5 North Carolina Retreats, Country Estates, and Equestrian Living

Down a private bridge on NC Highway 89 E in Walnut Cove, an original log home unfolds across 7.82+/- acres spanning two lots, offering the quiet of a true retreat with town, shopping, and everyday conveniences a short drive away. Hand-hewn logs and evident craftsmanship set a timeless tone throughout. At the center, a dramatic two-sided stone fireplace anchors daily life—wood-burning on the living room side, with a pellet stove facing the opposite side. A step-down living room adds warmth and character, while an open loft connects to a spacious upstairs suite that overlooks the living and dining rooms below. Outside, a recently (mostly) redone porch invites slow mornings and evening unwinding, surrounded by privacy and abundant wildlife. Life here feels grounded, restorative, and deliberately unhurried.

On a quiet circle in Raleigh’s Brier Creek Country Club, this impeccably maintained carriage home looks out to the 7th tee box, with a tranquil sweep of green beyond. Pre-inspected for added peace of mind, the residence has been thoughtfully updated and lovingly cared for over the years, creating an easy sense of confidence from the moment you arrive. Inside, multiple living spaces bring welcome flexibility: a spacious living room for everyday lounging, an inviting sunroom that draws you toward the view, and an expansive loft suited to everything from working at home to hosting overnight guests. Even simple routines feel elevated here—especially with a built-in sound system that sets the tone for relaxed evenings and unhurried weekends, framed by the calm rhythm of the course outside.

Set on 1.8 acres in Pollocksville, 362 Lees Chapel Road unfolds as a country estate with the scale and versatility of an owner-occupied bed and breakfast. A two-story foyer makes an immediate impression, centered by a fountain and anchored by a stone-faced, two-sided fireplace shared with the multipurpose room. Nearby, the dining room and kitchen have hosted catered events for up to 75 guests, while separate owner’s quarters on the main level include a private living room with its own fireplace and an owner’s suite with a spacious walk-in closet and Roman-style bath with a jetted soaking tub. Upstairs, three rentable rooms offer private baths, joined by an efficiency apartment with its own bedroom, living room, kitchen, and jetted-tub room, plus decks for quiet country pauses. Outdoors: wired garages and sheds, two open gazebos, a fenced backyard, RV outlet, and a wired emergency generator.

On a residential stretch in Franklin, this builder’s personal home is designed to capture light, views, and livability. Expansive windows flood the interior with natural light while framing the surrounding scenery, and the main living areas feel open and bright with an easy connection to the outdoors. Quality finishes and careful attention to detail carry throughout a comfortable, functional layout suited to everyday routines as well as entertaining. A spacious kitchen and inviting living spaces create a natural hub for gathering, while the primary suite offers a quiet retreat. With three bedrooms and three baths, the additional rooms provide flexibility for guests, work-from-home needs, or hobbies. Downstairs, a double garage adds storage and convenience, complemented by a paved driveway. A detached 2-car garage with water and electricity opens up options for a workshop, studio, or extra vehicle storage.

Size: 2.00 acres

From its elevated setting in Bostic’s premier equestrian subdivision, 157 Cherry Ridge Drive pairs a turn-key horse property with over four acres of entirely open, usable pasture land. The updated residence is thoughtfully planned for every stage of life, offering excellent wheelchair accessibility throughout, three bedrooms and four bathrooms, plus two large flex spaces. Light moves easily through the main level, where a spacious primary suite and a bright, year-round enclosed sunroom look out to professionally designed, mature landscaping. Recent capital improvements include a brand-new roof, high-efficiency windows, and newly upgraded exterior doors backed by a lifetime warranty, along with a fully integrated SimpliSafe security system that transfers to the new owner. Two detached structures add versatility: a single-story two-car garage with an adjacent finished guest room/flex space and full bath, plus a large detached workshop suited to horse trailer, boat, or equipment storage. Community amenities include a riding arena and stocked fishing pond, rounding out a pastoral daily rhythm.