If you’d like to escape the city and head on a relaxing getaway, look no further than Lake Toxaway. Only three hours away from Charlotte, this secluded oasis is the largest private lake in North Carolina and has breathtaking and stunning views unlike any other. Previously frequented by the likes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, Lake Toxaway was also aptly named as “America’s Switzerland”.
No matter the time of the year, you’ll be blown away by the incredible views while taking in the abundance of nature around the area. When it comes to accommodation, stay at the luxurious Greystone Inn and you’ll have complimentary access to the Lake Toxaway Country Club that houses a plethora of amenities from restaurants to golf and the marina.
There’s also plenty to do around the Lake Toxaway area, and we’ve highlighted five things that’ll make your trip extra special.
With over 250 waterfalls in the area, it’s no wonder Lake Toxaway is also known as the “land of the waterfalls”. Whitewater Falls is one that you absolutely have to visit. It’s the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains and consists of a 400-foot drop. While you’re there, follow the paved walkway to soak in some excellent views. Be careful when you’re heading down the steps however, and avoid veering off the paved path. If you’d like, you can also head further down the trail for a swim or to just hang out on the big rocks.
Another gorgeous waterfall is Rainbow Falls. As the name suggests, it’s highly likely that you’ll catch a glimpse of a rainbow while you’re there, especially when the water is high. The waterfall is 150-foot tall and you’ll be able to see it from all angles – top, bottom and even from the side. It’s situated in Pisgah National Forest and when the water is low, you can even sit by the rocks for a picnic. After exploring the falls, continue on the trail to another falls – Turtleback Falls.
Other great falls that you can visit around the area include the stunning Looking Glass Falls and the popular Sliding Rock. Lake Toxaway Estates also has some private falls that you can visit – perfect for when you want to avoid the crowds.
Head on a Bee-to-Honey Farm Tour
For a unique hands-on experience, you’ll want to head to the Killer Bees Honey Farm. As the farm’s committed to protecting the biodiversity of the surrounding forests, you’ll be treated to some of the purest artisanal honey while you’re there. If you’d like to go on a group tour, you’ll need to sign up beforehand. On the tour, you’ll get to taste some delicious honey, and they’re all complimented with individual pairings. You’ll get to discover the different honey varieties and what makes them different.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can sign up for another tour that allows you to be a beekeeper for a day. You’ll get an up close experience of the apiary, learn about how honey is made, and put on a bee suit and follow the beekeeper. The tour also includes a light lunch, and you’ll get to pour your own 4 ounce bottle of honey to take home.
Hike at Panthertown
While there are plenty of hiking trails surrounding Lake Toxaway, you wouldn’t want to miss Panthertown Valley that’s part of the Nantahala National Forest. This area is also known as the “Yosemite of the East” and you can find some breathtaking formations along with plenty of trout streams and waterfalls. Choose to explore these trails however you wish, you can hike, bike, and even ride a horse.
Along the way, keep an eye out for plenty of biologically diverse habitats for wildfires and rare plants. There’s also campsites along the trails if you’d like to stay for the night. Just remember to bring bear-proof food canisters as bears sometimes roam around the area.
Otherwise, if you’re there for a day hike, check out the Schoolhouse Falls hike. The whole hike is about 5 miles roundtrip and you’re sure to love the spectacular mountain views from Little Green Mountain and Greenland Creek Falls. Other hikes around the area include the Panthertown Valley main trail, Salt Rock Gap, and the Overlook Trail. Each of these trails have varying difficulties, but all of them come with striking views that’ll make the hike well worth it.
Explore the Nearby Towns
Even though there’s plenty to do at Lake Toxaway, you should still try out and venture out to the nearby towns. The charming mountain town of Brevard is close by and is an area that’s known for both its natural and cultural resources. As its situated near to Pisgah National Forest, you can head for a hike to explore the surrounding waterfalls. It also has a local arts and music community and is home to the esteemed Brevard Music Center.
