A scenic drive of less than three hours from Atlanta, Trailborn Highlands offers a mountain escape that feels worlds away; yet is closer than you think. Tucked just steps from the quaint Main Street in Highlands, North Carolina, this newly reimagined hotel is nestled on 4.5 tranquil acres and thoughtfully designed for those seeking both elevated hospitality and immersive outdoor adventure. With 63 spacious guest rooms—some featuring fireplaces, balconies, or garden patios—Trailborn Highlands serves as both a relaxing retreat and the perfect launch pad for exploring the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Trailborn experience extends well beyond the guest rooms. The Nordic Spa offers a tranquil year-round retreat, featuring a four-person sauna, cold spritz showers in the warmer months, and a cozy, lobby lounge area. Throughout the property, guests can relax by the fire pits, explore curated local goods at the onsite retail market, or enjoy daily programming like watercolor workshops, wildcrafted cocktail classes, and live music at the Carolina Concert Series every Thursday evening.
Families will appreciate thoughtful touches like an in-room camping experience and scavenger hunts for younger guests, while adventure seekers can take advantage of guided excursions including fly fishing, rock climbing, forest bathing, and waterfall hikes; many arranged in partnership with expert local guides. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore downtown Highlands on foot or on one of our complimentary cruiser bikes, and it’s just a short drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains.
At the heart of this mountain property is its culinary centerpiece: Highlands Supper Club. Just a short walk up the hill from the main hotel, this signature restaurant and bar is housed in a beautifully restored 1924 log cabin originally crafted by local legend Joe Webb. Steeped in Appalachian heritage and rustic charm, the space features indoor fireplaces, intimate dining areas, and seasonal outdoor seating nestled in nature—all creating a warm, elevated dining experience.
Helmed by Executive Chef Aaron Kulzer, the Highlands Supper Club’s menu brings a modern touch to classic Southern comfort fare. The kitchen emphasizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, crafting standout dishes like crispy fried chicken, smoky Carolina barbecue, and expertly prepared Appalachian trout. The culinary experience is further elevated by a bold and bourbon-forward bar program, including inventive cocktails like the signature Bacon-Washed Old Fashioned, regional craft beers, and a carefully selected wine list. For those that want the ease of a stay and dinner, Trailborn’s Dine Out, Sleep In package includes guaranteed reservations at Highlands Supper Club, along with a complimentary side or dessert during your stay.
Whether you’re here to explore, relax, or simply savor, Trailborn Highlands and Highlands Supper Club offer a distinctly curated mountain getaway where comfort and cuisine converge and just a short, scenic drive from Atlanta. Book Now!
