Elevated Experience
A gem of the Carolina High Country, High Hampton reopens with a refreshed look, new amenities and a nod to nostalgia honoring its rich heritage as a mountain retreat
The bold granite face of Rock Mountain forms an imposing backdrop to the glistening Hampton Lake, a captivating view from the sprawling lawn of The Inn at High Hampton. For nearly a century, the classic bark-sided inn in Cashiers, North Carolina, has attracted generations of families who enjoy the splendid setting and plentiful outdoor recreation, from lake swimming and paddling to golf, tennis and hiking.
New ownership prompted a recent revitalization of the storied property, which reopened this spring after extensive renovations and enhancements. Restoration of the inn was overseen by the Beall family and leadership from their acclaimed Blackberry Farm in Tennessee. Birmingham-based Arlington Family Offices and Daniel Communities redeveloped, and currently manage, golf and other resort amenities available to inn guests and residential members of The Club at High Hampton.
Blackberry Farm Design team worked carefully to preserve historical elements and the original character of the inn while refining the guest experience and giving a fresh look to the guest rooms and cottages, lobby, dining and bar areas. A mix of old and new flows beautifully—ambient wood interiors and refurbished antiques paired with contemporary lighting and artwork, varied textures and color. Red rocking chairs are a porch tradition while elegant double chaises beckon guests to the lawn. The historic smokehouse, circa 1860, is reimagined in cozy-chic style for whiskey tastings and private dining.
The inn’s top floor was transformed into a six-room spa, a peaceful retreat with terrace views across the resort landscape. Gazing down toward the lake, you’ll see the remodeled boathouse and swim area, Kid’s Camp, a new pool, croquet lawn and the Halsted clubhouse. Pristine fairways of the redesigned golf course by Tom Fazio meander through wooded hills, and favorite hiking peaks—Rock Mountain and Chimney Top—loom above. New tennis and pickleball courts and a fitness studio have been built near the resort entrance.
With the inn’s excellent team of chefs, culinary offerings carry a hint of Blackberry influence, though menus are distinct to High Hampton with emphasis on quality ingredients and creative regional dishes, such as Grilled Carolina Trout with benne seed crumble, crème fraîche, potatoes and leeks. À la carte breakfast and dinner (included in your stay) are served in the dining room, and lunch is at The Tavern, next to a newly added wine cellar.
Creating memorable experiences and celebrating time with friends and family are part of the High Hampton legacy built by the McKee family, previous owners of the inn from 1922. From bingo nights and lawn games to annual dinners in the historic dahlia garden, High Hampton traditions carry on, with an added touch of laidback luxury.