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Tour
of Inns provides historical experience, gourmet delights
-
December 2009
Fire
Mountain, Cabins & Treehouses. This Inn is a unique
mountaintop hideaway and is secluded on hundreds of mountaintop
acres just a few miles from the Highlands town limits. It
is a retreat composed of a sophisticated contemporary inn,
real mountaintop cabins and private and intimate treehouse
accommodations. Fire Mountain borders Highway 106 (Dillard
Rd.) approximately six miles from Highlands. Once you turn
onto Happy Hill Rd., all 15 accommodations sit a mile up
on top of Fire Mountain in the middle of the acreage at
an elevation of over 4,000 feet, and all have long-range
mountaintop views.
This
will be the first time Fire Mountain has been open to the
public since its inception in 1996 by Hiram Wilkinson and
Mathew Gillen. The entire property has been by reservation
only and has been for the exclusive use of its guests.
Author:
Mac Isaacs, contributing writer, Macon News.
Destination
Weddings -
December 2009
How about getting married in a tree house? Fire Mountain
Inn, Cabins & Treehouses in Highlands, North Carolina,
offers an upscale, grown up version of a treehouse.
Author:
Michelle Moore: CMH Magazine/ Destination Weddings
Highlands,
North Carolina Hotel: Romantic And Relaxing
-
November 2009
Highlands
, North Carolina Hotels
have dotted the scenic landscape of the small village for
over a century. They have changed some with technology but
they still offer that unique atmosphere of southern hospitality
at its best. Highlands, North Carolina is known to have
less than a thousand regular inhabitants that call this
mountain getaway home. Although this is the case, typically
fifteen thousand tourists will call it their home away from
home at any given time during the travel season. Those who
visit Highlands need a place to rest their weary bones and
relax and Highlands , North Carolina Hotels are ready to
oblige.
Highlands, North Carolina Hotels do their part in making
Highlands one of the best kept getaway secrets in the south.
There are many people that have never heard of Highlands
, NC and therefore the pleasures that can be found there
are hidden from their view. Many others however have found
that this little Appalachian Mountain Paradise is the place
to go to ignite or rekindle romance or to simply relax in
a place where everybody knows your name.
For a truly unique lodging experience in Highlands it is
recommended that you give Fire Mountain a visit. No, Fire
Mountain is not a volcano but it does overflow with charm
and opportunities for romance. Fire Mountain is a lodging
destination that offers you a variety of options. Located
just a few moments outside of Highlands this hideaway offers
quaint little cabins, cozy tree houses and a charming country
inn. Streams, waterfalls and a mountain top view that will
simply take your breath away surround this retreat. Memories
are made of this.
Author:
Suzanne Najbrt lives in Atlanta with her family and regularly
travels Southern Highroads Trail and she also maintains
the Official Southern Highroads Trail Blog.
Where
2 Now, The Online Travel Magazine
- October 2009
The
Inn at Fire Mountain
Just
outside the town of Highlands, North Carolina, somewhere
off the Dillard Road over 4,000 feet above sea level is
the private mountain top hideaway of Fire Mountain. Situated
on over one hundred acres the property boasts expansive
mountain views and wonderful accommodations with a contemporary
flair.
The
trails on the property are a perfect prelude to the hiking
that's available in the area. You can walk through the horse
pasture with its long-range views, through the small, quiet
and private subdivision adjacent to the Inn's property,
all the way up to the top of the mountain where the vistas
seem endless. The climb is pretty steep but the benefit
is that the road is paved all the way to the top. On the
way back down take a look inside the art gallery in the
main building, check out the library next door and if your
room doesn't have a spa tub, take a restorative dip in the
one on the adjacent outdoor deck.
The
guest quarters include five cabins with six rooms, six rooms
in the Inn's main building and three private Treehouse rooms
that offer wrap-around decks for gazing at the breathtaking
mountain views. Innkeepers Hiram Wilkinson and Mathew Gillen
excel in providing their guests a wonderful experience.
Some
amenities that are included in the rate are gourmet breakfast
for Inn and Treehouse guests, indoor or outdoor spa tubs,
fireplaces in some cabins and BBQ grills on cabin decks
or patios. For a fee you can arrange an individual or couples
massage, order something from the seasonal dinner menu and
have it delivered to your room and if staying in one of
the cabins, order breakfast for two. A plus for pet owners
– the Inn allows pets in the cabins for those who wish to
bring their furry friends with them.
Choosing
to bring our new puppy with us, we reserved the Chickadee
cabin. It faced a pretty meadow and was flanked by giant
spruce trees that separated it from the huge organic garden.
A small fully equipped kitchen, queen-size bed, an enormous
spa tub in the middle of the room and a private patio facing
the meadow made for a long, luscious weekend.
Further
down the Dillard Road, heading towards Highlands, you'll
pass a couple of overlooks with panoramic views of the Blue
Ridge. In this part of North Carolina you are completely
immersed in, and surrounded by, the enormous Nantahala National
Forest. The trailheads for the Bartram Trail and to the
top of Scaly Mountain can be accessed here. We took the
one up to Scaly Mountain and were rewarded with a gorgeous
view and a welcome breeze at the top. Very steep at the
beginning, I was glad to be wearing hiking boots rather
than sneakers.
