The Kingfisher: Flat Mountain Farm

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Discovery+ "Bespoke Inns" : Flat Mountain Farm Episode 11

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10167.2 sq m

Popular amenities

Dryer
Parking available
Hot tub
Washer
Fireplace
Pet-friendly

Explore the area

Highlands, NC

Bridal Veil Falls
‪9 min drive‬
Highlands Country Club
‪9 min drive‬
Dry Falls
‪10 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bunk Room

4 Single Beds

Master Suite 1

1 King Bed

Master Suite 2

1 King Bed

Upstairs Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

3 bathrooms

Master Suite 1 Bath

Toilet · Shower only

Master Suite 2 Bath

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Upstairs Bath

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Separate dining area

Dining area

About this property

AS SEEN ON The Magnolia Network's "Bespoke Inns," Southern Living Magazine, Country Living Magazine, National Geographic Luxury Collection, Plateau Magazine and more...The sun rises over the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the morning mist of a temperate rainforest hovers over the lake and the sweet songs of a bevy of birds greet you at Flat Mountain Farm. Its 28 acres have been a mountain haven and tranquil escape for more than 40 years and beckons discerning guests who aspire to escape modern-day frenzy for true tranquility.... This luxury cabin boasts a private pond, filled by a year-round stream, private dining for up to 8 guests, covered porch with rocking chairs and porch swing.

Property manager

Paige Scheer

Premier Host

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Air conditioning

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Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed

Please review pet policies BEFORE booking.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Please review pet policies BEFORE booking.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Highlands

Located in Highlands, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Highlands Country Club and Old Edwards Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Highlands Biological Station and Cashiers Farmers Market. Travelling with kids? Consider Highlands Aerial Park and Ruby City Gems & Minerals. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Highlands, NC

What's nearby

Bridal Veil Falls - 9 min drive - 5.9 km
Highlands Country Club - 9 min drive - 6.4 km
Dry Falls - 10 min drive - 7.4 km
Whiteside Mountain - 12 min drive - 8.8 km
Old Edwards Club - 13 min drive - 10.0 km

Getting around

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 84 min drive

Restaurants

‪The Ugly Dog Pub - ‬8 min drive
‪Wildcat Cliffs Country Club - ‬11 min drive
‪Old Edwards Club - ‬13 min drive
‪Rib Shack - ‬8 min drive
‪Buck's Coffee Cafe - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Kingfisher: Flat Mountain Farm pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The Kingfisher: Flat Mountain Farm?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Kingfisher: Flat Mountain Farm?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Kingfisher: Flat Mountain Farm located?

This family-friendly Highlands holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Nantahala National Forest, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Highlands Dog Park and Cullasaja River Gorge are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Kate B.

17 April 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Get-away

The house was beautiful and the grounds were delightful, with trails through the woods and a wonderful pond to go fishing and canoeing on! Absolute bliss:)

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Liz T.

29 December 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What an amazing property!!

My family stayed here for Christmas and we rented out the kingfisher and peregrine. It was absolutely amazing and beautiful. Everything was SO clean and decorated perfectly. We were able to have our dog at the kingfisher who loved every minute of the stay as well. Thank you guys for a memorable Christmas.

Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jefferson B.

1 December 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceptional Cabin

Our stay at The Kingfisher exceeded expectations. The cabin was beautifully appointed. The grounds are complete with ponds, a waterfall, and breathtaking views from the front porch. There is no better way to stay in Highlands, NC.

Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

19 August 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Property!

The home and surrounding property was beautiful, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The amenities were excellent, and the location was extremely close to Highlands. 10/10 would stay again and recommend to others.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

John B., Watkinsville, Ga.

28 August 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Stay!

My family and I enjoyed our time here very much. Highly recommend!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura C., Atlanta

3 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful!

Amazing stay, we will be back!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Blake P.

6 December 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Property!

My family stayed in the Kingfisher for the weekend. It is a beautiful property that is clean and well stocked. I will absolutely be back with my family.

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

john c.

14 January 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeds expectations!

Everyone, including 3 teenage grandchildren, were wowed by this great accommodation! All agreed that we should return.

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peary P.

2 May 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible VRBO

Kingfisher is the best VRBO we have stayed in to date! The cabin is so inviting and well appointed which absolutely compliments the beauty of the property. The owners are incredibly responsive and are as nice as they can be! We are looking forward to return stays!!!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Karina B.

