Western North Carolina Homes with a Guest House or In-Law Suite

MLS Number 1002404

• Residential
• Bedrooms 4
• Bathroom 6
• Acreage 0.76

Nestled on the slopes of Big Bear Pen Mountain and just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of downtown Highlands, NC, lies a gem of a property that's recently undergone a complete makeover. Introducing 656 Big Bear Pen Road: a stunningly renovated and professionally decorated haven (courtesy of Spruce Interiors) that promises comfort, style, and unparalleled mountain living. This exquisite property boasts a spacious four bedroom, five bath main home along with a charming one bedroom guest cottage, making it perfect for entertaining guests or indulging in some quiet time. The main residence is a marvel of modern design and rustic charm, featuring a grand great room with a large stone fireplace that invites cozy evenings and warm conversations. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the chef's kitchen, complete with a large island for gathering. The main level also houses the owner's suite, a guest bathroom, a cozy study/den for quieter moments, and a dining room for memorable meals. But the allure doesn't stop there. Step outside to the large covered porch with its own stone fireplace, or enjoy the tranquility from the deck off the back of the house. Upstairs, guests can enjoy their own private retreats in three beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. The separate guest house offers additional space and independence; it has a living room with a kitchenette, bedroom, and a full bathroom. This property has not only been a beloved home but also a successful vacation rental, grandfathered by the town of Highlands, adding to its appeal as a wise investment or a personal escape. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of paradise at 656 Big Bear Pen Road.

Listed by John Muir of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty - HF, W. Terry Potts of Country Club Properties

MLS Number 1003374

• Residential
• Bedrooms 5
• Bathroom 6
• Acreage 47.69

Some properties are defined by what has been built upon them. Others are defined by the land itself. Spanning 47.69 unrestricted acres with sweeping views of Whiteside Mountain, this private mountain estate offers a rare opportunity to own one of the Plateau's scarce combinations of usable acreage, exceptional privacy, and long-term potential. For generations, this property has served as a cherished gathering place where lasting memories are created, and the landscape is enjoyed with care. Today, it stands ready for its next chapter. A winding drive leads through open pasture and hardwood forest to two residences positioned to capture the mountain views and peaceful surroundings. The main home features three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a bonus room, gas-log fireplace, and an expansive deck overlooking the property and Whiteside Mountain beyond. A separate guest house offers two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a bonus room, full kitchen, and its own gas-log fireplace, creating comfortable accommodations for guests and extended stays. A detached two-car garage and private well with substantial capacity provide the infrastructure to enjoy the property immediately. The acreage is what truly distinguishes this offering. Gentle, rolling terrain, established trails, open meadows, and multiple potential homesites create endless possibilities for the future. Whether the vision is a thoughtfully updated mountain retreat, an equestrian property, a private compound, or a signature estate residence overlooking the pasture and mountain views, the foundation is already in place. While many large-acre properties require years of planning before they can be fully enjoyed, this one offers the opportunity to settle in from day one while thoughtfully considering what comes next. Just minutes from Mountaintop, GlenCove, Old Edwards Club, and the heart of Cashiers, the setting feels worlds away while remaining close to the area's most sought-after amenities. Timeless, enduring, and remarkably versatile, this is the kind of property that grows more meaningful with time. A place to gather, explore, and create a lasting legacy on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

Listed by Ali Moody and Kati Miller of Caliber Fine Properties

MLS Number 1003809

• Residential
• Bedrooms 6
• Bathroom 7
• Acreage 5.15

This unique retro home, designed by Joe Sam Queen, sits on over 5 acres in the Cedar High neighborhood. It offers magnificent east/southeast views of Cow Rock and Laurel Knob Mountains, as well as sweeping views into Sapphire Valley and beyond. Located above and west of Lonesome Valley and buttressed by rock walls, the elevated outdoor terrace features large, dramatic entertaining spaces, a fireplace, and outdoor kitchen. An all-copper clad front door leads to the foyer, which overlooks the home's common areas below. On this level are two guest bedrooms, each with its own bath. A massive stone fireplace anchors the "conversation pit" in the terrace-level great room, while the other end of the large room focuses on the view. Also on this level are the kitchen (with easy access to the outdoor space), a dining area, laundry, and two additional bedrooms with baths. A secret tunnel leads to the embanked garage, which is currently configured as a bunk room. The newer two-bedroom, two-bath guest house is tucked into the trees above the main home. It features its own kitchen and a living room centered around an architecturally designed stone fireplace. Guests can also enjoy the stone terrace and the convenience of the attached carport. The electronically gated and fenced property has hiking trails, a private well, two generators, and a paved driveway. While the home is ready for a new owner to make the updates and modifications needed for its next chapter, it remains incredibly convenient-located just three miles from the grocery store and the town of Cashiers.

