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North Carolina | Watauga County

Whispering Willow

3 bedrooms·3.5 bathrooms·10 guests

Nestled in a serene 3-acre haven, Whispering Willow is a haven of tranquility and luxury. This exquisitely renovated log cabin, set against the backdrop of gentle mountain vistas, offers a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. The journey begins upon entering the main level, greeted by a magnificent wall of windows framing the peaceful mountain views. The grandeur of the 20-foot ceiling in the living room, complemented by a lofted great room with plush leather sofas, beckons for relaxation. Entertainment is at your fingertips with a large smart TV equipped with SkyLine services. The culinary heart of the cabin, the kitchen, is a chef's dream with new stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a variety of modern gadgets including an air fryer and InstaPot. Meals can be enjoyed at the spacious dining table or the kitchen bar, ensuring every moment is shared in comfort and style. The cabin's thoughtful layout includes a cozy reading room with a gas log fireplace on the main level, leading to a covered deck for intimate outdoor moments. The first King Suite, a sanctuary of comfort, offers a private retreat with a smart TV and an adjoining bathroom. Ascend to the upper level, where a loft overlooks stunning mountain scenery, complete with a couch and desk for those inspired moments. The opulent Master King Suite is a testament to luxury, featuring a gas log fireplace, a Juliet balcony, and an expansive bathroom with a walk-in stone shower and dual vanities. The adventure continues on the lower level, home to a vibrant bunkroom and recreation area. Here, guests can enjoy lively games of air hockey, Foosball, or cards, making it an ideal spot for entertainment. The Queen Suite on this level provides a private escape with its smart TV and bath, leading out to the inviting lower-level patio. Outside, the expansive deck offers multiple seating areas to soak in the breathtaking mountain views. The wood-burning fire pit and the new hot tub in the gazebo are perfect for relaxing under the stars, while the gas grill awaits for al fresco dining experiences. Whispering Willow is more than a cabin; it's a destination where memories are made, surrounded by nature's majestic 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

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 Hockey Table
Keurig Coffee Machine
Game table
Foosball
Dryer
Outdoor
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Outdoor grill
Firepit
Gazebo
Misc
WiFi

Bedroom details

Bedroom 1: King
Bedroom 2: King
Bedroom 3: Queen
Rec Room: Two Single Over Single Bunks

Location

Inside the destination

Neighborhood: Valle Crucis - Located next to Mountaineer Manor and very close to Enchanted Forest Retreat. - This home has a steep, paved driveway. The main roads are plowed in winter, but 4WD or AWD vehicles are required November-March, and chains may also be necessary to access all properties in winter months.

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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.

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.

Stocked kitchens with all utensils needed to cook meals.

Towels and linens will be provided.

We do not provide hair dryers.

Hot tubs are professionally serviced between rentals.

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.