Escape to Smoketree Lodge: Your NC Mountain Getaway Awaits!
My Honest-to-Goodness Smoketree Lodge Escape: A Rambling Review (with a Side of Mountain Air & Mixed Feelings)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from "Escape to Smoketree Lodge: Your NC Mountain Getaway Awaits!" and let me tell you, escaping my expectations was definitely part of the adventure. This isn't your glossy brochure review; this is me, raw and unfiltered, spilling the tea (or maybe it was the complimentary mountain-brewed coffee) on my Smoketree experience.
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- Keywords: Smoketree Lodge, North Carolina mountains, NC getaway, mountain retreat, spa, accessible, family-friendly, restaurant, review, vacation, hotel, amenities, wi-fi, outdoor pool, spa, gym, breakfast buffet, pet-friendly (sort of), wheelchair access, non-smoking rooms, mountain view
- Meta Description: Honest review of Smoketree Lodge in the NC mountains! Explore accessibility, amenities like spa, pool, and restaurants, plus quirky observations and real-life experiences. Learn about the good, the bad, and the slightly underwhelming.
Let's Dive In! (And I promise, it's not all smooth sailing)
The Arrival & First Impressions:
Alright, first things first: I'm a sucker for a scenic drive. And Smoketree Lodge delivers on that front. Winding roads, vibrant fall foliage (I went in autumn – highly recommend for the views!), the whole shebang. The lodge itself…well, it has that classic mountain charm. Think rustic chic meets… moderately well-maintained. My first thought? "Okay, this isn't going to be a five-star experience, but at least the air smells amazing."
Accessibility: (The Verdict, I guess?)
Okay, this is where things get a little… complicated. The lodge claims to be accessible, and technically, it has some features. The elevators worked (thank the heavens!), and there were ramps in place. But, here's the kicker: the execution felt a little… half-hearted. The accessible rooms, I'm told (I didn't stay in one, thankfully), were available. I didn't inspect closely. The signage, while present, wasn't always super clear. For someone with significant mobility issues, I imagine maneuvering around (especially in the common areas) might feel a tad… challenging. Overall, it’s trying to be accessible, but I'd suggest checking directly with the lodge about your specific needs before you book.
The Room: My Little Mountain Sanctuary (ish)
My room? Okay, it was clean – BIG plus. The bed was comfy, which is crucial because I like my sleep. The air conditioning worked like a charm (thank goodness, because the mountains, surprisingly, can get hot!). Here's where I have to give them props: The blackout curtains! Absolute lifesaver for my light sensitivity – and for allowing me to sleep in till 10 on my perfect vacation.
But, my oh my, there were some quirks. A little outdated, that is, the bathroom felt like it was stuck in the late 90s but it was functional, though the toiletries were somewhat basic. I wouldn't have minded having a better quality of soap and shampoo!
And the soundproofing? Let's just say I could definitely hear my neighbor's enthusiastic snoring. Thank goodness I'm a deep sleeper.
Internet Access (The Modern Necessity):
Wi-Fi in all rooms? Yes, and THANK GOD. It was… okay. It wasn't lightning fast, but it was reliable enough for checking emails and streaming the occasional movie. I was so happy for the escape, that I didn't even bother trying to use the LAN connection, it was so outdated anyway. A score for the free Wi-Fi!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Day (and Maybe Regrets?)
Right, the spa. This was a big selling point for me. I was picturing myself, blissed out with a perfect massage, soaking in a sauna, the whole shebang. The reality? A bit… less glamorous.
- The Massage: Well at least it was available. The therapist was decent, but the spa atmosphere felt more… utilitarian than luxurious. The massage itself was alright, but I've had much better, and the room felt a little cramped.
- Sauna/Steamroom: Yes, they had them… and no I didn't bother. I didn't have time.
- Pool: The outdoor pool was pretty, with a view of the mountains, but in mid-October, it was closed. I suppose that makes sense.
- Fitness Center: Okay, this was a gym in name, a glorified closet in reality. I didn't even attempt to use it. I'm guessing you could get a decent workout in if you were desperate, but let's just say it wasn't exactly equipped to meet all needs.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: (A Rollercoaster Ride of Expectations)
- The Restaurant: The main restaurant, serving both Western and International dishes, had an ambiance that sat on the line between "rustic charm" and "slightly dated." They did have a veggie burger that tasted excellent, but the service was at times a bit slow, which is a killer when you are hungry after a long day. I do wish there wasn't such a disconnect with the staff.
