THE MOUNTAINS, YOUR WAY
YOUR PLACE TO RETURN
A refined retreat at the top of the mountain for slow mornings, shared meals, and nights beneath the stars.
Jack Nicklaus Golf
Walk to the first tee box and play 9 holes in the mountains.
Private Lake & Marina
Quiet coves, open water, unhurried days.
Mountain Beach
Enjoy the private, white sand beach.
Trails + Parks
Forest paths just beyond the door.
Tennis & Pickleball
Courts, company, and mountain air.
Lake Club
Drink, eat and relax down by the lake.
Explore Beyond Bear Lake
One of the best parts of staying at Purple Top Retreat is how close you are to some of Western North Carolina’s most charming mountain towns. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, boutique shopping, local breweries, outdoor adventures, or a relaxing afternoon stroll, these nearby destinations are well worth exploring.
Cashiers
📍 40 min from Purple Top
The plateau’s best mix of dining, boutiques, coffee, and waterfalls.
Dining • Shopping • Waterfalls • Families
Highlands
📍 50 min from Purple Top
Elegant mountain dining, galleries, boutiques, and scenic waterfalls.
Dining • Shopping • Waterfalls • Scenic Drives
Bryson City
📍 55 min from Purple Top
A Smokies adventure hub for trains, fly fishing, breweries, and the national park.
Fly Fishing • Breweries • Railroad • National Park
Sylva
📍 35 min from Purple Top
A lively historic downtown filled with restaurants, breweries, coffee, and local shops.
Dining • Breweries • Shopping • Families
Dillsboro
📍 40 min from Purple Top
A walkable village of pottery, artisan studios, galleries, and handmade treats.
Shopping • Families • Outdoor Adventure
Cherokee
📍 50 min from Purple Top
A gateway to Smokies history, elk viewing, scenic drives, and outdoor adventure.
National Park • Scenic Drives • Families • History
Every mountain town has its own personality. From the luxury shops of Highlands to the outdoor adventures of Bryson City and the historic charm of Sylva, Purple Top Retreat places you within easy reach of some of the Southeast’s most memorable destinations.
THE PURPLE TOP EXPERIENCE
Loved by Our Guests
Creating unforgettable mountain memories, one stay at a time.
“The views are incredible, and there is so much to do!”
— Catie, Florida
“The golf course is right outside the door, and it’s challenging with some of the best views around. So much fun!”
— Dave, Atlanta
“Perfect”
— Matt, Buffalo
PURPLE TOP RETREAT
Ready for your next escape to the mountains?
Professionally managed through Bear Lake Reserve. View availability, pricing, additional photos, and book securely.
Planning a Trip? Text the Owner.
Planning your stay? I’m happy to answer questions about the home, Bear Lake Reserve, local activities, or help you decide if Purple Top Retreat is the right fit for your trip.
Text Me
No bots. No call center. You’ll be texting directly with the owner.