Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake
Cabin in Lake Santeetlah, NC
4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Well priced for this locationProperty prices in this area are generally higher
Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner, Parking and more
About this cabin rental
Long overdue for a lazy afternoon in a hammock? How about a rocking chair overlooking one of the most pristine lakes in the world? At Mathews' Mansion, a small cabin on a lake full of fish, you will find a bit of heaven. No clocks, phones, or TV's, only rest and the rustling of maples. Bring your camera for some great nature shots. Chipmunks, hummingbirds, and raccoons are common visitors. Smoking okay on screened-in porch.
Lake is great for bass, boating, swimming. Santeetlah Marina is only a quarter of a mile. Hike the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and other lush trails in the region. Take a drive on the breathtaking Cherula Skyway. Nearby streams & rivers are world-famous for fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Ride the choo-choo from Bryson City to the Nantahala Gorge. Visit a pow wow at the nearby Cherokee Reservation or see the outdoor drama. Try your hand at ruby mining. Go antiquing for quilts & carvings. Cycle, or just relax!
Tail of the Dragon: Mathews' Mansion is close to the Tail of the Dragon, the famous curvy Highway 129, which attracts sports car enthusiasts and cyclists from all over the country. Along Cherola Highway one will view spectacular breathtaking mountain views. For more details visit our website.
Cherokee Artifacts: Did you know that Cherokee artifacts have been found in Lake Santeetlah? Stop at the Cherokee Museum in Robbinsville to see what local residents have found while walking the shores. While there, visit Chief Junaluska's grave site. Take a drive through the Snowbird reservation and picnic at one of the creekside tables. Always keep your eyes open, for you, too, might find a Native American relic!
Lake is great for bass, boating, swimming. Santeetlah Marina is only a quarter of a mile. Hike the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and other lush trails in the region. Take a drive on the breathtaking Cherula Skyway. Nearby streams & rivers are world-famous for fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Ride the choo-choo from Bryson City to the Nantahala Gorge. Visit a pow wow at the nearby Cherokee Reservation or see the outdoor drama. Try your hand at ruby mining. Go antiquing for quilts & carvings. Cycle, or just relax!
Tail of the Dragon: Mathews' Mansion is close to the Tail of the Dragon, the famous curvy Highway 129, which attracts sports car enthusiasts and cyclists from all over the country. Along Cherola Highway one will view spectacular breathtaking mountain views. For more details visit our website.
Cherokee Artifacts: Did you know that Cherokee artifacts have been found in Lake Santeetlah? Stop at the Cherokee Museum in Robbinsville to see what local residents have found while walking the shores. While there, visit Chief Junaluska's grave site. Take a drive through the Snowbird reservation and picnic at one of the creekside tables. Always keep your eyes open, for you, too, might find a Native American relic!
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Parking
Balcony or Patio
Family friendly
Map of Lake Santeetlah, NC
$$$$
Reviews
5.0
The location is fantastic! The view of the lake and the screened patio are wonderful. Do be prepared to be a bit warm though in the summer as the A/C unit is mounted in the living room and doesn't reach the bedrooms well. Interior is a bit dated but it was clean enough and the real treat is enjoying the patio and views!
4.0
This is an older structure and not a house. We may have been the first renters of the year and the initial observation was that it is musty smelling. The property otherwise was as described, small but functional with a great screened deck that overlooks the lake. We did have a "technical issue" with the water heater and the tub draining but the owner who does not live locally got someone there right away to address and fix the issue. One of the 2 beds was not comfortable but there was a roll of eggcrate foam that fixed the problem. Overall we had a great time hiking in the area and loved the location and view of the Lake.
5.0
My son and I on a guys trip. House was as advertised and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Great location on the lake with easy access to grocery store, restaurants, and attractions. Would definitely stay again.
5.0
The cabin definitely reminded me of my granny's place in the Ozarks. Small and cozy, juat what you need. There are stairs that lead to the lake and the neighbors are nice.
Please note, bring your own sheets. Size queen work best and towels for the shower and lake.
The views are amazing and the deck is probably the best part.
3.0
cozy cabin. decent view of lake. just like it was advertised. Not good boat and swimming access to water. smelled musty. I tried to communicate with owner but no response. Could stand a few improvements. Comfortable bed.
5.0
Great location. Beautiful lake views.
5.0
Only issue we had was turning around the trailer when we pulled in a warning would have been nice but it was a beautiful spot!!
4.0
This was a lovely getaway! The only reason I’m giving it 4 stars is due to the limited access to the lake. Seems to be one of the only properties without a dock or active stairs down to the lake. We had a great time though!
5.0
Just the view was breathtaking and quiet and peaceful and relaxing
4.0
We had a fantastic time! Enjoyed the house and the cleanliness! Definitely would recommend to others! Only thing to critique is that the check in process was a bit difficult for us as we could not find the right house for about 15 minutes. The address on the home page of the rental listing states 209 although it was recently changed to a different number, the number was correct on the ‘check in sheet’ sent to us, but this miscommunication was not figured out until we had went down another street and back looking for the ‘209’ number. Other than that we had a good time and would definitely come again!
