Deals of the day
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
The Swag’s sweeping vistas, adventuresome spirit, and warm hospitality are rooted in the soul of the Great Smoky Mountains. Our secluded 250-acre mountaintop grounds are located just 40 minutes west of Asheville, but a world away from your day-to-day.
Rooted in 40 years of welcoming guests to this unforgettable mountain summit, The Swag experience is built on meaningful history, connected community, and breathtaking scenery. The Swag’s mountaintop views and private entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are only part of what makes the property special.
Every moment is meaningful – from broad lawns to cozy nooks, romantic details to rustic roots – while our epic backcountry stretches out all around. The thoughtful nature of our buildings and amenities conveys a rare, sincere sense of mountain charm and intimacy that keeps our guests returning over and over again.
Discover a retreat just hours away from some of the Southeast’s biggest cities, where natural beauty combines with history, storytelling, and hospitality to create an exceptional experience. Nestled in the highest county east of the Mississippi, home to thirteen peaks over six thousand feet. Step onto our mountain hideaway, tucked in your own backyard.
The History
Since the hideaway was founded in 1982, our combination of natural and human heritage has set us apart, connecting us to this extraordinary place and those who share it with us. We can’t wait to welcome you to The Swag.
High Atop the Mountain
The Smokies are one of the world’s oldest ranges, once soaring almost as high as the Himalayas. From our lawn, almost a mile high on the rim of the Cataloochee Divide, you can spot four of North Carolina’s six highest mountain ranges, all remnants of those ancient Everests.
Path of History
As the rocks eroded and history began to be written, the Cherokee hunted on the property and blazed the Cataloochee Divide Trail, which still runs behind our hideaway. Later settlers developed a distinct Appalachian culture and tradition that lives on to this day.
Humble Beginnings
Before The Swag’s original owners, Dan and Deener Matthews, bought the land, The Swag was a potato farm, whose mountaintop balds were created and maintained through agriculture. With no road up the mountain, a farmer would have to hike straight up to the ridge to harvest the crop and then slide the potatoes down the trail.
An Elevated Vision
Dan Matthews, an Episcopal priest who spent some of his childhood in Western North Carolina, and his wife Deener began looking for property in the area after visiting a friend’s home near The Swag.
They hiked up the mountain with the property’s owner, and when they stepped out of the forest into the meadow and saw the sweeping layers of mountains in the grand view, they fell in love with the land.
At first, the Matthews would hike up and camp on the property, but they soon cast a vision for an authentic, Smoky Mountain log home on the ridgeline. Carving a road into the steep mountainside was the first challenge. Then, Deener began to drive around the southeast looking for old log buildings to purchase and reassemble into their family’s mountain home.
The oldest logs in The Swag House came from the Lonesome Valley Primitive Baptist Church in Tennessee and date back to 1785. In every building design and method, the Matthews prioritized authenticity and craftsmanship.
From Home to Hospitality
The Swag was originally built as the Matthews family’s private getaway. Deener and Dan made memories with their children, Gail, Danny, and Laurin, and would often open their mountain home for church groups and spiritual retreats.
When The World’s Fair came to Knoxville in 1982, organizers asked the Matthews to open The Swag for hotel guests, just for the duration of the fair.
The guests who came up the mountain were so taken by the natural beauty and stunning setting of The Swag that they never drove into Knoxville. When guests asked to book a stay again for the next year, Deener decided to become an innkeeper.
Deener’s Fourth Child
At first The Swag was a one-woman show, with Deener preparing meals, changing sheets, and hosting dinners for her guests. She soon hired a neighbor, who would hike across the ridge before sunrise to help with the cooking.
With each passing year, the Matthews grew the staff and lovingly added details, amenities, rooms, cabins, and experiences to better take care of their guests.
Deener calls The Swag her “fourth child” and gave it her whole heart over her time on the mountaintop. Deener’s vision for excellence in every detail and genuine love of people kept guests coming back year after year.
A New Chapter
In 2018, the Matthews decided it was time to step back from The Swag and sold the property to Annie and David Colquitt. Annie’s family has a decades-long connection to the Matthews and The Swag, and the newlywed couple visited for the first time for their honeymoon in 2011.
The Colquitts fell in love with the natural beauty, the authentic architecture, and the genuine sense of rest and peace that pervades The Swag and returned again as guests. When they heard the Matthews were selling the property, they jumped at the opportunity to be the next stewards of this special place and continue its heritage of hospitality.
The Swag Today
As proprietors, the Colquitts have continued the Matthews’ legacy of warm welcomes and thoughtful improvement. From the original Swag House that the Matthews built in the 1970s, the property has grown to include The Chestnut Lodge, three cabins, a spa, outdoor dining porch, and wine cellar.
The Swag was honored to join Relais & Châteaux in 2020 and continues to focus on providing guests with outstanding service and the restorative combination of epic natural beauty and authentic hospitality.
Mountain Laurel
This secluded Smoky Mountain resort log cabin has a living room with a 22-foot stone fireplace and convertible sleeper sofa. It also has two master suites each with a king bed, steam shower, balcony and even its own family game room!
At night you can gaze at the stars as you lounge in the upstairs balcony’s private soaking tub, or the main level balcony’s outdoor shower. One bedroom is on the main level and the second bedroom is upstairs. The Swag recommends Mountain Laurel for guests with children under the age of 6.
