Folkestone Inn

Location. The Folkestone Inn sits adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Forest, one-quarter mile from whitewater tubing excursions on Deep Creek, in Bryson City, N.C. Little Creek Falls are five-and-one-half miles from the inn. The Nantahala River, which offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the country, is 12 miles from the inn.

Features. The Country Farmhouse-style inn, built in 1926, is flanked by giant spruce trees, an herb garden, a porch with mountain views and a babbling brook. Interior highlights include hardwood floors and antique, wood-burning stove. Full, complimentary breakfasts are served daily, and include specialties like Orange Thyme Pancakes, Stuffed French Toast and Eggs Benedict. Snacks and beverages are available in the afternoons. Business services and complimentary wireless Internet access are available at the inn. Other amenities include board games and a library. A swing and a hammock are located on the property.

Guestrooms. Guestrooms offer unique décor, private bathrooms, complimentary wireless Internet access, CD stereos, amenities baskets, bathrobes and access to porches or balconies. Third-floor rooms feature claw foot tubs and French doors that open to private balconies with mountain and creek views. Pressed-tin ceilings, flagstone floors and Celeste fireplaces in the ground floor rooms exude an old-world charm.

Expert Tip. Approximately 10 miles from Bryson City is Cherokee, a town steeped in the rich culture of the Cherokee tribe of Native Americans who settled there under pressure from the United States Army in the late 1830s.