Cottage vacation rentals in McDowell County

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Top-rated cottage rentals in McDowell County

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Superhost

A welcoming living area features exposed wooden beams and rustic stone accents. Comfortable leather seating is arranged around a central fireplace. A TV is mounted above the fireplace, and the kitchen is visible with bar seating. Natural light filters through the nearby window and door.

Cottage in Newland

4.84 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviews

Sitting Bear Cottage w/ Spa at Linville Gorge

Hosted by Flying Squirrel Cottages, Sitting Bear Cottage is nestled in the thick rhododendrons on the east edge of Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. The cottage has 4 bedrooms: 1 - king bed 1 - queen bed 1 - full bed 2 - twin beds in loft The master suite has a private deck off the room and there is a beautiful new sunroom and deck addition on the front of the cottage. The high speed internet works great for working remotely or streaming your favorite entertainment services. The 3 par

Superhost

A gravel pathway leads to a charming cottage nestled among trees, framed by greenery. An American flag waves gently in the breeze near the entrance. The landscape features a gentle slope, enhancing the serene outdoor setting.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 11 reviews

Mountain Vacation cottage

Enjoy a relaxing experience at this centrally-located place. This cottage has 2 bedrooms and sleeps 3 . It has everything you need for a weekend getaway or long vacation . It offers a full size stove and refrigerator and a stacking washer and dryer. Guests will love the extra wide front porch for sitting or dinning outside. You will have all the amenities of home. There is a rock patio out back with a fire pit to enjoy. It is walking distance to the town of Burnsville and the grocery store.

Guest favorite

The entrance to The Fox Den is framed by lush greenery and vibrant pink flowers. A charming sign labeled 'Fox Den' is situated near the pathway, leading to the wooden deck. The inviting exterior features a blend of natural elements and rustic architecture.

Cottage in Burnsville

4.73 out of 5 average rating, 248 reviews

"Fox Den"Peaceful Mountain Cottage

"The Fox Den" -now limited to 2 persons total. 'Great for a couple, 2 friends, or parent-child catch-up. It's a peaceful mountain cottage nestled in a valley, above a creek, just down from Deep Gap on the Black Mountain Ridge Crest Trail that leads to Mount Mitchell, tallest mountain east of the Rockies. Enjoy the wood interior, deck with gazebo that feels like a treehouse above mountain stream. Kitchen, full bath, bedrooms (maximum 2 persons total), deck with gazebo, 2 swings, Japanese garden.

Guest favorite

A two-story red and white building features a metal roof and an attached balcony that overlooks the surrounding greenery. The exterior is complemented by large windows and a wraparound deck, providing ample space for outdoor seating and relaxing areas.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 216 reviews

Celo Valley Retreat, with Awesome View

One of the most beautiful views in the whole valley, very close to rivers, streams, waterfalls, fishing, hiking, state parks, and more. Located in a private, quiet country neighborhood with little traffic. This 530 Sq. Ft. studio apartment has an additional 10 Ft. x 20 Ft. deck/balcony out front overlooking the Celo Valley with a spectacular view of the Celo and Black Mountain ranges (see photos). This apt. has its own private entrance. Sorry, we must maintain a no pet policy, no exceptions.

Top guest favorite

A wooden deck features two rocking chairs positioned around a small table, adorned with a vase of tulips. The surrounding trees are bare, indicating a seasonal change, with sunlight filtering through the branches.

Cottage in Little Switzerland

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 428 reviews

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.

Superhost

A gentle riverbank is surrounded by lush green trees, casting dappled shadows on the water's surface. The calm river reflects the vibrant foliage above, while smooth rocks line the water's edge, creating a serene natural setting.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Stunning Mountain Retreat – 25% off Monthly Stays

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour from Asheville, and a few miles from Mt. Mitchell, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest is Celo Farm, a 100-acre property boasting panoramic mountain views, numerous walking trails through fields and forests, and river access, providing tranquility and rejuvenation for the body and the mind. Relax and unwind in the beautifully appointed and spacious cottage or explore the area’s many scenic and cultural attractions.

Guest favorite

The cottage is illuminated by soft outdoor lighting, highlighting its rustic wooden façade. A spacious deck features a seating area, with guests gathering around a table. Surrounding greenery contrasts with the cozy warmth of the structure against the night sky.