Woodshed
This luxurious log cottage includes a sitting room, stone fireplace, king size bed, convertible sleeper sofa, steam shower, copper soaking tub, sauna, and outdoor shower. A covered stone porch with skylights looks into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Room amenities include a wet bar, coffee machine and a small refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, trail mix and hiking bars. The Swag recommends Woodshed for guests with children under the age of 6.
Bishop’s Room
Nestle into this exceptional room and enjoy your private balcony, king size bed, steam shower, heated bathroom floors and soaking tub. Bishop’s Room is also equipped with a stone fireplace and spacious reading area for the perfect home away.
Room amenities include a wet bar, coffee machine and a small refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, trail mix and hiking bars. Close to everything, Bishop’s Room provides easy access to the main house. The Swag does not recommend our Bishop’s Room for guests with children under the age of 6.
Deener’s Room
Enjoy an intimate retreat, while maintaining easy access to our main house. From Deener’s Room, take in the vistas from a large bay window and private balcony. Or fall asleep in the luxurious King size bed.
This room’s amenities include a wet bar, coffee machine and a small refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, trail mix and hiking bars. Handicap accessible with handicapped accessible bathroom features. The Swag does not recommend Deener’s Room for guests with children under the age of 6.
Danny’s Room
Located upstairs in the Main Swag House, Danny’s Room touts a rustic beamed, vaulted ceiling, adding height to this charmingly quaint romantic hideaway. Guests will enjoy a king size bed, steam shower and Smoky Mountain views.
Room amenities include a wet bar, coffee machine, and a small refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, trail mix and hiking bars. The Swag does not recommend our Danny’s Room for guests with children under the age of 6.
Experiences
At The Swag, each day holds a new adventure. From guided hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with an expert naturalist, to a picnic lunch on Gooseberry Knob prepared by our award-winning kitchen, to playing the world’s most scenic game of croquet in front of our fifty-mile view, every experience will inspire you to return year after year.
Dining
Hospitality means making sure our guests are both well cared for and well fed. Menus change daily, as produce deliveries from local farms guide our chefs’ creativity.
Dining options allow you to take your culinary adventures on the road, as we prepare and pack you a picnic lunch to go. Or join us for daily social hours with hor d’oeuvres or weekly barbecue feasts bringing guests together with family style meals.
House-Made Breakfast
Our full service breakfast is served in the Dining Room of the Main House six days of the week. Start your day off with selections like fresh-squeezed orange juice, steel-cut oatmeal cooked with apple cider, made-to-order omelettes, or stone-ground southern grits with a side of bacon.
On Sundays, our famous buffet-style Swag Brunch offers a variety of delights, including apple wood-smoked bacon and link sausages, smoked trout, seasonal egg dish, and composed salads.
Packed Lunch
Prepare for your adventure by picking up a wholesome lunch, packed in a brown bag, picnic basket or hiking backpack (along with marked trail maps) and available for morning pickup.
Our Gooseberry Knob picnics are a special time at The Swag. Enjoy gourmet choices on Wednesday and Saturday like cast-iron fried chicken, bison burgers, or grilled coastal fish. Our vegetable dishes are often made from produce picked right in The Swag’s garden. After lunch, treat yourself to delicious seasonal desserts.
Exceptional Evening Meals
Join us during the evening for a social hour of hors d’oeuvres on the front porch before the dinner bell rings and invites you to settle in for a four-course meal in the Swag House.
Our exceptional evening meals are influenced by the seasons and graced with our chef’s personal touch using garden-fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Local farmers and purveyors supplement the menu with delicious locally produced ingredients. Casual yet gracious, dinner at The Swag is a perfect embodiment of our authentic experience.
Thursday night is a special time at The Swag for us to honor our southern roots. Join us for live bluegrass music and a homestyle barbecue buffet including the Southern classics that you know and love.
Occasions
Whether you’re planning an intimate family gathering or a celebration for two, no other location offers such a breathtaking backdrop or memorable level of care. From weddings to elopements, corporate retreats to family reunions, occasions at the The Swag are a fully inclusive experience.
Intimate Weddings
Experience all our hideaway has to offer with local North Carolina vendors for your elopement or intimate wedding – from your wedding officiant, wedding cake, flowers, string music, photography or videography. Whether you reserve the entire property or select just a few of our many romantic rooms and suites, we are ready to help create a wedding to remember.
Corporate Retreats
Often, stepping outside of our everyday facilitates the connection we need most. Take a moment to regroup, connect with one another, and experience the landscape around you with a corporate retreat. The Swag’s expert event staff will help craft an experience that brings you and your team together.
Family Reunions
The Swag is a wonderful place for families across generations to gather. When your family or group reserves the entire property, our team will work with you to tailor an incredible reunion. Consult with our team to plan group hikes, lawn game tournaments, live music, Gooseberry Knob picnics, and more.
Activities
There is an adventure for everyone at The Swag—from guided hikes in the spectacular Smoky Mountains, to spotting constellations in a gloriously clear night sky, to letting go of your stress in The Swag Spa.
Experts in Residence
Connect to our mountains by learning from those who know it best. Watch Appalachian musicians light up our lodge, learn delicious skills from our resident chefs at a Swag cooking class, or marvel at the natural world with our renowned naturalists. These dates are chronologically listed for the remainder of our 2022 season, and our 2023 season.
