Cottage vacation rentals in McDowell County

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Top-rated cottage rentals in McDowell County

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Guest favorite

A charming studio apartment features a spacious front porch with a deck, surrounded by vibrant flower beds with colorful blooms. The gravel driveway leads to a welcoming facade, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and rolling hills.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 223 reviews

Celo Valley Retreat, with Awesome View

One of the most beautiful views in the whole valley, very close to rivers, streams, waterfalls, fishing, hiking, state parks, and more. Located in a private, quiet country neighborhood with little traffic. This 530 Sq. Ft. studio apartment has an additional 10 Ft. x 20 Ft. deck/balcony out front overlooking the Celo Valley with a spectacular view of the Celo and Black Mountain ranges (see photos). This apt. has its own private entrance. Sorry, we must maintain a no pet policy, no exceptions.

Top guest favorite

A cozy cottage is surrounded by vibrant flower gardens featuring yellow coneflowers and pink blooms. Potted plants adorn the windows, and a small white picket fence lines the property. The lush greenery offers a tranquil setting, inviting a sense of privacy and seclusion.

Cottage in Little Switzerland

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 442 reviews

High Cottage Retreat At 3500ft

Discover the perfect blend of cozy comfort and breathtaking adventure at our cottage. Nestled high on the Blue Ridge Parkway, at a refreshing 3500ft elevation, this getaway offers unparalleled tranquility. Imagine sipping your morning coffee on the private deck, gazing at a sea of stars in the crisp mountain air. While you'll feel miles away from it all, you're a short stroll from charming local restaurants and shops. Explore the world-renowned Penland School of Craft, Toe River Arts studios.

Top guest favorite

The cottage is viewed from the path, showcasing its covered porch which features natural wooden railing. Surrounded by lush greenery, the tranquil setting highlights the harmony between the structure and the forested environment.

Cottage in Black Mountain

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviews

Clear Branch Cottage

Clear Branch Cottage is 750 sq. feet with 180 sq. feet of covered porch totally surrounded by forest, which can be enjoyed sitting on the porch or inside with large picture windows and views throughout. It has one bedroom with a queen bed, and a trundle bed with 2 single mattresses. A comfortable living room with mid century decor adjoins the well equipped kitchen. The porch has a dining table with additional seating. The private backyard has a gas grill, plenty of seating and a fire ring.

Guest favorite

The image captures a tranquil scene with a cozy house set against a backdrop of rolling mountains. Lush green grass leads to the home, surrounded by trees and shrubs. A soft orange and blue sky indicates sunset, adding a serene touch to the landscape.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

Stunning Mountain Retreat – 25% off Monthly Stays

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour from Asheville, and a few miles from Mt. Mitchell, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest is Celo Farm, a 100-acre property boasting panoramic mountain views, numerous walking trails through fields and forests, and river access, providing tranquility and rejuvenation for the body and the mind. Relax and unwind in the beautifully appointed and spacious cottage or explore the area’s many scenic and cultural attractions.

Top guest favorite

The cottage is illuminated by soft outdoor lighting, highlighting its rustic wooden façade. A spacious deck features a seating area, with guests gathering around a table. Surrounding greenery contrasts with the cozy warmth of the structure against the night sky.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 22 reviews

River Bliss: 4 Season Healing Sanctuary + Retreat

Just a few moments sitting in the presence of this pristine river + you will feel your entire nervous system calm + ground. Seasonal meals + massage as an add-on! 2 private river spots steps away; shallow sandy beach + deep swimming hole! House is open + filled with beauty, perfect for a creative retreat to rekindle your connection to the earth + your heart. Open living concept, cherry bar, outdoor kitchen, herbal tea, majestic trees, clean spring water, gardens! No fragrance. No parties.

Superhost

A serene lakeside scene is captured from above, showcasing the private dock with a blue roof extending into the clear water. Surrounding trees provide a lush green backdrop, while a couple of boats are seen anchored nearby, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Cottage in Marion

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 19 reviews

Dockside Delight @Lake James

Dockside Delight is a charming, century-old cottage nestled into a quiet cove around the corner from Bear Creek Marina on Lake James. Distant enough for peace and quiet yet close enough by land or lake to a lively night out, food, or boat/jet ski rental. Play, swim, canoe, sunbathe and relax all day. Eat dinner on the lakeside deck and soak in the beautiful views as the sun goes down before building a campfire in the perfect fire pit. The quintessential lakefront vacation experience!