Cottage in Burnsville

5 out of 5 average rating, 11 reviews

River Bliss Cottage: Private Healing Sanctuary

Just a few moments sitting in the presence of this pristine river + you will feel your entire nervous system calm + ground. Two private epic river spots just steps away; shallow sandy beach + deep swimming hole! House is open + filled with beauty, perfect for a creative retreat to rekindle your connection to the earth + your heart. Open living concept, cherry bar, outdoor kitchen, herbal tea, linen sheets, majestic trees, clean spring water, trout fishing, gardens + wood ovens! No parties.

Guest favorite

A serene lakeside scene is captured from above, showcasing the private dock with a blue roof extending into the clear water. Surrounding trees provide a lush green backdrop, while a couple of boats are seen anchored nearby, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Cottage in Marion

5 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

Dockside Delight @Lake James

Dockside Delight is a charming, century-old cottage nestled into a quiet cove around the corner from Bear Creek Marina on Lake James. Distant enough for peace and quiet yet close enough by land or lake to a lively night out, food, or boat/jet ski rental. Play, swim, canoe, sunbathe and relax all day. Eat dinner on the lakeside deck and soak in the beautiful views as the sun goes down before building a campfire in the perfect fire pit. The quintessential lakefront vacation experience!

Top guest favorite

The exterior of a rustic, octagonal cottage is shown, featuring a wooden door and stone accents. A picnic table and several metal chairs are arranged nearby, with a fire pit situated on gravel. Surrounding greenery provides a natural backdrop.

Cottage in Nebo

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 209 reviews

The Mothership

Welcome to the Mothership, an octagonal post and beam cottage built for those with a love of the outdoors. Located on our small farm in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, we are a perfect launching point for adventure. Lake James and the Linville Gorge are only 20 minutes away, Asheville 45 minutes, and Charlotte only an hour. Explore countless waterfalls, miles of trails, or kayak our beautiful rivers during the day, and relax in the hot tub and shoot pool in the evening.

Guest favorite

Double doors lead to a wooden deck, offering a sweeping view of the rolling mountains. The space is illuminated by natural light, highlighting the inviting interior seamlessly connecting with the outdoors.

Cottage in Spruce Pine

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

All Amenities! Hot Tub+Fire Pit, Fireplace & Grill

Welcome to beautiful Sunset Mountain Lodge, a 3-bedroom (plus a loft), two-bath home, on a secluded six acres of property with stunning sunset views. Relax and unwind on the large porch overlooking the mountains, enjoy hiking on the property, soak in the hot tub, or roast marshmallows by the fire pit. The house is close to many area attractions, grocery stores, and great restaurants, with downtown Spruce Pine and Burnsville nearby. This is the perfect mountain getaway!

Top guest favorite

A covered porch features wooden decking and a railing, surrounded by lush greenery. Two chairs are placed on one side under the afternoon light, inviting relaxation. The area is bordered by dense foliage, creating a sense of privacy and connection with nature.

Cottage in Bakersville

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 138 reviews

The Red House at Penland

Located just steps from the campus of Penland School of Crafts, the Red House is ideal for students who want a private space with cooking facilities. The perfect lodging for couples, with either one or both enrolled in a Penland class. Also an ideal location for visiting galleries and the many area artists' studios or exploring the surrounding attractions such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan Mountain, Linville Falls, and other scenic attractions in Western North Carolina.

Guest favorite

A wooden deck extends from the cottage, featuring two lounge chairs positioned for relaxation. The surrounding landscape displays tall trees and greenery, with blue skies and fluffy clouds adding to the serene atmosphere. A grill is also present on the deck.

Cottage in Nebo

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Whippoorwill Retreat, Nebo NC

Come escape to beautiful views of the mountains to a relaxing/secluded hideaway in the woods to unwind with nature/star gazing. We have a great walk to Lake James. We are nestled at the bottom of Linville Gorge where you can swim/hike/mountain bike. We are 1 1/2miles to Fonta Flora brewery and to Paddys Creek State Park. We have access to Fonta Flora Trail. Morganton/Marion have lots of great restaurants. We are a 1hr drive to Asheville/Boone.