Cabin

Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available

Photo gallery for Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available

Terrace/patio
Miscellaneous
Chapel and Parking Area.
Across the Front
Chapel

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Murphy, NC
  • Hiwassee River
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Murphy River Walk
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel
    ‪25 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

4 Single Beds

Bathroom 1

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Outdoor shower

About this property

Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available

Secluded 48 acres in Murphy (about 16 minutes to downtown). Near: John C. Campbell Folk School (about 12 minutes away); Nantahala River (about 35 minutes away). Roam the property and swim in the spring-fed pond. If you are a camper or want to try "camping," then you will love "glamping" ("glamorous camping") at the chapel! A wood-fired sauna experience is available for an additional charge. (Read more about that below.)

My vision is that my property (which I've named "Kingdom Come") would be a place of rest, retreat, and enjoyment for others. I am going to build a few cabins for lodging, but my first major project was building a chapel, so that it would be the centerpiece and heartbeat: a place for reflection, meditation, and prayer.

I built the chapel myself (with my own hands, and the hands of a couple of friends). As I work on building the cabins, I have decided to use the chapel as a glamping site (better than using it as a "divine" storage building!).

My mother was an artist and when she died I ended up with a lot of her artwork. Some of her paintings now fill the chapel. They also fill the space, I hope, with her grace and love and creativity.

The chapel features beautiful timber frame construction. As to "glamping" . . . there is no running water/plumbing, but you'll have all the fresh water you need for showers, drinking, etc. Limited electricity for running the kitchen appliances.

No AC, of course, but the fan will keep it comfortable in warm weather. As to cold weather, the chapel has an electric heater that keeps it fairly comfortable in cold weather: not blazing hot, but comfortable; if it gets VERY cold, then the heater just takes the chill off.

Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6 Inch mattresses are very comfortable! Using the outdoor solar/camp shower is wonderful. The privy is clean and well-ventilated.

Appliances: fan; toaster oven; microwave oven; coffee maker; and, small micro-fridge.

Lighting is provided by four rechargeable lanterns. Screens on the windows to keep the bugs at bay.

Outdoor deck with comfortable Adirondack chairs, fire pit, and Weber charcoal grill. There are generous firewood bundles available for you to purchase at the chapel, if you wish. Bring charcoal if you want to use the grill.

The play area offers opportunities limited only by your imagination. Sunbathing? Stargazing? Badminton and Bocce balls provided if you want to play!

WOOD-FIRED SAUNA

We also offer an experiential upgrade to your stay if you want to bask in a traditional Finnish wood-fired sauna complete with plunges into our cool pond between rounds. Please contact us and we will send you more details on the sauna rates. If you desire to book the sauna during your stay , we will light the fire and have it toasty hot for your sweat. We will gladly walk you through a traditional Finnish ritual and what to expect.


AT THE CHAPEL YOU WILL BE PROVIDED WITH:

Towels and wash clothes
Sheets, pillow cases and blankets
Coffee filters
Soap for washing
Dinnerware (including knives, forks, and spoons) for four
Paper plates and disposable knives, forks, and spoons
Salt and Pepper
Matches
Toilet paper
Paper towels
Plenty of water for drinking, washing, and bathing

YOU MAY WISH TO BRING:
Charcoal, if you plan to use the grill
"Swimming" towels

My home is located a short walk through the woods from the chapel, so I'm nearby if you need me. Come hang out on my front porch if you like! You are welcome to roam all 48 acres, swim in the spring fed pond, hike up to the crest of the mountains that surround the property . . . just make yourself at home! I'm a beekeeper and I'm happy to tell you about that, if we have the opportunity. Badminton equipment and Bocce balls provided if you want to play!

Property manager

WILLIAM SCRANTOM

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Murphy

Upper Peachtree, a neighbourhood in Murphy, is home to this cabin. Murphy Trussel and Cherokee Homestead Exhibit are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Nantahala National Forest and Chattahoochee National Forest.
Map
Murphy, NC

What's nearby

  • Hiwassee River - 9 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Murphy River Walk - 20 min drive - 17.9 km
  • Hiwassee Lake - 21 min drive - 18.1 km
  • Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel - 25 min drive - 23.0 km
  • Chatuge Lake - 26 min drive - 25.4 km

Getting around

  • Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) - 117 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Burger King - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪The Landing Cafe - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬24 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Glamping at the Chapel—Wood-Fired Sauna Available located?

