At this holiday home, you'll be 5.8 km (3.6 mi) from Pisgah National Forest and 11.4 km (7.1 mi) from Hatley Pointe Ski Resort. Highlights at this ski holiday home include a kitchen, a washing machine and free WiFi. .Home features 2 bathrooms, a fireplace and a patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A living room, a dining area and a Smart TV are also available. .Enjoy the ski-in/ski-out access and Hot tub. Other amenities include laundry facilities, a garden and barbecues. .Attractions within a 30-minute drive of this Mars Hill holiday home include Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville and The Orange Peel.
Upper Laurel Community Center Park - 3 min drive - 3.0 km
Appalachian Trail Sams Gap Trailhead - 5 min drive - 7.6 km
Sams Gap - 5 min drive - 7.9 km
Hatley Pointe Ski Resort - 9 min drive - 11.6 km
Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre - 11 min drive - 17.8 km
Getting around
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 45 min drive
Restaurants
Starbucks - 11 min drive
Taco Fiesta - 11 min drive
Hickory Nut Gorge Craf - 12 min drive
The Wagon Wheel - 11 min drive
Subway - 10 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel
Bear Branch Bliss is a cozy mountain retreat near Wolf Laurel with breathtaking Blue Ridge views. Relax in the hot tub, gather around the new smokeless fire pit, or cook outdoors on the new 4-burner grill with griddle option. Wildlife abounds — watch yellow finches, hummingbirds, deer, and wild turkeys in a serene, peaceful setting.
The region is abundant with outdoor activities and just 20 mins south, Asheville offers EVERYTHING-from historical Biltmore Estate to contemporary arts and crafts.
Make yourself at home at Bear Branch Bliss, a newly built 1,800 sq. ft. craftsman-style duplex set on six scenic acres. From the moment you arrive, the spectacular Appalachian vistas welcome you — visible from nearly every room.
The chef’s kitchen is fully stocked with modern appliances, highlighted by a statement Big Chill refrigerator and a massive island perfect for gathering. A cozy coffee bar with multiple brewing options comes stocked with coffee and tea for your mornings.
The open-plan living and dining areas provide ample space to gather. The dining table seats six, with room for two more at the kitchen bar. A gas fireplace and sitting area invite relaxation, while the bright sunroom features a 65” Smart TV with major streaming services.
Work or study with ease in the dedicated office nook (with printer) and enjoy high-speed WiFi strong enough for video calls, streaming, and all your social feeds. Five mini-splits and ceiling fans throughout the home let you set the perfect temperature in every room.
Step outside to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the home. Unwind in the decked “infinity” hot tub with breathtaking mountain views, gather around the smokeless fire pit, or fire up the 4-burner grill with griddle option on the spacious deck.
For hikers, the Appalachian Trail is nearby. A 10-minute drive to Sam’s Gap offers parking and access to the trail leading to Big Bald (5,516 ft) — a rewarding, moderately strenuous hike to stunning 360° views.
And yes, we’re pet-friendly. Bear Branch Bliss was designed with dogs in mind, featuring a private pet spa for washing up after adventures and a fenced dog run for safe, late-night outings.
Be sure to check the Additional Photos section for local points of interest, including nearby attractions such as Cherokee, Bailey Mountain, Big Bald Mountain, and Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort for winter skiing.
The adjacent unit is occupied by the property owners, however, the guests' privacy is fully respected. The quality construction ensures that you will not hear any disturbance. Upon arrival, guests will receive a brief introduction, and a fire can be started upon request. Otherwise, the property owners are discreet, allowing for a peaceful and private stay.
Some guests have been reluctant to book Bear Branch Bliss because of the close proximity of the owners; however, all reviews that have addressed this issue have been extremely postive. For example, our most recent guest from January 2023, wrote, "My wife was a little worried about the host, Shelley, and her parents being connected on the same property, as we planned to stay out/up late, but we absolutely loved everything about it. If you are at all worried do not hesitate! Shelley is the perfect, most accommodating host."
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
2 accessible parking spaces
In-room accessibility
No lift (single-level property)
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In the mountains
Near a hospital
Near an outlet shopping centre
Next to a golf course
Things to do
Ski-in/ski-out access
Birdwatching nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Kayaking nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Rafting nearby
Sledding nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Unit size: 1,800 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21
Check-out
Check-out before 12:00 PM
Contactless check-out
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
Pets are welcome
Maximum 4 pets
Restrictions apply
For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Service animals are exempt from fees.
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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 fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.
We should mention
To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.
Property is also known as
Bear Branch Bliss Mars Hill
Bear Branch Bliss Private vacation home
Bear Branch Bliss Private vacation home Mars Hill
Frequently asked questions
Does Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel have a pool?
No, this holiday home doesn't have a pool.
What luxury perks are available at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?
This property features 1 hot tub, as well as a fireplace and a living room.
What makes Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel a romantic place to stay?
1 hot tub, fireplaces, and private patios all help set the scene for a sizzling getaway at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel.
Is there a private hot tub at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?
Yep, there is a hot tub.
Is there a free airport shuttle available at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?
No, Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel does not offer an airport shuttle service.