- Breakfast: Buffet Battles: The breakfast buffet… Ah, the breakfast buffet. A mixed bag. The Asian breakfast was worth the experience. The Asian options, the only interesting part, were often the first to go. The coffee, bless its heart, was drinkable. But the eggs were often cold, the bacon was either burnt beyond recognition or undercooked, and the atmosphere was… chaotic. Here's a pro tip: Get there early. Like REALLY early. Otherwise, you're battling a hungry mob for the last sausage link.
- Poolside Bar/Snack Bar: The pool-side bar was closed. I wish there was more food.
- Room Service: 24-hour! A great option, but the menu was very limited and expensive.
Cleanliness & Safety (Because Let's Be Real, It Matters):
Cleanliness was a definite win. My room was spotless. The staff seemed to be taking the heightened hygiene protocols seriously – hand sanitizer stations were everywhere, and I saw staff constantly cleaning common areas. I also felt like they were making an effort to keep everything up to standard.
Services & Conveniences:
- Air Conditioning: Yes, thankfully in the common areas.
- Concierge: They were helpful, but I didn’t use them for anything particularly adventurous.
- Elevator: Yes, thank goodness.
- Gift/Souvenir Shop: A bit underwhelming, but I did snag a Smoketree Lodge mug for my collection.
- Laundry Service/Dry Cleaning: Available, but I didn’t use these.
- Meeting/Banquet Facilities: Seemed well-equipped, but I didn't attend any events.
- Cash withdrawal: Yes, a great feature!
For the Kids:
I didn't have kids with me, but the lodge seemed family-friendly. There were some kid's meals listed on the restaurant menu, and I definitely saw a few families around. The babysitting service was available, but I didn’t use it.
Getting Around:
- Car Park: Free and convenient.
- Airport Transfer/Taxi Service: Not directly available, but with advance notice, it was possible.
- Bicycle Parking: A small area available, but not really designed for serious cyclists.
The Bottom Line (Because, Honestly, You Just Want to Know):
Smoketree Lodge? Listen, it's not perfect. It's got its quirks. It's not the height of luxury, but it has a certain charm. If you're looking for a super-polished, flawless experience, you might be disappointed.
But… if you're looking for a decent base camp to explore the stunning North Carolina mountains, with a comfortable bed, decent Wi-Fi, a (sometimes chaotic) breakfast buffet, and a bit of mountain air to breathe, then Smoketree Lodge delivers.
Did I escape? Yes, from the daily grind. Would I go back? Maybe. Perhaps. I'd certainly research the spa situation beforehand. But the mountains? Those are calling my name again. And who knows, maybe I'll see you there. Just watch out for the sausage link stampede!
Final Score: A solid 3.5 stars (Rounding up to a 4 for the view!)
Escape to Wilkes-Barre: Days Inn's Unbeatable Getaway!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your polished, Instagram-filtered travelogue. This is the real deal. We’re talking about a trip to Smoketree Lodge in Banner Elk, North Carolina, and let me tell you, getting there was half the adventure (and by "adventure" I mean pure, unadulterated chaos).
Smoketree Lodge: A Banner Elk Ballad (or Ball-up, Depending on the Day)
Day 1: The Great Escape (and Subsequent Regret)
- Morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): Alarm clock? More like a personal torture device. I swear, the damn thing vibrates directly into my soul. This is Day 1. We’re supposed to be leaving at 6:00 AM. "Supposed to be." That quickly turned into what I like to call the "Morning Rush Hour of Doom." Where's my coffee? Where's my luggage? Oh, wait, I haven't even packed yet.
- Packing Panic (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM): A flurry of frantic activity. Trying to jam a week's worth of clothes into a carry-on suitcase that's seen better days (and probably a few airport baggage handlers). Found a rogue sock, a half-eaten granola bar, and a crumpled-up map from a trip I took five years ago. Ah, memories. Also, did I remember my toothbrush? (Don't worry, I did. I think.)
- The Drive (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Finally, in the car. My co-pilot/spouse and I. The initial drive was… surprisingly smooth. Then the inevitable happened: traffic. (Cue existential crisis on the meaning of life. Which, by the way, is mostly finding something to eat.) What was supposed to be a four-hour drive morphed into something closer to six. We bickered, we snacked, and we listened to the same five songs on repeat. Road trip bliss, people!