Listed by Beth Townsend of Cashiers Sotheby's International Realty

MLS Number 1003209

• Residential
• Bedrooms 6
• Bathroom 6
• Acreage 1.65

Just minutes from Main Street in Highlands, yet tucked just outside the town limits, this fully furnished mountain retreat offers the rare balance of convenience, privacy, and unforgettable mountain charm. Whether you're searching for a personal getaway, full-time residence, or income-producing investment, this property is ready to enjoy from day one and currently operates as a successful vacation rental with an excellent rental history. Set on 1.65 picturesque acres, the property feels like your own private mountain sanctuary. A peaceful pond, cascading waterfalls, flowing stream, and cozy firepit create the perfect backdrop for relaxing evenings under the stars. Surrounded by native landscaping, flowering gardens, and mature trees, every corner of the property invites you to slow down and take in the beauty of the mountains. A circular driveway welcomes you home and provides easy access and additional parking, while the spacious 3-car garage includes a charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath guest house above, making it ideal for hosting family and friends in comfort and privacy. Inside, warm mountain character meets spacious, functional living. The large eat-in kitchen serves as the heart of the home, anchored by a wood-burning fireplace that creates the perfect gathering space after a day spent exploring Highlands. With a total of three fireplaces throughout the home, inviting spaces for gathering and relaxing can be found on every level. The expansive primary suite offers a private office, large walk-in closet, and a relaxing ensuite bath designed for unwinding at the end of the day. A second bedroom on the main level, along with two additional upstairs bedrooms, provides plenty of room for overnight guests. The terrace level adds even more flexibility with a spacious family room, sleeping area, full bath, and direct access to the backyard oasis. A fenced yard offers the perfect place for pets to roam or for enjoying cool mountain mornings surrounded by nature. The expansive back deck is made for mountain living and perfect for summer cookouts, morning coffee, or simply relaxing to the soothing sounds of the stream and waterfalls below. Additional features, including an encapsulated crawl space and whole-home generator, provide comfort and peace of mind year-round. Less than 3 miles from downtown Highlands, you'll enjoy easy access to boutique shopping, fine dining, and entertainment while still feeling worlds away.

Listed by Sarah Strawn and Nicole Ernst of Keller Williams Great Smokies

MLS Number 1003711

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 2
• Acreage 33.35

A rare combination of end-of-road privacy, long-range mountain views, and 33.53+/- unrestricted acres, this Highlands-area log cabin offers the kind of usable mountain land that is increasingly difficult to find. Surrounded on two sides by USFS land, the property feels quiet and protected, with a private pond, ample parking, a cleared trail across Flat Mountain Rd, and multiple potential homesites where selective tree limbing or clearing could open additional view opportunities. The 3-bedroom, 2-bath log cabin captures the character buyers seek in a true mountain retreat while offering the comfort and function needed for everyday use. Inside, warm wood walls, soaring ceilings, expansive windows, and layered natural textures create a relaxed, collected atmosphere. The great room is a dramatic yet welcoming gathering space, equally suited for intimate evenings or easy entertaining, with direct flow to a large deck wrapping three sides of the home. One side is covered and includes a porch swing, creating a quiet place to take in the ridgelines. The main level includes two guest bedrooms, a shared full bath, a laundry room, and an open kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a brand-new shower, walk-in closet, three attic access points for generous storage, and a small loft office area just outside the suite. The walkout basement adds meaningful flexibility, with a large unfinished area opening to a covered patio and a separate workshop with barn-style exterior doors for bringing equipment and materials in and out with ease. With no HOA and no restrictions, the land invites a wide range of uses: create a private mountain compound, explore additional homesites, enjoy hiking, camping, gardening, hunting, or simply preserve the acreage as a quiet retreat surrounded by nature. The original house remains on the property and could offer renovation potential as a guest house or short-term rental. Approximately 15 minutes to Highlands and 30 minutes to Cashiers, the property offers access to dining, shopping, Saturday Music on Pine, Bear Shadow, Groovin' on the Green, Plein Air events, nearby trails, waterfalls, and the refined mountain lifestyle of the Plateau. Rare acreage with this setting is limited; schedule your private showing soon.

