The 20 Best Hotels for the Great Smoky Mountains (2025)

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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 buzzing 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 place to stay before you arrive is essential. Our Gurus' 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 5000 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, birdwatching and kayaking to taking guided nature trails, uncovering local flowers and wildlife.
• Nestled beside Lake Toxaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Greystone Inn offers cosy fireplaces, a spoiling spa, and wonderful views. Depending on the weather, there's even a complimentary daily sunset cruise on the Miss Lucy, exclusively located on the largest private lake in North Carolina. 

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 10 rooms. Beautifully styled accommodations feature all the trappings of a romantic escape including four-poster beds, jetted bathtubs and fireplaces. A perfect spot for lazy mornings with your significant other.
• Historic Rocky Waters Inn sits in a romantic spot by the Little Pigeon River. Relax together on your balcony, taking in the waterside views, or try some of the many outdoor pursuits nearby. Dine at The Heirloom Room which serves the finest local ingredients and an impressive collection of bourbon and whiskey.
• Whirlpool tubs, open fireplaces, and endless views make The Lodge at Buckberry Creek a perfect choice for couples. Set over 26 acres, this rustic family property gives you a big hug with its cosy interiors. Weather permitting, breakfast is served outdoors on a charming terrace overlooking the grounds.
• Indulge in a luxurious massage, lounge by the pool or unwind in the treetop cabanas at Lakeview at Fontana. Self-sufficient suites have fully-equipped kitchenettes and large bathrooms; some feature an oversized stand-alone tub which is large enough for two. A grown-up getaway.

For a boutique stay

• Blackberry Mountain is a unique nature retreat set within eight miles of protected ridgetop along the last of The Great Smoky Mountains. Cabins and cottages are styled 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.
• Nestled in the mountains in the heart of Cashiers, Hotel Cashiers offers 19 rooms, three restaurants, a hair and nail salon, and shops on-site. Interiors blend modern design with rustic-chic and feature oak floors, original artworks, and custom handmade furniture. A stylish choice.

For families

• Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is a collection of 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 families with kids. Healthy and hearty cuisine is served, and there are firepits, s'mores, and games a-plenty. Family fun for all!
• 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 laidback 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 providing 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 pick for a family break.
• With Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze both within walking distance, the Gatlinburg Inn is a great choice for families. Easy access by car to the entrance of the Grand Smoky Mountains National Park, mountain views, plus a large outdoor pool, ensure that there's something for everyone. 
• 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.
• Treehouse Grove is another self-catering option ideal for families — who doesn't want to stay in a treehouse!? Nature-lovers will adore falling asleep here and waking up in the wild, before a day spent hiking in the great outdoors.

For a B&B

• 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.
• 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 eiderdown 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.
• Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast is a quaint choice boasting a perfect location with epic views of the Smoky Mountains, yet is 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?
• Browse through all the best places to stay in North Carolina?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.