You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill
This quirky, multi-level, ecological house is ideal for enjoying a getaway in the great outdoors. -5 wooded acres -covered terraces for al fresco dining -books and games galore -giant picture windows -wood burning stove -fire ring (with firewood provided) -gas range in fully stocked kitchen -laundry on-site -smart TV with Hulu, Netflix, and other apps -15 minutes from Chapel Hill, UNC Memorial Hospital, Saxapahaw and Pittsboro
Our photographer described this place as "Cozy and super charming. Lots of windows and great art make it feel warm and inviting." There are more windows in this house than in most houses three times the size. Handmade feel with many artsy touches like original mosaics, wood and slate floors. A wood stove for experienced fire tenders on cold days and evenings. This is a one of a kind place that is unique and hard to find. Our guests often remark it's the most unique Airbnb they've ever stayed at, and often return many times with friends and family to make shared memories and celebrate special occasions.
NOTE: It has a very outdoorsy feel. You're likely to see squirrels, birds, maybe even a fox or raccoon. Summertimes are usually full of bugs — and they might find themselves inside your home. Cobwebs can appear literally overnight. For those weary of the great outdoors or nature's creatures, this place is not for you. We do not fumigate and choose to use natural pest management strategies whenever possible. The home is chemical and fragrance-free for easier breathing and better sleep.
The owners built the home by hand using recycled and repurposed materials. Enjoy the mosaics made from recycled tiles, the amazing re-homed picture windows and stained glass, and notice that each part of the home was built with love and appreciation for the materials used. Rustic and eclectic, this eco-retreat is truly a work of art that stands in collaboration with nature.
KITCHEN: The kitchen is well stocked with pots, pans, spices, cooking oils, salt and pepper. There is a gas stove with 4 burners for those who like to cook. We also have an oven, microwave, and toaster oven. Full fridge and freezer — we have ice cube trays but no ice maker. French press for coffee, blender, and magic bullet, too! Organic coffee, half and half, and a selection of teas are also supplied for your enjoyment.
BATHROOM: The upstairs bathroom has a clawfoot tub and also rainfall showerhead. We recently added shampoo, conditioner, and body wash so that you don't have to bring your own.
BEDROOMS: The two bedrooms are located upstairs. Note that you must pass through one bedroom to get to the other. Both have their own doors for privacy. We also have a twin day bed and a full futon downstairs for additional sleeping. (Please be sure to properly indicate the number of people in your reservation so that our housekeepers can be sure to leave you with an appropriate number of linens and towels!) Because this an eco-retreat with sustainability and the environment top of mind, linens are cotton and washed with natural, fragrance free laundry detergent.
OUTDOOR SPACES: You've got a privtae outdoor patio upstairs off the bedrooms -- as well as an outdoor back covered patio complete with fan and patio lights! Seating for 4 at the outdoor table on the back patio.
FIRE RING: Skilled fire tenders are welcome to use the fire ring and even help themselves to our firewood. Please be very careful if you decide to start a fire.
Guests will have the entire right-hand "house side" of the property including private covered outside decks, one on the second floor, and one out back. There is a second very small "en suite" Airbnb unit on the left-hand "Suite" side of the house. You may hear each other as you share a wall — and may see each other in the front shared parking lot. Otherwise each space is private with no shared spaces.
If you'd like to book both places at the same time for a 3BR/2BA stay, click on Erin's profile to find the Storybook Retreat and book that instead. (Art, Beauty, Nature is the studio if you only need a small space for 2 people.) Our calendars are up-to-date, so what you see reflects true availability.
Available by text to answer questions or summon help from close-by manager or relative in case of emergency.
