Featured Inn: Wildberry Lodge

Tucked away in the mountains just 12 miles from Asheville, the grand log structure of Wildberry Lodge stands out against the lush, green forest. The picturesque retreat combines casually rustic decor and luxurious amenities to provide a truly unique experience in the Smoky Mountains. The 45-acre property is full of natural beauty to provide a relaxing, tranquil stay.

History of Wildberry Lodge

Construction of the log home began in 1999. Innkeeper Glenda says, “Ken and I built Wildberry Lodge. The process took around 2 1/2 years and required that Ken and I chink over 3 miles of space between the logs to make everything weather proof. This gave us time to think about what we had done! Ken says temporary insanity.... but the result was definitely worth it.”

Staying at Wildberry Lodge

Wildberry Lodge was created and is continually updated to provide the most luxurious, relaxing experience possible. The interior of the lodge is clean, cozy and warmed by the stunning 50-foot high stone fireplace in the Great Room. Outdoors there are multiple zones to explore, rest, and relax. Enjoy roasting s’mores in the stone fire pit on the comfy Forest Retreat decks. The Spa deck features a sunken seven-person Jacuzzi spa with stunning mountain views - talk about relaxing! Wildberry Lodge also features many unique attributes, such as a real Native American tipi in the style of the Sioux Indians.

Meet the Innkeepers: Glenda and Ken Cahill

Q: What made you want to be an innkeeper?

A: Our love of log structures, our interest in sharing our log home with people who may like to have one and after being in the corporate world for many years, the understanding that people just need a relaxing place to unwind and forget about their daily "to do" list.

Q: Would you consider yourself more of a sweet or savory person?

A: Savory - my favorite herb is Rosemary which I incorporate in several of my homemade dishes

Q: What is your favorite breakfast food?

A: Bacon - of course!

Q: What made you fall in love with Asheville?

A: The culture that allows you to be who you are and not to have to pretend to be someone you are not.

Q: If you could time travel, where/when would you go?

A: Definitely not 2020 - Ken says he would like to attend George Washington's inauguration. I however (Glenda) would like to see what life is like in 2050.

Q: What is your ultimate Asheville local travel tip for guests?

A: Leicester has an art tour the 3rd week in August every year. Our "Come to Leicester: Tour features many of our Leicester artists in their studios. Maps are distributed to local businesses and the Asheville visitors center. Yellow directional signs are placed at key intersections for ease of finding each studio. This is a wonderful adventure to see the Leicester countryside and beautiful painting, pottery, jewelry, blacksmithing, etc at its source!

Q: Do you have any stories of interesting guests that have stayed over the years?

A: A couple of our guests have been authors and have mentioned us and Wildberry Lodge in their books - We are honored that they chose to write us into their stories.

Q: What makes your inn stand out?

A: We are the only true log lodge bed and breakfast in the area. The architecture is beautiful with ceilings open to the roof. Our stone fireplace is actually 50 feet in height and weighs 26 tons (32 feet are visible in our great room) It has 3 fireboxes. Weather permitting breakfast is served outside from 8-9:30 (your choice of time) with fabulous views of our NC mountains and a 3-4 course meal. We have 5 miles of hiking trails on property, so bring your hiking shoes. We also have 5 Scottish highland cattle and 4 roaming goats.

Make your next trip to Asheville extra special by booking a suite, room or cabin at Wildberry Lodge. Planning a special birthday or anniversary trip? Check out their specials and add-ons to make your Asheville vacation truly memorable.