A Mountain Retreat at the Looking Glass Dome
Paid Partnership
Location: Pisgah National Forest, Western North Carolina, hour from Asheville
Stay Type: Geodesic dome | Wellness deck | Multi-level outdoor living
Perfect For: Couples, families, and anyone craving a restorative mountain escape
As a busy working mother, when I choose a vacation stay, I’m definitely drawn to the ones that take care of the food for us. There’s nothing better than pulling up after a long drive and knowing a meal is already waiting — it makes the whole experience so much more relaxing from the very start.
Quick Highlights
* Fresh baked bread, sparkling rosé, charcuterie, and meal kits on arrival
Private wellness deck with hot tub, barrel sauna, and cold plunge
Four-tiered outdoor living: dome deck, spa deck, swing deck, and fire pit area
Family-run touches (including campfire s’mores kits)
Cozy dome interior with oversized shower, mini fridge, and full kitchen setup
Pet-friendly with thoughtful amenities (retractable pet gate, add-on packages, early check-in options)
Polaris available: use it to access the dome if you don’t have 4WD, or rent it for off-property adventure
Adventure perks: nearby trails, Davidson River access, and local exploration
Ally, who often says that “bread is life,” is a true foodie who values food with integrity — and you can taste that in everything they provide.
Why This Stay Stole My Heart
I can’t say enough good things about this stay. This is the part of my job I love most—experiencing unique vacation rentals, sharing them with you, and meeting the families who pour care and intention into creating them. It’s also a reminder of why people travel here from all over the world: to slow down, relax, play, and enjoy a good, clean, healthy vacation in the mountains.
From the moment we arrived at the Looking Glass Dome in Pisgah National Forest, Ally and her husband John made us feel at home. We were welcomed with fresh baked bread, a sparkling rosé and charcuterie board, and later a steak dinner kit ready for the Blackstone grill. Every detail was intentional and thoughtful. Ally, who often says that “bread is life,” is a true foodie who values food with integrity — and you can taste that in everything they provide.
The dishwasher was such a pleasant surprise
The Wellness Deck (Your Private Mountain Spa)
This quickly became my favorite spot. The wellness deck includes:
Hot tub
Barrel sauna
Cold plunge
Space for yoga or a quick workout
Robes, towels, and slippers provided
I finally braved my first cold plunge here. I’ve wanted to try it for so long, and yes, I guess I’m officially in the polar club now. Nobody loves the cold part, but the way I slept that night tells you everything—you feel restored. Paired with the sauna and hot tub, it truly feels like a private spa tucked into the mountainside.
Family Touches That Make It Personal
One of the sweetest details: their whole family helps. Even the kids chop wood and assemble the campfire s’mores kits. It gave the stay such a warm, personal feel — and they even accommodated our gluten-free needs.
Thoughtful Hillside Design: Four Levels of Cozy
Ally and John designed the property into the mountainside with smart, layered spaces:
Top Level: The main deck where the dome sits
Second Level: A deck with the wellness area
Under the Dome: A deck with two boho swings and a table — perfect for listening to rain
Lower Level: Fire pit with stacked wood and Adirondack chairs for s’mores nights under the stars
Each level has its own personality. Everything is only a few steps away, and the views—especially from the dome and hot tub—are the exact mountain moments you came for.
Inside the Dome
Mini refrigerator with freezer
Mini dishwasher
Kitchen space
Bathroom: Full-size with an oversized shower (a rare luxury for a dome stay)
Private, cozy, and well thought out. Every convenience is there without losing the mountain-escape vibe.
Plan With Confidence
They’ve put together a thorough guidebook that covers your stay and the surrounding area. Ally told me this is her favorite chapter of life, and it shows in every detail. I think you’ll find this space to be the perfect reset — and maybe the nudge to start writing your own favorite chapter if you haven’t already.
Getting There and Getting Around
Road & Access: The dome sits on a hillside off a gravel road.
Vehicle: A 4x4 is recommended, but my Subaru made it up just fine.
Polaris Option: If you don’t have a 4WD, you can use the Polaris as a courtesy to access the dome. Additionally, you can rent the Polaris for off-property adventures (waiver required).
On Foot: Option to walk up 60 steps if you’d rather skip driving.
Know Before You Go
Pet Friendly: $150 non-refundable pet fee. Dogs must be leashed when not on the deck (retractable pet gate provided).
Add-On Packages: Sparkling rosé and charcuterie, local craft beer 6-pack, campfire s’mores kit, steak dinner meal kits, and more (request at least 24 hours in advance).
Wellness Perks: Hot tub, barrel sauna, cold plunge, robes, towels, slippers.
Adventure Perks: Polaris RZR available for rental (waiver required); hiking trails and Davidson River access nearby.
Access: Hillside setting with gravel road; 4x4 recommended; or walk up 60 steps.
Extras: Early check-in or late checkout may be available for $50, subject to cleaning team availability.
Nearby Ideas
Hike in Pisgah National Forest
Wade or paddle along the Davidson River
Explore Brevard’s shops and restaurants
Chase waterfalls (there are plenty)
Final Take
This stay checked every single box: thoughtful food, wellness amenities, warm hospitality, adventure, and a tucked-away setting in Pisgah. I loved every minute.