Listed by Douglas Treadwell and Heather Ball of Mountain Life Real Estate,LLC

MLS Number 1002257

• Residential
• Bedrooms 5
• Bathroom 5
• Acreage 9.79

A truly one-of-a-kind mountain sanctuary, this 9.79-acre retreat is a must-see to fully appreciate its beauty, serenity, & unmatched sense of escape. Just minutes from the center of Cashiers, this mind-body-&-soul oasis lies within the private, paved community of Josh's Trail & enjoys its own exclusive gated entrance, offering the perfect blend of convenience & seclusion. At the heart of the property is a charming main home featuring 2 bedrooms, a bonus lofted area, an additional bonus room, 1 full bathroom, & a warm kitchen & dining space. The cozy living room invites you to unwind beside the wood-burning fireplace, while the kitchen & dining area below create an intimate atmosphere enhanced by a gas fireplace. A private guest suite with a full ensuite bathroom is connected via an open-air walkway, giving visitors comfort and privacy. Step outside and immerse yourself in the true essence of this retreat. Enjoy the outdoor shower, unwind in the hot tub, or melt stress away in the sauna. A striking double-sided outdoor fireplace anchors the expansive gathering area, complemented by a built-in grill-perfect for hosting while overlooking mountain views & the soothing stream-fed pond. Thoughtfully crafted forest trails wind through the property, complete with a bridge, solar lighting, & views of your own private waterfall cascading into the pond. Mature native plants line the pathways, creating a magical setting for morning strolls or twilight walks. A spacious fenced dog area ensures your four-legged companions have room to roam, & nearly every doorway opens to a deck where you can relax in the cool mountain air. A secondary guest house adds even more flexibility, offering a kitchenette, lofted living area, & half bath. The separate bedroom-accessible exclusively through its own outdoor entrance-features an ensuite bathroom & a luxurious copper soaking tub on the deck, creating a spa-like experience immersed in nature. All this, just minutes from dining, boutique shopping, & entertainment in the heart of Cashiers. Don't miss the chance to own this peaceful, private, & restorative mountain escape.

Listed by Sarah Strawn and Nicole Ernst of Keller Williams Great Smokies

MLS Number 1003296

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 4
• Acreage 0.29

Nestled in the heart of the mountains of Highlands, 94 Netsi Place offers the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and timeless mountain charm with beautiful views overlooking Mirror Lake. Surrounded by lush native landscaping and cool mountain air, this inviting retreat captures the essence of Highlands living. The home welcomes you with warm architectural details, spacious gathering areas, and seamless indoor-outdoor living designed for both relaxation and entertaining. A stunning stone fireplace anchors the main living space, creating the perfect setting for cozy evenings after a day in town or exploring the mountains. The well-appointed kitchen opens to comfortable dining and living areas, while generous outdoor decks and covered spaces invite year-round enjoyment of the serene surroundings. Whether enjoying morning coffee overlooking the lake or hosting friends by the fire, every space is designed to embrace the beauty of the Highlands lifestyle. Lower level is a blank canvas. It can be turned into an in-law suite, yoga or artist studio, man cave or work shop can be extended in flex space area. Lots of potential! Ideally located just minutes from the charming shops, dining, and cultural attractions of downtown Highlands, this exceptional property offers a rare opportunity to enjoy mountain living with both privacy and convenience. 94 Netsi Place is more than a home - it is a peaceful mountain retreat where lasting memories are made against the backdrop of Mirror Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Listed by Linda Conley of Howard Hanna Allen Tate - Wildcat Cliffs

