The Best Barn & Farm Wedding Venues in Highlands, NC

How do we sort results, including Sponsored Ads and personalized results?

3 Wedding Venues in Highlands, NC

Farms, barns, ranches
Quick responder
Hawkesdene 
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Andrews, NC
  • Up to 125 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor

Welcome to Hawkesdene! Your one-of-a-kind 70-acre, 44-bedroom private estate tucked luxuriously in the elegant mountains of Western North Carolina. Experience this amazing, sprawling property. property for an extended stay, just you and your people, with nobody else on-site but our personable and professional Hawkesdene service team. This heavenly estate is where gourmet meals for up to 125 guests, perfectly appointed guest rooms and cottages for as many as 122 guests, and manicured grounds meet the soothing rush of Phillip’s Creek alongside sweeping mountain views and perfect solitude. A destination like no other, get ready for the celebration of a lifetime. It's an extraordinary getaway that you and your guests will talk about for years to come. Book your tour today!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Surrounded by nature

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No free parking
  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
“Our Reunion-Style Wedding at Hawkesdene I’ve struggled to put this experience into words because so much can’t be fully captured. My husband and I feel incredibly grateful to have celebrated with family and friends at this stunning estate and charming town—truly the most fun experience! Reunion-Style Wedding for 100 Guests (No wedding package, no weekend venue rental, and we were legally married beforehand to enjoy the day stress-free.) Weekday Wedding: Sunday–Tuesday (Monday was a holiday). Full Estate Rental: We covered the entire property, including optional cabins, but skipped the wedding package so we could fully host guests. DIY Ceremony: No designated aisle or seating (just a few chairs for family). It turned out beautifully! No Decor Needed: The venue is breathtaking, so we skipped decorations. Floral Rentals: Used Something Borrowed Blooms—absolutely perfect. Incredible Food: Every meal was amazing (menu below). Cost: Clearly listed on their website—no hidden fees. Tip: Get event insurance when hosting at an estate. Unexpected things can happen, and it’s peace of mind for you and the next couple. We always envisioned a wedding weekend instead of a single day. Since we live far from family, we wanted quality time together. After extensive research (and almost giving up), we found Hawkesdene on VRBO while considering an elopement in the Georgia mountains. It was the only venue that allowed us to host guests while staying within budget. Itinerary Sunday Whitewater Rafting (10 AM): Nantahala with Carolina Outfitters (highly recommend!) Breweries (1:30–3:30 PM): Hoppy Trout (great private room) & Snowbird Mountains Brewery (provided kegs). Check-in (4 PM) Dinner (7 PM) Champagne Toast at the Peak (7:45 PM): ½-mile hike—steep but worth it! S’mores & Activities (9 PM) Monday Breakfast (8:30–10 AM) Waterfall Hike (10:30–11:30 AM): 1-mile in, 1 out—rain made it tricky but worth it! Lunch (12:30–2 PM) Lawn Games (1:30–3 PM) Ceremony (5:15 PM, DIY setup) Cocktail Hour (5:30 PM) Reception & Dinner (6:45 PM) Evening Activities (8:30 PM) Tuesday Breakfast (8:30 AM) Check-out (by 11 AM) The Food The food was phenomenal—to flawlessly cook this much fish deserves an award. We skipped a cake and were thrilled with the chef’s dessert selections. Menu: Salads: Greek & Balsamic Entrees: Salmon (Night 1), Honey-Balsamic Chicken (Night 1), Trout (Night 2), Steak (Night 2) Sides: Squash, Green Beans, Sweet Potato, Mac & Cheese, Asparagus, Broccolini Logistics & Final Thoughts Jami & Rob were fantastic. If you choose Reunion Style (no wedding package), be prepared to handle logistics yourself. It worked perfectly for us but isn’t for everyone. Their website outlines everything—read it carefully! Alcohol: We used Appalachian Beverage in Ellijay (they have everything). We provided a small amount of liquor, but most guests got their own—so refer back to my event insurance note! Soak it all in. This place is truly magical—like the Disney of wedding venues. We wouldn’t change a thing, and our guests still rave about it. Highly recommend for a unique and unforgettable wedding weekend!”
Sarah V., a year ago
Quick responder
Fire Mountain Estate & Club 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
Scaly Mountain, NC
  • Up to 175 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $20,500

Prepare yourself for the wedding venue that dreams are made of. We are so excited to hear you are considering Fire Mountain for your Special day. We are a brand New venue and still have Summer 2026 dates open.​ The Highlands Plateau is renowned as the wedding capital of the country, celebrated for its charming town, breathtaking views, and warm, welcoming people. Fire Mountain is a brand new venue and the only one in the region located atop a mountain, offering layered mountain views that provide a stunning backdrop for your special day. We also offer Unique and Spectacular "On-site" Accommodations. A secluded mountaintop boutique resort high above the clouds with unparalleled, panoramic mountain views. All rooms feature private balconies with spectacular views. We invite you to explore our basic packages and are happy to discuss any further details with you. It's your wedding and we will work with you to meet your needs and dreams!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Dressing room available
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Promotes a party atmosphere

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • Does not have a dance floor
Awarded Best of Zola
“The new owners, Tom & Laura, went above and beyond to make our weekend just what we had dreamed of. Their preferred vendor list made it easy for our planner to pull together just what we envisioned. The property is absolutely beautiful with views in every direction. Our special guests were able to stay on-site. There are plenty of rooms and cabins so that everyone could be comfortable and not have to travel. They have a lodge building with all en-suites a library & family room with fireplace and mountain views (every room has a balcony), bungalows with mountain views and cabins with jacuzzis and fireplaces in every cabin. So something for everyone. They arranged excursions for our guests to the Vineyard next door for live music and to the zipline & funpark closeby. There is a spa onsite if anyone would like massages, etc. They also have hiking trails and waterfalls on property as well as a secret waterfall that only guests know about.”
Jane A., a year ago
Chimney Pond Farm 
Glenville, NC
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $8,500

