Stories in Every Stay: Historic Hotels and Inns in Jackson County
Where you stay can have a profound impact on how you experience a destination, so why not make your home-away-from-home a place that offers a deeper connection to the region’s history? In Jackson County, North Carolina, many lodging options carry rich stories from their past, inviting guests to step into a living narrative while enjoying the modern comforts of today.
Here’s a look at a few of the county’s historic properties and what sets them apart.
The Balsam Mountain Inn sits on 21 acres in Balsam, North Carolina, and was originally built in 1905 as a railroad hotel on the Southern Railway. Travelers once came seeking a cool escape from the summer heat, and the inn quickly became a popular retreat. As railroad travel declined, so did the inn’s popularity, but restoration efforts began in the late 1980s to preserve its storied halls.
Today, guests can enjoy scenic hiking trails, relax in a quiet corner of the on-site library or grab a drink or meal at the inn’s bar and restaurant. Hallways are lined with artifacts that reflect the property’s past, while antique furnishings, wooden floors and wraparound porches provide visitors with a sense of its early 20th-century character. With 100 guest rooms, each space offers a slightly different experience rooted in the inn’s enduring character.
In Cashiers, High Hampton has been carefully restored to reflect its original elegance. Built in 1922, the 1,400‑acre property offers a range of accommodations—from traditional inn rooms to spacious cottages and cabins—making it an ideal stay for any occasion and group size. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the inn preserves its architectural integrity while incorporating modern touches throughout its restoration.
With its rustic exterior, wide porches and wood‑paneled interiors, guests are immersed in a lush mountain‑escape atmosphere the moment they arrive. Long known as a place of tradition and gathering, the property offers a resort‑style experience with amenities like fly fishing, paddle sports, cooking classes and a Tom Fazio-designed golf course. With all its offerings, High Hampton delivers a refined and relaxed mountain getaway.
In Dillsboro, the historic Jarrett House enters a new era. Originally built in 1884 in Dillsboro, the Mount Beulah Hotel reopens following a full renovation that preserves its role as a cornerstone of the community. Under new ownership, its character remains intact, expressed through polished woodwork, Appalachian artwork and carefully restored details.
In addition to lodging, the hotel serves as a scenic wedding and event venue, offering a courtyard and ample gathering spaces for groups. The hotel is enriched with amenities that leave guests wanting for nothing. In the dining room, guests can enjoy three family‑style meals a day, cultivating a sense of camaraderie and connection. At Coach’s Bar, visitors can stop in for a drink and relaxed fellowship. Gallery 1884 showcases artwork inspired by the hotel’s founding year, celebrating regional creativity with work from local artists. The Jarrett House begins a new chapter of warm hospitality with its reopening, encouraging guests to reconnect with life’s simple pleasures.
Jackson County offers no shortage of places to stay, and wherever you decide, you’ll find historic charm seamlessly paired with modern comfort waiting at your bedside. Explore more options and plan your stay at DiscoverJacksonNC.com.