Located in Upper Peachtree, this cabin is steps from Nantahala National Forest and within 6 mi (10 km) of Hiwassee River and Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital. Clay's Corner and John C. Campbell Folk School are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 41 out of 42 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 42 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 42 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 42 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 42 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Emmanuel E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice sanctuary, peaceful getaway

The place was clean, very quite and conducive to complete unwinding and relaxation. The host was pleasant, accommodating and easy to relate to. Overlall a great experience.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

LJ S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful and Beautiful Retreat

Me and my friend stayed three nights in Billy's Chapel during a weekend in the middle of March. Though it was cold and sometimes rainy, we always felt cozy and at peace with the amazing vibe of the well-built and purposeful structure. The sauna and a dip into the pond was a refreshing and invigorating experience to end our stay, and I cannot recommend a stay at the Chapel enough. Many thanks, Billy! Your efforts at creating a memorable and unique place to lay the head have been entirely successful.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

James E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place to stay for our anniversary!

Overall this property is a beautiful place to stay. There are many things to do on the property, such as various outdoor games, a small pond to swim and canoe in, and other stuff. There is a decent amount of things to do near by, but I would strongly recommend going to the Folk School. We came just in time to be able to go to one of the events they host every year, so if your trip is aligned with any of these events, definitely do go!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

2/10 Terrible

Charmain D.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Not what I expected

The owner was nice and friendly.. I only stayed one night booked for 5 the surrounding was not for me. One way in & out, no Wi-Fi, no cell service for miles out, no a/c. I thought about emergencies because of my illness police nor EMS could not get to us if needed the road to get to this chapel can only one car can fit one way if you sneeze you’ll be off the ledge or in the woods it very narrow. The yard wasn’t maintained liked the pictures. My fault for not reading or seeing the outhouse and outside shower. I don’t recommend if your sickly or love being clean (baths & showers)although like I said there is an outside shower you’ll have to refill with water. If you like the outside or camping pitches dark it’s for you.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nathan T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to get away

This was a great experience overall. The host couple were very friendly and accessible while maintaining good boundaries. The on site wood fired sauna is available to book, however, Billy was kind enough to invite us to join him for an authentic Finish sauna including cold water plunges. The experience was great! I highly recommended visiting this location.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

helen h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family trip

We had a lovely time unplugging!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Snehil S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bill was an exceptional host!!

The chapel is a work of art, just what we needed to get away from the hustle and bustle of life. Bill was very accommodating and would love to return here!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Crystal R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family getaway

Billy is an amazing host, and extremely helpful and understanding.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Hailey R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning property, kind couple.

The pictures really don't do justice to the property. It's beautiful and serene. The sauna is such a luxurious addition to this get away. The host were incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Wendell B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Getaway

Billy showed us around and made us feel at home. Enjoyed the chapel, artwork, the hiking and outdoor fun. Would come back again for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Andria K., Tampa, Fl

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Writer and teacher escape

A Hike-U The trail, it beckoned took us all the way up top to a view long for. Unquestionably the best glamping experience we’ve ever had (well the only one we’ve ever had). Billy is a rare host and what he’s created here is a blessing to all in need of rest adventure and everything in betwixt. We took a long a salad master crockpot and used it for a new recipe we like to call Chapel Stew 1 Onion 2 stalks Celery 1 pack Portabella mushrooms 1 pack small potatoes 1 bag fresh peas 1 bag fresh green beans 1 bag slices carrots 4 cups veggie broth 1 can of coconut milk 4 sprigs of Rosemary Salt and pepper to taste Serve over corn bread Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese For meat eaters feel free to add chicken or sausage :) We ventured out to explore Murphy Sylva and Cherokee The elk graced us with a visit while eating pancakes at peters pancake house. We agree with a previous guest that the goose should be forever henceforth referred to as Hank. A limerick upon leaving Cold weather and rain greeted us upon arrival. Yet neither of them ever threatened our survival. Over campfires we hovered. Under blankets we covered. A Thanksgiving adventure beyond arrival.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lora L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Unique Getaway

We had such a wonderful time. Billy and Mary met us and explained in great detail everything we needed to know to enjoy our stay. We cooked all our meals there on the grill. Star gazed while sitting by the firepit. Total peace and quiet! Wonderful way to unplug! Beautiful cabin!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rodney B., Perry Ga USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick weekend away

It was a pleasure to meet Billy & Mary. Very welcoming, friendly and explained well how things work. We were in town for a weekend to work on our own property so we wanted something different, comfortable, quiet, inexpensive and close to our property. This place fit perfectly. Beds very comfortable, slept good and enjoyed waking up to singing birds. Beautiful craftsmanship, mothers art is wonderful! Staying there made me appreciate running water, thankful they provided plenty. Reminds you to enjoy the simple things in life.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dustin T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Chapel of Collective Calmness

My stay at the chapel was more than I could have imagined. Billy & Mary were a joy to meet and exchange stories with. Every detail was thought of concerning the stay. I had everything I needed at all times. It was very peaceful and was able to get away and have some time of reflection and reading. The pond was nice for a cool swim. The sauna was amazing. First time I ever tried one out. I recommend it for future guests. The trails were a joy and the hike to the summit was well worth it. The view was amazing. I hope to come back the next chance I get.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Gracie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Beautiful!

