Welcome to Deer River Retreat
Your Scenic Escape In Sparta, North Carolina
About Deer River Retreat
Deer River Retreat is your perfect Airbnb destination nestled in the heart of North Carolina. Our property offers a warm cabin feel with modern amenities, providing an inviting and comfortable stay for travelers. We are dedicated to ensuring that every guest experiences the beauty and tranquility of the area while enjoying a stress-free vacation. Inside, guests can unwind in our game room, complete with a pool table, shuffle board, and dartboard - perfect for evenings filled with friendly competition and laughter. Step outside to enjoy the private jacuzzi, ideal for soaking under the stars after a day of adventure. The fully fenced backyard makes Deer River Retreat a welcoming getaway for your furry friends, so no one gets left behind. Beyond the property, Sparta, North Carolina, offers a variety of local experiences - from scenic hiking trails along the New River, to vineyard tours, fishing spots, and charming local shops downtown. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful relaxation, Deer River Retreat provides the perfect balance of comfort and connection to nature.
Things to Do in Sparta
Thank you for visiting our home in the great city of Sparta, NC.
Nestled in the northwest mountains, Sparta, is a charming escape with kind folks, peaceful vibes, and rolling countryside. Just a short drive from the city, yet it feels worlds away.
Below are some of our favorite local and not so local spots to consider visiting while on your stay.
Eateries Near Deer River Retreat
This is the only option for groceries, but it is a good one. They even have some organic/grass feed options. Open 7 days a week 7am-11pm.
Good Tex Mex food with plenty of Cuban food options as well. Business hours can fluctuate but as of the day of this write up, they are open M-Thur & Sat 10:30am-3pm, Fri 5pm-9pm.
Italian/American fusion. Great burgers, steaks, pastas and pizza. cravesparta.com
Excellent breakfast served all day. I do not believe they have a website, but can be found in Facebook. Business hours may change but as of this write up they are open Tues-Sat 7am-3pm.
Good Mexican restaurant option that you might miss if driving by. More info can be found in Facebook.
A lot of options for pizza and craft beer. Full bar in the back with TV's. spartapizzeria.com
Great food, love the cheese curds, burgers, sandwiches and beer. They have live music, outdoor seating, and a music hall w/Sat night concerts. muddycreekcafe.com
Located at the back of A Touch of Grace, this is an excellent bakery serving breakfast, lunch, and artisanal breads (especially sourdough) and pastries. littleseedsparta.com
Farm to table food. Coffee, baked goods, pastries, breads, sandwiches & beer. They also have pizza night (usually Thurs nights) with several great options. Their hours are M-Sat 7am-5pm & Thurs they stay open until 8pm. You can find more details on them in Facebook.
Great coffee, smoothies, and pastries w/a drive thru window. Hours vary but usually M-Thurs 7am-5pm except for Wed until 1pm and Fri 9am-2pm You can find more details on them in Facebook and Instagram
Mexican restaurant with a very large menu at great prices. Great brand new location towards the end of Main Street. Current hours are Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 12pm-10pm You can find more details on them in Facebook
Wine bar which also serves beer, teas, and light snacks Open Thur 4pm-9pm & Fri-Sat 2pm-9pm You can find more details on them in Facebook
Sparta and Alleghany County's first brewery. Taproom with indoor/outdoor seating available. Live music, games, and pop up food options. You can find more details on them in Facebook or here laconiaaleworks.com
Activities near Deer River Retreat
Just about a 15-minute drive from Deer River Retreat, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views in North Carolina. It’s perfect for a scenic drive, a quiet picnic, or a peaceful hike surrounded by rolling hills and fresh mountain air. Whether you’re chasing fall colors or a summer sunset, the Parkway is a must-see spot during your stay.
Only about 20 minutes from Deer River Retreat, New River State Park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature. You can go tubing, kayaking, or just kick back by the water and take in the mountain scenery. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or a lazy afternoon surrounded by the quiet beauty of the New River.
About 25 minutes from Deer River Retreat, Stone Mountain State Park is a favorite for hiking, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views. You can explore the scenic trails, visit the historic homestead, or just relax and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. It’s a great spot for a day adventure and a true taste of North Carolina’s outdoors.
Just a quick 10-minute drive from Deer River Retreat, Downtown Sparta is full of small-town charm. You’ll find cozy cafés, local shops, and friendly faces everywhere you go. It’s the perfect place to stroll around, grab a bite, and experience the welcoming spirit that makes Sparta so special.
Great little park open to the public with several options for outdoor activities. There is a paved walking trail, basketball court, volleyball court, pickleball court playground equipment for children and restroom facilities. They also have a large outdoor stage with dance area for public music events but it has been under construction for most of 2025. Need to check back on that. Picnic shelters are available for rent and they have a splash pad (mini water park)
Around 10 minutes from Deer River Retreat, the Alleghany Jubilee is a local favorite where live mountain music and dancing bring the community together. Whether you join in on the fun or just watch from the sidelines, it’s a great way to experience Sparta’s lively Appalachian spirit and small-town warmth.
Located about 10 minutes from Deer River Retreat, the Alleghany Historical Museum offers a glimpse into Sparta’s rich mountain heritage. With local artifacts, photographs, and stories from generations past, it’s a charming stop for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and heart of Alleghany County.
Susan
Cary, North Carolina
Very nice place to get away with family. We had fun in the game room and loved the tub. It's hard to find a place that allows dogs and has a fenced in yard. We really appreciated it!
Chelsea
Sarasota, Florida
One of the best Airbnb‘s I’ve ever stayed in, we are already booking a return trip for the scenery and the home, beautiful area!
Ashley
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Hands down - this is the best Airbnb we have ever stayed in! Perfect location and the house is perfect! Cabin feel with the modern touches! Plenty to do, you won’t want to leave the house! Thank you for a great stay - we will be back!
Our Story
When we first discovered Sparta, North Carolina, we weren't just drawn to it's breathtaking mountain views - we fell in love with it's peaceful rhythm, the kind that makes you slow down and savor every sunrise. The winding roads through the Blue Ridge Parkway, the sound of the New River flowing nearby, and the charm of small town life inspired us to create a place where others could feel the same sense of calm and connection.
Deer River Retreat was built from that feeling - a cozy mountain escape designed for comfort, adventure, and the simple joys that make lasting memories. Whether it's sipping coffee on the porch, soaking in the outdoor jacuzzi after a day of exploring, or watching the stars fill the Carolina sky, we wanted to share what made us fall in love with Sparta in the first place: it's beauty, it's stillness, and the way it makes you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Find Deer River Retreat Today
Address
674 Rivers Edge Rd, Sparta, NC 28675, USA