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North Carolina | Watauga County

Whispering Willow

3 bedrooms·3.5 bathrooms·10 guests
Mountains

Surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery on three private acres, this beautifully renovated log cabin blends rustic charm with thoughtfully elevated comforts for an unforgettable Blue Ridge escape. Expansive windows and soaring ceilings fill the home with natural light while showcasing breathtaking mountain views throughout the open-concept living spaces. Warm wood finishes, cozy fireplaces, and inviting gathering areas create a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors. The chef-inspired kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and every convenience needed for memorable meals and cozy nights in. Multiple lounge spaces, including a quiet reading room and loft overlooking the mountains, provide the perfect balance of connection and retreat for families and groups alike. Entertainment and outdoor living are woven into every corner of the property. The spacious lower level offers a lively recreation area complete with air hockey, foosball, card games, and additional gathering space centered around another fireplace. Outside, expansive wraparound decks invite peaceful mornings with coffee and evenings spent taking in the fresh mountain air. A private hot tub inside the gazebo, Adirondack chairs gathered around the firepit, and multiple outdoor seating areas create unforgettable spaces for relaxing beneath the stars. Conveniently close to year-round High Country adventures while offering complete privacy and tranquility, this mountain retreat delivers the perfect setting for reconnecting, unwinding, and experiencing the beauty of the Blue Ridge 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

3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, sleeps 10 — a fully renovated log cabin on 3 private acres in Sugar Grove, near Valle Crucis. The main level has a king suite and a reading room with gas log fireplace; the upper loft adds a second king suite with panoramic views; the lower level has a queen suite and a large bunk/rec room. The 20-foot vaulted great room with a wall of windows and a wrap-around deck makes a strong first impression.
The kitchen is exceptionally well-stocked. Granite counters, gas range, wooden island, and a setup that includes bakeware, an air fryer, an Instant Pot, a crockpot, and s'mores sticks — genuinely prepared for a group that wants to cook.
Private hot tub in a gazebo, wood-burning fire pit, and gas grill. Three distinct outdoor elements across the property. The driveway doubles as cornhole space for groups that want to use it — a minor but regularly mentioned perk.
Near the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. The store is a High Country landmark worth knowing about — hardware, dry goods, and an old-fashioned candy counter. Boone is about 20 minutes; Blowing Rock and Banner Elk are both accessible as day trips.
The driveway is steep and paved. Manageable in most conditions, but 4WD or AWD is required November–March, and chains may be necessary. Plan accordingly if arriving in winter.
Not pet-friendly. The adjacent property Mountaineer Manor is available to rent alongside this one for larger groups. Starter supplies are well-stocked; Valle Crucis and Boone both have grocery options nearby. KEY.co can arrange delivery before you arrive.

Amenities

Indoor
Air fryer
Air hockey table
Bakeware
Crockpot
Foosball table
Outdoor
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Outdoor grill
Firepit
Gazebo
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 - Main Level: King
Bedroom 2 - Upper Level: King
Bedroom 3 - Lower Level: Queen
Rec Room - Lower Level: Two Single Over Single Bunks
Loft: Daybed

Location

Inside the destination

Neighborhood: Valle Crucis - Quietly nestled on 3 acres of land.

Parking information

This home has a steep, paved driveway.

Getting to the property

The main roads are plowed in winter, but 4WD or AWD vehicles are required from November to March, and chains may also be necessary to access all properties in winter months.

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

Cheryl

We had a wonderful stay at Whispering Willow. This house has it all and it is so well laid out and comfortable. Lots of room for us all to spread out. The beds were comfortable and the game choices from corn hole to air hockey were great! Enjoyed both the gas fireplaces inside and the fire pit outside. The location was both quiet and private. We were even visited by a family of dear almost every day. We will definitely return. Highly Recommend!

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

Firewood may be added at the time of booking or by reaching out to us more than a week in advance. You'll get two wrapped bundles of kiln-dried wood and a firestarter for $25/night.

This home has a Doorbell camera monitoring the entryway only; no other cameras are present at this property.

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.