Mountain Cabin Fever represents a unique nature experience. Tall Hemlocks, Pine, Maple, and Oak trees surround the entire atmosphere at Cabin Fever. This paradise is located in Saluda, North Carolina, just a stones throw from Hendersonville and Asheville.

Tom and I were fortunate enough to spend the weekend, July 17th and 18th, 2009 at one of the rustic cabins in this area. After work, we drove 35 minutes north on highway 25 up to Flat Rock. The beauty of the drive alone set the tone of the weekend. Ascending a little over 1,000 feet from our home, the lush trees covered the landscape. We got off highway 25 at Flat Rock and went around two and a half miles on highway 176. The road curved right and then left and you began to feel the solitude of the mountain area. As we entered Cabin Fever the road turned from pavement to gravel, and the rustic mood immediately took over us.

We followed the signs until we could see the office. The fresh mountain air was apparent as we met the caretaker, Lon. His friendliness was immediately noticed and the relaxation began for both Tom and I. There are seven cabins and our cabin wasn't far from the office area.














This is the view from a distance and one from a little closer to our cabin on the gravel hill. The trees towered over and around this secluded cabin, as well as the mass of Rhododendrons that blanketed the area. As we got out of the car, pine cones crunched beneath our feet and the realization hit that we were in for a delightful treat for the weekend.















The next two photos are the view we saw when we climbed the short amount of stairs to the front porch area. Looking down the mountain you could see native ferns growing throughout the base of mature trees. The pine trees were tall yet they had needles only toward the top. The other trees dominated the area, but we were engulfed by the beauty of the surroundings.

The railing on the front porch plays a role in nature, as the rails were designed with the uniqueness of different style branches. The railing really caught my eye as the thought of a different time and era emerged. This creation matched the beauty of the natural landscape. One of my thoughts drifted back in time to the simplicity of the overall view as well as this unique railing.




















As you walk around the cabin on the left side you can see the back and the natural look of a fire pit surrounded by the mountain trees. This is such a great area to sit and reflect and dream. I loved the stumps to sit on. On Saturday evening Tom got the fire going with soft pine that Lon, the caretaker cuts. We were surprised as it took a little while longer to get the logs burned down in the pit. Having a more modern gas grill at home along with a fire place inside, the wood took about 45 minutes to burn down and get hot. At first it bothered me having the pit so close to the natural surrounding trees, but with the right type of fire pits, the fire is contained in the pit. If you are considering building an outdoor pit, make sure it is installed correctly.















This is the central hub of the Cabin Fever Area. Families can gather as well as other guests. Rocking chairs line the main area and to the right is the open fire pit. Double forks are provided for the wonderful taste of hot dogs, roasted marshmallows, or smores. All this area is surrounded by trees and native shrubs.

Tom and I couldn't resist playing a few games of horseshoes. The pit is big and is situated between trees, and yet there is an openness of this particular area. Great way to get some exercise and take in the fresh mountain air.

Time flew by the two days we were in this natural haven. Another addition to this great mountain getaway is you are not far from the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. The weekend Tom and I spent here was one of clearing the mind, relaxing the body, but more importantly taking in the natural beauty that surrounded us. We live in an area that has a lot of natural trees. What amazed me in this area was if the breeze blew, the tops of the trees high up would sway, but near the ground it remained still and tranquil. Cabin Fever also has a hiking trail that takes you into your own world of enjoyment. In May the trails come to life with the mass bloom of Rhododendron.

I wanted to share this serene area with you as it is truly a walk back in time, to an era of simplicity and returning into the natural beauty that surrounds us. If you would like come with me we will go inside the quaint and rustic cabin that Tom and I stayed in. A big thank you to Lon and Lesley for their wonderful kindness and friendliness. This is a great area to come and visit, so if you are in the southeastern United States, take the time to sit back, reflect, and rejuvenate your mind and soul at, Cabin Fever - Simple And Real Decorating.