Cottage with Accessible Bath, Kids’ Loft, Near Highlands

Discover a welcoming cottage retreat designed for inclusivity, comfort, and memorable experiences. Located just minutes from Highlands, this authentic escape features ground-level bedrooms, an accessible bathroom with supportive features, and a versatile loft that delights families and groups. Whether gathering by the fire, preparing meals together, or exploring scenic trails, guests will find a thoughtful blend of relaxation, adaptability, and mountain charm.

6 6 guests
2 2 bedrooms
2 2 bathrooms
Highlands Highlands, North Carolina
The image features a storybook-red cottage nestled amid mature trees, surrounded by a lush green lawn. A spacious wooden deck invites guests to relax, with sweeping views of the peaceful natural landscape. The setting glows in soft, welcoming light—ideal for sunset gatherings or morning coffee outdoors.
Escape to this charming red cottage in the Highlands—where sunset views from the deck, starry nights, and serene green surroundings offer the perfect mountain retreat.

Accessible bathroom with walk-in shower and grab bars, flexible loft with twin beds and optional queen air mattress, gas fireplace and fire pit, close to Highlands and waterfalls, character-rich details like clawfoot tub.

The Welcoming Hearth: Living Room & Gathering Spaces

Features

  • • Gas fireplace
  • • Plush seating
  • • Open layout to dining area
  • • Opens to dining area
  • • Accessible from main entry

Step inside to the warm embrace of the living room—a haven for connection, relaxation, and cherished moments. Plush seating invites you to curl up beside the gentle glow of the gas fireplace, sharing stories or simply unwinding into the gentle rhythm of cottage life. The seamless flow into the dining area encourages togetherness, whether over lively board games or heartfelt meals. This inviting space is the heart of the cottage, where laughter echoes and memories are made—perfect for families, couples, and friends seeking both intimacy and camaraderie.

A cozy living room featuring a central gas fireplace surrounded by comfortable seating, large windows bringing in natural light, and tasteful decorative wall art. The arrangement encourages gathering and conversation, with the warmth of the fireplace as a clear focal point.
Gather around the inviting gas fireplace and enjoy cozy evenings in the heart of the living room.
A relaxed and inviting space blending a cozy seating area with a dining table, complemented by bookshelves and artwork that add a homely, lived-in feel. The open layout seamlessly connects the living and dining spaces, ideal for both casual dining and socializing.
Enjoy seamless flow between the cozy living area and welcoming dining space—perfect for meals and memorable gatherings.
A dining table set with placemats blends into a comfortable seating area and a kitchen with warm wooden cabinets, creating a welcoming, cozy backdrop for family meals, game nights, and casual gatherings.
Share heartfelt meals and lively games in a space where comfort meets functionality.

Chef’s Nook: Kitchen & Dining Delights

Features

  • • Fully equipped kitchen
  • • Dining table
  • • Essential cookware
  • • Adjacent to living room

The heart of any memorable getaway, the homey kitchen is fully equipped for everything from quick breakfasts to family feasts. Its thoughtful layout makes meal preparation a pleasure, with all the essentials close at hand. Gather around the welcoming dining table, where laughter and conversation flow freely over shared plates. The kitchen and dining spaces capture the spirit of togetherness, allowing guests to savor both nourishing meals and meaningful moments.

A warmly lit kitchen featuring charming cabinets, a farmhouse sink, and a stove, with decorative items neatly arranged on open shelves. The scene subtly hints at recent meal preparations, evoking a sense of home and tradition.
A fully equipped kitchen ready for family feasts and cherished traditions.
A cozy dining area adjacent to the kitchen, showcasing modern appliances, cabinetry, and a spacious dining table set for a meal. The space feels intimate and conducive to gatherings, with seating that encourages conversation and shared experiences.
Gather around the dining table for laughter-filled meals and memorable celebrations.
A welcoming dining area with a prominent dining table, surrounded by light and decorative touches. The staircase and display cabinet add warmth and a sense of family history, suggesting stories shared over meals.
Shared meals and meaningful moments in a welcoming dining space.

Restful Retreats: Bedrooms & Inclusive Baths

Features

  • • Two queen bedrooms (main floor)
  • • Clawfoot tub
  • • Walk-in shower with grab bars and seat
  • • Bedrooms and bathrooms on main level

Two inviting queen bedrooms on the main floor provide peaceful sanctuaries for rest and rejuvenation. The shared bathroom, with its whimsical clawfoot tub and modern shower wand, adds a touch of nostalgic charm. Thoughtful inclusivity stands out in the second bathroom, which features a walk-in shower with grab bars and a supportive seat—ensuring comfort and dignity for guests of all ages and needs. These details create a restful escape for couples, families, and multi-generational travelers seeking tranquility and accessibility.

