Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ]

Photo gallery for Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ]

Aerial view
Exterior
Exterior detail
Unclassified image, 4 of 67, button
Room

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
    Breakfast included
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Spruce Pine, NC
  • Mountainside Wine
    7 min drive
  • Blue Ridge Regional Hospital
    8 min drive
  • Grassy Creek Golf and Country Club
    9 min drive

Rooms & beds

7 bedrooms (sleeps 18)

Duke Room

2 Single Beds

Grand Tower View Jr. Suite

1 King Bed

Lair

4 Single Beds

Monarch Room

1 Queen Bed

Royal Tower View Suite

1 King Bed

Wilkinson Loft

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

Windsor Room

1 King Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Carradine View Room

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

The Privy

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Dining
Exterior

About this property

Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ]

Welcome to Smithmore Castle, America's only 5-star castle hotel and premier event space. Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smithmore Castle offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury. With jaw-dropping views of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Eastern Continental Divide, and Mount Mitchell—the highest peak east of the Rockies—our castle provides an unforgettable backdrop for every occasion.
Smithmore Castle is not just a place to stay; it's an experience. Our meticulously restored British Victorian Castle boasts a variety of themed rooms, lofts, and suites, each designed to transport you to a different era of elegance and charm. From the opulent Royal Tower View Suite with its Victorian décor and swan motifs to the serene garden, every detail is crafted to ensure our guests feel like royalty. With balconies, towers, and private spaces that offer 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, Smithmore Castle is the epitome of refined luxury.
As America's only 5-star castle hotel, Smithmore Castle is dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of service and sophistication. Our fine dining experience, curated by renowned chefs, features a blend of classic and contemporary culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner for two or a grand banquet, our exquisite cuisine and impeccable service are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Smithmore Castle is the perfect venue for family gatherings, business retreats, weddings, and other special events. When you rent the entire castle, you gain exclusive access to all our luxurious rooms, bathrooms, and hundreds of acres of pristine estate land. With accommodations for up to 23 guests and 1 infant, your privacy and comfort are guaranteed. Our dedicated event planning team is here to ensure that every detail of your stay or event is executed flawlessly.
At Smithmore Castle, we invite you to step into a world of timeless elegance and unmatched luxury. Come create unforgettable memories in a setting that is as extraordinary as the events you celebrate. Experience the magic of America's only 5-star castle hotel, where every moment is a royal affair.

History and Location
In 2008, Robert Smith purchased estate with his family and renamed it with his last name and consideration for the property’s “idyllic” surroundings and view of rollings mountains. Eventually, in 2017, Smith opening it for events and listed it various rental sites. By 2019 as guests remarked that they “loved” the property and liked the accommodating staff at the Castle. In 2020 Smith recreated Smithmore Castle to a fully operational hotel with a private restaurant offering high end cuisines. The location offers a private steep drive up English Knob. The 121-acre private mountain estate is found in the ranges of the Blue Ridge Mountains and was called a “perfect place” to establish an atmosphere for thematic weddings and photoshoots. The Castle first attracted a national spotlight after being featured in magazines, television and music videos.

Amenities and Features
Smithmore Castle takes up British Victorian Architecture with multiple worldly-themed rooms and a Spanish Lounge. It is also decorated with imported and hand crafted frescos that complete the European vibe in the Formal Dining Room. Giant Swarovski Chandelier located in the Great room along with crystal wall sconces are seen in the receiving foyer of the Castle Hotel and throughout.

Smithmore Castle features over 15,000 Sq Ft with many rooms but offers only eight bedrooms for guests to rent. The Castle has caves on the property and offers Cave Tours, a Fire Pit and mountain biking. Cooking classes, Archery Lessons, Cave Tours, Etiquette Classes, Massages, Wine Tastings and more. The Decor is integrated into the Castle’s corresponding Renaissance Hotel theme. It also offers views of Mount Mitchell, Toy River Valley, Eastern Continental Divide and the blue Ridge Mountains. The Property also provides hiking trails dotted with Old English riddles leading the way to discover caves. Moreover, it also features a vintage Bar and a Lounge by a “massive” Three-story stone fireplace. The stay in the hotel also includes a private in-house 5-Star Executive Chef who will prepare the variety of gourmet meals served to guests during the stay.

