The Hotel Guru
The 13 Best Hotels for the Great Smoky Mountains

The 13 Best Hotels for the Great Smoky Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

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?

Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Tennessee?
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- The Swag Waynesville (North Carolina) 14 rooms from AU$696
  
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  Views  -  The property offers breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside
  Hideaway  -  Above the clouds, stunning views and a notable absense of TVs.
  Birdwatching  -  Hummingbirds can be seen from the comfort of the porch.
  Minimum Stay  -  Two night minimum stay policy & Open April - September
  
  This Smoky Mountain retreat 5,000 feet above the clouds, is the true meaning of a romantic hideaway. A private hot tub on your balcony adds to the experience here. Hunger doesn't feature with seasonally-inspired picnics, gourmet dining and al fresco setting. Location and views are spectacular! See More
  
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- Blackberry Farm Walland, Tennessee 69 rooms from AU$1092
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Paintballing for groups is a fantastic way to get active - Games include a protective mask, gun, CO2 and paintballs.
  Kayaking  -  Let the tour guide share stories of flowers and wildlife while taking in the stunning scenery from the lake.
  Birdwatching  -  Birdwatching in the winter months is a great past time.
  Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
  
  Romantic, intimate boutique working-farm in stunning landscape with spa and private lake. Large rooms are home from-home with fireplaces and plush beds. The Barn is award-winning while newly open The Dogwood also makes the mark of unique southern cuisine. Check out the cellar. Activities for all. See More
  
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- Tapoco Lodge Tapoco, North Carolina 27 rooms from AU$340
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Dine by the river rapids, read in a hammock, soak in an outdoor hot tub and enjoy views of Yellowhammer Creek
  Active Holiday  -  Stay in the middle of nature's playground; hike, bike, fish, raft, kayak and canoe in stunning environments
  Families  -  There's a huge emphasis on kids; indoor and outdoor play equipment, books, games and DVDs
  Kayaking  -  The area is renowned for kayaking and canoeing on the legendary Cheoah River
  
  Historic lodge nestled amongst 120 acres of Nantahala National Forest in the Great Smoky Mountains, on the banks of the Cheoah River. There is a restaurant, bar and pizza oven. 27 cosy rooms are split between the main lodge and cabins; many feature beamed wooden roofs and views of the outdoors. See More
  
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- Bluegreen Vacations Mountainloft Gatlinburg (Tennessee) 384 rooms from AU$292
  
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  Groups  -  The 1, 2 and 3 bedroom townhouses sleep up to 10 people, making this perfect for reunions or hen or stag parties
  Active Holiday  -  Enjoy the Smokys all year round; skiing, hiking, biking, golf, trout fishing, zip lining and rafting
  Sights nearby  -  For a break from outdoor activities head to nearby Dollywood - ode to national treasure Dolly Parton
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  
  Family-friendly crowdpleaser in the Smoky Mountains. The self-catered resort is surrounded by forest; spacious and contemporary suites and chalets have sloping wooden roofs & cosy modern furniture. Comfortable without feeling precious so families and groups can relax and have fun. See More
  
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- Blackberry Mountain TN, Tennessee 30 rooms from AU$2009
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Set in an unparalleled location in the mountains, the region surrounding the hotel offers excellent cycling, hiking and walking
  Families  -  With beautifully-appointed private homes that can accommodate children, this hotel is perfect for an outdoors family getaway
  Back to Nature  -  Nestled in a remote location in the Great Smoky Mountains, this hotel promises a unique, back-to-nature retreat
  Great walks  -  The 5,200 acres around the hotel offer endless opportunities for walks, from a gentle stroll to a full mountain trek
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  Situated within 8 miles of protected ridgetop along the last of The Great Smoky Mountains, this hotel offers a unique nature retreat. From native wood cabins to stone cottages and spacious family homes, guests can choose what type of luxury base to return to after hearty trekking outdoors. See More
  
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- Snowbird Mountain Lodge Robbinsville, North Carolina 23 rooms from AU$440
  
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  Restaurant  -  A rustic and elegant ambience serving four-course gourmet meal feauturing the freshest local and seasonal ingredients
  Active Holiday  -  Explore diverse outdoor adventures including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and two national forests
  Sights nearby  -  Explore four pristine mountain lakes formed by four dams, including Fontana Dam, the highest dam east of the Rocky Mountains
  Great walks  -  Take an afternoon hike on one of the many nearby forest trails and see the giant poplars in Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
  
  A rustic chic all-inclusive lodge set high up in the Santeetlah Gap in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Rooms range from traditional cabin-style options to luxurious rooms that include private two-person hot tubs and fireplaces. A spoiling base for an outdoorsy holiday. See More
  
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- Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains Tennessee 54 rooms from AU$321
  
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  Families  -  Tents that sleep up to four, endless space, kids' meals, and s'mores by the fire all create a perfect family break
  Back to Nature  -  Located beside the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this is a real escape to nature
  Restaurant  -  Local produce is used to create healthy yet hearty breakfasts and dinners
  Great walks  -  There's endless routes for anything from a short amble to a full day hike
  
  Luxury tents occupying a quiet and scenic spot right by the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains 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. See More
  
