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Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake

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Property grounds - Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake (Lake Santeetlah)
Exterior detail - Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake (Lake Santeetlah)
Books - Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake (Lake Santeetlah)
2 bedrooms - Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake (Lake Santeetlah)
Exterior - Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake (Lake Santeetlah)
Nestled by a serene lake, Mathews' Mansion is your haven for rest and relaxation. Unwind in the hammock or on the screened-in porch, surrounded by nature's beauty with frequent visits from chipmunks and hummingbirds.

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroom70 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Laundry room
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Add dates for prices

About this property

Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake

  • Long overdue for a lazy afternoon in a hammock? How about a rocking chair overlooking one of the most pristine lakes in the world? At Mathews' Mansion, a small cabin on a lake full of fish, you will find a bit of heaven. No clocks, phones, or TV's, only rest and the rustling of maples. Bring your camera for some great nature shots. Chipmunks, hummingbirds, and raccoons are common visitors. Smoking okay on screened-in porch.

    Lake is great for bass, boating, swimming. Santeetlah Marina is only a quarter of a mile. Hike the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and other lush trails in the region. Take a drive on the breathtaking Cherula Skyway. Nearby streams & rivers are world-famous for fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Ride the choo-choo from Bryson City to the Nantahala Gorge. Visit a pow wow at the nearby Cherokee Reservation or see the outdoor drama. Try your hand at ruby mining. Go antiquing for quilts & carvings. Cycle, or just relax!


    Tail of the Dragon: Mathews' Mansion is close to the Tail of the Dragon, the famous curvy Highway 129, which attracts sports car enthusiasts and cyclists from all over the country. Along Cherola Highway one will view spectacular breathtaking mountain views. For more details visit our website.

    Cherokee Artifacts: Did you know that Cherokee artifacts have been found in Lake Santeetlah? Stop at the Cherokee Museum in Robbinsville to see what local residents have found while walking the shores. While there, visit Chief Junaluska's grave site. Take a drive through the Snowbird reservation and picnic at one of the creekside tables. Always keep your eyes open, for you, too, might find a Native American relic!

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the mountains
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Spelunking nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 750 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 12:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 20

Check-out

Check-out before 12:00 PM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Trash must be taken to the dumpster as there is no waste pick up. Dumpster is located just after Ted Jordan Bridge. Turn left and circle around. You will see more dumpsters than you ever wish to!
Please turn air-conditioner off. Make sure the refrigerator door is closed.
Wash any dishes you have used. Thank you! You're GREAT!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Do not leave food or garbage outside because raccoons will break open the bag and spread it all around.
The septic system cannot accommodate heavy usage. Limit the number of friends and family members that may wish to visit and use toilet paper only.
Return items to original locations. For example, if you move furniture, please put it back before you depart. Thanks!

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Robbinsville, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Cheoah Dam and Tail of the Dragon Dragon Statue are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Junaluska Medicine Trail and Appalachian Rivers Raft Company. Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center and Ferebee Park are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and hunting nearby. Visit our Santeetlah travel guide
View more Cabin rentals in Santeetlah
Map
Lake Santeetlah, NC

What's nearby

  • lake santeetlah in great smoky mountains
    Santeetlah Lake
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Santeetlah Dam on Lake Santeetlah and Cheoah River in Graham County, North Carolina reflected in calm water of lake on clear autumn afternoon.
    Cheoah River
    12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Smoky Mountains Railroad Scenic Train, adjacent to the Tuckasegee River. It is a freight and heritage railroad in Western North Carolina
    Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
    46 min drive - 68.3 km
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    49 min drive - 72.7 km
  • Santeetlah Town Hall
    9 min walk - 0.8 km

Getting around

  • Alcoa - Knoxville Airport (TYS)
    101 min drive

Restaurants

  • Kin Cafe
    10 min drive
  • Caffe De Olla
    11 min drive
  • Lynn's Place
    10 min drive
  • McDonald's
    10 min drive
  • Wendy's
    10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake?

Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps away from Santeetlah Lake and Nantahala National Forest. Santeetlah Town Hall and Cheoah River are also within 15 minutes.

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Mathews' Mansion, a cabin by a mountain lake Reviews

Reviews

Excellent

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 78 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 78 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 8 out of 78 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 78 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 78 reviews

8.6

Cleanliness

9.6

Location

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeannine C.

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

Lake Santeetlah

Great location. Beautiful lake views.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William W.

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

Relaxing fall weekend

My son and I on a guys trip. House was as advertised and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Great location on the lake with easy access to grocery store, restaurants, and attractions. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marc M.

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

Wonderful setting

We had wonderful times at this house in a cove of Lake Santeetlah. One of the best features is the nicely screened-in front porch. The natural sounds of crickets and frogs, the occasional splash of a big fish, the morning clouds ringing the mountains, and quiet neighbors all made this modest get-away place one we’ll return to!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brittany D.

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

Cute place on the lake!

The location is fantastic! The view of the lake and the screened patio are wonderful. Do be prepared to be a bit warm though in the summer as the A/C unit is mounted in the living room and doesn't reach the bedrooms well. Interior is a bit dated but it was clean enough and the real treat is enjoying the patio and views!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelli B.

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

A perfect mountain retreat

The cabin definitely reminded me of my granny's place in the Ozarks. Small and cozy, juat what you need. There are stairs that lead to the lake and the neighbors are nice. Please note, bring your own sheets. Size queen work best and towels for the shower and lake. The views are amazing and the deck is probably the best part.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Lori D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

relaxing place to stay

cozy cabin. decent view of lake. just like it was advertised. Not good boat and swimming access to water. smelled musty. I tried to communicate with owner but no response. Could stand a few improvements. Comfortable bed.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Ann W.

