Since Cataloochee Ranch was founded in 1939, hospitality in a beautiful setting has been a part of its fabric, with multiple generations of families vacationing there yearly. In 2020, Annie and David Colquitt, owners of all-inclusive sister property The Swag, purchased the ranch, paused operations, and fully rebuilt the dining hall and cabins, using as many of the original building materials as possible. The Relais & Châteaux property reopened in March of 2024 and now offers 12 luxurious cabins along with a newly constructed six-room lodge. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unplug, but you shouldn’t miss the experiences offered on property, such as arts and crafts or culinary classes, plus a variety of outdoor activities. Chef-driven breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch come with a side of picturesque views in every direction. Hospitality is what most sets the property apart; friendly staff make each interaction a truly welcoming experience.
The Neighborhood
The ranch is perched on a remote mountaintop, so you’ll likely want to stay on property, but there’s plenty of adventure to be had: In addition to hiking, fishing, an adventure course, and archery lessons, you can schedule a horseback ride across the mountains to The Swag for a picnic lunch and use of their spa until Cataloochee’s on-site spa opens in mid-2025. Check out the property’s website for a schedule of live local music brought to guests on a regular basis, and during ski season, the ranch is located 1.2 miles from Cataloochee Ski Area.
The Food Scene
Offering a la carte meals, Switchback is led by chef Jeb Aldrich serving “ranch cuisine reimagined.” That takes the form of dishes like Hamachi crudo, whole trout, wood-fired pizzas, and dry-aged duck; dessert from pastry chef Angie Chan should not be missed. The Tack Room bar serves cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting, or enjoy open-air seating at The Forge, the outdoor wood-fired pizza oven with a breathtaking view. You can also request a pastry and coffee basket to be delivered to your cabin on weekend mornings before brunch service begins.
The Digs
Twelve cabins offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom options and accommodate one to eight guests; amenities include a wet bar, remote-start gas fireplaces, heated bathroom floors, and rocking chair porches, along with beautifully rustic decor featuring exposed beams, woven blankets, and antler chandeliers. The lodge contains six suites that can be reserved individually or as a whole, along with a common area. The ranch is open for bookings Thursday through Sunday nights and on select holiday weeks.