What time are check-in & check-out at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Is there a golf course on site at Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel?
There is a golf course next to Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel.
Luxury Mountain Home Retreat • Dog Spa + Hot Tub Near Wolf Laurel Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 23 out of 23 reviews
10 - Excellent
23
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 23 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 23 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 23 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 23 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
chattacreeker28
17 Mar 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property. Host was excellent. Nothing but good things to say about this place.
chattacreeker28
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
brandie g.
29 Nov 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Before we even arrived at Bear Branch Bliss, Shelley, our host was reaching out to see what we needed, if we wanted fall or Christmas decor and provided great ideas for things to do as I planned our Thanksgiving visit. There are so many facets I want to share, where do I start?! The home itself has LITERALLY EVERYTHING you need. Any cooking gadget, types of glassware, cute boards for your charcuterie ... You name it, they have it. And if for some reason they don't, Shelley or her dad will make sure you have it!The views were absolutely beautiful from the many windows in every room, from the hottub situated on the side of a mountain, from the awesome solo stove fire pit. We used all these amenities throughout our stay and they were top notch - all the fire wood and starter you need for even the most novice fire builder. Tons of beach towels and plastic insulated cups for the hottub. We also used the brand new grill and pergola; again with everything you need to successfully grill whatever you wish. All the beds were comfortable, with plush and comfortable bedding. I seriously slept so well every night. The primary bathroom was fabulous. The huge shower with thoughtful details such as spa masks, tips, cotton pads and lovely smelling items! The primary closet was huge! While Shelly and her parents are on property, they are gracious hosts providing upmost privacy, so do not let that deter you! Thank you again for the wonderful Thanksgiving Shelley and Fam!
brandie g.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
chris c.
2 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The host Shelley was truly amazing. Attentive from the very beginning , meeting us outside and even gifting us a bottle of champagne for our anniversary. Property was absolutely amazing and clean. Every detail was well thought out and truly inviting for us and our furry kids. My wife actually mentioned she was reluctant to leave at check out she enjoyed our weekend so much. Thanks again.
chris c.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Dan K.
5 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Hidden Gem!
Couldn’t have been happier
Dan K.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Terry B.
18 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain Vacation
Wonderful place and host. Your host makes sure you and your pets are comfortable. We loved our visit.
Terry B.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Darla H.
9 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous and Relaxing Home Away From Home
We absolutely loved this place and didn’t want to leave. The house is beautifully decorated, beautiful and great location and so peaceful.
The owner was awesome and we really appreciated her hospitality and personal touch. Highly recommend this rental. We plan to go back.
Darla H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Roxane F.
15 June 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful View, Great Accommodations, Wonderful Hosts
Gorgeous view, beautifully decorated, well appointed home conveniently located just off I-26. Though you can hear road noise, my son said it made him feel connected to civilization because it feels remote, though it is not. Busy bird feeders greeted us each morning along with a private view of the mountains. Our dog could run as she pleased. We were very comfortable and would love to visit again.
My husband is completely paralyzed from ALS so we had a mechanical bed delivered. The hosts put it together for us!! It was ready to go along with the room being rearranged to allow for all of the necessary equipment we travel with. Shelley was in constant communication with us before we arrived to ensure that everything would go smoothly - and it did. She really bent over backwards to take good care of us, along with her parents who, though they live on site, are very quiet and we rarely saw them, but when we did they felt like good friends.
This is truly a special place with lovely people that will make your stay perfect. We used the hot tub and they came out to make sure we had everything we needed and set it all up for us. If there were 10 stars to give I would. Really exceptional, and I feel like a made a new set of friends.
Roxane F.
Stayed 14 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Mark G.
3 Oct 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain Retreat
We backed up a long weekend in the mountains after a week in Kiawah. Wow, what amazing views and peace. And my wife said the interior was adorable! Only 25 minutes to Asheville. Weaverville is a very quaint town just a few minutes away. Shelley and her parents are very kind and gracious hosts. We’ll be back!
Mark G.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jamie C.
31 Aug 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
In town for meteor shower
Property was perfect location, away from Asheville just enough to reduce the light pollution but close enough to easily get to town.
Jamie C.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Erin D.
14 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
fabulous mountain house
the house was perfect and better than advertised! very comfortable for myself and my husband who is in a power wheelchair. no accessibility issues. the roll in shower is about the best I have seen. as you may be aware from the listing, it is a duplex but that is not an issue! you have all the privacy you want or need. rent this place!!
Erin D.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Cece D.
2 Jan 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Winter Wonderland
This was hands down the best VRBO stay we've ever had. First, we were travelling from the North Georgia mountains to Mars Hill on the day Artic Storm Elliot was headed our way and got very nervous about the possibility of icy roads and Shelley was so accommodating and let us head up a day earlier - which we could not have been more thankful for since we woke up on December 23rd to a full Winter Wonderland of snow (which started out as rain the night before).
Shelley's dad, Offrand, greeted us when we arrived and was very helpful in explaining everything about the place. The actual space is beautifully appointed, decorated for Christmas and meticulously clean and organized. The beds are super comfortable and the gas fireplace was so cozy on our "snowed-in day". On Christmas Eve, thanks to Offrand, we were able to make it to our ski time (he lent us his windshield scraper) when it was -5 outside! (cold for anyone but did I mention we are Floridians?) Let's just say the family was very happy to return to Bear Branch Bliss and warm up in that amazing shower!