21 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second time staying at this lovely property

Look no further, this is the best property to stay at in the Highlands if you’re looking for privacy and top-of-the-line finishes in a log cabin rustic setting. This is the second time we stayed at this property and I have to say Margaret and her husband went above and beyond like they did the first time, you have to come to see the place yourself to understand how great it is.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

2 February 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Deserves 6/5 stars!

Perfection in Highlands! I would recommend this stay to anyone, Margaret's attention to detail is unparalleled. Can't wait to come back!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Grace Anne L.

7 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning Cabin in Highlands!!

This rental was absolutely stunning! It was recently renovated and has all the conveniences you want plus all the charm and character of an old cabin. Beautifully decorated it has a Ralph Lauren feel to it. Beds were extremely comfortable and everything was so tastefully and thoughtfully done. Margaret was a dream to work with and extremely welcoming and helpful. Definitely hope to stay there again!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Emily W.

7 April 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Weekend in the Mountains!

We’ve stayed in a lot of VRBOs and this one is the best yet! Beautifully decorated cabin with every detail thought out. Our kids had a blast fishing and canoeing in the pond, and we loved the porch, patio and fire pit. Perfect for two families with hangout spaces for the kids and privacy for the grownups. Beds were very comfortable too! And the hosts were kind and very helpful! Wonderful memories. We’re already planning our next visit!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

gina h.

26 May 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday weekend

We took our son and some of his friends for his 17th birthday. It was the perfect place! Secluded but near lots to see and do. The setting was gorgeous and the cabin was the nicest rental I've ever stayed in. Everything was top shelf and I was left particularly infatuated with the bed pillows and towels! Not sure if it's clear from the listing, but the property owners live right across the pond. They're very responsive if you need anything or have questions. I highly recommend The Kingfisher cabin and hope I get to go back soon!

Stayed 1 night in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jeff R.

22 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise at Flat Mountain Farm

Our family of eight, two grand parents, two parents and four children, ages 7 months to 6 years, had a fantastic time, staying in the Kingfisher Cabin at Flat Mountain Farm in Highlands, NC. The accommodations were fabulous, with two beautiful bedrooms and a loft with bunk beds and a sitting room that accommodated the children very comfortably. Fly fishing and catching many trout at the small lake on the property was among the highlights, along with making s’mores at the fire pit, lounging in the hot tub in the rhododendron forest, and cooking out on the gas grill. Owners, Chris and Margaret Shutze are turning Flat Mountain Farm into a destination worth revisiting year after year. We can’t wait for our return visit.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie D.

9 May 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous getaway!

Flat Mountain Farm, and more specifically, The Kingfisher, was an absolutely incredible place to celebrate our mom’s 60th birthday! The setting is beautiful, peaceful, and secluded, and the house is upfitted with everything you’d expect from a luxury property. Margaret’s expert design eye and hostessing abilities are apparent in every detail; in fact, the only things we lacked over the weekend were potholders and a flat spatula for cooking. Everything else was extremely well thought out, and Margaret even greeted us with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a bottle of champagne. We’d recommend this property to literally ANYONE looking for a luxury Highlands getaway.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Karin L.

8 April 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

First Class Mountain Getaway

Our family spent a week at this amazing farm. It was perfect and the restoration first class. We loved the charm and history of this property, which has been restored and updated with all the modern luxurious touches. If you want the charm of a cabin in the woods yet feel like you are at the Ritz Carlton this is the place. They thought of everything to make you feel right at home. There was plenty of room to spread out with the kids having their own space upstairs while the adults were downstairs. We enjoyed sitting on the front porch, snuggling around the fireplace, and exploring all the property has to offer. Our Hosts were extremely gracious and helpful in every way. We were lucky enough to be their first guests and we can’t wait for our return stay.

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

David I., Atlanta, GA

25 May 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular Mountain Getaway

Wow - our stay at this stunning cabin couldn’t have been better. I rented this for a girls trip with three friends who hadn’t seen each other in years, and it was the perfect getaway. The attention to detail, stunning interior, outdoor dining and lounging areas, and beautiful property really make you feel like you’re getting away from it all at your own private lodge. The beds could not have been more cozy or luxurious. The kitchen is well equipped with everything you need to prepare meals. The host was incredible, very responsive and did everything to accommodate us. My friends and I intend to book this place up for family gatherings and celebrations from here on out. The layout is really nice with two king master suites on the main level and a bunk room and bath on the second floor. The second floor also has a spacious den with a fold out couch, tv, and access to the second floor bath - so if you’re visiting with kids this is great space for them to take over. The second floor is also quite comfortable for adults too - even the beds in the bunk room were delightful. The property is so lovely that you won’t want to leave (we had so much fun preparing food and relaxing on site) but it is a very quick and easy 10 minute drive to dt highlands as well. We went out for dinner one night and spent a wonderful day having lunch and exploring town, but we were all excited to just return to the property and enjoy everything it has to offer. Thank you so much for designing such a thoughtful, beautiful and detail oriented property! We LOVED our stay and can’t wait to return.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Karina B.

