In a state as vast as North Carolina, there are many unusual Airbnb rentals that transform a getaway into an adventure of a lifetime. In the case of the Airbnb rental known as Hobbithenge, a fantasy-like experience awaits in an earthen home made of clay and mud and covered with soil and grass. If you're into rustic experiences right out of the Tolkien realm, then prepare for a getaway you'd never expect here in the Tar Heel State.
Hobbithenge is found approximately 20 minutes south of Asheville. The little earthen dwelling is in the most picturesque of spots, secluded on a mountain plateau with extraordinary views of the surrounding mountains.
From jewels embedded into the clay walls and stained-glass window panes covering some of the openings, Hobbithenge is a beautiful place to enjoy some solitude amongst nature.
The home was handcrafted using mud, clay, and wood sourced from the property on which it rests. A lofty area reached by way of a ladder contains a futon bed. (Sheets and pillows are provided.)
You're sure to feel a bit like a hobbit in this unique earthen home. Its rustic feel may seem a bit edgy for some, so be sure to read the entire description on the Airbnb page for the listing. A solar panel provides some energy and the home comes equipped with a wood stove, a gas heater, and limited power converted from a solar panel. A full electric outdoor kitchen is only steps away, should you want to use it.
Guests have access to a cold water outdoor shower that will definitely wake you up any time of day, and an outhouse is only a minute away.
A Harry Potter Airbnb in North Carolina is not for everyone. It's waiting for just the right visitors — those who crave excitement, discoveries, and the unexpected. The name of this vacation rental is Alchemy which refers to the magical process of transformation — of turning something ordinary into something extraordinary — which was certainly achieved here. Alchemy is one of seven unique spaces that comprise Earth & Sky Dwellings. This Harry Potter Airbnb Asheville is set in the lovely Blue Ridge Mountains, which is a bonus. Let's look at one of the best Airbnbs in NC.
advertisement
Harry Potter fans (fans of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, in particular) will adore this magical tent similar to the one that some characters stayed in during the Quidditch World Cup.
Described in the movie as shabby on the outside but surprising as it opens up into a three-room flat, so too is Alchemy, an enchanting Harry Potter Airbnb. When you arrive, you'll notice a little tent at first glance but wait until you pull back its flaps which lead to the entrance to an enchanting treehouse where you'll be sleeping. Through the tent is a 12-foot spiral slide and at the end, you'll be able to enter the actual property. How incredibly fun, exciting, and surprising is that?
The generous-sized windows frame the long-range, majestic mountain views into an azure landscape. The fascinating interior with its colorful Turkish-style rugs is full of secrets awaiting discovery. It's as mysterious as it is beguiling. Who wouldn't want to spend a few nights in this Hogwarts Airbnb in Asheville?
If you're dining in, a well-stocked kitchen carries coffee, several seasonings, light snacks, cookware, utensils, an electric grill, a microwave, and a full-sized fridge. Just bring whatever you'd like to cook and enjoy a meal with a view.
The rental sleeps up to four guests and includes a bathroom with a shower and all of the expected amenities.
There's also a cozy, queen-size bed offset by luxurious drapes made with cotton sheets and warm blankets for those cold North Carolina nights. And if you look up at the ceiling, you'll notice the ornate light fixtures. This bedroom isn't just cozy but has style as well.
For additional guests, a fold-out futon makes another comfy bed when folks aren't sitting on it, engaged in spirited conversations.
Board games are also available if you're in the mood to challenge your fellow guests.
advertisement
Head outdoors for a short walk that leads to another tent. Here you'll discover one of the best sitting lounges in town. This spot is perfect for reading or meditating.
You can also gather outside around the fire pit and be spirited away with ghost stories we conjure from our wild and endless imaginations. What could be more fun while the gusty night winds whirl us around?
Every piece of furniture and wall space is covered with interesting textures and fancy details that you may find overwhelming in the best way possible, of course!
What adventures might the day bring? You'll never know unless you stay here and have a magical and enchanting experience unlike any you've ever had before.
I'm a water person. My husband and I own an older ski boat that we fondly refer to as "The Family Boatster" and take it out every chance we get. Whenever I'm near a body of water, I can feel my blood pressure drop and my pace of life slow down to what it's supposed to be. Maybe it's because I'm a Cancer - a water sign - or maybe I'm like most of you who just find being on the water incredibly calming.
advertisement
Given my love for the water, when I was presented with the opportunity to stay in a floating villa in Wilmington, North Carolina, I jumped at the chance. Wilmington has long been on my list of places to visit and these villas are not your everyday houseboats. One of my lifelong friends agreed to take the trip with me and we made the easy journey from the Cincinnati area via plane to Raleigh, then drove two hours to scenic Wilmington.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
The Cove Riverwalk Villas in Wilmington, North Carolina are essentially a "street" of luxury, floating villas, moored to the beautiful Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River. I was originally drawn to them because of their location on the water, but I can assure you that even if the floating aspect makes you weary, you feel as if your feet are always on firm ground.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
The Cove offers 35 of these floating villas and each one has its own name and interior theme. We stayed in number 28, Balance, the perfect name for a getaway spot to relax and reprioritize, while experiencing a bit of luxury on the water.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
I had seen plenty of photos of the exterior and interior of these homes, but I was still blown away by the vibe and furnishings, both inside and out. Our particular villa was filled with comfortable furniture, soothing decor, and quite literally a harmonious balance of black and white. The attention to detail within each villa is one of many above and beyond features at The Cove.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
Before we even got settled, we explored the spacious houseboat, its two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and multiple living spaces. And of course the star on top of this perfectly balanced escape was the balcony overlooking the marina and river. We spent the bulk of our time out here, working from the table or relaxing in the comfortable lounge furniture that's situated next to the outdoor bar area.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
When visiting Wilmington, you have to take advantage of the delicious dining scene, but we also loved that our villa had a full kitchen, so we were able to stop and grab a few groceries to keep on hand. The Cove makes arrival very easy with specific directions and helpful tips. We parked in the designated lot, just a block up from the villas, took a quick walk to the gated marina, and then it was just a short stroll between the floating homes to reach number 28.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
We spent a lot of our daytime exploring Wilmington, but we knew we wanted to be back at the villa for sunset. The Cove's location is perfect for walking along the Riverwalk and exploring downtown. Every route is scenic and offers either water views or takes you through historic buildings and charming walkways.
advertisement
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
We enjoyed an early sunset margarita at Tequila's Waterfront, just across the marina, and then relaxed on the balcony of Balance to watch the sun dip below the river.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your StateAndrea Limke / Only In Your State
We both slept incredibly well the two nights we were there and as a side note, we never felt the boat move. Every once in awhile, you could see it rock slightly, but this was not an issue at all. As early risers, we were back out on that balcony first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
You could easily plan a trip to Wilmington just for the opportunity to stay in one of these luxury floating villas. I would even call it a bucket list - worthy experience, especially for those who love the water like me. But Wilmington does have so much to offer and we loved our time both at The Cove and exploring the city. On our last day, we took a ride on the river with Wilmington Water Tours (highly recommend!) and got to wave goodbye to our villa from the boat.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
The Cove Riverwalk Villas are ideal for practically anyone who wants to visit Wilmington or just wants a unique and relaxing getaway. During our visit, a large family was staying in several of the villas and I'm not sure they ever left the "street." I chatted with them and they shared cooking responsibilities, hung out in the common area that overlooks the river and Battleship North Carolina and seemed to love every minute of their trip, just as we did.
Per journalistic integrity, I must disclose that my friend and I were hosted by The Cove Riverwalk Villas for our two-night stay. However, all opinions, photos, and experiences are my own.
