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Miles above the ordinary. Perched on a mountaintop in the Smokies, Cataloochee Ranch is a Relais & Châteaux resort that mixes classic ranch fun with exceptional accommodations and cuisine.
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Cataloochee Ranch is celebrated for seamlessly merging modern luxury with rustic allure, providing guests with a variety of activities and gourmet options that consistently impress. The property's atmosphere earns praise for its sophisticated yet cozy vibe, while the rooms stand out for their comfortable ambiance and contemporary conveniences, adorned with historic elegance.
Reviewers are keen on the cleanliness, spotlighting the meticulous maintenance of both dining and play areas. Service at the Ranch is another highlight, with many guests lauding the staff's warm and personalized attention.
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Cozy
Cleanliness
Meticulous
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Well-appointed
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Cataloochee Ranch has been resurrected after a long hiatus. Arguably the most stunning views and vistas in Western North Carolina, Cataloochee Ranch is a worthwhile destination. For us “locals”, the ranch offered dining experiences that were extraordinary and when combined with the views provided an exceptional special night or afternoon out.
The reborn Cataloochee Ranch, opened just a few short weeks ago. carries on the high standards for hospitality and cuisine. The Main House has been reconstructed in the original style but improved, much more light due to enlarged windows and a fabulous door onto the best vista in Haywood County. On reopening, the new owners of Cataloochee Ranch promised an elevated culinary experience. We just had to try it out.
The main restaurant, Switchback, offered a Mother's Day Brunch. Buffet. No mothers here, but it was a birthday; so we signed up. Reservations are a breeze on Resy.
The ambiance was the epitome of elegance in a sophisticated rustic style. Welcome was cordial' every effort was made to please the guests.
The Buffet was compact but each offering was a gourmet's delight. Best buttermilk waffles every, perfect omlettes with a wide range of add-ins, delightful crab fritters, two excellent salads and an imaginative cheese and fruit board. The desert table was elegant, the best a Yuzu Lemon Cake, two yummy chocolate truffles, berry cheesecake, plus several other offerings I cannot remember. Attention to the Buffet was impeccable; not a single offering ever looked depleted despite a full house venturing to the Buffet area repeatedly.
This level of quality and the spectacular setting are not on the economy class but the tariff was comparable to, if slightly in excess of, other Mother's Day Brunch Buffets in the area. I will pick one nit: I do object in this setting to extra charges for beverages, albeit the charge was modest.
We have been fans of Cataloochee Ranch for many years in its former incarnation. The New Cataloochee Ranch is a big step up and will, on the basis of this initial testing, keep us in its orbit. asd
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Date of stay: May 2024
Value
Location
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 29 May 2024
Thank you so much for choosing to join us and for this lovely review of your experience. It was an absolute pleasure serving you and we can't wait to welcome you back...again and again!
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Cataloochee Ranch is the perfect mountain getaway with panoramic views of the Smokies!
Kim gave us a warm welcome and made us feel right at home, right away. We enjoyed a craft cocktail upon check-in, as well as a tour of the Ranch House.
The accommodations were exceptional - all the modern and upscale amenities you need paired with the charm of a historic cabin. My husband and I enjoyed the coziness of the beautiful stone fireplace, having morning coffee in the rockers on the porch, and warming up with a soak in the tub.
During our stay, we enjoyed incredible brunch and dinner experiences. Our servers were warm and attentive, and the pace of service was spot-on. The meals were unbelievably delicious (some of the most memorable dishes we have had the pleasure of enjoying!). We had wonderful encounters with Nove, Hannah, Christian, Jessica, Cara, Laine, Chef Jeb, and Chef Angie. Every team member we interacted with made us feel welcome and cared for.
We unexpectedly had the opportunity to take a property tour with Tracy, who took the time to show us incredible views of Maggie Valley and Cataloochee Ranch. She was so wonderful and proud to show us around, and even drove us to meet and give treats to the cows and horses. She was so comfortable and fun to be around - this truly ended up being a highlight of our stay.
We also enjoyed a watercolor class with Elena! She was so charming, sweet, and knowledgeable, walking us through basic techniques and allowing us to try our hand at painting Appalachian mountainscapes. This was a fun, hands-on class and we enjoyed Elena's company and conversation as much as we did trying something new.
This was such a special stay, and we are so appreciative to everyone at Cataloochee Ranch for making this an unforgettable trip. We can't wait to come back!
