Most people think about rustic cabin getaways when the winter chill sets in.
Videos by TravelAwaits
After all, what’s cozier than cuddling up with a loved one by a fire while watching the snow fall outside?
Assuming you can find a solution for the mosquitos, I think cuddling up on a porch swing and watching the sunset over the water is a pretty close second.
Cabins on the water offer all the comfort and familiarity of home, while also taking you closer to nature and further from your stresses. In other words, you don’t always need a big fancy vacation to get you out of a funk.
You might just need a cabin rental on the water.
And if you’re living near Tennessee, I’ve got a few suggestions for you. Below are some of the top-rated cabin rentals on the water in the state, from high-design A-Frames to bird’s-eye-view cabins.
Coalmont Cabin
Coalmont, Tennessee
This 4-acre waterfront retreat looks like a summer dream.
Not only are you located right on the water of a small, private lake, but you’re also nestled in the South Cumberland Mountains.
The cabin’s interior is beautifully decorated with all the essentials, while the outdoor area also has everything you’ll need for a quality vacation—from zip lines to a large fire pit. Even the lighting is perfect, designed to let you celebrate the sweet summer with loved ones outside.
*If you’re on the hunt for something slightly smaller, check out the newly opened Coalmont Cove. It’s run by the same group and located on the same 4-acre stretch of property. (Honestly, the cove might be my favorite… it looks like it’s straight out of a design magazine.)
The Olivier Lakehouse
If you’re into hiking through the forest and reclining by the lakeside, then you’ll love being nestled in the Chickasaw State Forest at the Olivier Lakehouse. You’ve got 38 acres all to yourself—and plenty to do outside.
The property comes with canoes, kayaks, and even a spare lake. While you enjoy the outdoors, you might even run into Olivier himself. Olivier is the eldest (and a beloved) Muscovy duck who lives on the lake.
Entire cabin in Sevierville
Embrace the lime-green paint job—you won’t be disappointed. Though I can’t nail down what the owners were going for with the paint color, I can tell you that this A-Frame has everything you need for a great lakefront getaway… and more.
The interior is updated with modern amenities and features. But outside, you have your own dock, paddleboat, porch, fire pit, and—just for good measure—another sharing patio that overlooks the water. As an added bonus, the lake is fully stocked and private—ready for all-day fishing excursions.
Bonus points: Sevierville is a great choice for Tennessee vacationers.
Stayframe Designer Getaway
What’s better than a cabin on the lake? A designer cabin on the lake.
In case you don’t know, a designer stay is one that was decorated by a professional. They likely curated a mood using some of the best brand names in the industry. If that’s not your thing, then stick to another rental on this list.
But if you do have an appreciation for freestanding tubs, designer cookware, perfectly worn leather couches, and curvaceous candelabras, then look no further. Stayframe is here to steal your soul.
Luxury Lakefront Bungalow
This bungalow is tiny but beautifully appointed, meaning you won’t notice the lack of space—especially not with large windows overlooking the lake outside.
This isn’t the most private stay, as you’ll be sharing the catch-and-release lake. But you’ve also got tons of hiking and natural scenery to soak up nearby, plus a porch and fire pit meant for soaking up the sunset.
Bonus: Solace Sphere
No, it’s not a cabin on the water. It’s a dome in the woods. Still, it’s located a short walk from Central Hill Lake—and I promise the uniqueness of the elevated dome is worth checking out.
From the outside, you’ll be stunned by how seamlessly the modern dome fits into the healthy green forest. On the inside, you’ll be stunned by plenty of natural light and light wood furnishings.
Did I mention there’s a huge outdoor patio, a breathtaking sauna, and a solid BBQ grill setup?
