Buckhorn Inn, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Where it is

The inn lies on a quiet country road near Gatlinburg's Arts & Crafts Community, a loop of Appalachian makers' studios and galleries. The national park entrance is a short drive, and Knoxville airport is about an hour.

The Smokies are among the oldest mountains on earth, famous for their misty blue ridges, ancient forests, black bears and wildflowers, and you can enjoy them by day and retreat to peace at night.

Rooms and cottages

Rooms are spread between the main lodge, cottages and guest houses among the trees. Expect a comfortable traditional style, king-size beds and walk-in showers, with jacuzzis and fireplaces in some, and many with mountain views. The cottages give extra privacy for a longer stay.

Food and the rest

Food is a big part of the appeal: a hearty breakfast and good dinners in a dining room facing the mountains. The owners live on site as hands-on innkeepers, so the welcome is personal. There is a woodland walking trail, a pond and a lounge and library for quiet evenings.

The moment

A spring morning walk in the national park among wildflowers and waterfalls, then back to the inn for a rocking chair on the porch as the evening haze settles blue over the ridges.

Why we chose it

Buckhorn Inn offers the Smokies without the neon, with real character and kindness at a reasonable price. It is traditional rather than trendy, which is exactly its charm.

Add Box Canyon Lodge in Colorado or Sundance in Utah to a wider American road trip.

When to go

The inn is open all year. Spring, from April to May, brings some of North America's richest wildflower displays. October is peak autumn colour and the busiest time, so book well ahead or aim for early November. Summer is warm and green but busy with family holidays in the park; winter is quiet and often good value.

The longer stay

Three or four nights lets you drive the Newfound Gap road, walk to waterfalls, explore Cades Cove at dawn and browse the craft studios. Combine it with Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway for a week in the Appalachians.