18 April 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best place to stay for a large family

This was hands down one of the most thoughtful , well planned VRBO homes we stayed at. We usually never rent a home due to us being grossed out by what you find or lack of but I’m glad we did , and wow The Kingfisher was beyond great, it was magical! There is a picturesque water fall/creek outside the porch you can hear it from your rocking chair or the hanging swing, drinking your coffee watching your breath as the sun rises up in the morning, you can hear birds chirping and the water flow. Did I say magical ?! Oh and the smell of fresh air and the Mountains. The host couldn’t have been more gracious. Every little detail between the custom label soaps, the quality sheets, towels , pillows lines, appliances like Monogram, Viking, Meile, etc. Was top notch. I was looking. To see where she got her linens from as I too want them !!! I’m afraid to tell you how good this home really is and I want to definitely come back and rent it but this is a place that will be hard to book the more people know about it. The best part it’s 9 min from highlands downtown and wait for it it’s on a private lake !!! Stocked with Trout you can fish and a 5 min hike on property taxes to two waterfalls!! Yes two !!! The views are so private you don’t feel like there are any houses around for miles. The drive way was easy to get to and from and we took a large Class B so we easily parked it. Also the fire pit was amazing and fully stocked with wood , a lighter and a starter kits , well thought out ! The place was super clean and well maintained. We had 7 people stay there and the kids played up stairs and around the property we were worry free. I look forward to stay again and again. Thank you all for these memories.

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

26 September 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family & friends getaway to the mountains

Rarely are our expectations exceeded, but our stay at the Kingfisher was beyond extraordinary. We traveled with our grown kids (21&24) and our two year old, along with our friends. The setting is so serene, and the layout & decor were perfect. The big kids took the bunk room & the couples had privacy in each master. Our toddler loved exploring the farm, but I was not anxious about her “messing up” anything in the cabin as it was very kid-friendly. The morning sun Rarely are our expectations exceeded, but our stay at the Kingfisher was beyond extraordinary. We traveled with our grown kids (21&24) and our two year old, along with our friends. The setting is so serene, and the layout & decor were perfect. The big kids took the bunk room & the couples had privacy in each master. Our toddler loved exploring the farm, but I was not anxious about her “messing up” anything in the cabin as it was very kid-friendly. The morning sun on the side patio was magnificent for our al fresco brunch, and we relished s’mores around the fire pit in the evening. The men were perfectly satisfied watching college football in the comfy loft while the ladies chatted around the cozy fireplace downstairs. Margaret & Chris (owners) were so responsive to us, and we appreciated the luxurious touches of linens, bath products, fresh flowers, etc. We also benefitted from their restaurant & activity suggestions, enjoying dinner at On The Veranda & takeout from Highlands Smokehouse & marveling at the glorious views on the nearby Whiteside Mountain trail hike. We cannot wait to come back again next fall! the side patio was magnificent for our al fresco brunch, and we relished s’mores around the fire pit in the evening. The men were perfectly satisfied watching college football in the comfy loft while the ladies chatted around the cozy fireplace downstairs. Margaret & Chris (owners) were so responsive to us, and we appreciated the luxurious touches of linens, bath products, fresh flowers, etc. We also benefitted from their restaurant & activity suggestions, enjoying dinner at On The Veranda & takeout from Highlands Smokehouse & marveling at the glorious views on the nearby Whiteside Mountain trail hike. We cannot wait to come back again next fall!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Keely B.

12 December 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect holiday getaway!

This cabin was the perfect getaway spot for us! We loved the rustic look, yet very modern design of this cabin. It was equipped with everything we need. We wanted a quick relaxing holiday trip before the craziness begins. We felt cozy from the moment we walked in. His cabin is tucked away but very close to town. The beds were super comfy! We loved porch and the sound of the stream right beside the cabin. We hope to return for a summer visit!

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sarah H.