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Date of stay: January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
What a beautiful stay we had at Cataloochee Ranch! We celebrated my mom’s birthday, and during our stay, the amazing staff went above and beyond to make our stay a memorable one. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. Every morning we started our day with a delicious breakfast basket they delivered to us, which we enjoyed in the comforts of our room with a cozy fire. Our dinner at Switchback was scrumptious with excellent table service. Special shout out to Daniel, Amanda and Winston for meeting our every wish. We hope to return soon.
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 11 Dec 2024
Thank you so much for choosing to be our guest, and for taking the time to provide this kind review. I'll be sure to share with our team, espicially Daniel, Amanda & Winston who will love to hear how they provided service that was "unforgettable!". We look forward to welcoming you back again and again!
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Easter at Cataloochee Ranch was not just a meal; it was an adventure into the heart of Maggie Valley that Troy and I, along with our cousin Mary Ellen Cole and friends Deb and Harry Womack, will cherish forever. From the moment we set off, the excitement of sharing this special day in such a magical place was palpable among us. Our welcome at the ranch by Makayla was the first of many warm encounters this evening. Her enthusiasm and love for the ranch were infectious, making us feel immediately part of the Cataloochee family. She expertly guided us through the beautifully renovated spaces, each with its own story, weaving the rich tapestry of the ranch’s history with its vibrant present. The Tack Room, with its inviting fire and cozy ambiance, set the stage for an evening of relaxation and camaraderie. It was here that we first felt the genuine warmth of the Cataloochee staff, a theme that continued throughout our visit. As we moved to the “Forge” for appetizers and wines, the staff’s attentiveness and knowledge of the local flavors enhanced our experience, making each dish and pairing feel like a discovery. The setting sun and the stunning mountain views added an almost magical quality to our pre-dinner gathering, all made possible by the thoughtful arrangements of the team. Dinner in the “Switchback” dining room was a testament to the culinary talents of Chef Jeb and his team, but equally to the seamless service that accompanied each course. The meal was a journey through local farms and seasonal produce, served against the breathtaking backdrop of the Smokies. Every member of the staff we interacted with contributed to making our dinner not just a meal, but a memorable event, full of laughter, shared stories, and impeccable service. The generosity of the ranch was on full display when Troy and I were gifted a lovely mug, a thoughtful gesture that underscored the personal attention and kindness of the entire team at Cataloochee Ranch. This token of appreciation was a highlight of our evening, reminding us of the special bond between the ranch and the Maggie Valley community. Reflecting on our Easter celebration, it was the people of Cataloochee Ranch—from Makayla’s warm welcome to the attentive service of each staff member—who truly made our experience unforgettable. Their passion, hospitality, and commitment to excellence turned our visit into a magical evening that went beyond the extraordinary meal and the stunning views. As we said our goodbyes, the promise of returning to Cataloochee Ranch felt like leaving family. The idea of coming back to this beautiful place, not just for its culinary delights and scenic beauty but to be welcomed by such incredible people, is a thought that fills us with joy. Cataloochee Ranch is more than just a destination; it’s a place where every visit feels like coming home, thanks to the wonderful staff and the warm, inviting atmosphere they create. No matter the season, the ranch offers a piece of Maggie Valley magic that calls you back, time and again, to experience the warmth and beauty of this special place.
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Date of stay: March 2024
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Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 3 Apr 2024
Thank you so much for joining us and for this lovely review of your experience. I'm so happy to hear of your "adventure into the heart of Maggie Valley, that you will cherish forever" and hope that you'll join us many more times, for many more adventures. We can't wait to welcome you back again and again!
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This visit to the Cataloochee Ranch was one I won’t soon forget. I’ve been having a very hard time as of late, but the entire ranch team made it difficult to be sad during our stay. I was able to put my stress and sorrow aside and enjoy myself for the first time in a while. We were greeted with so much love by Terry and Cara and the rest of the team. Dinner was full of absolutely delicious flavor combinations, and more than once, our servers, Megan and David, brought us “gifts from the kitchen” which were small plates with little appetizers to try. They were fantastic. Thank you to Jeb and the entire kitchen staff for making our dining experience so special, and to Megan and David for being so lovely and accommodating. After dinner, we went to our cabin where there were even more surprises (thank you Daniel for showing us around and giving us the run down!)…homemade truffles, a jar of hot chocolate mix, a nice hot tea selection, and more! We made hot tea and cozied up by the fireplace. What more could you ask for. It doesn’t even stop there! We woke up the next day and a complimentary breakfast of homemade croissants, overnight oats, coffee, etc. was delivered right to our door step (you have the option to choose what gets delivered and what time whenever you check in). They’ve literally thought of everything! Thank you so much to the entire ranch team for going above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and cared for. I am truly grateful and feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes next.
