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The best of both worlds

Lakefront holiday home with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for The best of both worlds

Exterior - The best of both worlds (Lake Toxaway)
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, ping pong - The best of both worlds (Lake Toxaway)
Combined shower/bathtub, jetted bath, hair dryer, towels - The best of both worlds (Lake Toxaway)
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, ping pong - The best of both worlds (Lake Toxaway)
Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher - The best of both worlds (Lake Toxaway)
Perched above the shores of idyllic Lake Cardinal, FaBear's Den offers a serene retreat with five-star amenities. Unwind in the luxurious master suite with a waterfall shower and private porch or lounge on the lakeside patio with elevated views of Lake Cardinal. Explore the game room, reading room, or take advantage of lake activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms6 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

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About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The best of both worlds

Experience the best of both worlds at FaBear’s Den, a luxurious retreat that feels like both a mountain lodge and a serene lake house. Perched above the shores of private Lake Cardinal, this beautifully appointed home offers rustic elegance, five-star comfort, and unforgettable views.

The main level features reclaimed barn beams, a stunning primary suite with a spa-like bath and Juliet porch, and a spacious lakeside porch perfect for grilling and dining outdoors. A second porch overlooks the Toxaway River, offering the perfect soundtrack for an afternoon nap.

Downstairs, two inviting bedrooms join a cozy reading room with a hidden queen murphy bed, plus a large game room with a cloud-soft sectional, big-screen TV, and ping-pong table. Upstairs, “The Treehouse” suite wows with lake views, a private porch and hammock, and an oversized spa bathroom. Another charming bedroom, “The Farm,” includes its own bath, sunny deck, and whimsical hidden details.

A short forest trail leads to the lakefront, where a stone patio, fire pit, private dock, and kayak launch await. Enjoy two kayaks, two paddleboards, a canoe, and a lily pad for endless lake fun—or unwind in Adirondack chairs as the sun sets over Lake Cardinal.

Dogs are welcome with prior authorization and fee. Optional access to Lake Toxaway Country Club is available April through November, subject to application and usage fees.

FaBear’s Den is a one-of-a-kind escape where relaxation, adventure, and mountain-lake beauty come together effortlessly.

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Pool/Spa

  • Communal pool
  • Heated pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 5.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Firepit
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Golf
  • Heated pool
  • Kayak
  • Optional golf privileges
  • Snow sports gear
  • Table tennis
  • Tennis
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
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

Property is also known as

The Of Both Worlds Toxaway
2380-225319
The best of both worlds! Lake Toxaway
The best of both worlds! Private vacation home
The best of both worlds! Private vacation home Lake Toxaway

About the area

Map
Lake Toxaway, NC

What's nearby

  • Lake Toxaway - 15 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Lake Jocassee - 33 min drive - 29.8 km
  • Lake Glenville - 35 min drive - 28.4 km
  • Lake Keowee - 42 min drive - 48.6 km
  • Western Carolina University - 49 min drive - 55.1 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Fix - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Grand Olde Station at Lake Toxaway - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Canyon Kitchen - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Casa Amigos - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Panthertown Cafe - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The best of both worlds pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The best of both worlds?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The best of both worlds?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The best of both worlds located?

This family-friendly Lake Toxaway holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 1 mi (2 km) of Nantahala National Forest and Lake Toxaway. Gorges State Park and Pisgah National Forest are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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The best of both worlds Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

jason s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing property! First class architecture and finishes…

Truly magnificent home. All was as expected and very comfortable for large family. Thank you again!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey R.

Peaceful. Relaxing. Remote, yet close to food, shopping and more.

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: A very private home area of the lake cove was enjoyed by all our family members, including plenty of space for all activities. A large screened-in back deck with comfortable seating was perfect for morning coffee and relaxing. The home layout gave each party plenty of privacy yet provided many places for all to be together around the home. We enjoyed the food and many activities in the area. We hope to return and enjoy this home and area again.

10/10 Excellent

nick a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Home in Great Location

Dave was a great host, and this house is beautiful. Dave answered all of my questions and made the check in process simple. The house looks just as good in person as it does in the photos. It is on a large piece of land with a great view of Lake Cardinal. A short walk down the steps, and you have a dock, fire pit, and canoes and kayaks. The house has 4 or 5 decks, most of them screened in. The large deck outside of the living room has a couch, two dining tables, and some chairs. It is a great spot to have lunch or dinner with the family and enjoy a view of the lake. I recommend staying at this house.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Rebecca C., Chapel Hill, NC

FaBears

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Great space for 5 Senior couples, Beds and baths were clean but living area/kitchen had dirty floors. It looked like the house had been closed for the winter and was not vacuumed before our arrival. Sitting on the sofa with the morning sun coming in there was a massive amount of dust uner the TV cabinet and on the desk. You could also see dust and crumbs under the toe kicks in the kitchen.

