Highlands vacation rentals
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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
Stay near Highlands's top sights
Highlands house rentals
Home in Hayesville
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 339 reviewsCozy Mill Creek Cottage with fantastic view
Home in Otto
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviewsCabin/relax to raging rapids/hiking trail/secluded
Home in Franklin
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 218 reviewsCabin / Cottage in Franklin, The Rusty Nail
Home in Franklin
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviewsRussell Highlands Cabin Hideaway
Home in Highlands
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviewsPar’s Heavenly Highlands
Home in Glenville
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 173 reviewsAlmost Heaven Overlooking Lake
Home in Clayton
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 333 reviewsThe Extra House
Home in Clayton
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviewsCreekside Cabin - Walk to Downtown
Other great vacation rentals in Highlands
Cabin in Otto
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 225 reviewsAppalachian Container Cabin
Tiny home in Franklin
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 137 reviewsA Tiny Paw's (pause) A peaceful pause from life
Cabin in Glenville
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 160 reviewsCharming Cottage by Lake Glenville
Cottage in Highlands
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviewsMountain Rest
Cabin in Candler
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviewsCreek-Front Cozy Tiny Cabin
Cabin in Franklin
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 267 reviewsPrivate Mountaintop Cabin with Gorgeous View
Cottage in Cashiers
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 308 reviewsRomantic bark covered cottage-close to everything!
Cabin in Almond
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 445 reviewsBlue Haven Cabin
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Highlands
Total rentals
200 properties
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
80 properties have a dedicated workspace
Pet-friendly rentals
80 properties allow pets
Family-friendly rentals
140 properties are a good fit for families
Total number of reviews
7.8K reviews
Nightly prices starting at
$80 before taxes and fees
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
How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Highlands?
Experience the best of Highlands with our house rentals, starting at about $110 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
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.
What are the most popular amenities for House Rentals in Highlands?
Enhance your stay in our House Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 50 homes with self check-in, over 90 homes with wifi, over 70 homes with a bbq area, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.
Do house rentals in Highlands have self check-in?
Absolutely! We offer over 50 house rentals with self check-in in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do house rentals in Highlands have wifi?
Absolutely! We offer over 90 house rentals with wifi in Highlands. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
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.
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 house rentals in Highlands?
Highlands has more than 90 family-friendly house rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.
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