Experience the finest among North Carolina Vacation Rentals in Highlands NC at The Lakehouse on Lake Glenville in Cashiers

Planning a trip to to the Great Smoky Mountains? Located in the North Carolina mountains and right in the midst of the Great Smoky Mountains near Cashiers, within a few miles of each other, are the smallest Post Office in the United States (1903-53) and the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, Whitewater Falls.

Built by Thomas Grimshawe, stamp collectors and enthusiasts from around the world wrote at the Post Office to get their letters postmarked with the Grimshawe’s postmark. The building still stands today and is easy to reach from our luxury mountain lake lodge.

Whitewater Falls plunges 411 feet, in two distinct steps. It’s an easy walk on the paved trail for an excellent view of this big, impressive waterfall. Located in Jackson County, it is designated a North Carolina Natural Heritage Area. A favorite spot for a western North Carolina day trip, the falls are less than an hour’s drive from our Lakehouse.

The history and culture of the Appalachian people can be found everywhere, from the ancient Cherokee to the Waldensians to modern day settlers. Visit the Cherokee Heritage Center and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and see the outdoor drama, “Unto These Hills” to learn more about the proud heritage of these Native Americans. The Folk Art Center in Asheville is home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild which displays the works of artists and crafters steeped in Appalachian traditions.

Writers and actors have always found the North Carolina mountains inspiring. Author Thomas Wolfe made his home in Asheville, while Historic Hendersonville and Flat Rock were home to poet Carl Sandburg. Here too is where you’ll find the Flat Rock Playhouse: State Theatre of North Carolina, offering a full season of professional theater from April to October and classes year-round.

Cullowhee’s Western Carolina University has a new $30,000,000 Fine and Performing Arts Center bringing a variety of performances from the award-winning jazz of T.S. Monk and Alvin Ailey’s American Dance Theatre to Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home companion and Shakespeare to the mountains.

Not far from the Lakehouse is the traditional southern resort town of Highlands. Here you’ll find the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, a great place to pamper yourself and unwind. Nearby Asheville also has a number of luxurious spas including the historic Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa.

So, whether it’s immersing yourself in Appalachian culture, luxuriating in a world-class spa, or just enjoying the view, you’re sure to find an escape to the North Carolina mountains will take you to new heights. Our luxury mountain lake lodge is the perfect place for exploring the mountains in 2010.