Emerald Gate Farm Cabin w/ On-Site Fishing Pond!

Reviews

• 2/5

  John was amazing, super sweet and very easy to get along with. While we did stay, it became very clear upon entry to the driveway that the VRBO listing is VERY inaccurate. The pictures in the listing are no where near the same, as you can see. On the “farm” there are free range chickens, geese, ducks, guineas, and 2 ton turkeys. All of the farm animals feed infront of the VRBO house (the food literally sits on the porch in bins) there are also 2 great pyrenees dogs who are super friendly, but still roam throughout the property (yes I’m aware that is technically their property) but there were many times we’d go get in the car in the morning and literally have to watch where we stepped because the animals poop anywhere and everywhere. While the dogs definitely patrol at night, and keep the predators away, maybe having the feeding ground for the farm shouldn’t be the front yard of the rental property. John’s house is about 60 yards away from the rental house. And you’ll hear him throughout the day on his little side by side buggy, again he is super sweet & never gave us any problem. The inaccuracy is what got us. The property is very overgrown, (there’s also a broken gate box at the entry of the driveway, be careful not to ding your car with it). The house does have some cosmetic concerns, there is//was a leak in the living room roof, causing the house to smell very musky. We only ever found 2 pounds not 3, I’m assumed the 3rd one was overgrown with vegetation.

  *This review was originally posted on Vrbo

  Manager's Response:

  From the owner: While we appreciate that you felt I was easy to get along with and sweet. I was very sorry to see your low review.
  
  - The property is exactly as advertised; it mentions the location in detail, as well as the creeks, farm animals, and the stunning mountain views.
  - The feeding station for the birds on the deck is what ALL my other guests like the most. Kids sometimes go through a 50 lb bag of feed in a few days.
  - The 3rd pond is vibrant and full of life, and is where I teach kids how to fish. This is enjoyed by the children as well as the adults. There are minnow traps always full of minnows, pollywogs, salamanders, crawfish, and frogs. We do not cut back the vegetation on purpose, as it provides shelter for the new hatchlings and yard birds, and they keep them safe from larger predators. The vegetation around the ponds and streams is also critical to preventing erosion during extreme rain events.
  - Our dogs keep our critters safe, and yes, they do roam, but as this is a working farm, they earn their keep by doing this. We know that the birds are safe, and so are we.
  The house is well-maintained, and we are not aware of any leaks, nor are there any musty odors.
  
  We tried to show you why we have over 100 outstanding reviews and hoped you would enjoy the property as so many guests have. We're sorry that you were not satisfied.

• A great hideaway for rest but also close to amenities and outdoor adventures.

  5/5

  I visited the area to ski and my adult daughter came along to stay at the cabin and relax. The property owner, John, allowed for both privacy and assistance. My daughter relaxed and recuperated from ICU RN work. She relaxed and also fed the ducks and chickens on sight. John allowed her to collect fresh chicken eggs for meals. The cabin and property is a bit quirky (in a good way) and very clean. It's great as a restful getaway and also good for large parties wanting outdoor adventures nearby. I recommend highly.

  *This review was originally posted on Vrbo

• Our Vacay at Emerald Gate Farm

  5/5

  We had a great stay at Emerald Gate Farm. We couldnt have asked for a better owner than J.C.

  *This review was originally posted on Vrbo

• Mountain farm bliss

  5/5

  John is a wonderful host. We found Emerald Gate Farms to be the perfect spot to retreat from the hustle bustle of everyday life. We woke each morning to the simple joy of a coffee, a porch rocker, the awesome sight of a morning mountain emerging from the mist, and the sounds of a babbling creek and the hilarious cacophony of begging waddling ducks eager for the corn meal handout John provides guests. We enjoyed leisurely walks around the ponds, the companionship of the farm's two working Great Pyrenees, Polly and Clyde, and cool evening dinners on the porch with a free sunset show.

  We found the farm's proximity to Waynesville, I-40 W, and Blue Ridge Parkway afforded us and our own Great Pyrenees, Gidget, the opportunity to enjoy downtown strolls, pet-friendly restaurants, a brew pub, sunset mountain picnics, challenging hikes, concerts by the creek, a farmer's market, Lake Junaluska walks, and visits with family and friends throughout the area. We'll be back!

• Emerald Gate Farm Cabin

  3/5

  Nice host. In need of a lot of tlc.

  Manager's Response:

  Hi James, the owner is used to providing 5-star experiences and was disappointed to read your review. They wish you had provided specific examples so they could properly address any of your concerns, but would like to clarify the following for future guests:
  -The homeowner focuses on maintaining the grounds, animals, and gardens to provide a hands-on farm experience, which includes activities like feeding animals, harvesting produce, and enjoying fireside gatherings. The rustic charm of the property is a significant part of the experience, offering a unique opportunity to engage with farm life. We encourage all potential guests to thoroughly review the listing to ensure the property meets their needs.
  - In regards to TLC, it's an ongoing process. We are constantly assessing, updating, and maintaining the property as needed or requested to ensure a comfortable and well-maintained stay for all guests.
  
  We sincerely enjoyed hosting you. Thanks for taking the time to leave your review!