The Stecoah House is a two story luxury cabin rental located 20 minutes from downtown Bryson City, North Carolina. Its stunning floor to ceiling windows, open loft design, and 180 degree mountain views create a dreamy atmosphere.
The cabin is situated on a ridge not far from a yurt glampground and it’s one of my favorite places in the world. The Stecoah House, owned by Sky Ridge Yurts, is unmatched in location, design, and personalization compared to other luxury cabin rentals in the area. In this post, I’ll be sharing a typical day at the Stecoah House to show you why I found vacationing there to be so extraordinary.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary stay in exchange for this post. As always, all opinions (and tendencies to over pack) remain my own and were not influenced by the sponsor.
A Day at the Stecoah House – Luxury Cabin Rental in North Carolina.
Mornings were my favorite time of day at the Stecoah House. I loved watching the sunrise from the comfortable king bed upstairs in the loft.
Where else can you wake up like this?
No two mornings were quite the same; some were misty and dark while others were bright and clear.
I made sure my glasses were right next to the bed so there would be no delays between waking up and taking in the view outside those huge windows.
A few times I voluntarily set my alarm – on vacation no less – just so I could head downstairs to the spacious patio in time to watch the sun peak over the mountains. It was a bit cool during my visit at the end of March, so I took a blanket and a hot cup of the complimentary coffee outside with me.
The faint light of the early morning bathed the Stecoah House and the surrounding landscape in soft colors. I was content to sit outside, camera in hand, and take it all in.
It was hard to tear myself away from such a scene, but eventually hunger and cold fingers dictated my return indoors. Fortunately, I still had a great view from the large, open kitchen space as I cooked bacon for my indulgent vacation breakfast (I stick to smoothies at home).
I found every kitchen appliance and utensil I needed during my stay – even Tupperware containers for storing my leftovers. A fully stocked kitchen is a mandatory part of any luxury cabin rental for me because I tend to have more time and energy to cook when I’m on vacation.
After a breakfast feast, my standard vacation protocol included taking a hot shower, donning one of the soft bathrobes available, and returning to bed for at least another hour.
Oh, and taking pictures of my handsome husband, Mr. Meena, as he relaxed in one of the bathrobes, too. He was only able to join me at the Stecoah House for a portion of my stay, but I was happy that I could share such a lovely getaway with him nonetheless.
Lounging around in a bathrobe did require a bit of extra consideration, however, because the floor to ceiling windows that create such a wonderful interior living space also allow for others to see inside. In my opinion, the small lack of privacy inherent in the open design was absolutely worth the trade-off for the views. After all, the cabin is very secluded; I only saw people driving to and from the yurts and the occasional dog walker on the road that runs past the living space.
The upstairs loft certainly is more private compared to downstairs. In addition to the bed, the loft features a half bathroom, a closet / laundry room, an extra AC unit, and a couch that pulls out into a queen bed.
I typically spent the rest of the morning in full relaxation mode in the loft. Having a comfortable place to rest is a huge factor when I’m booking any accommodation because I have an autoimmune disease and a great deal of chronic pain to contend with every day. This is part of the reason why I am drawn to luxury cabin rentals and why I was so pleased with the Stecoah House. I really appreciated the owner’s attention to detail in making the cabin a restful space.
In the afternoons I camped out downstairs on either the bright orange couch (which is also a queen pullout bed) or the sleek slingback recliner. I was excited that the television has an option to connect a Netflix account – a huge plus as I was currently binge watching a TV series. (And who doesn’t do some Netflix binging on vacation? Just don’t forget to log out of your account before you leave!)
I didn’t have any cell phone reception to speak of (with T-mobile), but the Wi-Fi was good enough that I could video chat and use the internet with no problems. I took advantage of this and sent pictures of the beautiful scenery to my friends and family, who responded with higher levels of jealousy than I’d ever experienced before (even when I was sending them photos from all over Europe).
I can’t blame them, of course, because this place is definitely worth a little jealousy.
I also spent a lot of time at the cabin playing with my pet budgie, Koopa.
