By Natasha Chortos, DarkSky
MAGGIE VALLEY, N.C. — Cataloochee Ranch and The Swag, sister Relais & Châteaux properties in Western North Carolina, have officially been designated as DarkSky Approved Lodgings by DarkSky International and are the first to bring the designation to the East Coast. This prestigious recognition reflects the properties’ ongoing dedication to protecting the night sky through sustainable lighting practices while offering guests a one-of-a-kind stargazing experience.
Conveniently located just west of Asheville, both The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch are intentionally secluded on neighboring mountaintops on the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The boutique luxury resorts offer programming intended to connect guests with the surrounding natural environment, including protected land, across a combined 1,075 acres.
Now, as DarkSky Lodging destinations, Cataloochee Ranch and The Swag maintain their commitment to protecting North Carolina’s beauty and, specifically, the dark sky. While already surpassing requirements necessary for certification, both properties will transition remaining outdoor lighting to meet complete DarkSky International standards over the next five years. Immediately upon certification, both properties will implement various dark sky awareness and education moments including printed materials available across property and Experts in Residence programming featuring local dark sky experts.
“We are honored to achieve the DarkSky Approved Lodging certification at Cataloochee Ranch and The Swag,” said Annie and David Colquitt, co-owners of both properties. “The beauty of Western North Carolina is what draws people to this area, and it has always been important for us to preserve that. We look forward to this partnership with DarkSky International and the educational and awe-inspiring moments it will provide our guests.”
Founded in 1933, Cataloochee Ranch was purchased by the Colquitts in 2020. The working cattle ranch reopened in March 2024 after a four-year closure revealing a complete transformation with luxury accommodations and amenities while maintaining the authentic Smoky Mountains spirit of adventure. The destination features a variety of activities for every generation to enjoy, from horseback riding through the Smokies and a three-tiered treetop adventure course to pottery and painting in the art studio, private wine tastings and more.
The Swag, purchased by the Colquitts in 2018 after honeymooning there in 2011, is an intimate, 18-suite boutique resort designed to inspire rest and appreciation for the mountain environment. Amenities include a seasonally inspired spa, private outdoor steam showers, cozy fireplaces in each suite and fine dining in a comfortably casual atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to connect with the Smokies through the Expert in Residence program, featuring those skilled in a variety of relevant areas—a biologist who leads hikes to explore the diversity of plants, a photographer lending expertise to budding outdoor photographers, artisans teaching drawing and painting, and historians tying the present day Smokies to the important past of the national park.
The proximity of both properties to the national park and the owners’ deep appreciation for the land and its history provide a clear path toward protecting the night sky. Beyond admiring the views on their own, guests can learn about the night sky through stargazing sessions on the mountaintop with the Astronomy Club of Asheville and gazing at the view through telescopes on property. Cataloochee Ranch and The Swag plan to expand their efforts with education materials available to guests, investing in their partnership with the Astronomy Club of Asheville, and continuing to adopt sustainable practices to protect the environment and night sky.
About the DarkSky International Lodging Program
Founded in 2023, the DarkSky International Lodging Program sets a new standard in the travel industry, encouraging hospitality companies to actively participate in safeguarding the night from the damaging effects of light pollution while providing their guests with an awe-inspiring and educational experience under pristine dark skies. Learn more.