I could really go on but I will end with this - I thought we were going to miss our holiday trip and was so sad, but because of Shelley's hospitality and thoughtfulness we ended up having a beautiful white Christmas in warm, cozy place that will be in our family memories forever. Whenever we travel again to the area this Bear Branch Bliss will always be our first choice.
PS. Our pup Lilly loved it there too and had her first snow experience running around the property!
Cece D.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Kevin M.
22 Oct 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Recommend 10x’s over
Communication was fast with any questions I had, helpful details about hikes and the area available once in site, loved the decor, the grounds were perfect for our 1 1/2 yr old and dog to run around in. Coming back for sure!
Kevin M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Sarah C.
20 Aug 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely amazing!
I can't rave enough about this amazing property--the gorgeous view, the wonderful amenities, the relaxed atmosphere, the fantastic hosts, the thoughtful touches in and around the property--everything that made our visit truly one of the best vrbo experiences we've every had.
The home was gorgeously decorated with attention to detail and little luxuries that you don't often enjoy in a vrbo: extra towels (not the one-per-person that most places have); wood and blankets for the outdoor fire pit; an outdoor swing; plenty of throw blankets around the home; lovely set-ups at the dining table and kitchen bar; delicious-smelling wax warmers, treats to enjoy in the tv room...they even provided us champagne, bacon, eggs, and other breakfast items for our first morning! The view is spectacular--nestled in the trees and overlooking the mountains--the bird feeders were a nice touch! The owner was absolutely wonderful, with helpful tips and thoughtful suggestions--she even provided us fresh tomatoes from her garden!
This was the perfect place for us to relax and unwind away from everything but still close enough to drive into town or into the mountains. We would absolutely stay here again and are already looking for free weekends to return.
Sarah C.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Dyan H., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
14 Aug 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain Getaway
Six days in August at Bear Branch Bliss went by too quickly. And, there is no better review than to report that we're returning in October.
Stay tuned for another rave review for the Willis family.....
Dyan H.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Lynn M., Warner Robins, Ga USA
31 July 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing get-a-way
Was looking for a get-a-way to celebrate my husband’s birthday. This house was perfect. From providing restaurant recommendations to making every step of the rental process seamless and easy. Every day was more enjoyable then the next. From watching the birds to fireside chats we were able to celebrate and catch up with old friends. We loved it so much we will be coming back soon. Highly recommend.
Lynn M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Natalie P.
11 July 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Such a great place to stay near Asheville!
Such a beautiful property! Owners were so kind and helpful throughout the entire stay. Would most definitely stay here again!
Natalie P.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Milo N.
30 May 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible Views
This place is really something special. Ophard and Shelley do a phenomenal job of making sure you have everything you could need and still giving you your privacy. Everything about this place is amazing from the incredibly comfy interior to the astonishing views outside. This is a must stay if you're going to be in the area.
Milo N.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
Christy H.
3 Apr 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Heaven on a hill
Big bear is a beautiful place to stay when visiting North Carolina. Every detail has been thought of to ensure you feel right at home from your moment of arrival through the entire stay. From luxurious bedding & towels, games and a long list of recommended places to eat and sites to see! We absolutely loved it!
Christy H.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Lynn C.
10 Mar 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome house with great amenities in lovely setting
One of our best rentals. The house is great with so many lovely touches and thoughtfully well stocked. The fire pit and hot tub are great and there are short hikes right around the property. It’s 20 minute from Asheville but worth the extra car time The host and her family are great. And it’s super dog friendly!!
Lynn C.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Pat P., Summerton SC USA
3 Dec 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
The Best In The Mountains
Spent Thanksgiving with some local family members at the most beautiful place in the mountains! The views are breathtaking! I am a native of the area and never miss a chance to return. The house and property are immaculate and everything you need is in that house ! Shelley and her family are wonderful people and made us feel like one of thier own. I will go back any time I am in the area. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Fabulous place to relax !!
Pat P.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
10/10 Excellent
Andrea S.
25 Nov 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Fall Getaway
From the moment we walked in the inviting warm vanilla smell coupled with the amazing view I knew this was going to be the relaxing vacation we needed.
Shelly was the perfect host with the fire pit at the ready, the hot tub at the most satisfying temperature, and a home that is well stocked for anything you can think of.
Wouldn’t hesitate to stay again, and again, and again.
Andrea S.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2021
10/10 Excellent
Lindsey F.
14 Nov 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Best Experience!
Our stay at Bear Branch Bliss was probably the best experience I've had with a VRBO property. The house was perfect and the host was amazing! We will definitely be back!
Lindsey F.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
10/10 Excellent
PJ M.
24 Oct 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Property
The photos do not do justice as to how well the property is decorated, furnished, and how excellent the views are! Excellent communication with Shelly from booking and through out entire stay. 25 min drive from Asheville, so still very easy to get in and out of the downtown area or even to the Blue Ridge Trail.