- Check-in Catastrophe (1:00 PM): Reached Smoketree Lodge. Gorgeous views. That's the good. The slightly less good? Actually finding the lobby - it was tucked away behind a tree. The worst? The keys don't work. The room? Yeah, it's not what we booked. (I swear, every hotel room ever promises a mountain view and delivers a view of the dumpster.) More arguing, more waiting, and eventually, we get a slightly better room. Okay, progress.
- Dinner… and Defeat? (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Decided to eat at the only restaurant open. The fish was overcooked, the waiter forgot the drinks, and the atmosphere screamed "retirement community." Definitely not a culinary masterpiece. We retreated back to the lodge, defeated and slightly hangry.
Day 2: Mountain Majesty (Almost)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Woke up to the crisp mountain air. Okay, this is better. A tiny little porch, the smell of pine trees, this is what I came for! I mean, after the mountain view, of course…
- Hiking Hike (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Determined to embrace the nature. We got a (very) detailed map from the front desk. Hiked. Went on trails. Got lost. (Shocking, I know.) Some beautiful views. Found a cute little waterfall. Got a blister. Overall, a win.
- Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Picnicked. Sand eaten by ants. Overpriced, underwhelming sandwiches. Lesson learned: pack your own lunch. Or at least, a grenade to throw at the food.
- Afternoon Sloth (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Nap time. That's all that matters. And a book I had brought. Pure bliss.
- The Big Surprise (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): This is where I want to dig in on the experience. I was SO excited for the ski. The lodge had told us it was the best in the area. I love skiing. We packed up the ski stuff and went. After a quick lesson… I fell. A lot. I mean, a lot. Like, gracefully tumble over my own skis, trip over the cat, a lot. I may have actually been more confused than confident. I was on beginner slopes. The other person on the slope? Not nearly as skilled as I wanted to be. The second time I got on the lift, it stopped. I mean, literally, it stopped. So I thought. So the ride stopped. It was a complete and utter disaster, the kind of disaster that's both hilariously awful and deeply humbling. I spent more time on my butt than on my feet. My boots were too tight. My skis were too long. My pride? Well, that was buried somewhere deep in the snow. Still, the cold wind on my face and the sun shining made this the best day ever. Even with the humiliation.
- Dinner… and Realization (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Ordered takeout pizza. It was… pizza. And then it hit me. This trip isn't about perfection. It's about the mess, the falls, the mediocre pizza. It's about the imperfections. And maybe, just maybe, that's what makes it perfect.
Day 3 & Beyond (Quick Notes because I'm Exhausted):
- Day 3: Explored downtown Banner Elk. Cute shops, charming cafes. Got my picture taken with the town's Big Bear sculpture.
- Day 4: More hiking (less falling this time!). Found a secluded spot with a view that actually did take my breath away.
- Day 5: Decided to just sit on the porch and drink coffee. Bliss.
- Day 6 (Departure Day): Packed. Said goodbye to the mountains. The drive home? Better, somehow. Still traffic, but now I'm used to it.
Final Thoughts (aka, stream-of-consciousness rambling):
Smoketree Lodge? It's not a perfect resort. But it is a place where you can lose yourself in incredible nature, have some serious laughs at your own expense, and maybe, just maybe, learn to embrace the glorious messiness of life. Would I go back? Probably. After I recover from the ski incident. And maybe take a refresher course. Or, you know, just stick to porch-sitting. Either way, this trip was a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that don't go according to plan. And that a good sense of humor (and a strong cup of coffee) can fix almost anything.
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Okay, spill it. What *is* Smoketree Lodge, exactly? And is it actually worth scrambling up those mountain roads?
Alright, alright, let's be honest. Smoketree Lodge? Imagine a slightly rustic-chic cabin, perched high enough to feel like you're breathing actual mountain air. I mean, *really* high. The drive up? Oh honey, it's a rollercoaster. Paved roads, then gravel… then "are these even roads?" territory. But listen, when you finally pull up to the porch, with the view… it's a punch to the gut in the best possible way. Like, you'll actually *gasp*. I almost tripped getting out of the car the first time, just staring. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Unless you're terrified of heights and narrow roads. Then maybe… reconsider. Though, even being slightly terrified has a certain… allure, right?
What are the rooms like? Cozy? Or more… "Grandma's attic finds"?
Okay, so the rooms. Look, they're not the Ritz. Let's get that out of the way. But "Grandma's Attic"? Eeeeh, a little harsh. Think… rustic, with personality. The beds? Comfortable. The decor? Well, it's got that "lived-in" charm. You know, the kind where you can practically smell the pine needles and maybe a *hint* of woodsmoke (in a good way!). I specifically remember one room's fireplace? Gorgeous, but a little temperamental. One night, we spent a good hour trying to coax a flame. We finally succeeded... and almost set off the smoke alarm! So, bring a sense of humor. And maybe a lighter. Just in case.
