Lambuth Inn

This historic inn offers a tranquil escape, distinguished by its stunning lake views and expansive rocking-chair filled porches that invite relaxation. Its unique charm and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for couples seeking a quiet retreat, families looking for a serene environment with outdoor activities, and retreat groups desiring a focused setting. Many guests appreciate the hotel's commitment to cleanliness and the generally friendly demeanor of the staff. To make the most of your stay, consider exploring the numerous dining options in nearby towns, as on-site food services are limited, and be sure to take advantage of the beautiful walking paths around the lake.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the inn's charming public sitting areas and lobbies, which are adorned with antique furnishings and artwork, providing comfortable spaces to relax and socialize. The signature rocking-chair filled porches offer picturesque views of the lake and mountains, perfect for enjoying a quiet moment. While some guests note the presence of elevators, a few found them to be slow. The inn provides Wi-Fi access, and guests can find ice machines and microwaves available on each floor, though not typically in individual rooms. Some rooms are equipped with refrigerators. It is important to note that the pool and miniature golf facilities are located off-site or may be closed for maintenance, which some guests found disappointing.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The inn generally receives high praise for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as immaculate and well-maintained. However, feedback on room size and bathroom size is mixed, with many finding them to be small and somewhat dated, while others found them comfortable and adequate. The beds receive varied reviews, with some guests finding them very comfortable with soft sheets, while others reported them as less comfortable. Some rooms have been noted to have a musty smell or feel damp, and there are occasional reports of ants. Guests frequently mention a lack of sufficient electrical outlets and the absence of in-room coffee makers. Most guests report that there is no daily housekeeping service, requiring guests to request fresh towels and trash removal at the front desk.

Dining & Food Quality
A recurring theme in guest feedback is the limited on-site dining options. The inn does not feature a full restaurant, which means guests often need to leave the property for meals. While coffee is typically available in the lobby during limited morning hours, some guests wished for more extended service or in-room options. Breakfast is often available for purchase at a nearby affiliated hotel, with some guests praising the buffet meal quality, particularly for groups. However, the general consensus is that food and beverage services are not a primary feature of the inn, and there are no vending machines on site.

Location & Accessibility
The inn's location is consistently lauded as a major highlight, perched on a bluff overlooking the serene Lake Junaluska. Guests appreciate the quiet setting and the easy access to a beautiful walking path around the lake, which is perfect for leisurely strolls or more active pursuits. The inn serves as a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty, including the Smoky Mountain National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is also conveniently located near charming towns such as Waynesville, Maggie Valley, and Cherokee. While parking is generally easy and plentiful, some guests noted that spots can be a long walk from the main entrance. A trolley service is available, though its operating schedule may vary.

Staff & Service
The staff at the inn consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Many guests highlight positive interactions, noting that staff members are welcoming and eager to assist with requests. While most experiences with check-in are smooth, a few guests reported slow processes. The staff is generally responsive to issue resolution, such as addressing air conditioning problems. However, some guests expressed dissatisfaction with certain customer service interactions, particularly regarding cancellation policies or isolated instances of unhelpful staff. Despite the policy of no daily housekeeping service, staff are typically accommodating when guests request fresh towels or trash pickup.

Additional Information
The inn is a truly historic property, built in 1921 and having undergone renovations over the years, maintaining much of its original charm and character. It is widely recognized as a religious retreat center, and guests may notice Christian iconography and group activities related to this focus. While the inn's unique ambiance is appreciated, some guests noted challenges for large group events, particularly concerning catering arrangements and the setup of meeting rooms. The property is known for its beautiful Christmas decorations during the holiday season, which many guests find enchanting. Some guests have reported issues with individual room features, such as non-functioning windows or bathroom doors that do not close properly, and a few mentioned the exterior grounds could benefit from more upkeep to address cobwebs and overgrown areas.