Vacation rentals in Highlands
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Highlands
Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
Vacation rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Highlands vacation rentals
House rentals in Highlands
Home in Cullowhee
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 275 reviewsBeautiful Mountain Home
Home in Brevard
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviewsNEW! Historic Downtown. Tannery House, 2bedr
Home in Cullowhee
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviewsThe Roy Tritt House - Historic Farm House Getaway
Home in Whittier
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews3 Bedroom 5 mins to the Casino.Centrally located!!
Home in Brevard
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 178 reviewsBrand New! Cozy cottage
Home in Highlands
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviewsPar’s Heavenly Highlands
Home in Candler
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 341 reviewsCozy Country Home
Home in Brevard
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviewsLa Casa Azul (Biking, Hiking, Fishing, Waterfalls)
Other great vacation rentals in Highlands
Cabin in Bryson City
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 48 reviewsUnique Stay - 5 Star - Great Location - "Grounded"
Cabin in Franklin
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviewsSmoky Mountain Cabin
Guesthouse in Maggie Valley
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviewsSpectacular Great Smokey Mountains Views
Cabin in Topton
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 239 reviewsRomantic, lake view, hot tub, ping-pong ,billiards
Cabin in Bryson City
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviewsMountain Memories Cabin/Great Smoky Mountains
Cabin in Rosman
5 out of 5 average rating, 45 reviewsPaws for S'more Sunsets! near Brevard w/EV charger
Cabin in Almond
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 216 reviewsPet Friendly, Hot Tub, Fireplace, Grill, Lake.
Townhouse in Salem
5 out of 5 average rating, 58 reviewsDog-Friendly Lake Keowee: Pools, Hike, Golf, Boat
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Highlands
Total rentals
200 properties
Nightly prices starting at
$90 before taxes and fees
Total number of reviews
8.5K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
150 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
80 properties allow pets
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
80 properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to Highlands
All About Highlands
Highlands is one of the highest towns east of the Mississippi River, located within North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest. The surrounding Appalachian Mountains offer miles of hiking trails where you just may catch a deer drinking from a nearby stream, or raccoons meandering near a rushing waterfall. Occasionally people have reported seeing black bears in this rich ecosystem, which is home to a variety of birds as well.
While the area is known for its serene outdoor atmosphere, Highlands’ Main Street and the nearby town of Cashiers boast an assortment of unique shops and dining experiences. Clothing boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and bookstores line the wide sidewalks. Many of the restaurants feature live music, craft beers, local wines, and an eclectic menu of local produce courtesy of the fertile mountain soil.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Highlands
Due to Highlands’ elevation among the Appalachian Mountains, the summers remain cool and pleasant, making May through September the perfect time to book a Highlands vacation rental. You can enjoy the numerous hiking paths, as well as the outdoor dining opportunities available during this time. As the temperatures drop for the winter months, switch gears for ice skating and snow tubing. Warm clothes and waterproof boots will be necessary during this time, as snowfall is common during Highlands’ winter months. In addition to the regular activities found in Highlands, numerous events are held throughout the year. A multi-day music festival in April features performances from a variety of genres. The Highlands Food and Wine Festival is another popular event held in November, featuring an assortment of delicious food and wine, and more live music.
Top things to do in Highlands
Highlands Nature Center
The Highlands Nature Center features year-round exhibits, interactive displays, and special events that focus on the unique biodiversity of the southern Appalachian region. The onsite botanical gardens showcase nearly 500 species of wildflowers, mosses, ferns, shrubs, and trees. The wooded trails around the center’s lake and pond provide visitors with the chance to see some of the local wildlife.
Dry Falls
Located just minutes outside of Highlands, Dry Falls is a stunning 80-foot waterfall. The paved pathway from the parking lot makes Dry Falls easily accessible. Due to the way the water flows from the overhead cliff, you could have the unique experience of walking behind the falling water without getting wet, although when the rain volume is higher than normal, you just might get sprayed.
Secret Falls
Commonly referred to as Big Shoals Falls, this hidden 50-foot waterfall is located just 6.5 miles from downtown Highlands on Big Creek. The half-mile trail from the parking lot to the waterfall is only marked with one staked sign and blue rectangles on the trees, adding to the clandestine feel of the falls. Once you make the hike, a small sandy beach will be waiting for you, with shallow creek waters providing a place to wade and swim while enjoying the cascading waters from above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular amenities for Cottage Rentals in Highlands?
Enhance your stay in our Cottage Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 10 homes with a bbq area, over 20 homes with air conditioning, over 20 homes with wifi, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Highlands?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 80 vacation rentals in Highlands featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Highlands?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Highlands. Choose from more than 80 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
Are there family-friendly vacation rentals in Highlands?
Highlands has more than 150 family-friendly stays. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.
Do cottage rentals in Highlands have wifi?
Absolutely! We offer over 20 cottage rentals with wifi in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
How much does it cost to stay in hotel rentals in Highlands?
Experience the best of Highlands with our hotel rentals, starting at about $120 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
Do house rentals in Highlands have a bbq area?
Absolutely! We offer over 70 house rentals with a bbq area in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do cottage rentals in Highlands have air conditioning?
Absolutely! We offer over 20 cottage rentals with air conditioning in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
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