Attractions: Franklin Street - 9.6 mi Kenan Stadium - 10.4 mi The Barn at Valhalla - 7.5 mi The Carriage House - 115 mi The Barn Chapel Hill - 6.5 mi Lavender Oaks Farm - 7.8 mi Cat’s Cradle - 10 mi Saxaphaw Ballroom - 10.8 mi Restaurants / Cafe / Bar : Saxaphaw General Store Cafe (Saxapahaw) - 11.7 mi The Mod (Pittsboro) - 12.8 mi Food Market/ Grocery/ Pharmacies : Lowes Food´s – 8.5 mi Harris Teeter – 9.6 mi Weaver Street Market – 11.3 mi Saxapahaw General Store - 12.8 mi Aidan’s Trading Post - 1.9 mi Walgreens -16.0 mi CVS - 8.4 mi Hospitals: UNC Hillsborough Campus - 18.2 mi UNC - 13.0 mi UNC Children’s Hospital - 11.9 mi Duke Regional Hospital - 27.5 mi North Carolina Speciality Hospital - 27.9 mi Lenox Baker Children´s Hospital - 27.6 mi The NC Cancer Hospital - 27.6 mi Duke Children´s Hospital and Health Center - 22.8 mi Airports : Burlington Alamance Regional Airport - 24.5 mi Raleigh - Durham International - 28.7mi Siler City Municipal - 23.2 mi Gas Station: Mobil – 8.8 mi Exxon - 9.6 mi
You will need a car although Uber and Lyft have provided rides in the past. Not sure about the current status. If you don't like driving country roads this is not the place for you, but it really is only 12 minutes from Carrboro.
Caution to older and physically challenged people, including kids: There are stairs and many levels in this house. Not a good place for those wanting a single-level place. The only bathroom is upstairs unless you book Storybook Retreat instead (then you'll have one bedroom and bathroom downstairs and one bathroom and two bedrooms upstairs).
PET FEE: Well-behaved pets are welcome with a $50 fee (per pet) per stay. Please inquire about our pet policy.
CANCELLATIONS The cancellation policy applies to all bookings. An additional $150 cancellation fee will be charged to cover credit card processing and admin fees on all cancellations.
RENTER'S AGREEMENT A signed renter's agreement is required for all reservations, as well as a picture of a government-issued photo ID and a picture of your credit card used to book showing only the last 4 digits and your name. This is to prevent credit card fraud and is meant to protect you as the renter and us as hosts.
DEPOSIT We require a $300 deposit for each reservation, which will be processed 3 days before your arrival. As long as there is no unexpected damage to the home, deposits are automatically refunded in full in 7 days.
Property manager
Erin Lenhardt
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Property amenities
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
Car recommended
Parking on site
Kitchen
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Spices
Stovetop
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
1 bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Wood stove
Entertainment
Books
DVD player
Games
Smart TV
Video library
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Firepit
Garden
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
2 pets total (up to 20 lbs per pet)
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In a rural location
Near a hospital
Things to do
Birdwatching nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 20 lbs per pet)
Children and extra beds
This property does not allow children
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
We should mention
A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property
Property is also known as
orp5b62eeex
About the neighborhood
NC, Chapel Hill
What's nearby
Franklin Street - 18 min drive - 20.4 km
University of North Carolina - 18 min drive - 20.7 km
UNC Medical Center - 20 min drive - 21.4 km
Kenan Stadium - 20 min drive - 22.1 km
The Preserve at Jordan Lake - 37 min drive - 35.8 km
Getting around
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) - 48 min drive
Restaurants
Fiesta Grill - 9 min drive
The Kraken - 9 min drive
Fuel Up At Perry Harrision - 8 min drive
John's Pizza - 12 min drive
Hilton Brothers - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 20 lbs per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill?
As of Jun 26, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill on Jul 21, 2025 start from ¥15,497, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
What time is check-in at Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill located?
Situated in a rural location, this vacation home is within 9 mi (15 km) of Grovepark, Quailview Recreation Area, and Great Meadow Park. Constellation Park and Park at Briar Chapel are also within 9 mi (15 km).
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Charming Handmade Retreat — 15 mins to Chapel Hill Reviews
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 13 out of 18 reviews
10 - Excellent
13
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 18 reviews
8 - Good
4
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 18 reviews
4 - Poor
1
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.2/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10
Great stay … fun quirky house.
Stephen P.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
10/10
My husband and daughter and son in law enjoyed our stay so much. We were able to spend some time with our oldest daughter and her family.
