Swallowtail

▲ Swallowtail Safari Tent – A Whimsical Escape

Let the flutter of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail lead you to a place where time slows, laughter flows, and every moment feels touched by a bit of magic.

Nestled beneath a canopy of hardwoods, this vibrant safari tent was designed for two couples or a double date adventure—a cozy retreat for reconnecting with friends, celebrating love, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of the mountains.

Wake to birdsong and golden sunlight filtering through the trees, with color all around you—sunny yellows, warm oranges, and lush greens that echo the joyful energy of the space.

Mornings are best spent with coffee and quiet conversation in the private back sitting nook, while evenings invite hot tub toasts, stories around the fire, and stargazing under magical string lights that sparkle through the trees.

Inside, two king-size suites offer comfort, privacy, and spa-style relaxation, complete with oversized tiled showers and a luxurious soaking tub.

The open-concept layout makes it easy to share meals, memories, or simply unwind in silence. A full kitchen, washer/dryer, Smart TVs, and Wi-Fi bring modern convenience to your forest getaway, while thoughtful touches throughout make it feel like a home built for connection.

The huge private deck offers plenty of space for outdoor dining, lounging, and late-night conversations by the fire pit.

Thanks to a gentle ramp for easier access, Swallowtail is also one of the most wheelchair-friendly tents at Elk Hollow, and it’s the only tent approved for small, intimate events, offering a one-of-a-kind setting for anniversaries, elopements, or memory-making moments.

★ Features at a Glance:

• Whimsical Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly-inspired design
• Vibrant colors with sunny yellows, warm oranges, and lush greens
• Two private king suites perfect for two couples or double dates
• Oversized tiled showers and luxurious soaking tub for spa-style relaxation
• Private back sitting nook with two chairs for intimate conversations
• Huge private deck with hot tub, fire pit, and gas grill
• Wheelchair-friendly ramp for improved accessibility
• Only tent at Elk Hollow approved for small intimate events (with prior approval)
• Full kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops
• Smart TVs, Wi-Fi, and washer/dryer for modern convenience
• Magical string lights twinkling through the trees
• Walkable access to Foxfire and Serengeti safari tents
• Open-concept layout designed for connection and celebration
• Outdoor dining area perfect for al fresco meals
• Just half a mile from Deep Creek entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Year Purchased: 2025

Hi, I’m Jeanetta – your host at Elk Hollow Resort!

Thank you for considering one of our Elk Hollow properties for your Western North Carolina getaway!

After 34 years in the rental industry—and with the steady support of my husband, Mike—I chose to simplify life and pour my heart into building a peaceful, one-of-a-kind retreat in Bryson City, NC.

Just half a mile from the Deep Creek entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Elk Hollow Resort is truly my slice of paradise.

With quiet surroundings, a gentle stream, hardwood trees, and frequent visits from wild turkeys and deer, it’s a place that continuously feeds the soul.

Creating a warm, welcoming guest experience is my top priority.

I want every visitor to feel relaxed, safe, and completely at home—with more to do than they have time for, and more fun than they ever expected!

I’m happiest outdoors and cherish time with my two children, six wonderful grandchildren, and lifelong friends. We’ve made countless special memories in the mountains, and I hope you will too.

Although I love exploring new places, my favorite moments are still found at home—entertaining, connecting, and enjoying the simple joy of time well spent with loved ones.

I can’t wait to welcome you to Elk Hollow!

★ Why Choose Swallowtail Safari Tent?

If you’re craving adventure without sacrificing comfort, Swallowtail is your perfect basecamp. Hike waterfalls by day, toast marshmallows under starry skies by night, then retreat to a tent that’s anything but rustic. With two private king suites, a hot tub, soaking tub, full kitchen, and a fire pit, it’s designed for two couples ready to trade the ordinary for something wild, vibrant, and unforgettable.

When you’re traveling with more friends, Serengeti and Foxfire are just a short walk away, making it perfect for group getaways where everyone wants their own space but still wants to gather together.

Planning a bigger celebration? Swallowtail is the only tent at Elk Hollow available for small special events with prior approval, making it the perfect place to celebrate love, life, and big moments in an intimate mountain setting.

● Important Policies & Rate Notes

• A $650 security hold is required 2 days before arrival and will be released 2 days after checkout. This helps us maintain a peaceful environment by discouraging unauthorized pets and parties and ensures our housekeeping team has the time needed to prepare your stay to the highest standards.
• No pets, including Emotional Support Animals.
• No children and no indoor smoking permitted (see special
• Polar Express season policy below).
• 24/7 exterior video surveillance is used for guest safety and property protection.
• Special events must be arranged in advance with prior approval.
• Additional accommodations may be required and must be booked at the time of scheduling.

Polar Express & Holiday Season Child Policy

During the Polar Express season with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) and other major holidays, we’re happy to be a bit more flexible with our standard child policy.

While very young children are not permitted in or near our romantic Safari Tents—due to limited soundproofing and our goal of preserving a peaceful atmosphere for all guests—we do our best to welcome older, well-behaved children, especially when your group is reserving multiple nearby tents.

If you’re planning a family or group getaway and would like to stay close together, please reach out before booking. We’re happy to explore the options and help you plan a stay that’s enjoyable for everyone.