I was thrilled that this luxury cabin is pet friendly because Koopa is such an important part of my family. I love to travel with him and, aside from having to get in his travel carrier, he loves traveling with me.
Koopa spent his cage free time gazing out the windows, chattering happily, and diving straight down from the loft to ground level. (Don’t worry, he was closely supervised in the cabin for his own safety.)
I found that time passed far too quickly at the Stecoah House (as time is apt to do when you’re having fun). All too quickly evening would approach – a great time to head outside with one of my favorite beverages.
How I wish I was there right now.
I loved to watch the last rays of sunlight stretch out over the mountains in the distance.
Mr. Meena started working on the fire while I searched for marshmallow roasting sticks. It was quite the adventure.
We quickly gave up on our marshmallows, however, since we didn’t have the rest of the ingredients for proper s’mores anyway, and settled for watching the fire from the comfy outdoor couches. Afterwards, I was pleased to deposit our smoke scented clothing into the washer.
I found the end of the day at the Stecoah House to be a supremely peaceful occasion. I’d put the house to sleep early and climb into bed to watch the mountains go to sleep. They would slowly get darker until only their silhouettes were visible as stars began appearing in the sky. It was almost like the ring of mountains were watching over the cabin as I drifted off to sleep.
One night during my trip there was a superb thunderstorm. I stayed up and watched the lightning flash across the mountains. It was a marvelous experience – I’d never been able to see across a landscape during a lightning storm before. The pounding rain and bright flashes kept me up for a while, but I didn’t mind in the slightest. In fact, I was sad when the storm finally subsided – yet consoled that I’d soon be waking up to another glorious morning in the cabin.
Mornings were my favorite.
Part of what made my vacation experience at the Stecoah House so exquisite is the newness of the cabin. Don’t get me wrong, I also love older, more rustic cabins, but they simply can’t beat the luxury and amenities of a modern cabin. That being said, there are a handful of flaws at the Stecoah House that I must mention.
The first is that the loft space could potentially be an issue for parents with young children. There is a railing, but you may want to take extra precautions (especially if you have a particularly curious or mischievous child). A potential solution would be to not allow children upstairs or even bring a childproof gate for the stairway.
The second issue is less worrisome, being that there isn’t much space to put clothing away. Upstairs there are only three small drawers in the dresser and two hooks plus a shelf in the closet. Downstairs there is space to stash your suitcases, but no storage options for personal items. This could be problematic if you tend to over pack (guilty) or if you have a large group – the Stecoah House can sleep up to six guests. However, since you can do laundry at the cabin you can bring less clothing (provided you have the self-control to do so).
The third problem is really more of a warning; the Stecoah House is a highly desirable luxury cabin rental with lots of happy, return customers (myself included – I will definitely be staying again). So you run the risk of it not being available for your vacation. If you think you will love this cabin as much as I did, then I encourage you to book your stay in advance.
Click here to reserve the Stecoah House.
You won’t regret choosing this luxury cabin for your next vacation or special event, especially as the owners offer a more personalized experience compared to large cabin rental companies with several properties to manage. You can count on a quick response if have you any issues or needs during your stay.
You can also follow the Sky Ridge Yurts on Facebook or Instagram.
So what do you think? Do you love this luxury cabin as much as I do?
The Stecoah House - a Luxury Cabin Rental in North Carolina. Share on X
This post is linked up with Weekend Wanderlust, FlyAwayFriday, Wanderful Wednesday (with the hosts Lauren, Van, Marcella, and Isabel), Faraway Files, Feet Do Travel, The Weekly Postcard, and Monday Escapes.
Wow, this looks absolutely stunning! I would love to stay here, and if I’m ever in North Carolina I will try to remember to book it well in advance. Your photos are gorgeous too 🙂
Thanks, Danielle! It was one of the most awe inspiring accommodations I’ve ever seen – I hope you get a chance to stay there. 🙂
Also, I recently purchased a new camera, so I’m glad to hear you like my photos!
This place looks amazing; such gorgeous views and so much privacy!! I would definitely prefer the Stecoah House to a rustic cabin! Looks like the perfect place for spending time with family and friends.