Dolly L.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10
Lovely house set it the woods, plenty of space well equipped kitchen, close to chapel hill and Carboro.
Daniel P.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10
If you are like us and enjoy staying at places that are fun, funky, original, clean and comfortable you will love it. In the woods with tons of windows, I liked it more after each hour we spent here. Great communication from owner. Would stay again.
Woodley W.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
8/10
The property was nice and clean. Easy check in process. Thankful my dogs could stay with us. Was unaware there was a studio attached that is also rented out, but the people and their dog staying were nice.
Verified traveler
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023
10/10
Good
Cathie R.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
8/10
Jon P.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
10/10
We had a fantastic stay! Erin was super communicative and we really appreciated that she turned the lights on for us as we arrived in the dark!
The house was charming and comfortable and had everything we needed. The beds were comfortable and there were several pillow options to choose from. The kitchen was fully stocked with cookware. There was a great DVD collection as well as a library full of books.
The house would not be suitable for anyone with mobility issues, as there are lots of level changes/steps and the one washroom is upstairs. None of these were issues for us, just something to be aware of.
We would definitely stay here again. Thank you!
Julie S.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10
Spent an overnight at this hidden homemade gem of a house for an annual girl's night getaway. This unique property nestled in the woods provided a cozy, unique housing experience for us to land after a day tubing. Beautiful surroundings and yet close enough to explore Pittsboro for a bit to eat.
Erin was so accessible and answered my questions promptly.
Would come back again!
Jody
Jody P.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023
10/10
An eclectic and memorable handmade home tucked in the woods for some quiet reflection. Great windows span each room and a cozy wood burning stove warms the heart. Bedrooms are upstairs and lots of separate spots including a center room and large kitchen to read books, play games and share a conversation. An outside deck upstairs and porch with table in the back. A lovely time watching fall set in!
Stephanie M.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
10/10
Close to Chapel Hill, private and tucked back in the woods. Plenty of amenities, quiet and an enjoyable stay. Would return.
Nathan K.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022
10/10
This property was beyond comfortable and we spent most all our time outside on the covered patio eating our meals, playing cards and enjoying our friendship with each other as we had not been together with for a long time with all the Covid 19 pandemic issues. We did not have any problems with bugs and it had rained off and on. The view from inside was like you were outside and we kept saying it was a slice of heaven there. Thank you for the awesome property and we hope to return some day in the near future.
SANDRA R.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
8/10
The home is located on a wooded setting.
There are two rentals in the same home: a main house and a smaller attached studio.
We did hear the other guests through the attached walls. The property was clean. The kitchen was stocked but some of the cookware/utensils need an upgrade. Also, the linens are due for the same upgrade. Overall, the stay was what I expected.
Pamela B.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
10/10
If you are looking for some charm in the woods this would be the place to stay. It is very quaint. Not large ,but enough room to have our family over for dinner. It would be lovely when you can spend some time outside but I might be concerned about insects. My only complaint was I wish there was some heat in the bathroom, it was cold. A few extra dinner/salad and serving plates would have made dinner for my company easier. They have nice filtered water available, cloth napkins and they fact that they are fragrance free is a real bonus. While I didn't actually cook, I brought everything with me, there is a gas cook top, a nice wood burning oven and lots of glassed in rooms provided peaceful views. The hosts were easy to communicate with and it is close to many places you would visit in the area. I would stay again.
Laura R.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021
4/10
We were unhappy with the massive spiders that lived in the house, this property was not as advertised and the owners stopped responding when we contacted them about it
Leanne C.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
8/10
Peaceful place back in the woods. As the place states, there are bugs at times. But as soon as we put out food on the table, little bugs came out of no where and started flying around the food. We constantly were swatting things away. Loved the back porch with the lights at night. Cute handmade home.
Tia C.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2021
10/10
Unique and lovely home. Would definitely stay again.
Tamera G.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2021
10/10
The property was just what I expected from description. We only stayed one night but we had a very nice time. The NC woods are beautiful.