Picture this – it’s another Monday, you are sitting at your desk to start working, and (as usual) your mind begins to wander. Since you were young, you have had this same daydream about your fairytale wedding. What does the scene look like? Are you tying the knot somewhere in a castle of clouds with a panoramic view of the mountains? Are you standing on a sunlit grotto with a waterfall as your backdrop? Maybe you are surrounded by an evergreen forest, with wildflowers strewn around the altar? Or better yet, perhaps your wedding scenery is all of the above: breathtaking mountains interspersed with wispy clouds, encircling a gorgeous lake with shimmering blue water, surrounded by dense, unadulterated national forest.

Your Fairytale Wedding Destination Near Asheville 

Now, what would you think if I told you that this whimsical wedding venue is real? Up in the North Carolina Mountains, due west of Asheville, is a fantasyland for nature lovers called Nantahala. Wedged between the Appalachian and Bartram Trails, Nantahala Weddings & Events is the perfect location for breathtaking mountain weddings. Offering whimsical and romantic scenery, such as the airy Wayah Bald with stone tower, sparkling waters of Nantahala Lake, flowing waterfalls on the Nantahala River, and tranquil woodlands, our venue makes your dream of a forest and mountain wedding a reality. See photos of fairytale weddings with all the Beautiful Backdrops you have imagined on our website.

A hidden gem, Nantahala is located on Nantahala Lake, with a shoreline of National Forest that is protected from development. With the mountains, forest, and surrounding water, you and your wedding guests will have the chance to experience the great outdoors on a deeper level. Beyond the tranquility of fresh mountain air, there are so many activities to enjoy nearby!

Luxurious Summer Camp Wedding

If you and your guests love to simply “get outdoors,” there is not a better place to host your family and friends. With nature at your doorstep, you will never find yourself looking for things to do. Nearby, enjoy taking your friends and family kayaking, boating, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, and more! Seek thrills at one of the many whitewater rafting sites near us, and test your courage by going ziplining through mountain canopies! Find serenity and strength hiking on the Appalachian and Bartram Trails, and stop to take a photo of the Nantahala “Cascades” waterfalls. Never walked inside of a gem mine before? Experience the thrill of panning for precious stones at Ruby and Sapphire Gem Mines, and learn some history about the jewel trade. For sunset, take a drive down the scenic Cherohala Skyway for some extraordinary views. 

What is the History?

Have a few history buffs in the family? The Asheville area does not disappoint as a must-see destination for historians. Close to Nantahala, is a Cherokee Reservation which boasts the Museum of the Cherokee, Qualla Arts and Crafts, and more. The Biltmore Mansion, home to American royalty, the Vanderbilts, is a must see, and only a short drive away. Take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and receive a scenic railway tour on an old-time steam engine which runs from Bryson City, into the Nantahala River Gorge.  

I’m Here for a Good Time…Not a Long Time.

Try out Southern award-winning local beers at Currahee Brewing Company, and taste local wines at local wineries. Visit the many bistros, steakhouses, bakeries, and international cuisines in the nearby cities of Murphy and Franklin. In need of a wild night out? Gather your bridesmaids and groomsmen and hit Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino in Murphy for a night of fun. 

Self-Care and Serenity

Weddings are stressful – trust us, we get it. Before your big day, ground yourself with some self-care at the two wellness centers in our area, Kula Wellness Center and Hot Springs Resort and Spa – a renowned natural mineral water spa. Combining these healthful practices with some peaceful walks in nature will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. 

Where You’ll Stay 

Expansive vacation homes on the lake, cabins, lake bungalows, and lodge retreats… your guests’ stay will be anything but boring at Nantahala Lake. Onsite lodging at our venue includes our “Mateos” (tiny houses for two with lake and mountain views). Our “Fie Top Suite,” included in our multi-day packages, is set up like a boutique hotel with a dining hall, kitchen, bridal salon, man cave, honeymoon suite, plus two hotel-like bedrooms. Guests can stay in some of the many lodging options within walking distance, all which may be found on the Lodging page of our website. Looking to camp? RV, cabins, and tenting campgrounds can also be found nearby.

More About Our Venue

Our affordable Smoky Mountain Wedding Venue offers a variety of packages to meet the desires and budgets of all wedding couples. Read more about our Packages & Pricing on our website.