Travel

Take a look inside NC’s ‘most wishlisted’ Airbnb: A luxury mountain dome

The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.

From train cabooses to treehouses and even helicopters, Airbnb’s inventory is full of innovative vacation homes — and a new report is revealing the most popular one in North Carolina.

Ahead of the summer travel season, its team recently released a roundup of the “most wishlisted homes” across the 50 states.

So which is it for travelers in the Tar Heel state? In 2024, it was a sky-high tree house in China Grove. This year, it’s a luxury dome with a hot tub and mountain views in Whittier.

The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Screenshot from Airbnb.com

‘Full luxury-glamping’

Bringing a bit of glamping for those who want a comfortable way to connect with nature is the cozy and quaint “Smoky Mtn Dome.”

The dome, which has a 4.99 rating on Airbnb, has two beds and a bathhouse for up to four guests.

Nestled about a 30-minute drive away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the geodesic dome is surrounded by scenic views of the areas and the Smokies landscape.

The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne

“This space offers the ability to be surrounded by nature, all while including the luxuries of a traditional home: AC, heat, a fireplace, a well stocked kitchenette, large living area with TV and a very spacious bath house which is also air conditioned/heated and includes a luxurious large shower with dual shower head,” the Airbnb listing says.

“It’s the perfect space for a couples getaway with additional space included for the kids or an extra friend or two!”

The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne

Described as a “private in-nature experience,” there is also a private hiking trail, outdoor fire pit with supplies to make s’mores and roast marshmallows and a two-person hammock.

With mostly five-star ratings, one traveler said: “As others have reviewed, this is such a uniquely beautiful peaceful Eutopia! So thankful to have been able to experience such beauty! The pictures and feel of this dome do not do it justice! ... beyond descriptions!”

Similarly, another says: “Smoky Mtn Dome exceeded our expectations. It is absolutely beautiful. So glad we decided to forgo a hotel and experience dome life — if only for a night. My only regret is that we couldn’t stay longer. Next time we will!”

The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC.
The “Smoky Mtn Dome” Airbnb in Whittier, NC. Courtesy of @tawnieandwayne

Booking prices varies depending on the date of your stay, but reservations in mid-April cost $238 per night and go up to $278 per night mid-May.

Chyna Blackmon
The Charlotte Observer
Chyna Blackmon was a service journalism reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she grew up in Columbia, SC, and graduated from Queens University of Charlotte. She’s also worked in local television news in Charlotte, NC, and Richmond, VA. Support my work with a digital subscription
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