The entrance to The Fox Den is framed by lush greenery and vibrant pink flowers. A charming sign labeled 'Fox Den' is situated near the pathway, leading to the wooden deck. The inviting exterior features a blend of natural elements and rustic architecture.

Cottage in Burnsville

4.73 out of 5 average rating, 249 reviews

"Fox Den"Peaceful Mountain Cottage

"The Fox Den" -now limited to 2 persons total. A whole house instead of a motel room Wow! Great for a couple, 2 friends, or parent-child catch-up. Enjoy large deck with gazebo that feels like a treehouse above mountain stream, wood interior, fast wi-fi, kitchen, full bath, outdoor shower, 2 bedrooms, 2 swings, fire pit, and Japanese garden. Nestled in a valley, just below Deep Gap on the Black Mountain Ridge Crest Trail that leads to Mount Mitchell, tallest mountain east of the Rockies.

Top guest favorite

The cottage features an octagonal design with natural wood siding and a stone base. A wooden ramp leads to the entrance, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. The structure showcases large windows that invite natural light, enhancing the welcoming exterior.

Cottage in Nebo

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 217 reviews

The Mothership

Welcome to the Mothership, an octagonal post and beam cottage built for those with a love of the outdoors. Located on our small farm in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, we are a perfect launching point for adventure. Lake James and the Linville Gorge are only 20 minutes away, Asheville 45 minutes, and Charlotte only an hour. Explore countless waterfalls, miles of trails, or kayak our beautiful rivers during the day, and relax in the hot tub and shoot pool in the evening.

Guest favorite

The cottage features a bright yellow exterior with a front porch adorned with a red umbrella. A gravel pathway leads to the entrance, framed by green landscaping. Rolling hills with trees are visible in the background, contributing to the serene rural atmosphere.

Cottage in Burnsville

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 75 reviews

Vintage Cottage

This small vintage cottage is perfect for two people, It is located 5 minutes outside of town. It is centrally located about 1 hour from Boone NC, Asheville NC, and Johnson City TN. It is close to Mt Mitchell and Roan MT. There is hiking, biking, gem mining, tubing, rafting, fly fishing, or just sightseeing and relaxing in a small southern town. There are many craftsmen and potters in the area also. The property is a peaceful place to end your day of activities in the area.

Superhost

A hot tub is positioned on a shaded patio, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. A glass of red wine rests on the edge, reflecting the serene atmosphere of the wooded area. Clear blue skies enhance the tranquil setting.

Cottage in Spruce Pine

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviews

Hot Tub+Fire Pit, Mtn Sunsets, Fireplace & Grill!

Welcome to beautiful Sunset Mountain Lodge, a 3-bedroom (plus a loft), two-bath home, on a secluded six acres of property with stunning sunset views. Relax and unwind on the large porch overlooking the mountains, enjoy hiking on the property, soak in the hot tub, or roast marshmallows by the fire pit. The house is close to many area attractions, grocery stores, and great restaurants, with downtown Spruce Pine and Burnsville nearby. This is the perfect mountain getaway!

Top guest favorite

A charming cabin is set amidst lush greenery, featuring a long pathway leading to its entrance. The front porch is partially visible, with stairs leading up to it. A stone patio and seating area are located in the background, surrounded by trees.

Cottage in Bakersville

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 146 reviews

The Red House at Penland

Located just steps from the campus of Penland School of Crafts, the Red House is ideal for students who want a private space with cooking facilities. The perfect lodging for couples, with either one or both enrolled in a Penland class. Also an ideal location for visiting galleries and the many area artists' studios or exploring the surrounding attractions such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan Mountain, Linville Falls, and other scenic attractions in Western North Carolina.

Top guest favorite

A cabin is nestled among lush greenery, featuring a wooden deck that wraps around the front. The exterior showcases natural wood tones, complemented by vibrant red foliage. Tall trees create a serene backdrop under a partly cloudy sky.

Cottage in Nebo

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

Whippoorwill Retreat, Nebo NC

Come escape to beautiful views of the mountains to a relaxing/secluded hideaway in the woods to unwind with nature/star gazing. We have a great walk to Lake James. We are nestled at the bottom of Linville Gorge where you can swim/hike/mountain bike. We are 1 1/2miles to Fonta Flora brewery and to Paddys Creek State Park. We have access to Fonta Flora Trail. Morganton/Marion have lots of great restaurants. We are a 1hr drive to Asheville/Boone.