A bright queen bedroom with a plush bed, a sunlit window, a dresser, and thoughtfully arranged artwork. The space invites relaxation and quiet moments, perfect for restful nights and peaceful mornings.
Inviting main-floor queen bedroom offers a peaceful haven for rest and relaxation.
A cozy bedroom featuring a bed adorned with a decorative quilt, a window draped with sheer curtains allowing gentle natural light, and a dresser with a mirror. The room exudes warmth and comfort, ideal for reading or unwinding.
Cozy queen bedroom with warm natural light and charming details for a restful escape.
A serene bathroom with a classic clawfoot bathtub positioned by a window with sheer curtains, a stylish vanity sink, and decorative wall baskets. The space encourages relaxation and self-care rituals.
Whimsical clawfoot tub adds nostalgic charm to the shared bathroom sanctuary.
A bright bathroom scene featuring a striped shower curtain, neatly rolled towels, and a window filtering in natural light. The open shower area hints at accessibility and thoughtful design.
Accessible bathroom with walk-in shower and fresh, inclusive design for guests of all needs.

The Loft Hideaway: Play, Dream & Adapt

Features

  • • Twin beds
  • • Optional queen air mattress
  • • Seating area with table
  • • Loft accessed by stairs from main level

Ascend to the enchanting loft, where imagination and flexibility come together. Outfitted with twin beds and the option of a queen air mattress, this adaptable space delights children and adults alike. A cozy seating area and table invite games, crafts, or quiet reflection—making it an ideal haven for young ones or a versatile sleep zone for groups. Here, creative play and restful nights go hand-in-hand, underscoring the cottage’s reputation as a family-friendly, flexible retreat.

This image features a bright loft space with two beds dressed in floral bedding, a wooden table with chairs set for crafts or games, and a stylish staircase with a circular design. A decorative mirror adds character, and the cozy setting is flooded with natural light, perfect for both children and adults.
The loft’s twin beds and inviting table create a playful, flexible retreat for families and groups.
A pair of twin beds with decorative pillows and a cowhide rug form a cozy sleeping area. Soft lighting and a nightstand with a lamp set an inviting mood for bedtime stories or quiet relaxation.
Twin beds and soft accents make for restful nights and playful mornings in the loft.
A tranquil nook featuring a table stacked with books, a rocking chair, a window seat, and decorative wall art. Sunlight streams through the window, creating an inspiring spot for reading, games, or creative pursuits.
A sunlit nook in the loft invites imagination, reading, and games alike.

Explore the Area

A serene woodland scene with a deer standing quietly amidst lush green foliage, with a red structure partially visible in the background. The setting invites wildlife observation and emphasizes the property's close proximity to unspoiled nature.
Catch a glimpse of local wildlife just steps from the cottage—nature's wonders await around every corner.
The red cottage nestled among large green trees, surrounded by a lush lawn and a welcoming wooden deck. The environment feels peaceful and rejuvenating, offering an inviting starting point or a restful return from adventures.
Return from your adventures to the tranquil comfort of Sassafras Gap Retreat, surrounded by towering trees and open green spaces.
Another view of the property’s exterior featuring a deer near a red building, cushioned by green shrubs. The calm setting highlights both wildlife observation and the gentle serenity of the grounds.
Create lasting family memories in a setting where nature and comfort seamlessly blend.

Waterfall Adventures & Scenic Trails

Just minutes from the cottage, families can immerse themselves in the natural wonders that define Highlands. Spend your days exploring nearby Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, or Glen Falls—each offering its own unique trail, with options ranging from easy strolls for young explorers to invigorating hikes for the more adventurous. Along the way, spot native wildlife and admire the vibrant mountain flora. After your adventures, return to the peaceful comfort of Sassafras Gap Retreat. For families, the versatile loft serves as a playful haven for children to unwind and dream after nature-filled excursions.

This exterior image features the red house surrounded by lush greenery and blooming blue hydrangeas. The inviting fire pit area with outdoor seating is visible in the foreground, with hints of a serene mountain backdrop. The scene is bathed in soft evening light, suggesting opportunities for relaxing outside under the stars.
Share romantic evenings by the fire pit, surrounded by mountain views and blooming hydrangeas.
The image shows the red house from another exterior angle, highlighting its welcoming deck draped in lush greenery and seasonal flowers. An American flag waves gently on the porch, and the deck is set up for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. The natural landscape frames the house, reinforcing its tranquil setting.
Begin your days with coffee on the deck, soaking in the fresh mountain air and scenic views.

A Romantic Highlands Escape

Perfect for couples seeking both seclusion and convenience, Sassafras Gap Retreat places you just a quick drive from the charming shops, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants of downtown Highlands. Begin your mornings with coffee on the inviting porch, or cozy up by the gas fireplace as evening falls. Enjoy leisurely strolls through the Highlands Botanical Gardens or share a romantic meal in town—then return to your private, authentic cottage for evenings under the stars by the fire pit. Here, every moment is set against a backdrop of mountain tranquility and nostalgic charm.

