Vacation rentals in McDowell County

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Top-rated vacation rentals in McDowell County

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite

A cozy cottage is surrounded by vibrant flower gardens featuring yellow coneflowers and pink blooms. Potted plants adorn the windows, and a small white picket fence lines the property. The lush greenery offers a tranquil setting, inviting a sense of privacy and seclusion.

Cottage in Little Switzerland

High Cottage Retreat At 3500ft

Discover the perfect blend of cozy comfort and breathtaking adventure at our cottage. Nestled high on the Blue Ridge Parkway, at a refreshing 3500ft elevation, this getaway offers unparalleled tranquility. Imagine sipping your morning coffee on the private deck, gazing at a sea of stars in the crisp mountain air. While you'll feel miles away from it all, you're a short stroll from charming local restaurants and shops. Explore the world-renowned Penland School of Craft, Toe River Arts studios.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 471 reviews

Top guest favorite

Cabin in Marion

Charming Creekside Cabin

This charming, rustic cabin is nestled amongst lush mountain laurel providing a very private and secluded atmosphere. Take in the sights and sounds of nature from the generous wrap around porch which overlooks the babbling brook and mossy rocks below. A chance to unwind and unplug while being surrounded by nature. This creekside cabin is located on 24 wooded acres, we invite you to get outside and explore the private hiking trails, mountain views and creeks this special place has to offer.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 225 reviews

Top guest favorite

Tiny home in Marion

Layla Haus – Marion Tiny Home Fenced Yard Fire Pit

Welcome to Layla Haus – a modern studio tiny home with stylish décor. Enjoy coffee on the porch overlooking a field where horses often graze. Out back, a private fenced yard offers a peaceful retreat for you and your small dog (🐾1 dog max 40 lbs; pet fee applies). Inside, an open-concept space includes a full kitchen, washer, dryer, and all the comforts of home. Layla Haus is minutes from downtown Marion, Old Fort, local restaurants, and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Top guest favorite

A bright and airy living space features large windows that invite natural light. A comfortable couch and side chairs are arranged around a wooden coffee table, with soft decorative elements enhancing the calm ambiance. Light-colored walls and flooring create a serene atmosphere.

Treehouse in Old Fort

Luxurious Secluded Romantic Treehouse with Hot Tub

***2020 #1 Airbnb Most Wish-listed property in North Carolina*** Escape to one of North Carolina’s most unforgettable stays—your own private treehouse retreat tucked deep in the woods, designed for relaxation, romance & connection, and total peace. Walk across a swinging bridge into your secluded oasis, surrounded by towering hardwoods and mountain laurel. From morning coffee in the trees to evenings in the hot tub under the stars, every moment here feels like an experience.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 803 reviews

Top guest favorite

Cabin in Marion

Voted "BEST VIEWS!" Private 6 Acres - 3 Story Home

Voted "BEST VIEWS!" - Completely Secluded and Private Vacation Rental on 6 acres bordering Pisgah National Forest! Luxury 5-Star Mountain home sleeps 13 with Hot Tub. Close to Linville Gorge, Blue Ridge Parkway entrance, cascading waterfalls, endless hiking trails. Perfect for large groups & family mountain Retreats. You have found your Mountain escape in the midst of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The VIEWS are UNMATCHED! Come experience it all! Views! Luxury! Location!

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews

Top guest favorite

Farm stay in Burnsville

Mountain Farm Retreat with Animals & Sunset Views

Ever have a moment where you just stop and breathe it all in? That’s what this hillside farm is for...especially in the spring. The hills turn green again, flowers bloom, and the whole farm feels alive. Wake up to misty mornings and birdsong with coffee in hand, spend your days wandering meeting the animals, and end it all with golden sunsets from the summer kitchen and a glass of wine by the fire. With space to just be... this is the reset you didn’t know you needed.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 240 reviews

Top guest favorite

The exterior of a custom-built home is featured, showcasing an angular roof design and large windows. A spacious deck wraps around the house, illuminated by strategically placed lights. Lush greenery surrounds the property, enhancing the natural setting.

Home in Nebo

Stylish Retreat with Views, Gym & Prime Location!