The Hotel also offered custom and curated stays for each guest, along with a Concierge team and Renowned Chef. It also has a total lodging occupancy of 20 guests and can host up to 100 guests for private fine dining events. It includes 11 bathrooms, smart TV’s, Coffee stations and a 3,000 sq ft Ballroom called Crown Hall. The Hall incorporates a commercial kitchen, brides powder room and separate commercial men’s and women’s restrooms. The hall was mainly developed for hosting weddings and receptions. Guests can also book weddings and other events at the Castle itself.

Property manager

Chef Benjamin

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Breakfast included
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Parking available

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
PLEASE SEE CHILDREN'S CONTRACT! STRICT RULES

Events

No events allowed
All events are booked directly with the Castle.

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
At outside designated areas.
Bookings with Children (12 & Younger) must sign our Children Agreement.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: All events are booked directly with the Castle.
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses a grey water recycling system
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Spruce Pine

Located in Spruce Pine, this castle is in the city centre and on a river. Young's Mountain Music and Museum of North Carolina Minerals are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Grassy Creek Golf and Country Club and Table Rock Trail. Travelling with kids? Consider Mountainside Wine, or check out an event or a game at The Orchard at Altapass. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Spruce Pine, NC

What's nearby

  • Mountainside Wine - 7 min drive
  • Table Rock Trail - 10 min drive
  • Hawksbill Mountain Trail - 10 min drive
  • Penland School of Crafts - 13 min drive
  • The Orchard at Altapass - 14 min drive

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 77 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪KFC - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Western Sizzlin - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Live Oak Gastropub - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Switzerland Cafe & General Store - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Fox and the Fig - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ] pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ] ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ] ?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Smithmore Castle [ America's only 5 Star Castle Hotel ] located?

Located in the mountains, this Spruce Pine castle offers ski-in/ski-out access within 6 mi (10 km) of Mountainside Wine, Woodys Chair Shop and Grassy Creek Golf and Country Club. Mission Health Mauzy-Phillips Center and Blue Ridge Regional Hospital are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 11 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 11 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 11 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 11 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 11 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jeannie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical
The castle is a magical place with views that go forever. Sunrises and sunsets that will leave you in a dream-like state. The best part of the trip was Chef Benjamin’s excellent meals!!! We looked forward to breakfast and dinner every day. We were treated to 5 star meals and good conversation with Chef after the meals. If you’re looking for a one in a million trip, this is it!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

brad r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing!
What an amazing stay - the castle is stunning and the food!!!! The food was out of this world. They treated us like true royalty. A must stay for sure- we will be back again! Thank you very much.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jaymie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Castle with panoramic views
The property was amazing. Beautiful location, lots of hiking trails. Family had an amazing time sitting by fireplace, playing games in bar area. The dining room was the perfect setting for Thanksgiving dinner. Every room had a great view. From front two terraces you could see both the sunrise and sunset. It was an unforgettable stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Dianna I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family
Had a great stay and enjoyed family!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mike L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pictures didn't do it justice - OUTSTANDING place to stay!
Simply put, the pictures don't do the property justice. Spending 4 days here with our family was outstanding. This was more than just staying near the mountains or in the woods, but really did feel like you were staying up in the sky. The morning would give you a view where you felt that you were above the clouds and afternoons and evenings felt like you could see everything around you. The property was well maintained and communication from the owner was fantastic. I wouldn't hesitate that anyone who wants an experience unlike any other to look to make a stay at Smithmore Castle.

