more cars to park outside. A max of 4 cars may be parked in and at the property. Absolutely no more than 2 cars may park outside the house at any time. - It is a shared driveway, so please do not block the neighbor's access. The road to the house is one-lane, and cars may not park anywhere along the road. Guests are expected to be respectful of area residents when driving and walking in the neighborhood.
Getting to the property
This home is accessed by a very steep gravel road. 4WD or AWD vehicles are absolutely required year-round, and during winter months chains may also be necessary. All guests going to Skytop Retreat must drive respectfully and slowly through the neighborhood.
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Reviews
Laura
The property exceeded our expectations and the pictures do not do it justice. The views from every room were stunning. The house was exceptionally clean and stocked with anything you need. Four wheel drive is definitely a bonus since the road to the house is not paved. We will most certainly stay here again.
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
Internet is Starlink; users typically experience download speeds between 25 and 220 Mbps, with a majority of users experiencing speeds over 100 Mbps. Upload speeds are typically between 5 and 20 Mbps. Latency ranges between 25 and 60 ms. These speeds make Starlink suitable for streaming, video calls, online gaming, and other typical household internet use.
Depending on your carrier, your cell phone may or may not work in this location. Verizon is the best coverage here, and if your plan supports it, you can use your phone as a hotspot.
Towels and linens will be provided.
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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