MLS Number 1004047

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 2
• Acreage 1.04

Set among the beautiful mountain community of The Oaks which borders Glen Cove, this exceptional 2-lot property offers a rare opportunity in one of the most desirable locations between Highlands and Cashiers. Positioned near the entrance to Glen Cove and Norton Ridge by Old Edwards, the property provides excellent access to GlenCove, Old Edwards Highlands Cove, with Cashiers approximately 10 minutes away and Highlands just 15 minutes. The treasure here is the long-range mountain view. The 2 adjoining lots offer expansive mountain vistas, including beautiful views of Whiteside Mountain, Glen Cove & the surrounding mountain ranges. Cool mountain breezes, peaceful surroundings & a sense of privacy create the quintessential Highlands-Cashiers Plateau setting. The existing cottage features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a loft, with vaulted ceilings & a large stone fireplace all providing wonderful mountain character. A spacious outdoor deck takes full advantage of the setting & is an inviting place to relax, entertain or enjoy the spectacular views. A carport with storage & a separate storage building add useful space. The cottage is a great renovation opportunity & awaits your creativity to maximize the potential. Yet the existing structure, stonework, vaulted ceilings, fireplace & setting provide an exciting foundation for creating a distinctive mountain retreat. The second adjoining lot makes this property particularly compelling. Renovate the existing cottage & retain the additional lot for privacy, investment or a guest house, or build a new dream home designed specifically around the mountain views while utilizing the existing cottage as a guest residence. The possibilities are increasingly rare in this desirable area. The Oaks has experienced a remarkable transformation, with several established homes being thoughtfully renovated and even rebuilt. Its proximity to some of the area's finest luxury communities, along with the quality of renovations taking place nearby, has enhanced the neighborhood's appeal desirability. The Oaks offers excellent access to GlenCove while providing the opportunity for larger lots, greater privacy & beautiful mountain views. GlenCove by Old Edwards adds to the appeal of this location with its distinctive mountain lifestyle, including golf, hiking, lake activities, pool, fitness, wellness, dining and family recreation. For those seeking land, views, location & investment potential, this is a truly an excellent opportunity.

Listed by Steve Sheppard and Wes Sheppard of Howard Hanna Allen Tate - Highlands

MLS Number 1003220

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 4
• Acreage 0.62

LAKEFRONT living and mountain tranquility in this beautifully crafted 2015 home, ideally situated in Indian Lake Estates. Designed for both comfort and connection to the outdoors, this property offers stunning lake views from nearly every room and a lifestyle that's hard to match. The main level features a vaulted great room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space for gathering. The open-concept kitchen and dining area showcase granite countertops, double ovens, upscale stainless appliances, and a truly unique artistic touch with custom stained-glass cabinet doors. The spacious primary suite includes private access to the expansive covered and screened porch, along with an en-suite bath and dual closets. An additional bedroom or office and powder room complete the main level. Stretching across the entire back of the home, the covered and screened porch is the perfect place to enjoy morning coffee, evening sunsets, and peaceful lake views year-round. The lower-level walk-out offers exceptional flexibility with a private guest suite, full bath, and studio space-ideal for an in-law suite, creative retreat, or potential vacation rental. Step outside and embrace the lifestyle this property offers. With private lake frontage, enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming, and relaxing from your own dock. Surrounded by natural, mature landscaping, the property provides a sense of privacy while blending beautifully with its surroundings. Nearby hiking trails add even more opportunity to explore the outdoors. Additional features include a fenced yard for pets or play and an oversized garage for ample storage and a hot tub to relax and unwind! Full house Generac generator. Private dock with 4 kayaks. Whether you're seeking a full-time residence, mountain getaway, or investment opportunity, this lakefront property delivers the best of Western North Carolina living.

Listed by Alice Lance of BluAxis Realty

MLS Number 1001544

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 4
• Acreage 1.75

Welcome to 133 Hidden Springs Way-where rustic charm meets timeless luxury in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Nestled at the end of the road in a quiet neighborhood and backing up to Forest Service Land, this enchanting log home is a mountain lover's dream come true. Breathtaking long-range mountain views greet you from nearly every window, with a distant landscape that shifts with the seasons-lush green in summer, fiery hues in fall, and quiet snow-kissed peaks in winter. West facing, the sunsets maximize your evening views. Crafted with rich log construction, this residence exudes warmth and authenticity, with soaring wood-beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, and a stone fireplace that anchors the heart of the home. Thoughtfully offered fully furnished, every room has been designed for comfort, beauty, and effortless mountain living. The main level features a spacious open-concept living and dining area (both with fireplaces), well-appointed kitchen, and a peaceful primary suite that feels like a private retreat that is situated with views and access to the expansive screened living porch. 2 guest bedrooms, a full bath and a loft are located on the upper level, with a custom catwalk over the main level leading to the in-law suite - adorned with second private entrance from garage, living area, bedroom, kitchenette and bath-offers incredible flexibility for guests, multi-generational living, or even rental potential. The lower level of this custom home offers a family room and gaming area, complete with a pool table and bar area. Second laundry area is found on lower level, with a partial unfinished space that is plumbed to add another bath. Outside, the expansive main level screened porch invites you to sip morning coffee with the fresh mountain air or unwind to the stars in the distance, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. The lower level screened porch is a great addition where family and friends can overflow from the family and game room. Located just a short drive from downtown Highlands, you'll enjoy privacy and the best of both worlds-seclusion with convenience. Come home to the magic of the mountains. 133 Hidden Springs Way is more than a home-it's a lifestyle