10/10 Excellent

Julie P., Tampa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay at this beautiful lakefront property

Our group of 4 couples thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautiful lakefront property. All the bedrooms were lovely and had their own bathroom (a must). The beds were extemely comfortable. The views of lovely Lake Cardinal from all the various porches and balconies were stunning and created a peaceful experience for all. The leaves were at their peak ...so gorgeous. The lakefront patio was amazing and we all sat around the firepit each evening. ( A little bit of a hike to the lake but worth the effort) We used all the toys (2 SUP's, 2 Kayaks and 1 canoe) several of the days. Lake Cardinal is so peaceful snd quiet. The property feels secluded but also close to alot of places. We ate at Greystone Inn one night and Canyon Kitchen. We cooked at the house for 2 nights because we wanted to enjoy the property. Kitchen is well equipped and the dining table seats 8. Property management was very responsive. We would highly recommend this house and hope to return.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Julia B.

Fabulous Family Vacation

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: FaBears Den was perfect for our family vacation! We highly recommend the house.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

summer vacation

Rating Details: The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: second season in a row we have stayed at this beautiful home. Beautiful deck for breakfest and evening drinks. My wife and I stayed in the upstairs suite and our son and nanny enjoyed the lower level. Great kitchen and easy lake access. A couple of miner issues fixed quickly by Rachel and her team. Highly recommend!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Chip S., Nashville, USA

Beautiful Home

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Home has a great location on Lake Cardinal.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Steven B.

Wedding Weekend

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was more than happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: The home is beautiful. Great location on North End, a little drive from Club but not bad. There is nothing "wrong" with the property but would suggest a few upgrades. 1) Driveway (paver base did hold), 2) Kitchen Appliance upgrades - especially the cook top and dishwashers. 3) Well water smell in Master Bath upstairs.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lisa H.

An Amazing Memorable Family Vacation

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: This home has everything you need for an unforgettable experience. The design of the home with bedroom and laundry placements, gorgeous kitchen and our most favorite the screened in porch including beautiful dining and grilling.We has all that we needed for water sports off the dock. Our family hiked in the morning and enjoyed the water fun in the afternoon. We are planning to return next year!!

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot!

Beautiful home, gorgeous finishes throughout and lovely lake view. Few maintenance issues (one dishwasher and gas fireplace weren’t working) but didn’t detract from our stay overall! Hope to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

ron f.

FaBears Getaway

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Was fantastic. House is in great condition right on Lake Cardinal. Could not have been nicer!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

summer vacation

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: We had a five star visit from June 6th thru the 30th. The property was far exceeded the web pictures. The three level home was set on a private lot ( no houses visable) with a much better lake view than expected. Home was very clean and very well appointed. So may decks and fireplaces with a very upscale kitchen. Coffee and evening drinks every day on front deck facing the lake. Used the lakefront boats most days and smores in the firepit was great.Everything needed was supplied! Took a day or so to figure out the TVS and a/c but all worked great. Rachel at the rental office was first class from booking to checkout - made everything so easy - really great. An the one or two very minor issues - fixed on a timely basis. A very special home and would love to come back again!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Janet S.

Most fabulous house

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: We loved every minute of it. The house is absolutely beautiful and decorated the same. It is not like staying at a rental, it is like staying in a really high end home. It is a huge house, and we loved being on the lake. You can paddle board, canoe and kayak. The house was very clean, updated, and comfortable. The beds were very comfortable. We spent time at the Greystone Inn, where the atmosphere, food, spa and especially the bar was great. We rented a pontoon at the marina, golfed, and ate at the country club a lot. The management company is wonderful, they bend over backwards to make your stay fabulous. The hiking is the best. There is a beautiful waterfall, a very short hike from the house. We definitely want to go back again. We were eight adults and three small children. Oh, and ping pong in the lower level was lots of fun too. We lived on the front porch overlooking the lake.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jane H.

FaBears

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Perfection!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

FaBulous Place!

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Our family group of eight had the best Thanksgiving vacation at FaBears Den! It is a wonderful home with too many amenities to list. Rachel and Dave with Lake Toxaway Company were awesome to deal with in the planning process. The home provided everything we needed for a stress-free holiday. We stayed four nights. The main level was a great place to hang out and cook, play games at the large dining table, and watch ballgames by the fire. The kitchen was well stocked and had top-notch appliances. We also loved having a den on the lower level with huge TV and pingpong table. The sectional there was sooo comfy! The lower level sitting area with books was a nice bonus too. We discovered a murphy bed there on our last day! (We didn't use it but it was fun to find!) The bedrooms and bathrooms were all comfortable and well-appointed. This home has the BEST outdoor spaces... so many wonderful porches and sitting areas to enjoy! We loved being on Cardinal Lake and the remote feeling but also being close to go have a drink at The Greystone Inn. We enjoyed the fire pit by the lake and even had a couple of sunny days when we took the canoe out. There is great hiking nearby at Gorges. Going into Cashiers is a 30 minute drive but worth it to get food at Cashiers Market and Slab Town Pizza. It was just an overall wonderful trip and we hope to get back soon. Thanks to the Fabers for sharing their lovely home! 5+ Stars!

10/10 Excellent

michael m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great House

The house was everything we wanted. Property Manager was great. Would highly recommend
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021