Another great nearby town to visit is Asheville. It’s a town that’s both charming and sophisticated and is known for its vibrant arts scene. It also has a plethora of restaurants and cafes and shopping options that’ll keep your busy and entertained throughout the day. Outdoor activities and seasonal festivals are also aplenty – it’s no wonder this town is named as one of the 10 most beautiful places in America.
Enjoy Activities at the Lake
There’s plenty to do at Lake Toxaway from boating to recreational water activities. You’ll also have plenty of privacy since it’s the largest private lake in North Carolina. Spend the afternoon fishing on the lake, go for a swim or enjoy some sailing while taking in the picturesque views.
The Lake is home to eight species of game fish and as a bonus there’s also minimal boat traffic in the area. As the lake is supplied with spring-fed waters, it ensures that the fish have good health and normal growth. Some fish that you can catch include catfish, rainbow trout and walleye.
If you’d like, you can also head on the Wooden Boat—Miss Lucy. This mahogany boat was crafted by the Hacker-Craft Company and you can head onboard for a nightly sunset cruise. It’s ideal for taking in the serene and expansive lake while admiring the homes that dot the area.
There’s plenty to do in Lake Toxaway, and it’s truly one of the best areas to head to if you’re looking for something that’s both private and relaxing. After you’ve spent some time at Lake Toxaway, there’s also a lot to explore in North Carolina from Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Charlotte.
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- Experience in a similar position
- Experience in an a la carte environment
- Proven organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure
- Good time management skills
- Able to multi-taskand remain calm under pressure
- Willing to take responsibility
- Able to work rostered/flexible hours
- A good team player
- Respond promptly to requests from guests and other departments.
- Fill caddy with supplies and transport to the assigned area.
- Enter guest rooms following procedures for gaining access and ensuring vacancy before entering.
- Replace guest amenities and supplies in rooms. Replace dirty linens and towels with clean items. Make beds and fold towels. Clean bathrooms. Remove trash, dirty linen and room service items. Check that all appliances are present in the room and in working order.
- Straighten desk items, furniture, and appliances.
- Dust, polish, and remove marks from walls and furnishings.
- Vacuum carpets and perform floor care duties (e.g., in guest rooms and hallway).
- Proficient in: Sports/Therapeutic, Swedish, Trigger Point, Myofascial Release, and Deep Tissue massage; Prenatal and Hot Stone certifications are a plus
- Strong communication and evaluation skills to assess client needs, establish treatment plans and deliver professional treatment recommendations
- Willingness to market and obtain clientele, self-motivated, team-oriented, flexible
- Must be certified and follow state and local regulations
- Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and reliable transportation
- Other duties as assigned by ownership team
- Maintain a friendly attitude. Welcome guests with a smile and warm greeting. Make all your guests feel comfortable and let them know you’re there to personally take care of them.
- Inform guests of specials and menu changes. Make recommendations you genuinely feel your guests will enjoy. Each server must be able to describe and suggest all food and beverage menu items in an appealing manner and field questions about them.
- Each server is responsible for taking food and beverage orders from guests and entering orders in our point of sale system which relays orders to the kitchen and bar.
- Deliver food and beverages from kitchen and bar to guests in a timely manner. Arm-service only will be used when serving all food items and clearing tables. All plates must be carried quickly and efficiently without harming the food taste or presentation.
- Monitor and observe guests dining experience. Ensure guests are satisfied with the food and service. Respond promptly and courteously to any requests.
- Communicate with the Manager on duty any problems encountered during service in a discreet manner.
- Prepare final bill, present check to the guest, accept payment, process credit card charges or make changes
- Thank guests for their visit and invite them to return.
- Process all guest check-ins by confirming reservations, assigning room, and issuing room key(s).
- Process all payment types such as room charges, cash, checks, debit, or credit.
- Process all check-outs including resolving any late and disputed charges.
- Answer, record, and process all guest calls, messages, requests, questions, or concerns.
- Supply guests with directions and information regarding property and local areas of interest.