Listed by Faye Wurm of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty - HF, Cristina Vives of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty

MLS Number 1003265

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 2
• Acreage 2.97

Privacy, polish, and 2.97 usable acres minutes from Cashiers and Lake Glenville. A paved drive lined with stone walls and Japanese maples leads to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home set on two combined lots in The Knolls of Cedar Creek, backing to a 50-plus acre tract that keeps the setting quiet. The back deck catches a peek-a-boo winter view of Lake Glenville, which sits just down the ridge with 26 miles of shoreline five minutes away. Downtown Cashiers is 10 to 12 minutes. Inside, two levels of living space read as turn-key. The main floor opens to a vaulted, knotty pine great room with a wood-burning fireplace, hardwood floors, and an updated kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances, kitchen island, breakfast bar, and stone-tile backsplash. The eat-in dining area connects to the covered deck. The primary suite sits on the main level with a walk-in closet and jetted tub. Downstairs, a fully finished walkout lower level adds a game room sized for a pool table, a granite bar, a family room, a private office behind glass-paneled French doors, and a bonus room currently used as exercise space. A workshop, mechanical, and utility rooms tuck the systems away. Outside: front porch, covered deck, lower patio with fire pit, and gentle, landscaped grounds with mature rhododendron and native plantings. The second lot leaves room to add a guest house, garage or workshop. Starlink high-speed internet stays with the home. Recent updates touch the kitchen, baths, flooring, and basement. Listed below recent appraisal. A strong year-round home in one of the best-positioned pockets between Cashiers and Lake Glenville.

Listed by Donald Collins of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty - CA

MLS Number 1001881

• Residential
• Bedrooms 3
• Bathroom 3
• Acreage 1.34

Gentleman's Farm Retreat less than 9 miles from the Cashiers, NC & Sapphire, NC main area. Arrive home in the naturally air conditioned mountain elevation, gather fresh eggs from the chicken coop, and sip coffee by the stone fireplace in your private mountain farmstead. Rabbit Hutches, raise your own animals and vegies, farm to table small and easy to manage. Discover a rare opportunity to own a custom-crafted 3BR/3BA mountain estate on 1.2 +/- acres of unrestricted land. Perfectly positioned just one hour from major interstates and the Asheville Airport, this property offers the freedom from HOAs and privacy of a gentleman's farm with the convenience of modern living. The Residence Step inside to soaring cathedral ceilings, rustic locust tree posts, and artisan details throughout. The main-level primary suite opens to a private deck and features a spa-inspired shower with dual rain showers, body jets, and a Toto Bidet Washlet. A gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, oversized island, gas range, and vintage bark cabinetry flows seamlessly into the grand family room with its stone fireplace and timber mantel. Upstairs, a guest ensuite, vaulted bonus room with balcony, loft sitting area, and a hidden cupola retreat create inviting spaces for family and friends. The Grounds A Porte co-chère entrance welcomes you with style, while the circle drive, detached utility room, and fiberoptic internet ensure everyday ease. An additional 1,800 sq ft dried-in structure is ready to be finished as a guest house, studio, or office. Outdoors, enjoy terraced gardens, fenced pastures for animals, chicken coop, water feature, and firepit. The property rests on the historic Montvale School site. The Lifestyle Minutes from state parks and waterfalls-and walking distance to three waterfalls-this one-of-a-kind gentleman's farm offers endless opportunities for gardening, homesteading, or creating your dream mountain retreat. Easy out to 281 during winter!! Pop down to SC cheap gas and easy shopping.

Listed by Laura Schiele of Sapphire Valley Real Estate