The Swag resort in Waynesville, NC

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The Swag resort in Waynesville, NC., has all the comforts of home with none of the hassles

This imposing resort at the top of a winding 2 1/2-mile gravel drive started off as a family retreat for Dan and Deener Matthews. They enjoyed hosting guests so much that they turned it into an upscale country inn in 1982.

There are miles of hiking trails on the inn's 250 acres. Early morning excursions to watch birds and wildlife always draws a crowd.

A gourmet picnic lunch atop Gooseberry Knob features breathtaking scenery, undisturbed nature and no waiting in line for a good table.

The Cabin received a major upgrade before the season opened in April. An outdoor porch with fireplace was added, along with a large living room and fireplace, wet bar, two bathrooms, steam shower, two-person dry sauna, double whirlpool tub, and a private deck with an outdoor shower.

Owners Dan and Deener Mathews (center front) with staff from the Swag. From left: sous chef William Ham, Mindy Wood, executive chef Bryan Kimmett and Jane Giese.

The Swag's new executive chef, Bryan Kimmett , is getting rave reviews from guests for his comfort food with a twist. Think bison burgers, rabbit sausage and homemade biscuits.

The Swag's 15 rustic guest rooms range from standard "rooms" to entire cabins. All were built with recovered logs and other woodwork, mostly from 17th and 18th century buildings.

A mile-long split rail fence is all that separates The Swag from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Living Room at the Main House of The Swag invites guests to sit awhile. Other amenities include a huge lending library; a common area for frequent guest lectures and other activities; a full-size racquetball court; a croquet lawn; a badminton court; and a gift shop

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This imposing resort at the top of a winding 2 1/2-mile gravel drive started off as a family retreat for Dan and Deener Matthews. They enjoyed hosting guests so much that they turned it into an upscale country inn in 1982.

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