10/10 Excellent

Justin P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just fantastic
This really was everything we could hope for. Secluded, peaceful, and plenty of space inside and out. Plenty of woods and property to explore (including a cave), and all kinds of space inside to play games with kids. The view from the front deck every morning alone was worth it.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

sander k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Feeling like a King!
Once in a lifetime experience! Beautiful castle, one of the most spectacular views in the smoky mountains. Rob is a terrific host. Close to the blue ridge parkway, great hiking trails and waterfalls nearby. All in all an awesome experience
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Li C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice property
Nice and private. Spectacular views. Don't forget to ask the key for the China set. Wine cellar is under construction. The entrance and hall do not match the tone of other rooms and places. The lights should be replaced with warm colored ones at least. Commercial kitchen is really nice, but the hood fan doesn't work. Vapor and smell spread all over. Bedrooms are spacy and gorgeous, but some of the remodeling finishing is not always consistent with to the luxury sense in all.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Woodrow N., Charleston SC

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect getaway
When no one wants to leave you know it’s a great place. Private mountain, private castle and nerf gun fights, would love to visit again. Owner answered all questions and calls. Very accommodating.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Glenn D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Incredible Family Reunion
This might be the most stunning view in NC. It was the perfect location for our family reunion, a bittersweet reunion as our family matriarch (mother and grandmother) falls into the sad grip of dementia. We wanted her to have a true castle experience for her last vacation. This is a magical place. We also explored trails, a cave and these beautiful grounds. A truly special place.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Carma W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful house for friends/family get-together!
Our group had an amazing time at this beautiful mountaintop castle! We were celebrating a special birthday and spent time at the home as well as a day in Asheville. The large kitchen with center island was our favorite gathering spot and the dining room table was perfect for dinner and games. The views from the house are simply stunning and there are several exploring/hiking options on the property. We were lucky to be there just as fall was in its last fiery bloom. Rob was excellent with communication from the time of our booking through our check-out. Zachary met us on site and provided a very thorough walk-through tour and explanation of house features and policies. Check-out was so easy and overall such a seamless experience. I highly recommend this property and host!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019

About the host

Hosted by Chef Benjamin

Host profile image
In 2008, Lord Robert Smith purchased estate with his family and renamed it with his last name and consideration for the property’s “idyllic” surroundings and view of rollings mountains. Eventually, in 2017, Smith opening it for events and listed it various rental sites. By 2019 as guests remarked that they “loved” the property and liked the accommodating staff at the Castle. In 2020 Smith recreated Smithmore Castle to a fully operational hotel with a private restaurant offering high end cuisines.

Why they chose this property

The location offers a private steep drive up English Knob. The 100+ acre private mountain estate is found in the ranges of the Blue Ridge Mountains and was called a “perfect place” to establish an atmosphere for thematic weddings and photoshoots. The Castle first attracted a national spotlight after being featured in magazines, television and music videos.

What makes this property unique

Smithmore Castle stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance, proudly holding the distinction of being America's only 5-star castle hotel and event space. Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Western North Carolina, this unique venue offers guests an experience reminiscent of the service and opulence found in the renowned Downton Abbey TV series. The castle seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities, featuring lavish suites, exquisite dining options, and a range of activities that cater to both relaxation and adventure. Its architecture and decor evoke the splendor of a bygone era, making every visit a journey into the past while providing the utmost in contemporary comfort.

What sets Smithmore Castle apart is not just its unparalleled luxury but also its dedication to providing an immersive experience. From the moment guests arrive, they are transported into a world of refined elegance, where every detail is meticulously curated to enhance their stay. The castle’s Great Room, with its marble floors, medieval tapestries, and crystal chandeliers, and its serene courtyard with a stately fountain and vibrant floral arrangements, all contribute to the sense of timeless beauty. Additionally, the breathtaking views from its balconies, showcasing the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Eastern Continental Divide, offer a spectacular backdrop for any occasion. Whether hosting a grand event or enjoying a quiet retreat, Smithmore Castle ensures an unforgettable experience steeped in luxury and history.

Languages:

English
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

More Holiday Rentals ideas

People also search for