Mountain homes come with a variety of features, designs and sizes, but there are not many that can enjoy a morning sunrise above the clouds.

For some people, when they think "mountain home" they think about cabins, fueled by Daniel Boone's history in our section of the North Carolina Mountains. But, log homes aren't for everyone. Some find the rustic style too primitive, even with modern conveniences. Others find they tire of too much wood inside.

So if a log cabin isn't your thing, but you dream of the mountain lifestyle offered in the High County of North Carolina with a slower pace and natural beauty, with cool summers and the four seasons, we are offering a home that just might be what you are looking for.

Our offering is a located in Big Tree, just a few minutes from the town of West Jefferson and only a short drive from Boone and Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Big Tree boasts of the highest elevations in Ashe County with phenomenal long-range views. The Big Tree neighborhood has a diverse and inspiring blend of homes on 2+ acres and includes a paved road to the top of the mountain.

The home was designed to take advantage of the magnificent long-range views, privacy and to blend in harmony with nature. Situated on a wooded, private 2-acre tract, it enjoys a clear view of Mt. Jefferson, a protected State Natural Area. In winter, the view is almost a 180 degree view. With a few select trees removed the summer views could be expanded, if desired.

This home, with 3-bedrooms and 2.5-baths, has just over 2600 square feet, plus excellent storage. Custom built for full-time living, the home offers one-floor living, with all but the loft on the main floor. The kitchen is a cook's dream, built to accommodate the needs of the seller, a passionate cook. A perfect home for the retiree for full-time living or a summer home.

As you enter the home, the first thing you notice is the unique flooring in the foyer, which extends into the dining area and kitchen. The seller's nephew is a concrete artist located in Boone, and his special touch is evident throughout the house, from the acid-stained concrete floors to the kitchen and bath sinks and counters, to the backsplash and fireplace surrounds. The concrete adds a decidedly modern feel, yet a touch that is simultaneously old world. The cherry cabinets in the kitchen offer a sleek and unfussy style, with lighted glass fronted cabinets flanking the kitchen, a generous pull-out pantry, and a custom roll-out peninsula for entertaining flexibility. The stainless appliances include a beverage frig, a double oven and a 5-burner gas-range.

Just beyond the kitchen is the owner's favorite spot, the screened porch. Sitting on the porch is like being in your own world, high in the trees, offering the best of mountain life. Though screens aren't needed due to our almost total lack of biting insects, the enclosure creates a three season room that is a clear extension of the living space.

The extraordinary wall of glass in the living room is the grand space, where the view is paramount, and even at night you enjoy the twinkling of lights in the valley below. The two story great room has a wood ceiling, a nice woodsy touch which keeps the space warm. There are 2-fireplaces with one being double-sided to be enjoyed both in the living area and the dining area.

The master suite has a fireplace, plus an alcove holding two built-in twin beds, the perfect spot for grandchildren or reading area, away from it all. Upstairs is a large loft, perfect for overflow guests and would also make a great game room large enough for a pool table or with the two large skylights, an ideal location for a studio. This home also has two comfortable guest rooms, with Jack 'n' Jill bathrooms - 2-half baths connected by a shower.

Located just minutes from the town of West Jefferson, with shops, galleries and restaurants, this home is ideally situated to enjoy small town living. With Convenient access to Hwy 221, this home is less than 30 minutes from Boone and Blowing Rock, where there are more options for dining, shopping and entertainment.