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Date of stay: February 2025Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cataloochee Ranch is an amazing setting, at almost 5,000 ft. elevation in the Great Smoky Mountains. The complete renovation of the cabins and rebuilt main ranch house (opened March 2024) are stunning. The staff goes above and beyond to help guests feel welcome. Cabins, decorated in a rustic ranch theme, have fireplaces, beautiful sleeping quarters, oversized bathrooms, and porches for taking in the mountain air. Activities include hiking, horseback riding and more, but we chose to spend time decompressing and enjoying the setting. Dining at Cataloochee Ranch’s Switchback restaurant is absolutely delightful, with what the executive chef calls “ranch cuisine reimagined.” It’s so delicious, the restaurant has a local following, too. And, don’t miss the spectacular desserts. We can’t wait to go back!
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Date of stay: August 2024
Value
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 4 Sept 2024
Thank you so much for being our guest, and for the thoughtful review of your experience. We can't wait to welcome you back soon & often.
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Unbelievable location, absolutely outstanding personal touch service. Views are magnificent, but the staff is what makes it so special. It really felt like family. Elena with the art, Stephen's personal tours, Frankie hearing that we wanted S'mores and bringing a special platter to us with all of the fixings by a fireplace. They have archery, horseback riding (a must!), art, ropes course, fishing. Endless activities, or you can simply chill and enjoy the views. Great dining (they have a chef that makes heavenly bread from scratch). They heard we liked fishing, and the next day there were two rods, a tacklebox, and two cans of worms on our front porch. We left a pillow and they fed-exed it back to us. Its that kind of service. Outstanding!
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Rooms
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Service
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Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 12 May 2024
Thank you so much for choosing to be our guest, allowing us to serve you, and for taking the time to provide this incredible review! I'll share the kind words with Frankie, Elena and Stephen and recognize their "phenomenal personalized service." We hope to see you return again and again!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely Unforgettable Experience at Cataloochee Ranch! My spouse and I just returned from the most incredible stay at Cataloochee Ranch, celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary. From the moment we stepped out of our car, we were greeted like family, with every single staff member knowing us by name. The level of personal attention and care we received was beyond anything we've ever experienced. The accommodations were luxurious, the food was divine, and the service was impeccable. The team at Cataloochee went above and beyond to make our anniversary special, showering us with attention and thoughtful gifts throughout our stay. A special highlight was reconnecting with Cyril, our bartender from Jamaica, who took amazing care of us at our wedding twenty years ago. It felt like fate to see him again, and he made our experience even more magical. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Makayla, Alyssa, Cyril, Maddie, Stephanie, Dean, Salome, Ben, and Terry for making this the most amazing trip we've ever had. You all truly went above and beyond to make our anniversary unforgettable. We can't wait to come back!
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 4 Sept 2024
So lovely to meet y'all and thank you so much for choosing to spend such a special day with us!
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Our stay at The Cataloochee Ranch blew us away. From the moment we drove through the gate, the views commanded our attention. We were promptly greeted and given a tour of the property. Each staff member was warm and welcoming and made us feel special. Our cabin was beautiful and well appointed and homey. Every meal was superb and the brown butter chocolate chip cookies were to die for. We hiked and fished and were given special tours in an ATV to see waterfalls and mountaintop views like no other. We wanted to stay forever. Our son actually cried half of the way home because he didn't want to leave. This place is pure heaven and we will most definitely be back.
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Date of stay: August 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 4 Sept 2024
Thank you very much for being our guest, and for taking the time to leave this incredible review of your experience. We hope to welcome y'all back again and again!
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Breathtaking views, exquisite meals and a staff that truly makes you feel like family made our time at Cataloochee Ranch so special! The cabins are spacious and beautifully decorated and we loved hiking, horseback riding and adventuring around the property. It's a perfect getaway for couples or families (we brought our two year old) and we can't wait to come back!
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Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Terry Spalding, General Manager at Cataloochee Ranch
Responded 18 Mar 2024
Thank you so much for choosing to be our guest and for taking the time to provide this lovely review. I love to hear that we were able to assist in making your time here truly special, and that you enjoyed your adventures on the ranch. We look forward to welcoming you back again, and again!
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There are more places to choose from in the Maggie Valley area.
ALSO KNOWN AS
the cataloochee ranch hotel maggie valley
LOCATION
United StatesNorth CarolinaNorth Carolina MountainsMaggie Valley
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Cataloochee Ranch
Which popular attractions are close to Cataloochee Ranch?
Nearby attractions include Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum (4.1 km), Maggie Valley Rock Shop (3.4 km), and Fantasy Golf and Gameroom (3.5 km).
