The Riverside Lodge at Chimney Rock

We had a good stay for one night, and sitting on the balcony listening to the river was lovely. It was too cold to enjoy it as much as we might have, though. This is an older, rustic lodge, not a modern place, but we found it comfortable. I didn’t interact with the staff. A couple of things brought my rating down: the walls are thin enough that you can hear a lot from the other rooms, and the rocky shower floor was uncomfortable to stand on. When I first turned on the shower, it also sprayed water onto the floor.

The staff’s help is what will bring us back. We were towing a 30 foot trailer and called ahead to ask about parking. There wasn’t really room in front of the rooms, and the small space by the street-side trash cans was also used by people visiting Chimney Rock park. It was extremely busy, so staff called about two hours before we arrived to say they were saving spaces as guests left by moving their own cars into them. When we got there, they moved their vehicles so we could pull in. You don’t get that kind of service much anymore. The lodge is rustic and comfortable, with great views, right in the village and within walking distance of Chimney Rock. It’s also right by the river, where families can skip rocks and play in the water. The rushing sound is loud but peaceful from the balcony. I only wish there were a screen door on the balcony so I could listen to the river while falling asleep.

We felt right at home here. It was quiet and relaxing to sit on the porch in the evening, and the room was very clean with good amenities. The staff were helpful, and all the good spots are within walking distance. We’ll definitely come back when we’re in the area.

Room #8 was a corner room with its own balcony, and I loved staying there. It’s cozy, with a large, clean, comfortable bed, rustic charm, and a spectacular view of the mountain and river. The rushing water is one of the best parts. I left the door open overnight and didn’t have any trouble with insects. On a sunny day, look for the cute little salamander sunning himself on the ledge below the balcony on the right. The location is fantastic. The Chimney Rock entrance is just up the road, and Ingles supermarket with gasoline is a short drive past Lake Lure. The staff were friendly and helpful, Chimney Rock Village is charming, and the hike and views at the park were stunning and unforgettable. I did run into a few quirks: the charging outlets on the lamp by the door were wonky and unreliable, so use the ones in the bathroom. The display lights pointing at the sign outside are super bright and light up the patio out back. I wished it were darker, but it was still nice. I highly recommend the place and will be back next year. I love everything about Chimney Rock🤎