This Thanksgiving, we slipped away for a cozy little weekend at the Ranch—Cataloochee Ranch. Maggie Valley, North Carolina is only about an hour from home, close enough to be easy, yet just far enough to feel like stepping into another world. And the moment we drove through the gates of Cataloochee, that’s exactly what it felt like.
The air was crisp, horses lined the hillside soaking up the sunshine, and a sweet little cabin sat at the base of it all, waiting just for us. Inside, we were welcomed by a warm, roaring fireplace, bunk beds the kids scrambled into without a second thought, and a tucked-away bedroom in the back that felt like a quiet retreat for mom + dad. It was the kind of place that instantly makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and feel grateful to be together.
Every single detail of the cabin felt so intentionally and lovingly thought out. Windows opened wide to let in fresh mountain air while the fire wrapped the space in warmth, heated bathroom floors greeted us on those crisp mornings, and a tiny kitchenette held everything we needed to feel right at home. At night, down-filled comforters piled high on each bed made climbing in feel like a little luxury—soft, peaceful, and exactly what we needed after full days together.
Just a short walk from our cabin sat The Ranch House—an on-property lodge that instantly felt like the heart of the ranch. It was one of the most beautiful restaurants and bars we’ve ever experienced, with fireplaces lighting up every corner, a cozy bar that welcomed you the moment you stepped inside, and porches on each side made for lingering at the base of the mountain. The Ranch House quickly became our favorite place to settle in, hide from the cold, and savor the moment of feeling served.
From a Thanksgiving dinner on our first evening to breakfast with Santa, from mornings filled with pancakes to evenings ending with perfectly prepared filets, every meal felt special. The restaurant struck that rare balance of being wonderfully kid-friendly while still feeling elevated—giving us the sweet opportunity to practice manners, conversation, and gratitude around the table. And best of all, the kids loved every bite just as much as we did.
One of my favorite moments of the trip was waking up on Friday morning (the day after Thanksgiving and our first morning there) to a live Christmas tree on the porch of every cabin. When we opened the door to run up the hill for breakfast, it was the sweetest surprise and the look on the kids’ faces when they caught the first glimpse of it was priceless. I’m sure Cataloochee is beautiful year-around, but I must say, there was something about starting the Christmas season in such a woodsy, magical place that really made it feel festive.
Exploring the property was pure magic for the kids. Swings hung from nearly every tree, fire pits waited patiently for s’mores, cornhole and games lined the porch of The Ranch House, and a peaceful pond sat just beyond it all, ready for fishing and quiet moments. The Ranch had thoughtfully planned a few activities for us, and we returned home with the sweetest keepsakes—leather ornaments hand-embossed by Stable, Port, and Linen, and artwork inspired by the horses they grew so fond of. The staff couldn’t have been kinder, guiding the kids with patience and joy as they learned each little trade.
And yet, nothing quite compared to horseback riding—running through the barn, laughing, and feeding “the neigh-neighs,” as Stable calls them. Without a doubt, those moments will live on as some of their very favorites.
Cataloochee Ranch exceeded our expectations in every way and truly gave us everything we needed during our stay. When traveling with kids, it’s the thoughtful details—the ones that ease transitions and turn ordinary days into joyful ones—that make all the difference. Whether it’s a simple drive up for dinner or planning another stay next year, we already know we’ll be back. The traditions we’re creating with our kids, returning to the same places year after year, aren’t little at all. One day, these will be the moments we look back on and wish we could relive, even just for a few minutes. Chaotic and beautiful, fleeting and holding on to every second.
Thank you, Catcloochee Ranch, for helping us make the sweetest memories this holiday season. If you’re interested in visiting, you can read more about making a reservation here and use code MEGANR for a discount on your stay, now through June 2026.
Thanks so much for stopping by, xx.
Meg