Banner Elk, NC Homes for Rent

Banner Elk is a picturesque retreat nestled into the natural landscape of North Carolina’s High Country. “It has a pastoral, mountain feel, with shops and restaurants,” says Nate Wright of Hyatt in the High Country, who has sold several homes in the community. “It has a low-key, laid-back lifestyle. Another big draw is proximity to outdoor recreation.” This mountain town is home to about 1,300 full-time residents, but the population swells and the pace of activity picks up during the summer and winter seasons. Popular destinations include a lakefront beach, a state park with scenic views and two ski resorts. Banner Elk is also known for its downtown dining scene and the Woolly Worm Festival, the High Country equivalent of Groundhog Day. The community has a variety of single-family options, which can be used as primary residences or second homes. “You have everything from traditional suburban homes for full-time living to winter cabins – and a lot of luxury homes. Luxury condos and townhouses, too,” Wright says. “There is a veritable mix.” Most homes are multi-level designs on spacious lots with mountain views. The oldest homes date to the late 19th and early 20th centuries and can