Thanks Lynne! You would love it! 🙂
Oh. My. Word. The view from the bed!!!! I don't actually think I've ever seen a better bedside view, and how lucky you got to watch a storm through those huge windows. I would definitely stay here and I can totally understand why it's often booked out. If I'm ever in the Carolinas… #FlyAwayFriday
Absolutely! I can’t imagine a better vacation than one where you get to stay in bed AND have a great view. Thanks so much for stopping by! 🙂
I can't believe this is called a cabin! I'd live there in a heartbeat, it's gorgeous. The views are pretty nice as well. You're making me want to escape to the woods for some time away. #flyawayfriday
Thanks, Katherine! I know, it is so much more than just a cabin. I would happily live there, too. 🙂
Gosh, this looks so lovely! It's my dream to stay at a luxury cabin ever since I was a kid. The view from the bedroom is stunning! I will definitely consider this if ever we travel to North Carolina! 🙂 #flyawayfriday
Thanks!
What a find! I'm not far from there – and Western North Carolina is so beautiful – I hope when I add this to the list, that I really get a chance to stay there someday.
Me too, Jill! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
I have seen places like this in magazine. However, it is way better to take a look at your photos since you highlight the amenities way better. Ahhh, I would love to stay in a place like this. I have never stayed in a cabin. This is something I really need to do (and if it is gorgeous like this one, way better). #WeekendWanderlust
Thanks so much, Ruth! I absolutely love staying in cabins – I definitely recommend it and hope you get to stay in one soon!
This looks absolutely breathtaking! I will have to bookmark this for possibilities for our wedding anniversary this year. So glad it is in North Carolina! Great review!
Thanks so much! It would be great for an anniversary – I might return for mine too. 🙂
This looks absolutely dreamy, exactly what I envision in my head when I think of 'dream place to live' ;p Am happy you got to spend some time there relaxing and recharging!
Thanks so much, Sheryl!
Stunning!
Thanks!
I love these photos! What a lovely place to stay… I could move right in!
Thanks! Me too!
Oh, those views!! I can imagine how relaxing it must be to wake up to such a stunningly beautiful view, so refreshing for the soul. 🙂
Absolutely – it was very restorative. Thanks for stopping by!
Wow, this looks incredible! Very jealous! xx
Oh my god, you seem to stay in the world's most gorgeous hotels lately!! I love this cabin and it would just be perfect for a relaxing weekend away from work. And that view – amazing!!
Thank you, Van! 🙂
These mountain views are so nice! I feel the dreamy vibes even from your photos! Koopa is adorable 😉
Thank you!
That is a beautiful cabin, and those views! Wowsers. Since we haven't really explored North Carolina much, we're definitely looking into a stay. Thanks for tipping us off to this great spot! #WeekendWanderlust
Thank you! Glad I could help – North Carolina is a lovely place to visit. 🙂
This looks like a lovely romantic getaway spot! I haven't been to North Carolina in ages and the last time was just driving through. I know now to stay a little while! thanks for coming to #flyawayfriday! Hope to see you next Friday!
Thank you, Janine! You might be surprised at how much natural beauty there is in North Carolina – hope you can visit again. 🙂
Looks like the perfect getaway. I started googling smores recipes as soon as I saw that fire pit too! Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Thanks, Katy!
You always blow my mind by sharing beautiful places in North Carolina. Being from the west coast and a frequent visitor of the East Coast, I never consider NC as a beautiful destination. I love it, it makes me want to visit! Thanks for sharing and joining Fly Away Friday, hope to see you again this week! xo
Thanks, Kana! I’m glad I could inspire you to want to visit my home state. 🙂
This sure looks like a luxurious place to stay! Beautiful inside and out! And so cool that you got to bring your birdy along 😀 .. I'm definitely an over packer, so the lack of storage could be an issue, but I'd have no problem living out of my suitcase for a while to stay in a place like this!
Thanks, Lauren! Yeah, this is the kind of place you don’t want to leave, so you may not need quite as many clothes. 😀
Yes please! This is a beautiful place to soak up the scenery. I adore that outdoor living space by the fire pit. Thank for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Thanks so much, Erin!
