A STAY STEEPED IN HISTORY

For a fun adventure coupled with a relaxing reprieve, the Historic Tapoco Lodge is the place to stay.

words L IZA CARRASQUILLO photos courtesy TAPOCO LODGE

Looking at Tapoco for the first time, it’s easy to see the charm. The towering trees and vining plants surrounding the lodge make it feel almost hidden—a part of the forest rather than just something sitting on its land. This minimalistic connection with nature is one reason guests keep coming back. A stay at this lodge is not for those looking to wrap themselves in modern luxury, but rather for those looking to embrace simplistic comforts from a more simplistic time.

The historic lodge was originally built in 1930 as a place to house those working on the Cheoah dams and similar projects in the area. While it’s undergone many renovations since then to expand and update the property, it’s also kept many of the rustic features that have been around since its inception. From the lodge’s wrought iron pillars to its handcrafted wooden furniture, guests can find a bit of history in every corner of the lodge’s many buildings. Those buildings include a main lodge with nine rooms, plus 18 rooms available throughout their separate cabins.

These cabins are great for traveling groups or for those looking to have a more intimate stay in their own private space. Don’t feel like traveling off the property for breakfast or dinner? The lodge also includes two restaurants—Tapoco Tavern and the Cheoah Dining Room. The tavern is a great place to meet up for craft drinks and seasonal dishes, while the dining room is perfect for starting the day with a hearty breakfast.

But the draw to Tapoco Lodge isn’t just about their cozy cabins— it’s about the stunning land surrounding them. The Lodge’s 120acre property promises beautiful views and trails that guests won’t find anywhere else. And beyond that? The Great Smoky Mountains await exploration. Guests can go hiking through the ancient Joyce Kilmer Forest, where some old growth trees are over 400 years old, or take a canoe out on the pristine Lake Santeetlah. Those looking to be a little more daring can test themselves on a kayak or raft down the whitewater rapids of the Cheoah River.

The Tapoco Lodge is even a beloved biker destination. It’s close to The Tail of the Dragon, an 11-mile stretch of road through the mountains that features 318 curves. This road showcases the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains on one side and the Cherokee National Forest on the other, making it internationally known to daring drivers and sightseers alike.

With its simple yet inviting accommodations and historic charm, the Tapoco Lodge has become a true sanctuary for those who need a quiet, quaint weekend escape into the mountains. And when the time comes to explore them? Guests can find nearly any sort of adventure they’re looking for just a short drive or hike away. That’s what makes Tapoco Lodge the perfect destination for what they call an “adventuary”— adventure sanctuary. Those interested in booking their first adventuary can visit the Tapoco Lodge website. info tapoco.com