- Run daily reports (number of arrivals, departures), identify any special requests, and check reports for accuracy.
- Greet Hotel guests in a warm and welcoming manner upon their arrival/departure.
- Open doors, assist customers as needed with wheelchair or walkers. .
- Provide directions as needed. Perform valet area access control responsibilities.
- Safely operate various vehicles types to/from the valet areas. Closely inspect all vehicles for damage and record findings on valet ticket. Secure all vehicles and return key tag and keys to the valet podium.
- Follow safe driving procedure and safety protocols at all times. Perform other duties as assigned
Careers
JOIN THE GREYSTONE TEAM
We believe that employees are our most important resource and our success depends upon creating and retaining a staff capable of delivering an exceptional experience to every customer, every time.
CURRENT POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Sous Chef
Line Cook
We are looking for an experienced and creative Line Cook to join a small team in our busy kitchen. We are seeking a mature professional with strong culinary skills and high food presentation standards for this hands-on role.
To be successful you must have the following attributes:
Above all, you must be motivated and have a positive attitude and a passion for food. A full-time position is available. If this sounds like you and you want to progress your career while ensuring that standards, preparation and presentation of food exceeds the expectations of our guests, we would like to hear from you.
Housekeeper
We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated housekeepers to join our housekeeping department.
To be successful you must have the following attributes:
Massage Therapist
We are a small water’s edge spa and have a great atmosphere in which to work. We are looking for an energetic and positive massage therapist to join our team.
To be successful you must have the following attributes:
Restaurant Servers
We are looking for self motivated and enthusiastic servers to join our team in our bustling Dining Room.
To be successful you must have the following attributes:
Night Auditor
We are looking for a responsible and dedicated night auditor to join our front desk team.
To be successful you must have the following attributes:
Valet
We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated valet to join our Concierge department.
To be successful you must have the following attributes:
Hotel Policies
CANCELLATIONS
Due to our size, cancellations affect us significantly; therefore, we adhere to a strict cancellation policy. Reservations may be cancelled without penalty up to 14 days prior to arrival. Reservations not cancelled by 4 p.m. EST (14 days before arrival) will be charged their deposit of a one-night stay.
ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
Check-in time is 4 p.m.; checkout is 11 a.m. We are happy to store your luggage if you arrive before 4 p.m. or wish to depart later than 11 a.m.
SMOKING AND VAPING
Inside, the Greystone Inn is a smoke-free environment as are the public terraces.
CHILDREN
Children are always welcome at the Greystone Inn. Pack n’ Plays are available at no charge. Call ahead, and one will be set up in your room when you arrive.
PETS
Well-trained and quiet pets are welcome. We have a limited number of pet rooms and they must be booked in advance of your arrival. If your pet is joining you, a $150 charge will be added. All pets must be on a leash while on property and please make sure pets are secure in their crates when you leave your room. A credit card must be presented at the time of check in to guarantee against damages or soiled carpets/soft goods in the room. Damages will be billed on a case-by-case basis.
BOATS
Guests are strictly prohibited from placing their own boats on Lake Toxaway at any time. Paddle boards, kayaks, canoes and our 3-seater wooden boat can be rented through Guest Services. Private cruises on the Miss Lucy and Lucy II can be booked through our Concierge and motor boats can be rented at the Marina. Please contact the hotel to learn what boats are available for use during your stay.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
The comfort, well-being and safety of our guests has always been our top priority. In addition to local, state and federal guidelines within our industry, we have implemented additional cleaning and sanitation protocols through the entire hotel and installed the REME HALO in the HVAC systems of public areas of the hotel. The HALO-LED is an in-duct, whole building air purification system that is both zero ozone compliant, mercury free and is intended to proactively treat every cubic inch of air-conditioned space, reducing airborne and surface contaminants.
If you have any questions about our health and wellness protocols or have a specific request, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@greystoneinn.com or 828-966-4700.
Note: Room rates are subject to all state and local taxes, currently at 11.75 percent. Prices are subject to change without notice.