What a beautiful cabin! The mountain views are superb! I'd be setting my alarm in the morning too, just to see the beautiful sunset! A true little gem!
Thanks, Kreete! Glad to know you feel the same!
This cabin is so amazing! I would love to stay there for a couple of days, Ava! Noth Carolina here I come!
Thanks! Hope you enjoy visiting. 🙂
Such an amazing place to spend a few days – love the idea of a fire right near the cabin – especially with views like that from the front! Another reason to visit North Carolina!
Thanks! Yes, it is definitely a good reason to visit!
Wow, this place looks absolutely stunning! With views like that I'm not sure we would ever want to leave… Glad you could take Koopa with you too, he looks very happy there!
Thanks! I didn’t want to leave, and neither did Koopa! 🙂
What a lovely luxury cabin with astounding views of the forest. Stunning photos and the cabin has all the amenities that anyone can ask for. I pinned this for later use when I visit North Carolina. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thanks so much! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
The Stecoah House looks just like a place we would love to stay. The attention to detail is superb and the views amazing! Thanks for sharing this, have pinned for future reference. #feetdotravel
Thank you! Glad you like it!
Oh wow, now this is a place in which I could spend a serious amount of time, I love it! I do love a secluded place with a nature surrounding it though so it does tick a lot of boxes for me. I would say the views are a definite plus point and the trade off for having to wear a dressing gown are worth it! #feetdotravel
Glad to hear you feel the same way! Thanks for stopping by!
I love vacationing in the mountains so much! My last mountain retreat was in the Smokey Mountains which look very much like these.
This is on the edge of the Smokey Mountains – which is why it looks so similar. Really a great place to take a retreat!
wow what a great find – the cabin and woodlands look amazing- . Would love to visit here when we make it to North Carolina
Thanks! Hope you get to visit!
What a beautiful place and what a luxurious cabin! I'll be in North Carolina this next week for a meeting, but not in this area. Hope Orange County is equally beautiful. #TheWeeklyPoscard
I think overall North Carolina is a lot more beautiful than most people know or expect. Hope you have a great trip!
I love the floor to ceiling windows, especially with those views. Looks like a lovely place to stay. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
It is very lovely. Thanks for stopping by!
This cabin looks amazing! I am not sure I could leave once I checked in, though! #TheWeeklyPostcard
That is an issue – not wanting to leave! 🙂
That truly is a luxury cabin and those views are just incredible. Add in the toasting of marshmallows I could stay here for a long time! How sweet that you take your pet bird with you and he can enjoy it too! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks!
Thanks!
Ooh what a lovely cabin! It sounds so relaxing and peaceful, hopefully a way to escape from your pain for a little. Thanks for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!
It was! Thanks!
No way! They call it a cabin? This place looks amazing! You made us want to go there and visit Notth Carolina. We will make sure to remember this place if we visit NC one day. Your pictures are so inviting too, looks like you had a fantastic time! It must have been so hard to leave this place?! Patrick and Cécile from http://www.travel4lifeblog.com
Wow, this looks absolutely incredible! So peaceful and refreshing, I'd love to go! Sadly, being in the UK, it's a little far away! x
Thanks! Hopefully someday you\’ll get to visit this beautiful region. 🙂
What an incredible location and the perfect place for a quiet vacation away from the stresses of every day life. I love the fact you could also bring your pet – holidays aren't the same without them! Thanks for sharing this on #MondayEscapes
Thanks, Claire!
Hey! Could you tell me how many bedrooms does the cabin have? We are a group of 6, 3 couples, so I wanted to know if the cabin had 3 bedrooms
Technically, there aren’t any bedrooms. It can sleep six – in a king and queen size bed upstairs in the open loft and a queen pull-out bed downstairs. If you want more privacy, the owners have a yurt campground just down the road. You could rent yurts next to each other or rent the larger yurts and share – here’s the site for that: http://www.skyridgeyurts.com/calendar/ Hope this helps!