Hotels in Highlands

Embrace the Majesty: Discover the Enchanted Peaks and Hidden Waterfalls of the Highlands

Nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, Highlands, North Carolina, is a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Known for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes, this charming mountain town offers a blend of outdoor adventures and Southern hospitality. Explore hiking trails, indulge in local art galleries, and savor farm-to-table dining in downtown Highlands. Whether you’re wandering through the serene highlands hills or soaking in the vibrant fall foliage, this romantic getaway invites you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Discover the magic of Highlands, where every moment feels like a breath of fresh mountain air.

Discover great hotels in Highlands

Highlands, North Carolina offers a range of accommodations from cozy inns and charming bed-and-breakfasts to upscale resorts with stunning mountain views. Hotel rates vary, catering to different budgets, making it easy to find the right place to relax after exploring downtown Highlands or the surrounding nature. Here are some of the best hotels in Highlands that our travelers love:

1. Hotel CashiersOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.5-star motel is perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. With a focus on outdoor experiences, Hotel Cashiers offers a variety of adventure sports and activities such as rock climbing, snowboarding, and horseback riding nearby. Guests can enjoy pet-friendly accommodations, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for a unique getaway with their furry companions. The property's emphasis on recreational activities ensures a refreshing and invigorating stay, creating a vibrant atmosphere for adventure-loving visitors.
2. The Wells CashiersOpens in a new window: A 2.5-star motel, The Wells Cashiers perfectly caters to those yearning for an adventurous escape. The property boasts easy access to thrilling activities like downhill skiing, mountain climbing, and hiking, making it a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts. This hotel emphasizes a casual and welcoming environment, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its focus on adventure, The Wells Cashiers invites travelers to explore and enjoy a refreshing experience in the great outdoors.
3. Fire Mountain ResortOpens in a new window: Experience a delightful stay at this 3.0-star resort, which expertly combines adventure and golf in a welcoming atmosphere. Fire Mountain Resort provides an exceptional golf experience, along with activities like rock climbing and birdwatching nearby. The property embraces an inclusive environment, making it a standout choice for LGBTQIA travelers seeking a distinctive experience. With its focus on recreation and community, Fire Mountain Resort ensures guests enjoy a memorable and engaging getaway surrounded by nature's beauty.

Top locations to stay in Highlands

Some great areas to stay in Highlands, North Carolina, are Cashiers, Sapphire, and Dillard. Cashiers offers a charming mountain atmosphere and vibrant local culture. Sapphire is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning hiking trails and serene mountain views. Dillard combines scenic beauty with rich southern hospitality. For first-time visitors, Cashiers is the best choice for its welcoming vibe and amenities.

1. CashiersOpens in a new window: Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cashiers is a stunning getaway known for its breathtaking natural beauty. This charming mountain town is surrounded by lush forests and pristine lakes, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore scenic hiking trails that lead to spectacular waterfalls, or enjoy leisurely afternoons at local shops featuring unique crafts and artisanal goods. The laid-back atmosphere invites you to unwind while soaking in the captivating views, and the friendly community adds to its charm. Cashiers is a fantastic choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still having access to nature's wonders.
2. SapphireOpens in a new window: Sapphire is an outdoor lover's paradise, celebrated for its hiking trails and stunning mountain vistas. This lovely area boasts access to multiple waterfalls and is within reach of beautiful Lake Sapphire, where you can enjoy kayaking or picnicking by the water. The local shops offer a variety of mountain-themed gifts and clothing, perfect for taking home a piece of your adventure. Sapphire's tranquil environment and natural attractions make it an ideal base for those looking to connect with nature while still enjoying the comforts of a cozy town.
3. DillardOpens in a new window: Dillard is a quaint mountain town that provides a perfect mix of outdoor activities and charming local experiences. Surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's a great place to explore hiking trails that lead to stunning views and wildlife sightings. Dillard is also known for its antique shops and seasonal events, providing visitors with a taste of local culture. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful hike or browse the unique shops, Dillard offers a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Things to do in Highlands

Highlands is a nature lover's paradise, where stunning mountains meet lush forests and sparkling lakes. Enjoy invigorating hikes along scenic trails, play a round of golf with breathtaking views, or dive into the local art scene. With vibrant downtown areas and serene beaches, there's something for everyone to explore!

• High FallsOpens in a new window – Experience the stunning beauty of High Falls, where the cascading waters create a mesmerizing spectacle. It's an excellent spot for photography, so have your camera ready to capture the natural beauty surrounding you.
• Whisper LakeOpens in a new window – Spend a peaceful afternoon at Whisper Lake, a serene spot ideal for picnicking or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The calm waters reflect the lush mountain scenery, making it a perfect place to relax.
• Hogback LakeOpens in a new window – Venture to Hogback Lake for a day filled with outdoor fun. Whether you prefer fishing or enjoying a leisurely paddle, this picturesque lake offers a great escape into nature.
• Whitewater FallsOpens in a new window – Don’t miss the chance to visit Whitewater Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The roaring waters and scenic views are sure to leave you in awe, so take some time to explore the surrounding trails.
• The Village GreenOpens in a new window – Head to The Village Green, a charming park that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. With its beautiful landscaping and inviting atmosphere, it's a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Highlands

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit the Highlands is from January to March, when hotel prices tend to be lower. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is perfect for discovering the area’s key landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can explore stunning mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and enjoy scenic hikes. In addition, the region offers opportunities for golf, nature appreciation, and cultural experiences, such as local dancing and art exhibitions. This timeframe not only provides great value for money but also allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of the Highlands.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Highlands on Hotels.com, begin by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. You could also utilize the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool via the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re aware of the best options. With these features, you’re more likely to be the first to know about price drops or room availability for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a Highlands hotel. If you're in search of unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and often offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you find a great deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Highlands' great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that still offers convenient access. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there’s often excellent value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic experience while being budget-friendly.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and start planning your next getaway to the Highlands! Enjoy fantastic savings on over 100,000 hotels around the globe with exclusive member pricing. As you progress through the membership tiers, you'll unlock additional benefits, including complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these amazing perks—sign up today and make your next stay even more memorable!

Best time to go to Highlands

Highlands experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 33.8°F (1.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.5°F (20.3°C). December is usually the wettest month. June, July, and October are the peak travel months in Highlands, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, January to March tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.