Explore the Mountains
Things to Do Near Sapphire Valley, Cashiers, and Highlands
Our own guide to the waterfalls, trails, small towns, and good meals of the Cashiers and Highlands plateau.
Sapphire Valley, from above the cottage
Our local guides
Where We Send Our Guests.
Sapphire sits on a high plateau in the part of Western North Carolina known as the Land of Waterfalls. Cashiers is a few minutes away, Highlands a little farther, and there's more to do than one stay can hold.
Waterfalls and Hikes
Silver Run Falls, Whitewater Falls, Gorges State Park, Panthertown Valley, Whiteside Mountain, and more.
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Where to Eat
Burgers after a hike, barbecue to bring home, and one special night out in Cashiers, Highlands, and Sapphire.
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Coffee and Groceries
The best morning coffee on the plateau, and where to stock the cottage kitchen on the way in.
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Shops and Outfitters
Antiques, architectural salvage, trail gear, and the fly shop in Cashiers.
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With Kids
Gem mining, nature centers, a covered pool, and a waterfall you can walk behind.
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Through the year
The Mountains in Every Season.
Spring
Waterfalls run full, and rhododendron and mountain laurel bloom along the trails.
Summer
The plateau stays cooler than the valleys below. Swimming holes, lake days, and Friday nights on the Village Green.
Fall
Leaf color fills the ridges, the air turns crisp, and evenings belong to the fireplace.
Winter
Quiet roads, bare trees with long views, and skiing nearby at Sapphire Valley. Some shops and restaurants keep shorter hours.
Your home base
Stay in the Middle of It All.
The Woodland Cottage is a two-bedroom family home with a loft in Sapphire, a few minutes from Cashiers and an easy drive to Highlands and Lake Toxaway.