5.0
.Cozy Place
This was a nice place to relax and get away from the noise of the city. We enjoyed the kayak and swimming in the lake and lots of fun.
5.0
Perfect Little Lakeside Cabin
We loved our short stay in this home. The rental was just as described in the listing. If you love swimming , floating, and kayaking in the crystal clear , cool water of Lake Santeetlah, this is the place for you. The cabin had just what we needed, easy lake access, a place to sleep and shower, and a small functional kitchen. We absolutely loved the screen room and the deck.
If you need Wi-Fi, cell service, TV, or swanky new accommodations, this isn’t the place for you.
It was perfect for my husband and I, and we can’t wait to return.
3.0
Santeelah Haven.
Quaint, small but adequate cabin with a great screened porch. Lots of trees between us and the lake but we could see it and enjoyed sitting in the rockers. The lake access stairs ended abruptly at the water and getting in and out was a challenge. Would have loved better access, a dock would be especially good.
The hot water heater was very hot. Temp could be reduced to avoid burns. In the kitchen, a drain board for under the dish drain is needed. A few more dishes. We usually cook and eat in.
Paid for cleaning service but brought our on linens, hauled our own trash, and vacuumed the floors as directed. Had to empty and wash the silverware holder before use as it was not clean. Nice flowers in vases and exciting viewing of a screech owl family close to house in the evening.
5.0
Awesome Vacay
Beautiful area. The house is cozy. It’s so quite and peaceful there. Spent most of the time kayaking on the lake with my wife and hanging out on the big deck playing guitar. Not far from Appalachian trail, Joyce Kilmer forest, and the tail of the dragon. Lots of wildlife showed itself to us. Grocery store in town is pretty solid, had everything we would have bought if we didn’t bring it ourselves. At night time you can really see the stars, unlike where I live, and it’s a beautiful site. There’s an awesome mead brew place down the road, really good stuff. Overall just a great trip to get away from the city and relax. Hope to do it again soon. 10 out of 10
4.0
Beautiful Views and Very Relaxing
The property is small and not very elderly accessible! However if you came to relax and enjoy all the lake has to offer, this IS the place! Wish I could upload a photograph or 2! Owner is awesome! Very kind and very accomodating!!!
2.0
Great Location
The location and proximity to Lake Santeelah is exactly what we were looking for, right on the lake! The house was tiny and cute and quirky although it was very damp. My children had a severe reaction to the dampness and/or mold growing because of the wetness. The owner was very responsive and helpful and kind. There is a little stairway access down to the water to put in kayaks or canoes. It's at the end of a cul-de-sac so there is no traffic.
4.0
Great short time rental
This is the place if you are looking for an affordable and quiet couples get away. Little to no cell service, no television or radio made for a peaceful long weekend, with nature, food and games. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area to keep you occupied.
5.0
Matthews Mansion
It's a quaint property. Beautiful view! Relaxing and peaceful
4.0
Quaint
The home could use a good cleaning with regards to dust buildup and maybe some instructions on heating the place. It was as described, a step above camping… but a big step above. We enjoyed the lack of TV and cell service… it gave us the opportunity to play card and board games that we’d ordinarily not do. We didn’t have access to the lake as the stairs were unsafe and there’s no dock, so that was disappointing however the owner did go above and beyond with assisting us on our arrival date…an unexpected delay on our end occurred but the owner cleared the way for us to adjust our time without a financial penalty so we were very grateful for that.
If you’re looking for a small little retreat with the basic amenities, close to town and across from a beautiful lake…. This is your place..!
4.0
Wonderful spot for peaceful getaway!
Location was beautiful although the fishing wasn't what we expected. Overall great experience for all of us.
5.0
Unplug at the Lake
This was our second time staying at Marsha's lakehouse. We first went last summer for a close-by, socially distanced summer escape. We found it so relaxing and beautiful we decided to go back again this year. The accommodations are simple but the home is cozy and well equipped for cooking. We spend most of our time kayaking, grilling, and relaxing on the porch!
5.0
Peaceful getaway
Very peaceful getaway , beautiful view of the lake.
5.0
Hidden Gem
There are many gem mining opportunities in NC, but this one was a real find! The pictures don’t do justice to the beautiful setting of this cabin in the mountains. It was clean, cozy, and conveniently located. We were able to hike in Joyce Kilmer, ride a train out of Bryson City, raft on the Nantahala and fish in the Santaheela. Unexpected find that led to an exceptional vacation.
4.0
Great place to disconnect.
Great communication with the owner. Place is as described. A step above camping. Small basic kitchen, beats bending over to wash dishes. Shower and bathroom, beats sharing with strangers. Little a/c and no bugs. Lake access is right there, a few steps away. Crystal clear and beautiful Lake. We brought our boat and left it in the water all week with no issues.