What's the food situation? Is it just trail mix and desperation?
Okay, food. This is where Smoketree shines… or maybe just… sort of glow? This is where things get, well, realistically complex.
There's generally a good spread. Simple, delicious stuff. Breakfast is usually hearty, with pancakes that are actually fluffy (thank goodness!). Dinner… well, it depends on the night. One night, there was roast chicken to die for. The next? A slightly overcooked something-or-other. That's the risk you take. And honestly? Part of the charm.
I remember this ONE time though. I'm pretty sure I actually *dreamed* about the biscuits. They were light, airy, and slathered in this incredible honey butter. I’ll be honest, I’m not a biscuits person. But these changed me. Completely. I ate, I think, five. Or six. Okay, it might have been seven. Don’t judge. The rest of the meal that night? Meh. Forgettable. But the BISCUITS. Forever etched in my memory.
So, yes, the food is generally good. But, pack some snacks. Just in case the biscuit gods aren't smiling on your particular visit.
What is there to *do* at Smoketree Lodge? Beside, you know, breathing.
Oh, the activities! Where do I even begin? Well, let's start with the obvious: hiking. The trails are gorgeous. Bring sturdy shoes. And water. Lots and lots of water. I learned that the hard way. I got a little *too* ambitious on one hike and nearly collapsed. Humiliating. But the views? Unforgettable. You'll seriously want to take a photo every five seconds.
Then there's the porch. Seriously, the porch is a destination in itself. Rocking chairs, coffee, a good book… absolute bliss. I spent hours just staring at the mountains. And I'm not normally a "staring at mountains" kind of person. The lodge itself sometimes has games. One time we played charades. Badly. But the laughter? Priceless.
Oh! And campfire nights! If the weather cooperates, the Lodge has campfires. Bring some marshmallows. And graham crackers. And chocolate. (I might be sensing a theme here.) Be prepared to make new friends. Or at least, tolerate them for a bit. It’s surprisingly easy to do when the stars are out and you’re surrounded by beautiful nature.
Is Smoketree Lodge good for families? Or more of a romantic getaway kind of place?
Okay, this is a tricky one. It *can* be great for families. They have family-style suites. There's plenty of space to run around. There’s the whole "exploring nature" thing. A wonderful distraction from the incessant bickering.
But… and this is a big BUT… it REALLY depends. Like, on your kids. Do they enjoy being outdoorsy? Or are they glued to their screens? And honestly on you too. Are you the type of parent who is relaxed about dirt and noise?
For romance? Oh, absolutely. The fireplaces, the views, the quiet… It’s perfect for a couple’s escape. Just… don't bring the kids. Or, at least, send them to their grandparents first.
There's this one couple I saw there. They were there for their anniversary. They only seemed to have eyes for each other. Honestly, it made me slightly nauseous. But also… very jealous.
What's the cell service situation like? Because, you know, the world doesn't stop. Even in the mountains.
Prepare to truly disconnect. The cell service? Spotty at best. I mean, even worse than my own awful phone service. It's like… the mountains just eat the signals. Don't expect to get any work done. Enjoy the peace and quiet.
They do, generally, have wifi. But it's slow. Like, dial-up slow. So don't expect to stream your favorite shows. Or even check your email easily.
Honestly? It's kind of great. It forces you to *actually* be present. And that, my friends, is something you might seriously need. Like, REALLY seriously need.
Any tips for surviving (and thriving!) at Smoketree Lodge?
Okay, my survival guide (and maybe, just maybe, a little pro-tip for thriving):
- Pack layers. Mountain weather is unpredictable. You can be sweating one minute and shivering the next.
- Bring good walking shoes. Seriously.
- Pack snacks! (See biscuit rant above).
- Bring a book. Or two. Or three.
- Embrace the slow pace. That's the whole point.
- Be friendly! Chat with the staff. Chat with the other guests. You never know who you might meet. (Unless, of course, you're really trying to *avoid* people, then… ok, fine, hide in your room all day. I get it.)
- Expect the unexpected. Things might not always go perfectly. That's partStay CollectiveSmoketree Lodge by VRI Resort Banner Elk (NC) United States
Smoketree Lodge by VRI Resort Banner Elk (NC) United States
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