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

Older Cottage with Good View

This is an older structure and not a house. We may have been the first renters of the year and the initial observation was that it is musty smelling. The property otherwise was as described, small but functional with a great screened deck that overlooks the lake. We did have a "technical issue" with the water heater and the tub draining but the owner who does not live locally got someone there right away to address and fix the issue. One of the 2 beds was not comfortable but there was a roll of eggcrate foam that fixed the problem. Overall we had a great time hiking in the area and loved the location and view of the Lake.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, great lake view, not far from amenities
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay at this peaceful lake view cabin. It is simply equipped but the interior has lots of rustic charm and offers lovely decorative details. Relaxing on the spacious deck under the trees and having barbecue was just great. And hiking nearby Joyce Kilmer Forest and Huckleberry Knob Trail was definitely a highlight.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

nevelyn o.

Anniversary getaway

We enjoyed every moment of this wonderful place it was a wonderful experience peaceful lakeside cabin
Stayed 3 nights in May 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dave P.

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

Peaceful getaway

Very peaceful getaway , beautiful view of the lake.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stefan N.

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

.Cozy Place

This was a nice place to relax and get away from the noise of the city. We enjoyed the kayak and swimming in the lake and lots of fun.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

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

Peaceful

Just the view was breathtaking and quiet and peaceful and relaxing
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dylan S.

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

Stay was good!

Only issue we had was turning around the trailer when we pulled in a warning would have been nice but it was a beautiful spot!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Randy W.

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

A nice rustic cottage to enjoy nature without any disruptions.

Small cottage with water access, albeit no dock. It is rustic and basic, but if kayaking and hiking and sitting outside enjoying nature, for a reasonable price, are what you want, then this cottage fits the bill!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anthony B.

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

Great little cabin!

This was a great, simple little cabin. You can tell it was built as a little summer getaway, once upon a time. Very basic, and somewhat dated, but it has what you need, including a coffee pot. We loved it, except there are a lot of close neighbors. Its peaceful, but not always quiet. I did want to mention, the smaller bed is a full size, I was a little confused about what size it would be.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Daniel R.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Beautiful Views and Very Relaxing

The property is small and not very elderly accessible! However if you came to relax and enjoy all the lake has to offer, this IS the place! Wish I could upload a photograph or 2! Owner is awesome! Very kind and very accomodating!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Archival

10/10 Excellent

James P.

Nice, quiet, beautiful and we loved it!

The view from the screened in porch and deck are absolutely beautiful. The facilities were clean and well-maintained. They were very helpful with anything we needed. Eating our breakfast each morning in the porch looking at the water was a quiet and wonderful way to start each day. The only problem we had was negotiating the steps. We would definitely recommend this property to others.
Verified

8/10 Good

Desiree H.

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

Lovely

This was a lovely getaway! The only reason I’m giving it 4 stars is due to the limited access to the lake. Seems to be one of the only properties without a dock or active stairs down to the lake. We had a great time though!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott F.

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

Hidden Gem

There are many gem mining opportunities in NC, but this one was a real find! The pictures don’t do justice to the beautiful setting of this cabin in the mountains. It was clean, cozy, and conveniently located. We were able to hike in Joyce Kilmer, ride a train out of Bryson City, raft on the Nantahala and fish in the Santaheela. Unexpected find that led to an exceptional vacation.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Heather F.

A Peaceful Retreat

Mathew’s Mansion is a wonderful spot for quiet reflection and renewal. The screened porch has a perfect view of the bird feeder where a beautiful variety of birds flocked. Accommodations are just as Marsha describes. Small, yet sufficient. The lake is gorgeous and there are so many adventurous things to do all around.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

michael ann b.

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

Perfect Little Lakeside Cabin

We loved our short stay in this home. The rental was just as described in the listing. If you love swimming , floating, and kayaking in the crystal clear , cool water of Lake Santeetlah, this is the place for you. The cabin had just what we needed, easy lake access, a place to sleep and shower, and a small functional kitchen. We absolutely loved the screen room and the deck. If you need Wi-Fi, cell service, TV, or swanky new accommodations, this isn’t the place for you. It was perfect for my husband and I, and we can’t wait to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Tobey L.

Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

Put your money towards a nicer place

Tons of ants, homes in bathroom walls w/ bugs coming out while you shower. No sheets on any bed. Horrible accommodations
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

4/10 Poor

Kristi M.

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

Great Location

The location and proximity to Lake Santeelah is exactly what we were looking for, right on the lake! The house was tiny and cute and quirky although it was very damp. My children had a severe reaction to the dampness and/or mold growing because of the wetness. The owner was very responsive and helpful and kind. There is a little stairway access down to the water to put in kayaks or canoes. It's at the end of a cul-de-sac so there is no traffic.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Celeste K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy little cottage right on the lake! Gorgeous view! The cottage was comfortable and had everything we needed. The only air conditioner is in the living room but does get cool in the two bedrooms when leaving the doors open. We normally bring along a box fax when we travel because we like the sound while sleeping, so we placed it outside the bedroom door and it kept the room very cool. We enjoyed kayaking on the lake, sitting in the rocking chairs staring out at the beautiful view, eating our meals on the porch and I loved my morning coffee and devotional time out on the porch. On our last evening we were out on the porch eating our dinner and a neighbor was playing their saxophone outside, it was really nice. A great meal from the bbq joint in town, the beautiful view and the soothing sounds of the saxophone. I recommend this place for some good relaxation. This lake is so beautiful! We love kayaking here every chance we get. There’s no tv and the cell service isn’t very good so bring your favorite board games or books and just enjoy some quality time with your family!
Porch view
Deck
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025