1 December 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Mountain Cabin

We rented the Kingfisher for a 3-day planning retreat with our team of two couples, one single gal, and a Labrador. We had a couple in their late 60s, and three of us in our mid-thirties. The cabin was perfect! The surrounding landscape is incredibly beautiful - rhododendrons everywhere, a beautiful pond, clear, starry skies, well-lit paths and outdoor spaces all around the cabin, and conveniently located to the amenities of highlands. We didn’t bring children with us this time, but the bunk room would have been great for kids. We enjoyed the rustic feel of a log cabin stay with luxurious linens, incredibly nice bathrooms, and 5-star service from our hosts (the house manual and all the info they share about local spots ahead of your stay is very helpful.) we enjoyed the hot tub and porch - sadly we didn’t get a chance to light the fire pit. Nearby restaurants were delicious - we especially enjoyed the Blue Bike cafe for breakfast/lunch and the Oak steakhouse for a nice dinner. We will definitely recommend d this spot to friends and hope to be back ourselves. Thanks for a great stay!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dena A.

6 September 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing property

This is such a little slice of heaven in Highlands. Every little detail of this rental is top notch. From the plush robes, fine furnishings, and comfy bedding... to the flowers and Prosecco awaiting us when we arrived. I feel honored to have stayed here! We will come again! Thank you Margaret!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy P.

29 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Highlands Haven

Beautifully done and well appointed cabin surrounded by lush vegetation and flowering rhododendron. This place is well stocked with everything you need. Very, very clean! Not what you would expect in an 1800's cabin. Sinking into the most comfortable bed after a day of exploration or fishing in the pond out front was just heavenly. Margaret adds personal touches that makes it feel like your own home away from home.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

20 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Celebration

I rented this house for a fun Highlands weekend to celebrate my daughter’s 15th birthday. It was perfect, stylish, clean and close to Main Street!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by Paige Scheer

Welcome to Flat Mountain Farm, a historic rhododendron farm located 2 miles from the charming hamlet of Highlands, NC. Chris & Margaret Shutze moved to Highlands with their two young boys in December of 2019. They purchased the property from an eighth generation Highlander who had created a magical, rustic paradise over 40 years. Even though it was run down and in need of repair, they saw huge potential in the antique log cabins & barns.

This newly renovated 28-acre haven houses up to 27 between the three homes and hosts up to 200 guests for events. Margaret worked for international hospitality firms, Wilson Associates and RTKL, working on prestigious projects such as the Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada, Boca Raton Resort and Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort and Four Seasons Vail, while Chris has been creating specialty homes and custom furniture with award-winning architects for 20 years, including McApline, Travis & Travis and Wilson Associates.

Keep in touch! We are on Instagram @flatmountainfarm and for the behind the scenes renovation @creatingflatmountainfarm. We are also on Facebook @flatmountainfarm.

Why they chose this property

Flat Mountain Farm is owned by Christopher and Margaret Shutze, the husband and wife duo of Shutze Studio, who moved to Highlands with their two young boys in December of 2019. They purchased the property from an eighth generation Highlander who had created a magical, rustic paradise over the last 40 years. Even though it was run down and in need of repair, Margaret and Chris saw huge potential in the antique log cabins & barns.

This newly renovated 28-acre haven will house up to 16 and host between 100-125 guests for events when it opens in the summer of 2021. Margaret worked for international hospitality firms, Wilson Associates and RTKL, working on prestigious projects such as the Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada, Boca Raton Resort and Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort and Four Seasons Vail, while Chris has been creating specialty homes and custom furniture with award-winning architects for 20 years, including McApline, Travis & Travis and Wilson Associates.

Their work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Interior Design magazine, Boutique Design Magazine, Hospitality Design Magazine, Country Living Magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings and more. Visit Shutze Studio for their extended portfolio.

“With this all-star duo at the helm, a retreat property complete with two cabins, barn, private lake and lawn has never felt so luxurious.”

- Plateau Magazine

What makes this property unique

Flat Mountain Farm is located 2.2 miles from town, about an 8 minute drive from Main Street in Highlands. The farm is 9 miles from Cashiers, about a 15 minute drive. It is a quick stroll down the street to local swimming hole, Pinky Falls and a quick drive up the street to Ranger Falls, a beautiful hike by a waterfall that ends at a large lake.

The Kingfisher cabin is nestled into the woods, next to a year round stream with rhododendrons, mountain laurel and has its own private pond, stocked with mountain trout. We provide fishing poles and you are welcome to eat any fish you catch.

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The Kingfisher: Flat Mountain Farm

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bunk Room

Master Suite 1

Master Suite 2

Upstairs Living Room

3 bathrooms

Master Suite 1 Bath

Master Suite 2 Bath

Upstairs Bath

Spaces

About this property