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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park sprawls 520,000 acres across Tennessee and North Carolina. This is a magical place of dense spruce forests juxtaposed with sunny alpine-like wildflower meadows, wonderfully moody old-growth forests carpeted with moss and then wide open land which was once farmland and is now rife with wildlife. Because there’s such variety and so much to see, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the USA. Therefore, choosing the best hotels for the Great Smoky Mountains before you arrive is essential. Our Guru’s list of the best hotels for the Great Smoky Mountains includes some wonderful once-in-a-lifetime properties with astounding views and unparalleled access to the park. But if you’re happy to travel a bit further afield there are also some great value, but very stylish hotels and B&Bs, so there’s something for everyone on our list.
For luxury
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- The Swag is a 14 room retreat five thousand feet above the clouds. As well as serenity, privacy and wonderful views, you also have a hotel tub on your own private balcony. Complete with gourmet dining (al fresco if the weather permits) and a range of luxurious, seasonally-inspired picnics.
- Blackberry Farm is a working farm and larger hotel on the Tennessee side of the park. There are 69 large, but cosy rooms and suites, a choice of two award-winning restaurants, a spa and a private lake. There’s also a wealth of activities, from paint-balling to birdwatching to kayaking or taking guided nature trails uncovering local flowers and wildlife.
For couples
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- Snowbird Mountain Lodge is an all-inclusive small luxury hotel set high up on the Santeetlah Gap. Indulgent cabins and rooms feature in-room fireplaces and spa baths made for two. With a wide choice of activities and superb four-course dinners - this property is primed for a romantic break.
- The Yellow House is a historic inn offering just ten rooms. Beautifully styled accommodations feature all the trappings of a romantic escape including four-posters, jetted bathtubs, and fireplaces. A perfect spot for lazy mornings with your significant other.
For a boutique
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- Blackberry Mountain is a unique nature retreat set within 8 miles of protected ridgetop along the last of The Great Smoky Mountains. Cabins and cottages are designed with a chic modern take on traditional design. Bathtubs and woodburning stoves are a real treat. The 30 rooms don't come cheap but it is worth the price tag.
For families
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- Tapoco Lodge is a historic lodge set in the Nantahala National Forest. Accommodation is split between the main lodge and cabins (the latter being ideal for families). With laid back dining including wood-fired pizzas and numerous activities both on the property and within the national park, this is a great choice for those travelling with kids.
- Bluegreen Vacations Mountainloft is a family-friendly crowd-pleaser with a good range of contemporary accommodation for all group/family sizes (choose from 1,2, and 3 bedroom suites and chalets). Self-catered and activity packed - this is an easy choice for a family break.
- The New Hotel Collection Smoky Mountains is a collection of two and three-bedroom self-catered apartments. With fully equipped kitchens and stylish modern design, these are functional spaces well suited to families or longer stays.
- Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains are luxury tents occupying a quiet and scenic spot right by the entrance to the national park. Tents range from indulgent doubles with private bathrooms to quadruples ideal for groups or kids. Healthy and hearty cuisine is served and there's firepits, s'mores, and games a-plenty. Family fun for all!
For a B&B
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- Foxtrot Bed and Breakfast is a welcoming family-run B&B housed in a stone and wood chalet. Rooms channel old-world charm with antique wooden furniture, curtains matched to eiderdowns quilts, mountain view balconies and romantic spa tubs. Guests have access to a shared clubhouse; a property that feels like you are staying with friends.
- Andon Reid Inn is another charming B&B. Rooms are comfortable with sweeping mountain vistas and spacious bathrooms with stand-alone whirlpool tubs. Breakfasts are a three-course affair and there's a cosy firelit lounge or a lovely terrace to unwind with a good book. A friendly and affordable stay.
- Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn is a Victorian-style farmhouse situated amongst acres of grounds with quaint rooms packed full of antiques. Pick this owner-run property for the hospitality, home-cooked southern breakfasts, and old-world charm.
- Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast is a quaint choice boasting a perfect location with epic views of the Smoky Mountains yet just half a mile from downtown Waynesville. Rooms feature original fireplaces with carved wood mantles, oak floors, antique furnishings and stand-alone tubs. A homely stay.
Still not sure where to book?