The Swag
About
Perched almost a mile above sea level on the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Swag is an acclaimed mountaintop luxury hotel just west of Asheville, North Carolina. One of the highest boutique hotel destinations in the country, the Relais & Châteaux getaway is known for exceptional weather, stunning views, romantic sensibilities, and impeccable food and service. Hosting only a few dozen guests at any one time, the all-inclusive escape is a favorite of travelers who treasure the property’s rare, restorative combination of natural beauty, ultimate privacy, and authentic hospitality.
For owners David and Annie Colquitt, DarkSky Approved Lodging is yet another opportunity to protect the beauty of the North Carolina mountains and educate guests, staff and the community. The minimal lighting, of which is properly shielded and dimmed, allows for a 360 view of the night sky often revealing the Milky Way on clear evenings. Through The Swag Experts in Residence program, guests are invited to divulge in the Smoky Mountains history and beauty from outdoor photographers, naturalists, artists, and more.
Overnight reservations are available at theswag.com. Reservations include all activities and dining, excluding alcohol and spa treatments. The Swag also welcomes visitors via reservations for dinner each night, brunch on Sundays, and the Chef’s Picnic at Gooseberry Knob on Wednesday and Saturday. The Swag Trail pass–available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday–allows daytime visitors to enjoy The Swag’s private hiking trails, including those entering the National Park, with a chef-curated bagged lunch.
About the DarkSky International Lodging Program:
Founded in 2023, the DarkSky International Lodging Program sets a new standard in the travel industry, encouraging hospitality providers to actively participate in protecting the night from the harmful effects of light pollution while offering guests an awe-inspiring and educational experience under pristine dark skies. Learn more
About DarkSky International:
DarkSky International’s mission is to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. Learn more at darksky.org.
Address
2300 Swag Road Waynesville, North Carolina, 28785
Google Maps
Contact
The Swag
(828) 926-0430
James Brigagliano
DarkSky International, Lighting Program Manager
+1 (520) 858-0428
[email protected]
Website
Certified
2025