A welcoming communal living room with a cozy fireplace, large windows letting in natural light, framed photos on the wall, and comfortable seating arranged for gatherings. The space radiates warmth and is ideal for family storytelling, holiday celebrations, and quiet relaxation.
Gather around the welcoming fireplace for stories, celebrations, or relaxing family moments in this sunlit living space.
A bright hallway featuring a staircase leading to the upper loft, a decorative cabinet that hints at family history, and a visible bathroom door. Light pours in through a skylight, enhancing the sense of welcome and openness.
Explore easily navigable shared spaces with main level access, perfect for every generation’s comfort and convenience.

Inclusive Highlands Experiences for All Ages & Abilities

Sassafras Gap Retreat has been thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy their Highlands getaway. The accessible bathroom features a walk-in shower with supportive grab bars and a comfortable seat, offering ease and safety for guests with mobility needs. Most bedrooms and communal spaces are located on the main level, while the upstairs loft provides a flexible arrangement for children or younger family members. Explore accessible local attractions such as the Highlands Nature Center or gentle, paved park trails, then gather for meals or storytelling around the outdoor fire pit—creating shared moments for guests of every generation.

A cozy living room scene featuring a fireplace, a cowhide rug, a comfortable sofa, and a television. The inviting setting is ideal for gathering, socializing, and relaxing after a day of exploring the nearby downtown and mountains.
Gather around the warm fireplace for stories, movie nights, and memorable evenings with friends.
A sunlit bedroom nook with a bed topped with a quilt, a nearby bookshelf, a lamp, and large windows that let in natural light. The space exudes warmth and invites moments of relaxation or quiet conversation.
Start your mornings with sunshine and end your adventures in a cozy, inviting nook perfect for relaxation.

Group Getaways: Adventure & Connection Close to Downtown

Bring your friends for a memorable mountain retreat just 11 minutes from the vibrant heart of Highlands. Spend your days hiking scenic trails, browsing boutique shops, or sampling local cuisine downtown. Evenings are made for grilling on the charcoal BBQ, sharing stories around the fire pit, or relaxing together in the cozy living room. Flexible sleeping arrangements—including twin beds and the option of a queen air mattress in the loft—ensure comfort for groups of all kinds, fostering connection and camaraderie after a day of adventure.

Property Amenities

Facilities & Security

Outdoor Space: Patio

Free Parking

Deadbolts

Self Check-in/Check-out

Fire Extinguisher

Handicap Accessible

Comfort & Lifestyle

Stove

BBQ Grill

Laundry Basics: Clothes Dryer, Clothes Washing Machine

Clothes Washing Machine

Oven

Hair Dryer

Clothes Dryer

Toaster

Library

TV

Standard Essentials

Bed Linens

Shower/Bathtub

Smoke alarm

Climate Control

Cooking Space: Full Kitchen

Towels

High-Speed Internet

Kitchen Basics: Basic Dishes & Silverware, Microwave/Convection Oven, Refrigerator

Cooking Basics

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Ready to Book Your Stay?

Book your stay at Sassafras Gap Retreat and experience a welcoming Highlands cottage where accessibility, family-friendly amenities, and mountain adventures come together.

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Cancellation Policy: Strict

Cancelation Policy

You can cancel this Vacay and get a Full refund up to 60 days prior to arrival

Important Information

Check-in and Check-out Procedures

  • Self check-in and check-out available.
  • No specific check-in or check-out times provided in the listing.

Property Access

  • The property features two bedrooms on the main floor, each with a queen bed, sharing a bathroom with a clawfoot tub and shower wand.
  • A second bathroom offers a walk-in shower with grab bars and a supportive seat for accessibility.
  • The upstairs loft includes two twin beds and a queen air mattress option.

Policies and Rules

  • No smoking allowed.
  • Minimum age: 21 years.
  • Children allowed.
  • No events allowed.
  • No pets allowed (maximum pets: 0).

Fees and Payments

  • No additional fees, taxes, or deposit information provided.

Parking Information

  • Free parking is available.

Utilities and Amenities Access

  • Kitchen equipped with basic dishes & silverware, microwave/convection oven, refrigerator, stove, oven, toaster, and cooking basics.
  • Bed linens and towels provided.
  • Clothes washing machine and dryer available.
  • High-speed internet.
  • Climate control (heating/cooling).
  • Hair dryer provided.
  • Gas fireplace in the living room.
  • Library on site.
  • TV available.
  • Outdoor space includes a patio and a charcoal BBQ grill.

Safety and Emergency Information

  • Smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguisher, and deadbolts provided.
  • Walk-in shower equipped with grab bars and a supportive seat for accessibility and safety.
  • No emergency contact information provided.

Other Critical Details

  • Maximum occupancy: 6 guests.
  • Total beds: 5 (2 twin beds, 3 queen beds including air mattress option).
  • Bedrooms: 2 (main floor), plus loft sleeping space.
  • Bathrooms: 2 (one with clawfoot tub and shower wand; one with walk-in shower with grab bars and seat).
  • Property type: Cottage.
  • Location: Highlands, North Carolina.