Chimney Pond Farm, set in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina, is enveloped by stately mountains veiled in mist and walls of cascading rhododendrons. Our 80 acres of Frasier fir trees and blueberry bushes are set at an elevation of 3,600 feet—just the height for a perfect view of the tranquil waters of Lake Glenville. Whether you’re planning a special corporate event, a memorable family reunion, a rejuvenating retreat, or an intimate private function, our venue provides the perfect backdrop. With the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, proximity to exciting activities, and our dedicated team ready to assist you, we ensure your event will be a success and a source of cherished memories. So come, escape to the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy all that our venue has to offer.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Not wheelchair accessible

Location flexible? Discover venues near Highlands, NC

Quick responder
Weaver’s Room at the Old Woolen Mill
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Cleveland, TN
Quick responder
Ramble Creek Events
Rating: 5.0 (9 reviews)
Athens, TN
Treehouse Mountain
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Copperhill, TN
Quick responder
Fillauer Estate
Cleveland, TN
TrendlineTrending
The Views at Sunset Ridge
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Cleveland, TN
Quick responder
The Barn at Faith Farms
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
Athens, TN
Ocoee Crest
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Benton, TN
Whispering Winds
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
Etowah, TN
Quick responder
The Venue at Rocky Top Mountain Retreat
Old Fort, TN
Quick responder
The Coffey Barn, LLC
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Cleveland, TN
Quick responder
Charlyn Farms
Rating: 3.5 (2 reviews)
Marietta, SC
Quick responder
Heyward Manor
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Iva, SC

Event types for wedding venues in Highlands, NC

About wedding venues in Highlands, NC

Highlands, NC offers breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain vistas at elevations of 4,118 feet for your wedding day. You'll fall in love with the unique blend of mountain terrain and Southern hospitality that creates a special microclimate here; summer evenings stay comfortably cool rarely going above 80°F and if you're planning a fall wedding, you'll be treated to spectacular foliage with colors peaking around mid-October.

What Makes Highlands, NC a Premier Wedding Destination?

The Nantahala National Forest surrounds Highlands, giving your ceremony access to stunning natural features like waterfalls and intimate forest clearings. You'll find venues like Fire Mountain Lodge capitalize on panoramic mountain views that will take your guests' breath away. Photographers love working here too; the natural diffused lighting that filters through tree canopies creates perfect portrait conditions without those harsh shadows you'd get in direct sunlight.

How Much Does a Highlands Wedding Cost?

Wedding costs in Highlands scale with your guest count and venue choice: - 50 guests (small wedding): $19,707 - 100 guests: $32,695 - 150 guests: $44,906 - 200 guests: $55,823 - 250 guests: $66,740 - 300 guests (large wedding): $77,657 Venues in Highlands typically run about $7,088 which is roughly 16% of your total wedding budget for a 150-guest celebration. That's actually pretty good value compared to the national average of $6,500-$12,000 or 25% of total costs. You're getting premium mountain elegance without the premium price tag you might expect for such stunning locations.

Which Venues in Highlands, NC Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

# The Farm at Old Edwards

This venue tops many couples' lists with its gorgeous gardens restored barn and glass-enclosed pavilion that lets you enjoy mountain views regardless of weather. You'll appreciate their exceptional culinary program that uses fresh ingredients harvested from their own organic garden; talk about farm-to-table at its finest.

# Old Edwards Inn & Spa

Connected to The Farm this venue gives you elegant outdoor spaces with that perfect touch of rustic charm. Your guests will rave about the top-notch culinary experiences that come standard with this beautiful location.

# Skyline Lodge

Perched at the mountaintop this venue combines truly breathtaking scenery with catering by a nationally recognized steakhouse. Your foodie friends will be impressed while everyone enjoys the spectacular views.

What Are Highlands' Most Accessible Wedding Venues?

If accessibility matters for your celebration consider these excellent options: - **The Bascom**: This stunning visual arts center offers beautiful mountain views and typically adheres to accessibility standards so all your guests can enjoy your special day. - **Old Edwards Inn & Spa**: You'll love their elegant outdoor and indoor options that come with thoughtful accessibility features. - **Fire Mountain Lodge**: This boutique resort in nearby Nantahala National Forest can work with you to accommodate accessibility requirements ensuring everyone feels welcome.

When Should You Book Your Highlands Wedding Venue?

Most couples secure their Highlands venue about 15 months before their wedding date with October being the busiest month for inquiries. You'll want to plan ahead especially for the peak wedding seasons of May-June and September-October when mountain rhododendrons or fall foliage create naturally stunning backdrops that practically eliminate the need for additional decorations.

What Percentage of Your Budget Goes to Different Wedding Services?

For a typical 150-guest Highlands wedding your budget will likely break down like this: - Venue: $7,088 (16%) - Catering: $5,671 (13%) - Florists: $5,545 (12%) - Bar Services: $4,536 (10%) - Photographers: $4,266 (9%) - Wedding Planners: $4,024 (9%) - Videographers: $3,768 (8%) - Bands and DJs: $1,390 (3%) - Cakes and Desserts: $959 (2%) - Hair & Makeup: $635 (1%)

What other Highlands vendors will I need?

What other wedding venues are nearby?

What other wedding services are nearby?