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- Foxtrot Bed and Breakfast Gatlinburg 4 rooms from AU$330
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Famous the world over, the Great Smoky mountain area offers excellent rafting, riding, golf, fishing, swimming, boating & skiing
  Total relaxation  -  Sit in a mountain-facing Adirondack chair with a good book, go for a swim in the pool or simply relax in the fire-side lounge
  Back to Nature  -  You don't need to leave the property to soak in the peaceful natural environment; the grounds have phenomenal mountain views
  Cooking classes  -  Enjoy one-on-one or group cookery class with a professional chef. They will be happy to tailor classes to a particular interest
  
  Welcoming family-run B&B. Housed in a stone and wood chalet, rooms channel old-world charm; expect antique wooden furniture, curtains matched to eiderdowns quilts, mountain view balconies & romantic spa tubs. All guests have access to a shared clubhouse. Feels like staying with long-lost relatives. See More
  
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- Andon-Reid Inn Waynesville (North Carolina) 7 rooms from AU$220
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Spend the day exploring waterfalls, hiking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding or playing golf
  Sights nearby  -  Nearby are the Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Pisgah National Forest
  Views  -  Enjoy the beautiful Smoky Mountain views from the wrap-around porch
  Restrictions on children  -  Children 16 and over are welcome
  
  A charming and elegant B&B, surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Rooms are comfortable with sweeping mountain vistas and spacious bathrooms with stand-alone whirlpool tubs. Enjoy a delicious gourmet three-course breakfast. Cosy up with a book by the fire. A super stay! See More
  
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- Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 17 rooms from AU$240
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Guests will love the inn's wrap-around porch; sit in a rocking chair with a good book and soak up the countryside charm
  Back to Nature  -  There are endless outdoor pursuits in the area; hike, climb, bike, raft, ride or even zorb
  Sights nearby  -  Parrot Mountain & Gardens, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  
  Picture-perfect Victorian-style farmhouse situated amongst acres of grounds. Quaint rooms and cottages have been decorated in a homely traditional style with floral wallpaper, antique & lots of frills. Breakfast is an impressive home-cooked southern affair. Owner-run & dripping in old-world charm. See More
  
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- Treehouse Grove Gatlinburg (Tennesse) 8 rooms from AU$686
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Nature-lovers will adore falling asleep and waking up in the wild, before a day spent hiking in the great outdoors
  Families  -  Make kids' dreams come true with this picture-perfect story-book setting
  Great walks  -  Walk the 3k to Gatlinburg Sky Lift and get rewarded with amazing views
  Sights nearby  -  Dolly Parton fans will love Dollywood and Dolly Parton’s Stampede
  
  Self-catering tree-houses surrounded by forest make up this woodland resort. Each quaint wooden cottage has two bedrooms & a shared bathroom, kitchenette, living area and terrace with Adirondack chairs. Rustic wood-lined interiors channel cosy country charm. Will appeal to grown-ups as much as kids! See More
  
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- The Yellow House Waynesville (North Carolina) 10 rooms from AU$262
  
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  Active Holiday  -  With Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby, there are plenty of outdoor activities
  Romantic Break  -  With in-room fireplaces and jetted bathtubs, this is a perfect hideaway for two
  Great walks  -  Hike along the miles of trails running through Blue Ridge Parkway or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  Restrictions on children  -  Children over 12 years old are always welcome while younger guests can be accommodated on prior arrangement
  
  A historic inn offering elegant interiors and peaceful surrounds. Spacious rooms are packed with well-selected antiques while suites come complete with fireplaces and in-room jetted tubs. Choose between getting out into the nearby parks or unwinding with a book on the verandah. A romantic stay. See More
  
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- Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast Waynesville (North Carolina) 6 rooms from AU$279
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Outdoor activities such as hiking, waterfalls, fly fishing, golf, white water rafting, biking are all just a short drive away
  Local exploring  -  The inn is perfectly located for exploring and discovering Western North Carolina!
  Sights nearby  -  The Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Pisgah National Forest are each a 30 minutes drive from the inn
  Views  -  Oak Hill overlooks quaint historic downtown Waynesville
  
  A luxury and cosy B&B located in the Smoky Mountains, just a half a mile from downtown Waynesville. Rooms are traditional and elegant with original fireplaces with carved wood mantles, oak floors, antique furnishings and stand-alone tubs. Enjoy a healthy, organic farm-to-table gourmet breakfast. See More
  
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- The New Hotel Collection Smoky Mountains Sevierville, Tennessee 16 rooms from AU$328
  
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  Families  -  The multi-bedrooms suit families perfectly; kids will love the range of local amusement parks, such as Soaky Mountain Waterpark
  Local exploring  -  There's a lot to do and see in the area, especially for families; theme parks, attractions, rides and interactive museums
  Active Holiday  -  The Great Smoky Mountains is America's most visited National Park. Hike, bike and ski throughout the year
  Sights nearby  -  Dolly Parton fans must visit her statue, which is located in the center of Sevierville, as well as Dollywood's Splash Country
  
  Collection of two and three-bedroom self-catered apartments. Each contemporary and cosy apartment has stylish touches and a minimalist undertone; all are fully-equipped with extensive kitchens and fireplaces. Stylish, spacious and family-friendly; perfect for long-stays & independent travellers. See More
  
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