High Hampton, a renowned nature lover’s paradise and one of the best hotels in Cashiers, NC, first opened in 1933. The 1,400-acre property sits at the edge of a peaceful private lake. There are sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While its 100 years of existence brought many happy visitors, the historic nature of the Inn introduced some challenges too. The Inn was unable to accommodate guests year round due to a lack of central heating and air. Plus, rooms were small, and some of the property needed a refresh.
In 2021, High Hampton re-opened its doors after undergoing a thoughtful two-year restoration and update. The same team that operates Blackberry Farm in Tennessee, one of the Great Smokies most acclaimed resorts, directed the project. Protected as part of the National Registry of Historic Places, High Hampton was given modern amenities alongside all the charm that comes with a century-year-old property.
In addition to larger guest rooms and newer amenities, the update also included the redevelopment of the golf course, new club amenities, and private real estate offerings. The previously summer-only destination now takes reservations year-round. Guests can enjoy the lake during high season. Additionally, they can now also enjoy winter hikes, fall foliage, and an indulgent holiday season. With these updates, High Hampton is now one of the best hotels in Cashiers NC.
Luxurious Mountain Retreat
High Hampton stands as a singular rustic resort in the area. There are twelve rooms in the main inn and multiple cottages throughout the property. Additionally, there are several restaurants to choose from on-property, ranging from fine dining to casual lunches or to-go food. The rooms don’t have TVs, but they do have large soaking tubs, rocking chairs on the porches, and fluffy bedding. Breakfast and dinner at the main dining room are included in your room rate. Your stay also includes access to equipment for kayaking and canoeing and amenities like the pool and golf course.
Eat at The Dining Room and The Tavern, or one of the three other restaurants at the adjacent recreational Club at High Hampton. While all High Hampton venues and menus are distinct, they share a common thread. Each features classic, regional cuisine and each is complemented by expertly curated wine and cocktail programs.
The property allows guests to escape, relax, play golf and tennis in the afternoon, or take a sunset hike through the dahlia gardens. Canoe or fish the lake. Or simply relax on the property’s adirondack chairs and lawn beds to take in views of Rock Mountain, Chimney Top Mountain, and Whiteside Mountain.
For a relaxed retreat that’s the perfect blend of rustic-meets-elevated, High Hampton is well worth a visit. It’s a roughly three-hour drive from Charlotte. The surrounding town of Cashiers offers visitors tons of stunning scenery: waterfalls, lakes, hiking trails, gardens, and more.