Discover the peaceful charm of the holiday season in the mountains of Jackson County, North Carolina. For those who cherish meaningful, immersive exploration with loved ones as the ultimate gift, Jackson County sets the scene for a genial, festive vacation.

Start your mornings with leisurely breakfasts at local cafés, spend afternoons exploring charming boutiques filled with handmade gifts, and end your evenings with fireside storytelling or stargazing under clear mountain skies. Read on for a dose of holiday-inspired mountain getaway inspiration!

Cozy Accommodations with Holiday Cheer 

Jackson County boasts a variety of accommodations that fit every budget and type of traveler.

For those looking for a luxurious home away from home, High Hampton Resort in Cashiers offers a classic holiday experience with elegantly decorated spaces, lakefront views, and curated holiday menus. Families can enjoy cozy evenings by the fire, complete with complimentary hot cocoa. The Wells Hotel, also located in Cashiers, is another terrific boutique option, located within walking distance of shopping and dining.

For a cozy, budget-friendly option, travelers may also consider Hotel Sylva, where southern charm meets modern comfort in beautiful downtown Sylva, just steps from locally owned restaurants, gift shops, outfitters and much more.

To make your mountain journey a true ‘getaway,’ Outland Chalet & Suites is a perfect option for a more secluded experience. This private retreat is nestled along a mountain ridge outside of Sylva, allowing guests to take in direct views of Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and access to seven private trails.

Festive Dining Experiences 

Jackson County’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering everything from hearty Appalachian classics to upscale dining. During the holidays, local restaurants and eateries add seasonal flair to their menus, giving visitors a taste of the region’s festive spirit.

Whiteside Brewing Co. in Cashiers features picturesque outdoor seating, complete with a covered porch and outdoor heaters – a great option for pet owners – to enjoy their seasonal brews and cocktails, including a malty caramel red ale, coffee and cinnamon stouts, spiced whiskey cider, and caramel apple sangria, perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.

For a refined evening, book a table at The Orchard in Cashiers, a quaint restaurant set in a 100-year-old refurbished farmhouse that overlooks apple orchards and gardens. Their seasonal, Southern-inspired menu offers delectable fare ready to be paired with a selection of more than 50 fine wines.

A must-visit spot in downtown Sylva for wine lovers is Santé, a wine bar that is well-known in the area for offering a highly unique selection of wines in a beautiful and relaxed setting. It’s the perfect spot for catching up with loved ones after a busy day while discovering your new favorite wine.

Don’t miss Jackson County’s charming bakeries and coffee shops like City Lights Café in Sylva, where visitors can sip seasonal favorites like peppermint mochas and eggnog lattes while enjoying open mic nights, rotating local art shows, live music and a stroll through the book store upstairs.

Sweet treats are abound in Jackson County, where visitors can delight in several locally owned bakeries and candy stores, including Dillsboro Chocolate Factory, Sugar Cloud Baking Company, and more. When visiting Baxley’s Chocolates, be sure to order the Chocolate Sugar Plums prepared with minced walnuts, apricots and dates with a hint of molasses within a chocolate sphere. This family recipe is featured in “The Unofficial Elf Cookbook.”

Peaceful – and Invigorating – Outdoor Adventures

There’s no shortage of adventure in Jackson County. Located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visitors are mere minutes from some of the most breathtaking hiking trails and waterfalls in the country. For a brisk hike through beautiful Blue Ridge wilderness, the 7-mile Pinnacle Park Trail offers incredible views of lush forests, cascading streams, and scenic ridges.

Jackson County is also home to the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail ®, a map of 15 prime spots to catch brown, rainbow and brook trout in the region’s crystal-clear streams. For both beginners and avid anglers, fly fishing is as calming as it is exciting, a perfect combination for visitors of all ages looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

Animal lovers are in for a special experience at Arrowmont Stables, where visitors can embark on guided horseback riding journeys ranging from 45 minutes to two hours on a selection of scenic private trails – a memory to cherish for a lifetime.

Ready to discover the blissful charm of Jackson County this holiday season? Visit our website for more information on accommodations, dining, and seasonal activities.

Let the magic of the mountains inspire your holiday traditions this year!