Why Stay With Us
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Location is Exceptional
We are located at 330 Cranberry Street, Newland, NC, right downtown, putting you within easy walking distance to restaurants, galleries, shops, and local attractions. Many guests say our setting is peaceful yet convenient. -
High Value with Heart
Great amenities and service without pretense. Guests often remark on the comfort of the beds, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the kindness of the staff. We believe hospitality means going the extra mile—making you feel seen, heard, and cared for. -
Flexible & Friendly Service
Check-in is smooth (3:00 PM to 8:00 PM), with courtesy for special requests. Check-out is by 11:00 AM. Let us know if you arrive outside standard hours; we’ll work with you. -
Community & Continuity
We are proud to be part of Avery County’s heritage. The High Country Inn stands on tradition—but embraces change. Under new stewardship, we are dedicated to maintaining what guests love about this place and adding new touches that elevate your stay.
Plan Your Stay
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Reservations: You can reserve your room directly through our website or contact us by phone. We offer a variety of rooms & apartments, so whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, we have accommodations to suit.
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Packages & Offers: From seasonal specials to adventure packages (ski passes, hiking guides, local tastings), keep an eye on our “Offers” section for curated deals.
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Gallery & Guest Stories: Browse photos to see both the beauty of our grounds and the comfort of our lodging. Read testimonials: guests consistently praise our peaceful environment, the thoughtful renovations, and the sincere hospitality.
The History – In 2021, a local rocket scientist and his wife, a former sorority girl turned home-maker, learned that a Newland inn of over 65 years had all but shuttered. So they decided to revive it. Naturally, they succeeded – but the hurdles didn’t stop! In September of 2024, Tropical Storm Helene’s flood-waters engulfed the lobby, rising above the hearth and cutting utilities. Squalls tore branches through the roof.
In response, the couple pressed pause on their business ventures so they could work overtime meeting Newland’s emergent humanitarian needs. They sheltered displaced locals, first responders and community workers, brought in counseling for first responders, and coordinated with volunteers and nonprofits to deliver Thanksgiving dinners and Christmas presents to those in their care. Partnering with the Seaboard Lions Club of Roanoke, N.C., they served over 5,000 meals to local hurricane victims.
In the storm’s aftermath, they opened a restaurant next door to formalize their penchant for breaking bread. Swing by Waightstill’s Restaurant and Tavern for delicious, locally sourced, home-made meals cooked by local folks!
The Mission – Whether you visit in fair weather or foul, innkeepers Nathan and Suzannah Gitner are here to do justice to the meaning of hospitality. They’re committed to being good neighbors in Christ as well as graciously hosting the whole of what science fiction has dubbed our “pale blue dot.” As a family business with a Protestant pastoral lineage, we give huge discounts to churches!
Welcome, everyone.