The
area is also known for its waterfalls and swimming holes.
We took a handful of short hikes to see several of these
throughout the area. From Highlands to the nearby town of
Cashiers, there were quite a few that ranged from Bridal
Veil Falls, directly on the road, to one that fed into a
pretty swimming hole about a five-minute walk from the road.
The
Inn's proximity to the town of Highlands made dining out
very convenient. Wolfgang's was a favorite and the shop
windows offered a way to walk off dinner that wasn't as
strenuous as our hikes had been during the day.
Before
our dinner at Wolfgang's I had an unexpected but enjoyable
encounter. While waiting for my husband to park the car,
I strolled down the alley adjacent to the restaurant and
came upon a small storefront window. Peering through it
I saw a collection of various wood turned vessels that were
exquisite. All different in size and shape, made from various
woods. Behind me, leaning on the wooden railing that separated
the alley from the restaurant's small garden, was a man
in overalls with a blue bandanna covering his head, holding
a slice of pizza in one hand and a bottle of Peroni in the
other.
When
I tried the shop's door it didn't open right away and considering
the hour, I assumed it was closed. The man behind me immediately
told me to please go right ahead and enter; the studio was
still open. Well, it turned out that he was the artist,
Robin Piscitelli, and he proceeded to show me the beautiful
wood turned vessels on display in the small studio. He answered
all my questions and showed me the machine in the next room
where he magically turns huge blocks of sugar maple, walnut,
chestnut and other varieties into beautiful works of art.
The finish on his pieces is absolutely spectacular, smooth
as glass and polished to a high sheen to show off the beauty
of the grain and the imperfections he feels gives each piece
its own unique character.
Later
on, I learned that he is a leading artist in the field,
taught by Paul Ferrel and influenced by David Ellsworth
with collectors all over the country. This was the first
time I ever had an accomplished artist patiently take the
time to share his art and let me see, however briefly, the
mind of an amazing talent. And because of him, on hot summer
days I always wash down a slice of pizza with an ice cold
Peroni.
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Quotes
& Comments
October
2009 - Atlanta, GA
Fire
Mountain
is such a unique and amazing place that I decided to have
the biggest moment of my life there; last weekend, I proposed
to my fiancé (now) @ Fire Mountain. The setting is
beautiful, quiet and relaxing. The staff is sooo nice and
sooo helpful. The accommodations are unique and soothing.
There's nothing that I would change about Fire Mountain
. Whether you stay in the Inn or a cabin or treehouse you
MUST have their famous breakfast...sooo yummy. We will be
back to unwind again soon.
October
2009 - Miami, FL
The
world is so full of noise, that we are almost incapable
of listening to our innermost thoughts, those messages that
come from the part of the mind that touches the source of
all inspiration. Fire Mountain is the best place to maintain
the health of our mind, body and spirit. We cannot thank
Matthew and Hiram enough for making our stay a unique and
unforgettable” back-to-the-roots" vacation, providing
us with great hiking tips and maps. Matthew even squeezed
fresh orange juice for me and gave me postcards from a bear
that he once photographed on the property! No need to be
scared, the bear is gone -but there's still a very cute,
beefy and shy groundhog!
Thanks for having us in your magic place!!
October
2009 - Chicago, IL
I
wasn't sure what to expect so I only came for a few days.
Next time I'm sure it will
be for at least a week. It was the most relaxing time without
ever getting boring or
stale. Don't change anything. Loved the service, amenities,
quiet, and the BREAKFASTS!
October
2009 - Atlanta, GA
From
the secluded mountaintop location to our bathroom's soaking
tub to the balcony viewing of sunrise, we loved each aspect
of Fire Mountain . Hiram and Matthew were both helpful hosts
and chatty but not in an annoying way that I've experienced
with other B&B owners. Our trip was very last minute,
and I called only one day in advance to surprisingly find
Matthew happy to work us in for the following one night,
despite their usual two-night stay policy. We had no concept
of time, which was blissful after escaping a schedule-oriented
city life. Plus the beds and furniture were so well-appointed
in the space that we want to order some of the pieces. We
didn't want to leave one bit and wished we could've stayed
for at least two more nights!
September
2009 - Chapel Hill, NC
Fire
Mountain Inn was an absolutely spectacular venue for our
get-away vacation. The views of the surrounding mountains
are stunning -- enjoying a quiet glass of wine and watching
the sun set over the mountains three different days was
a high point of our visit. With no television, telephones
or Internet connections, the Inn offers luxury in a rustic
setting. The cabins are beautifully appointed and comfortable
with all amenities provided, including double sized Jacuzzi
tubs and wood burning fireplaces. We were able to put the
work world aside for four days and enjoy hiking, visiting
amazing waterfalls and just plain relaxing. The staff at
the Inn was fantastic and took care of everything we asked.
We even had massages in the beautiful on-site art gallery.
We will return to Fire Mountain for the perfect relaxing
vacation with peace, quiet and the glorious mountains. Hiram
and Matthew were perfect hosts who made us feel as if we
were long lost friends.