Wake up to Blue Ridge Mountain views from a stunning A-Frame retreat. This is a custom-built 4-bedroom is the most well-equipped vacation rental near Lake James. Spend mornings on the water or golf course, then relax by the fire pit or in the game room with a 70" TV. Enjoy a full gym, bunk room, and spacious kitchen. 14 mins to Marion Lake Club Golf Course, 5 mins to Bear Creek Marina, 10 mins to Lake James State Park. Perfect for families and group getaways.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

Top guest favorite

A suspended swinging bridge connects the treehouse to the surrounding nature. Constructed with sturdy wooden beams and a woven rope netting, the bridge provides a unique access point, surrounded by scenic mountain views and soft landscaping. Solar lamps line the pathway for visibility.

Treehouse in Marion

Elevated Escape|Treehouse+Hot Tub+Hiking/Goats

⭐️ Brand New Treehouse suspended 16 ft high ⭐️Swinging Bridge ⭐️ Breathtaking Mountain View ⭐️Onsite half mile hike to Waterfall ⭐️Hot Tub on deck with View ⭐️Close to Asheville and Black Mountain ⭐️Hiking/Creek access on site ⭐️ 90 acres backed up to Pisgah Nat’l Forest ⭐️Small petting farm with goats, donkey on site ⭐️Marion recently voted #1 area to purchase vacation property by Travel & Leisure ⭐️ Black-out Shades on all windows and doors

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 289 reviews

Top guest favorite

Home in Marion

Mountain Views | Hot Tub | Family/Friend Retreat

Welcome to A View to Remember! Escape to your private mountain retreat just minutes from downtown Marion, Lake James, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Spend your days exploring Western North Carolina, then relax in the hot tub, gather around the fire pit, or unwind on the deck as the sun sets over the mountains. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, you’ll find the perfect place to reconnect and make unforgettable memories.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 167 reviews

Superhost

A tranquil outdoor space features a stone fire pit surrounded by gravel, with two chairs positioned nearby. A lush tree stands in the background, set against a mountain view where a faint rainbow can be seen amid the clouds.

Home in Burnsville

Blue Ridge Mountain Retreat |Walk to Trails+ Views

Escape to your private Blue Ridge Mountain retreat in Burnsville. Tucked away among the trees, this peaceful cabin offers stunning mountain views, an open-concept living space, a fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable accommodations for up to 6 guests. Enjoy hiking, waterfalls, scenic drives, star-filled nights, and the tranquility of nature—all while being just a short drive from downtown Burnsville and local attractions.

4.76 out of 5 average rating, 474 reviews

Top guest favorite

A wooden deck overlooks a serene creek surrounded by lush greenery. The deck features sturdy wooden railing, while smooth rocks and flowing water are visible below. Dense trees create a natural frame, enhancing the peaceful woodland setting.

Cabin in Nebo

Creekfront Cabin, Linville Gorge, Lake James

Upper Creek Cabin is a private creekfront retreat tucked deep in the woods, bordering Pisgah National Forest at the base of Linville Gorge and just minutes to scenic Lake James. Fall asleep to the sound of rushing water, wake to filtered mountain light, explore the forest and soak up the stars. Secluded, romantic, and surrounded by nature. Dog-friendly with no pet fee — because every great escape is better shared. 🐾🌲

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 347 reviews

Top guest favorite

A spacious mountain home is viewed at dusk, featuring warm lights glowing from the windows and a freshly paved driveway. Below, a panoramic view showcases rolling mountains under a colorful sunset, with layers of trees in the foreground, creating a serene and inviting landscape.

Home in Spruce Pine

Incredible Views at Continental Divide Retreat

Escape to a luxurious 2,600 sq ft mountain retreat at 3,200 ft on the Eastern Continental Divide. This private home comfortably sleeps 10 and offers breathtaking 35-mile panoramic views. Adjoining the Blue Ridge Parkway, it's the perfect blend of serene seclusion and easy access to hiking, scenic drives, and local attractions. Enjoy stunning sunsets from the expansive deck of your premier mountain escape.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 138 reviews