Ranzy's Retreat

Welcome to Ranzy's Retreat! Situated halfway between Sylva and Waynesville in the heart of the Smokies, it is the perfect location to base your adventures in WNC! With access to US74 at the end of our driveway, you're never too far from hitting the road for local jaunts and extended daytrips. Distance to: Parkway 3mi Balsam 3mi Sylva 10mi Dillsboro 12mi Waynesville 12mi WCU/Cullowhee 14mi Cherokee/GSMNP 23mi Franklin 29mi Asheville 40mi Highlands 44mi The space The 700sqft cottage was built in 1940 by our host's Great-grandparents Julia and Loranzo (Ranzy), and sits on 120 acres that are available for your exploration: there is a 10ac hay field below the cottage, and old logging roads/trails wind through the 110ac of forest if you like to play in the woods! The kitchen is fully stocked with cookware and basic spices, and features a full-sized stove and refrigerator, microwave, toaster oven, electric kettle, and even an air popper for popcorn. We've also got your coffee cravings covered 3 ways: automatic drip, French press, and a moka pot are all on hand. There are two bedrooms in the cottage, each with a queen bed, spacious dresser, and large illuminated closet with hangers. One of the bedrooms is furnished with family heirlooms we uncovered in the barn and refurbished especially for the cottage! The living room has plenty of room to stretch out after a day of sightseeing, with both TV and a Bluetooth speaker for your use. Outside, you'll find the covered front porch and private deck perfect for dining outdoors, watching the sunset, and marveling at the twinkle of fireflies in early summer. Guest access The cottage and two other adjacent houses share 120 acres of land, and you are welcome to explore most parts. The upper and lower grass lawns in front of the cottage are all yours, though please be mindful of flowers and saplings we have planted. Feel free to walk the driveway down to the field and creek, and if you'd like to know the best spot to get into the forest we'd be happy to point you in the right direction. The houses to either side of the cottage are where your host and host's parents reside, please respect their privacy and don't wander into adjacent yards. Especially of note for your safety, the barn is not open for exploring as it is 100+yrs old and in a state of decline. Do not enter any portion of the barn at any time. The cottage basement is also not accessible at this time. Other things to note While we welcome families with kids, please note that the cottage is not toddler-proofed. We have outlet covers available and will install them for you with prior notification. We also suggest keeping the deck and porch gates closed during your stay for your little one's safety, and accessing the front yard only via the deck steps, not the concrete stairway by the kitchen.