The chapel is just amazingly beautiful! Billy and Mary have thought of every little thing to make your stay comfortable, peaceful, and adventurous. They are so sweet, helpful, and informative. I loved having Billy's Mother's paintings to look at and to sit looking out the large window in the early morning hours. Sooo much better than staying in a hotel room!!! Can't wait to go back in the fall!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Arturas U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing property

Beautiful property Very friendly owners
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Courtney C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun and relaxing short weekend

The Chapel was a fun and easy way to get the relaxing camping experience but with extra conveniences. We enjoyed hiking one of the trails Mr. Billy is making up the mountain, and the fire pit area was great for roasting a s'more at night or just sitting and talking midday! A great getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

SANDE D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

as advertised

The cabin was exactly as advertised. We had a great time, and appreciated the care that was taken to make sure that happened
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

kirsten w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing getaway

We had a great stay at the Chapel and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to have the glamping experience with the nicest hosts. The chapel is pretty close to restaurants and stores too. You will also want to check out fires creek when you are there. We will definitely be back some day, hopefully soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Wren C., Auburn

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great home base to explore the area....or stay on the property

Our group was heading to the area on a camping/fishing trip. As the weather report showed the temps dropping below 20 deg over the weekend we started looking for a place to stay. We booked the Chapel and Billy reached out with great communication/clear directions/etc. When I arrived Billy and Mary (and their dog) were at the chapel to greet us. They are very gracious host and make you feel right at home. We were off the property most of the day and wish we had more time to explore the property/trails/get in a swim if a little warmer. The Chapel had everything we needed, hanging out around the firepit was a great way to end the day, and it is clear that Billy and Mary put a lot of themselves into the Chapel. Thanks for being such great host and hope to get back soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Melissa B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain Living,;-) Great Mountain Views and New Heights

Billy and Mary were very hospitably hosts. I got great information from start to finish, especially regarding The Chapel's basic "amenities" and local attractions, too. I was well informed that my experience would be Glamping but I had every creature comfort necessary to make it an easy comfortable stay (especially the space heater that gave me enough warmth while bundled up in my sleeping bag rated for temp drop down to 35 degrees, gloves, warm wool socks and thermal clothing). Though the outhouse potty was close by, I managed just fine. It was very clean and equipped with TP and hand sanitizer. The Mountain Hike. Billy gave me a briefing on what to expect on the hike up to the mountain summit that is on his property. I am typically a moderate hiker so the hike was extra challenging due steep terrain (bring good hiking shoes). I paced slowly and took break moments to pause and catch my breath, slow my heartrate and the same time soaking up the beautiful views surrounding me (can see distance mountains with no leaves on deciduous forest trees. My most introspective and reflective moments came while I sat on a large boulder rock or a fallen tree. Hiking to the summit top (Billy informed about 3000 feet mountain height) took me about an hour (but who was counting;-) , two hour round trip. Billy and Mary were gracious and kind. They gifted me a small jar of honey! Billy offered plenty of fire wood (a little cash donation is nice but not required). I brought my own firewood bundle, a starter log and long matches. The entire experience reminded me that there is more to life when unhooked from technology and just enjoying God's natural gifts on Earth. I definitely came home with a new perspective on facing challenges of life! I hope to return with my kiddos to enjoy the outdoor games, and pond for swimming and equipped with a canoe with paddles. I gifted Mary and Billy an evergreen shrub in hopes it will be planted and thrive at their pristine beautiful property. I look forward to seeing what how the views and sights change the landscape when all is in Spring bloom or Summertime.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Saya Q.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Off-Grid Getaway

Billy and Mary were such gracious hosts. They were kind and informative, as well as welcoming. They shared so much with us, stories and experiences. I’ll be returning at some point in the future.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Beth W., Madison, WI

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful place to stay

We had a great stay at the chapel. The place was even better than advertised. Billy has thought of everything down to the last detail.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

christy o.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to get away.

This was a perfect weekend. I needed some time away from the busyness of life. I had a wonderful weekend in the woods. The seclusion was just right, not too far a way from people so I still felt safe and a good enough distance that I could be alone with God. Mary & Billy are wonderful people. It was so nice to speak with them . They are as sweet as the honey that they leave. I hope to return again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jack O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An intimate getaway

An absolutely wonderful and unforgettable stay. William was incredibly helpful and kind and his property was stunningly beautiful. I did not expect all of the sentimental touches in the chapel, such as old antique decor and beautiful, touching, artwork from his mother. I already have fond memories of staying there and I hope I can come back soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

About the host

Hosted by WILLIAM SCRANTOM

Host profile image

Languages:

English