Screened porch and deck are great as well. My only concern, what if I needed to call 911? Very little to no cell service at cabin with Verizon or At&t. Perhaps wi-fi would be a good idea. It'd be nice to have in case. Overall.... awesome place and we'll be back for sure!!
5.0
Great stay
Other than getting the lock code a couple of hours before getting there, everything was as described. Really enjoyed staying on the lake...my husband and I bought a fishing license with only him catching 2 fish however I did enjoy the time I had on the lake.
4.0
The cabin was good. The rain wasn't
I would stay there again, just not in the rainy season.
5.0
Peace and relaxation
A cute cabin that helped us unwind from our hectic life! We appreciated it's cleanliness.
4.0
Weekend get way
The location was good, and the cabin is cozy! Though a little dated and kitchen area is very small but manageable. Didn’t have a issue bringing my own Linenswas a little shocked
3.0
Location!
The location on the lake is fantastic. Deck and porch are really what make the cottage enjoyable so I would suggest updating outdoor seating.
1.0
very musty, rusty pots and pans. Needs some updating . Really would not recommend.
2.0
Old and ill equipped
very musty, rusty pots and pans. Needs some updating . Really would not recommend.
5.0
The Mountains are calling.....
Absolutely the best choice for soul-restoration and weekend get-away-from-it-all. Everything I expected and far more, Marsha really pays attention to the details and makes sure you are ready for the Mansion experience. It’s quaint and clean and perfectly suited for solitude or romance or small families. Amenities and location are added bonuses. And oh the porches, stunning and comfortable in any weather to enjoy the sounds of quietude. I would give it 10 stars all around if I could!!!
3.0
Great basic cabin!
This place is exactly as advertised - a back to basics cabin overlooking the lake. Great neighborhood, easy access, great communication with the owner, good value, equipped with the basics. The only issue was a pretty overwhelming mildewy smell, especially bad when it rained. I am both allergic to mold and very sensitive to smells, so I do realize others might not be as bothered by it. But good to know in case you are!
1.0
Put your money towards a nicer place
Tons of ants, homes in bathroom walls w/ bugs coming out while you shower. No sheets on any bed. Horrible accommodations
5.0
Peaceful Escape
Basic accommodations right on the lake. My partner and I loved being able to walk outside and hop in our kayaks or swim at any point in the day. The surrounding neighborhood and forest was beautiful. We loved grilling and enjoying our meals in the screened in porch. Overall, a great place if you're looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway!
5.0
Perfect
Property was exactly as described. Marsha was a great communicator.
5.0
We loved our stay at Lake Santeetlah
We loved our week at Marsha’s house. We swam and explored the lake on our canoe every day, and hiked in the nearby Joyce Kilmer - Slickrock Wilderness and Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Santeetlah Lake water is clear and warm in summer and the views from all around the lake are spectacular. Marsha’s house is exactly as described - small, friendly, welcoming, and perfect for a couple or a family of 3. From the screen porch and deck you can see the lake filtered through the trees. For views of the mountains, just take a short walk up the drive or swim out from the shore. Nights were cool enough we never needed to use the air conditioner but with mountain rain showers frequent in the afternoons, it does get humid. We can’t wait to return for another visit.
5.0
Peaceful Little Spot
This was the perfect little spot. Peaceful, relaxing and just right. The cove is quiet and serene, the view phenomenal and the location just right. It is a small place for sure, but all you need is a bed because you are out in nature or out on the deck otherwise.
Marsha was spot on in her suggestion for a boat rental at Dayton Camp for half the price of the Marina. The rental neighbor was wonderful in letting us use the dock for in/out of water to swim, kayak and a little casting in the evening.
The location is close enough to town, perfect for Yellow Creek Falls, Kilmer Forest and driving the Parkway and the Dragon Tail.
In all, the rental is just as described, fit the bill and we had a fantastic time. We will be back!
4.0
Lake Santeetlah relaxation
This property on Lake Santeetlah was just what my family of 3 needed. It had a great deck with beautiful views of the lake. We had an enjoyable trip hiking the area, boating on the lake and relaxing on the deck in the evenings.
5.0
Restful and recharging getaway
Just steps to the lake where you can take in the beautiful hills surrounding Lake Santeetlah, marsha's mansion is a quiet, bug-free, cool-temp, cozy spot. Our family just loved sitting on the lovely porch, surrounded by trees, rhodedendrons, and lake view. Lake and nearby creeks are super clean; great for swimming and kayaking. Even on July Fourth weekend, the lake and Robbinsville never felt too crowded or overrun with vacationers. Easy to get to hiking in Joyce Kilmer Forest and Nantahala National Forest. Cherohala Skyway is delightful. Wonderful place for a restful and recharging getaway.
FAQs
How much does this cabin cost compared to others in Lake Santeetlah?
The average price for a rental in Lake Santeetlah is $501 per night. This rental is $317 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this cabin?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cabin?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cabin. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cabin is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake?
We found 5 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, parking, balcony or patio, and family friendly.
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