Spring and Summer are coming y’all and I am here for it! Matter of fact, I’ve already started daydreaming about the fun we’re going to have and I think it’s time to start planning. So join me in my search for the perfect rental for a week on the lake this summer. You can cast your votes on our Facebook page- just look for our poll. We will be offering some fun give-aways for those who participate!
Ok, so I don’t know how you guys look for your vacation rentals, but there’s a couple places I look. First, I check out the Get Local Classifieds paper because they pretty much have a little of everything. If that fails, I look at VRBO & AirBNB. I am going to list my top picks and you can help me decide! (Listings are in no particular order)
#1. Norris Lakefront in Big Creek “Suits Us Just Fine”. This house has a lot going for it, but all I can say is- check out the water access!! And for $265 a night average, it’s definitely a contender. Nestled in the woods on 3 private acres with a lakefront inlet cove for your group’s private getaway. Recently updated charmer, offering 2500+ sq ft on three levels with firepit, fireplace, hot tub, dock and so much more. They also have a companion house you can rent next door called “Suits Us Too”. VRBO
#2. “Lake It Inn” - Lake Views & Style is something this place is NOT short on! This is a bright, spacious home on Douglas Lake, which has been thoughtfully designed for a relaxing and fun family vacation. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, hammocking, grilling out, relaxing on the porch, making s’mores around the fire pit... Or, cozy up in front of the fireplace for a movie and games on a rainy day. Ideal for remote working, you can confidently set up shop with reliable, fast internet that is accessible even from the boat dock. And for an average of $206 a night, hmmm do we have to wait till vacation time?! AIRBNB
#3. Off-the-grid Luxury at “Bear Necessities”. This stunning Cherokee National Forest vacation cabin sits alongside the crystalline Tellico River. The large deck overlooks the water and fire-pit. This home is a dream for the outdoor enthusiast! Step right outside for world-famous trout fishing. An off-the-grid vacation paradise! Our cabin offers the modern conveniences of satellite TVs, outdoor grill, full kitchen, and gas-fireplace. But the stunning wall of windows, overlooking the river, will steal the show! This cabin is perfect for families, fishing companions, and it also makes an ideal honeymoon retreat. The full kitchen is stocked with all you need for preparing your food. A full bathroom is on each level. On the spacious back deck you can sit on a rocking chair to view the wildlife, relax with your favorite beverage, and visit with your friends. The rush of the river will lull you to sleep each night as you sleep in one of our 3 luxurious beds. This well-appointed cabin sleeps 6 (2 full baths). Only 7 miles from Bald River Falls, this cabin (located in the Green Cove area) is only 2 miles from the Tellico Trout Hatchery and the Benton MacKaye Hiking Trail. Average $275-$350 a night. AIRBNB
#4.UNIQUE! 2 Lux Cabins and Treehouse on 50 acres Stunning Lake Views, Fire Pit and Hot Tub. “Center Hills Cabins” is a collection of 2 pioneer built cabins (moved and rebuilt at this location in 2003) and a luxury treehouse on almost 50 wooded, private and gated acres. This place has a vibe and I’m obsessed.
The property sleeps up to 14 people, yet each structure is on the smaller side and brimming with character! Perfect for couples or families who want to be together but still need some privacy! Take a soak in the jacuzzi tub, then head outside to listen to the sounds of the deep woods and see the sky full of stars…
Sligo Marina is 10 minutes away where you can rent a pontoon for the day, and Burgess Falls has the most incredible hiking and waterfalls also 10 minutes away! Average night is $450 but you can get discounted rates for renting just the treehouse or main cabin.
#5. “Watt a Retreat”. 3 BR, 2 BA Contemporary Lake House on Watt’s Bar Lake. Located just 3 miles off Exit 352 in Roane County, you’re extremely close to all the outdoor activities East Tennessee has to offer. The house was completely remodeled in 2020 and has fully equipped kitchen, WiFi, Internet and 3 Roku TV’s. You’re a short 20 minutes to Knoxville’s Turkey Creek Shopping are at Exit 373. W/I 15 -20 mins of ORNL, UT &West Town Mall. 1 hr to Pigeon Forge, & Gatlinburg & 1.5 hrs to the Great Smoky Mnts Nat Pk. Average night is $254. AIRBNB