★ Unique Benefits of the Swallowtail Safari Tent

• Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Theme – Vibrant butterfly-inspired design with joyful yellows, oranges, and greens creating a whimsical, uplifting atmosphere.
• Perfect for Two Couples – Two spacious king suites make it ideal for double dates, adult getaways, or couples traveling together.
• Only Event-Approved Tent – The only unit at Elk Hollow that can host small, intimate celebrations like anniversaries or elopements (with prior approval).
• Wheelchair-Friendly Access – Features a ramp and wide, open layout for improved accessibility without sacrificing style or space.
• Private Back Sitting Nook – Intimate two-chair retreat perfect for morning coffee, quiet conversations, or peaceful moments together.
• Spa-Style Luxury – Indoor soaking tub plus oversized tiled showers for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Group-Friendly Location – Walkable to Foxfire and Serengeti, ideal for groups traveling together who want both proximity and privacy.
• Celebration Central – Designed for connection with huge deck, multiple entertainment areas, and space for memory-making moments.
• Newest Addition – Brand-new safari tent (2025) with the latest amenities and freshest design elements.

Guest Access

• Check-In Made Easy: Guests will enjoy keyless entry for added convenience.
• Your personal access code will be sent 1–2 days before check-in to ensure a smooth arrival.

The Space

Step into a joyful, nature-wrapped retreat where bold color meets quiet comfort. The Swallowtail Safari Tent was designed for two couples looking to reconnect—with each other and with the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

Inside, you’ll find two private king suites, each with spa-style ensuite bathrooms featuring oversized tile showers and a deep soaking tub. The open-concept living space includes a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, Smart TVs, Wi-Fi, and a washer/dryer, blending glamping charm with everyday luxury.

The vibrant design inspired by the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly brings sunny yellows, warm oranges, and lush greens throughout the space, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Thoughtful touches throughout make it feel like a home built for connection, laughter, and making memories.

Step outside onto your expansive private deck, where magical string lights twinkle overhead through the trees. Relax in the hot tub under the stars, gather by the fire pit for s’mores and stories, or enjoy meals at the outdoor dining area with gas grill. A private back sitting nook with two chairs offers a peaceful spot for morning coffee or late-night intimate conversations.

Swallowtail also features a wheelchair-friendly ramp for improved accessibility, and it’s the only tent at Elk Hollow approved for small, intimate events with proper advance arrangements. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a romantic getaway, or chasing quiet moments in the woods, this space invites you to slow down, laugh more, and soak up every moment of your mountain escape.

◉ Swallowtail Safari Tent – Key Amenities

• Whimsical Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly-inspired design
• Two private king suites with spa-style ensuite bathrooms
• Oversized tiled showers and luxurious soaking tub
• Vibrant colors with sunny yellows, warm oranges, and lush greens
• Private back sitting nook with two chairs for intimate conversations
• Huge private deck with hot tub, fire pit, and outdoor dining area
• Wheelchair-friendly ramp for improved accessibility
• Only tent approved for small intimate events (with prior approval)
• Full kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops
• Smart TVs, Wi-Fi, and washer/dryer for modern convenience
• Magical string lights twinkling through the trees
• Gas grill and outdoor dining area for al fresco meals
• Walkable access to Foxfire and Serengeti safari tents
• Open-concept layout designed for connection and celebration
• Just half a mile from Deep Creek entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location Description

Tucked in the peaceful woods of Elk Hollow Resort, the Swallowtail Safari Tent is just half a mile from the Deep Creek entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—home to the famous Waterfall Loop, where you can hike to Juney Whank, Tom Branch, and Indian Creek Falls all in one scenic 2.4-mile trail.

▲ Things to Do Near Swallowtail Safari Tent

~ Deep Creek Waterfall Loop (5 min away)
Hike the famous 2.4-mile loop featuring three picturesque waterfalls: Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Indian Creek Falls. In warmer months, float lazily down the creek on a tube or explore the forest on horseback.

● Downtown Bryson City Adventures
Take a short drive into downtown Bryson City, where you’ll find charming shops, microbreweries, and local eateries serving everything from burgers to upscale Southern fare.

◉ Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The town is home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, offering scenic rides and seasonal excursions like the magical Polar Express.

~ Nantahala Outdoor Center
Adrenaline seekers can head to the Nantahala Outdoor Center for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining adventures.

▲ Mountain Adventures
Explore nearby Fontana Lake, Tsali mountain bike trails, and stretches of the Appalachian Trail for endless outdoor opportunities.

◇ Road to Nowhere
Drive six miles on the mysterious “Road to Nowhere” that leads to a 1,000-foot tunnel—perfect for exploration on any weather day.

~ Water Activities
Enjoy tubing down Deep Creek’s cool waters, swimming in designated swimming holes, or casting a line in well-stocked streams known for trout fishing.

◉ Cherokee & Oconaluftee
Experience “Unto These Hills” outdoor drama, visit Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, or spot elk at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

◇ Tail of the Dragon
For driving enthusiasts: 318 curves in 11 miles—a famous road attracting motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts from around the globe.

◉ Day Trip Adventures
Visit Cataloochee Ski Resort, tour the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, or take Highway 441 through Newfound Gap to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for entertainment, shows, and Dollywood.

Getting Around

• Guests will need a vehicle to access the property and explore the area.
• Asheville Airport (AVL) is the closest airport, located 51 miles away.
• Note: Whether you’re here to hike, fish, paddle, shop, or simply unwind, Swallowtail places you close to it all—while still feeling like a secluded mountain hideaway where you can unplug, reconnect, and breathe in the wild beauty of the Smokies. With walkable access to Foxfire and Serengeti, it’s perfect for group celebrations and memory-making moments!