September
2009 - New Orleans, LA
Our
stay in September was perfect- starting with the individual
attention at check in when the owners greeted us and helped
us with directions and suggestions for hikes.
The cabin was very private- our own deck and front porch,
with a full kitchen of everything you need to cook. Though
we grilled outside most nights so we could enjoy the evening
sky. The sunset over the Smokies is beautiful, but even
the night fog rolled in was as, if not more, dramatic as
everything disappeared and you realize only the sounds of
the mountains. There are no phones, TV's or even a/c compressors
on the mountain top so you really find solitude and peace.
And of course the fireplace was the star event of our evenings
along with a Jacuzzi bath -a very welcome treat after some
of our more strenuous hikes nearby.
We certainly look forward to escaping to Fire Mountain again
next year
September
2009 - Winstom Salem, NC
The
long, slow gravel road into Fire Mountain teases you with
a mixed woodland, a farm field blanketed in cabbage, a spotted
horse in a pasture and finally cabins dotted here and there
standing respectfully apart from each other. All around
the mountains. We were warmly welcomed by the proprietors,
Hiram and Matthew. As guests of the Inn , not the cabins,
we were treated to a beautiful, comfortable room with views
on both sides - the decor glows with warm tones and white
linens and comfortable suite-like furniture. Every detail
has been considered. Breakfasts are Matthew's specialty,
with his chef's touch. Tables are candlelit and oversee
the mountains, with a large; fire lit common library adjacent,
and soft, Native American music setting the tone. The hosts
are always available but never intrusive. They honor their
home in this sacred, Cherokee land and make you want to
as well. This is a place for quiet walks and exploration,
with no distractions and a deep connection to the seasons.
Ours was a return visit and hopefully there will be many
more.
August
2009 - Opelika, AL
Having
just enjoyed my sixth visit to Fire Mountain , I want to
share the wonderful experience awaiting the fortunate who
choose Fire Mountain . Fire Mountain provides an extraordinarily
perfect setting for a serene mountain experience yet is
so close to the dining, shopping, and art galleries of Highlands
. The proprietors, Hiram, and Matthew, have created a tranquil
mountain paradise.
Sitting on my private balcony drinking coffee, I watch a
flock of blue birds breakfasting on berries and rabbits
daintily nibbling on grass. There isn't a better way to
greet the day! Breakfast at the Inn is delicious. Fresh
produce, in season, from the Inn 's garden highlights the
menu. Fresh corn fritters, delectable frittatas, baked eggs
with fresh herbs, and sun ripened tomatoes Yum!! The biscuits
with homemade jams and butter are heavenly. The herb garden
even has mint to garnish drinks later.
The rooms are decorated tastefully with art, comfortable
seating, luxurious beds, lighting for easy reading, and
beautiful vistas. My favorite room has a deep tub for soaking.
The rooms are maintained in pristine condition by the pleasant
staff.
My favorite way to end the day is back on the balcony relaxing,
watching a jewel toned sunset. A visit to Fire Mountain
is, for me, a little piece of heaven. I look forward to
returning!
August
2009 - Tallahessee, FL
Fire
Mountain
forced me to decompress which is exactly what I needed.
It's secluded with ample walking trails, breath taking views
of mountains to the southeast and the west. While watching
the sun's farewell in the evening, surrounded by nothing
but nature, then walking up to my balcony facing the southeastern
sky and seeing the moonrise, I was so grateful not to have
the distraction or temptation to go in and watch T.V. I
was forced to just be with myself, consider my blessings
and what matters most to me. As a woman traveling alone,
I felt entirely safe...even left my sliding door open at
night to allow the fresh, cool mountain air in. In the mornings,
I looked forward to divine breakfasts that included biscuits
with homemade preserves. You won't need lunch after this
breakfast as it's very satisfying. The Inn keepers are most
helpful in providing directions for day trips that include
hiking, waterfalls, and restaurants
in Highlands . I look forward to a return visit to this
little piece of heaven.
July
2009 - Fort Lauderdale, FL
I
spent a week at Fire Mountain with my teenage daughters
(18 & 20). It was the perfect venue - no TV, no phones,
no clocks, no radio - no "distractions" from the
quiet, beauty - just what we were looking for - me to get
away from the intensity of a demanding job, my children
to take a break from the noise and hustle of NY City. Walking
the grounds you will find wild berries, cotton tail rabbits,
birds everywhere. The herb and vegetable gardens had tomatoes,
zucchini, yellow squash and more - all ingredients in the
wonderful breakfasts Matthew prepares in the morning. Time
is suspended at Fire Mountain and by the time the week was
up, we wanted to move in permanently! It was peaceful, relaxing,
and rejuvenating. Fire Mountain is a very special place
- not for everyone, but perfect for us. While I was there
with my daughters, I would highly recommend it for a romantic
get away. Try to stay more than a few days as there is a
lot to do in the area (hiking, waterfalls, amazing views,
lush forests, great restaurants). There are some neat walks
on the property itself. There is a great art gallery, a
library with tons of books and games, wonderful bird watching
too.
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