If you’re looking for the perfect place for your next mountain getaway, look no further than Earthshine Lodge. Nestled on 76 beautiful acres in Lake Toxaway, this one-of-a-kind retreat center truly lives up to its reputation as “basecamp for your mountain adventure.”
Surrounded by some of Western North Carolina’s most breathtaking natural treasures, including Pisgah National Forest, Gorges State Park, Nantahala National Forest, and DuPont State Recreational Forest, Earthshine makes it easy to unplug, reconnect, and immerse yourself in mountain life.
Whether you’re planning a family reunion, wedding weekend, corporate retreat, class reunion, or simply gathering friends for an unforgettable escape, Earthshine delivers an experience that feels like equal parts adventure, relaxation, and summer camp. Its all-inclusive retreats are especially popular because they take the stress out of planning and replace it with nonstop fun, fresh mountain air, and memories you’ll be talking about long after you head home.
Their synchronous firefly weekends are among their most popular retreats, and this year’s final retreat takes place June 5 through 7. Guests will have the rare chance to witness fields of glowing synchronous fireflies lighting up the night in perfect harmony – a true bucket-list experience. To make it even more special, renowned wildlife photographer Nelson Stegall will guide guests through the best techniques for capturing these incredible displays on camera.
And then there are the llamas – yes, llamas. Earthshine’s guided llama hikes have become a guest favorite, offering visitors the chance to explore private mountain trails alongside these gentle, curious animals while learning more about their history and personalities. It’s impossible not to smile on a llama trek.
From July 26 through August 11, Earthshine transforms into an all-inclusive family camp where families can leave the daily grind behind and simply enjoy time together in family-friendly cabins.
Days can be filled with llama hikes, blacksmithing, archery, tomahawk throwing, gem mining, fishing, creek exploration, or leisurely hikes through the mountains. At the end of the day, all that’s left to do is grab a rocking chair, soak in the mountain views, and relax.
Of course, all that adventure works up an appetite, and Earthshine’s chefs keep guests well fed with hearty meals included with every stay. There’s no need to worry about reservations or where to eat.
The fun doesn’t stop with summer. Throughout the year, Earthshine also hosts writers’ retreats, fly-fishing retreats, Appalachian Christmas weekends, live music events, blacksmithing demonstrations, archery programs, and many public events open to the community.
For more information and to view the calendar of events, visit earthshinenc.com or call (828) 862-4207.
Favorites Count: 0