7 Spots to Host the Whole Family for the Holidays in North Carolina

Maybe grandma’s house just isn’t big enough to host a holiday gathering for the whole gang anymore. Or perhaps it’s time to bring the entire clan together for an old-time family reunion. Regardless of the need – but especially during Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and long winter weekends – there are plenty of sizable lodging options ranging from charming B&Bs to welcoming resorts that cater to large groups with fun plans that only North Carolina can provide.

1 Boyd Mountain Log Cabins

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1 Boyd Mountain Log Cabins

WaynesvilleSee on map

If the mountains are calling, Boyd Mountain offers a collection of nine rustic cabins – each sleeping between four and 10 people – nestled in a peaceful 150-acre cove with stocked fishing ponds, a trout stream, nature and hiking trails, and landscaped grounds dedicated to relaxation. Each cabin has been lovingly restored and furnished with antiques while still offering modern conveniences. A centerpiece of the land is a sprawling tree farm specializing in Fraser firs where you can even choose and cut your family Christmas tree.

Website(828) 926-1575Directions

2 Inner Banks Inn

2 Inner Banks Inn

EdentonSee on map

If you’re seeking something a bit more stately, consider the Inner Banks Inn settled gracefully across more than 2 acres in the historic district of Edenton, named one of “America’s Prettiest Towns” by Forbes. Lodging options include a Southern Victorian mansion, a converted tobacco barn, a Greek Revival known to be one of the town’s oldest original homes and a charming coastal Carolina cottage; the last two have options for a full house rental. The inn prides itself on blending historic homes with modern luxuries, plus sophisticated services of a boutique hotel that include fine dining. And a short stroll to the waterfront opens the gate to boating, sailing, kayaking, canoeing and fishing, plus guided area tours of historic sites including the Roanoke River Lighthouse.

Website(252) 482-3641Directions

3 Graylyn

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3 Graylyn

Winston-SalemSee on map

Take a step back in time when you gather at Graylyn, which is just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem yet presents the seclusion of a country estate. Accommodations range from the vintage 1930s main house to a selection of cottages set on more than 50 acres. As the original home of RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co.’s first CEO, Bowman Gray, and his wife, Nathalie, the manor is filled with furniture and décor they collected while traveling the world. The cherry on top of it all? Graylyn offers free ice cream as an ode to Bowman Gray’s love for the sweet treat.

Website(336) 758-2425Directions

4 The Horse Shoe Farm

Instagram: @thehorseshoefarm

4 The Horse Shoe Farm

HendersonvilleSee on map

If your tastes run more toward rustic elegance, then The Horse Shoe Farm might be the perfect place for your group. This 85-acre riverfront estate can host up to 60 in cottages that are individually styled and furnished. The Silo Cookhouse is the central gathering spot to eat, drink, and enjoy family companionship with indoor and outdoor dining – and, yes, there is a table that seats 50. For relaxation and wellness, the farm’s spa, housed in a beautifully restored stable, provides a full menu of services. Or you can enjoy a yoga class, meditation or a dip in the outdoor hot tub.

Website(828) 393-3034Directions

5 Singletree Gun & Plough

5 Singletree Gun & Plough

WestfieldSee on map

Surprise your group with a truly unique getaway when you escape to Singletree Gun & Plough, situated on more than 1,000 acres with 5 miles of frontage on the Dan River and 12 miles of private hiking trails. The wilderness feel gives a new meaning to “a walk in the woods,” but there are plenty of other activities including kayaking, ziplining, tubing, fly fishing and horseback riding. And if you’re looking for something more esoteric, Singletree offers “forest bathing” and a “digital detox” package that disconnects you from technology and reconnects you with nature.

Website(336) 593-2155Directions

6 Mount Mitchell Eco Retreat

6 Mount Mitchell Eco Retreat

BurnsvilleSee on map

Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mount Mitchell Eco Retreat promises to bring you closer to both your family and to nature. Rest your head in one of four wood lodges, but gather in the Main Lodge for mountain views, a wood-burning fireplace, a large social deck and a community kitchen. Other amenities include 28 acres of explorable land, three fire pits, two creeks and a house for wellness sessions.

Website(828) 358-4326Directions

7 River and Twine

7 River and Twine

Rocky MountSee on map

Tiny-house hotel River and Twine offers 21 boutique homes close to all the action of Rocky Mount Mills. Each home includes amenities like televisions, fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers and Wi-Fi as well as special details like record players, curated album collections and board games. Lofted sleeping areas add a welcome amount of airiness to each space, and the fire pits and lawn games keep things fun for the fam.

Website(252) 904-4731Directions

Wherever the family decides to gather, rest assured that North Carolina will provide lasting memories that will turn into stories passed down for generations to come.