This review gives a full, practical look at 270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin so you can decide if it fits your next Gatlinburg getaway.

Quick Facts at a Glance

Feature	Details
Name	270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin
Size	1,728 ft²
Bedrooms / Baths	3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Sleeps	Up to 8
Beds	Primary: king; Second: queen; Third: queen + sofa bed
Kitchen	Fully equipped (dishwasher, microwave, toaster, coffee/tea maker)
Living Area	Fireplace, cable TV, free high-speed Wi‑Fi
Outdoor	Hot tub, BBQ
Conveniences	A/C, washing machine, ironing facilities, private parking
Location	Minutes from downtown Gatlinburg
Distances	Ripley’s Aquarium ≈ 3.7 mi; Ober Gatlinburg ≈ 4.3 mi; Dollywood ≈ 11 mi; McGhee Tyson Airport ≈ 45 mi
Policies	Non-smoking, no pets; guest must be 25+ with photo ID and credit card at check-in
Management	RedAwning Vacation Rentals (24/7 guest support)
Guest Rating	9.7 overall (high scores for location, cleanliness, comfort, value)

What the Cabin Feels Like When You Arrive

You’ll notice right away that 270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin strikes a balance between modern comfort and classic mountain retreat charm. The exterior and surrounding trees give a sense of privacy without feeling remote—perfect if you want mountain quiet while keeping downtown Gatlinburg easily accessible. The driveway and private parking make unloading straightforward, even if you bring a few vehicles or a trailer.

When you step inside, the living space feels open and welcoming. The fireplace creates a cozy focal point for evenings, and the layout is designed so that groups can gather comfortably without feeling cramped. The design choices are contemporary and functional; you get clean lines, comfortable seating, and practical surfaces that are easy to live with during a family holiday or a friends’ trip.

Layout and Bedroom Details

Primary Bedroom

You’ll find the primary bedroom offers a king bed and is set up for restful nights. The room is sized generously for a cabin, offering space to store luggage and relax. If you’re traveling as a couple, this room will likely be where you spend most of your sleeping time.

Second Bedroom

The second bedroom has a queen bed and is ideal for adults or older kids. It’s suitable for guests who value a traditional bed setup and a quieter sleeping area.

Third Bedroom / Bonus Space

This room is versatile: a queen bed plus a sofa bed expands your sleeping options, making it well-suited for kids, teens, or an extra couple. The added sofa bed makes it flexible for mixed-age groups and keeps your sleeping arrangement comfortable without needing to convert living room furniture each night.

Bathrooms

There are two full bathrooms. For a three-bedroom cabin that sleeps eight, this is practical—especially for morning routines and getting ready for outings. You’ll appreciate that both bathrooms are modern and adequately supplied for group use.

Kitchen and Dining — Cooking, Convenience, Comfort

You’ll have a fully equipped kitchen at your disposal, which is one of the cabin’s strongest practical features. Whether you want to prepare full family meals or just heat up a takeout order, the kitchen gives you everything you need:

• Dishwasher for quick clean-up
• Microwave and toaster for fast breakfasts and snacks
• Coffee/tea maker so mornings get off to a smooth start
• Ample counter space and utensils for home-cooked meals

The dining area is positioned to let you eat together comfortably. If you plan to cook several nights, you’ll find the layout and equipment efficient and user-friendly. Having a dishwasher is especially helpful when you’re hosting a larger group and want to keep the kitchen tidy.

Living Space and Entertainment

You’ll find the living room designed around comfort and simple entertainment:

• A fireplace that enhances atmosphere and warmth on cooler nights
• Cable TV for movies and game nights
• Free high-speed Wi‑Fi so you can stream, work remotely, or keep kids entertained
• Comfortable seating that accommodates the whole group

If you’re planning a mixed itinerary of outdoor activities and time-in, this living area creates a balanced setting for both relaxing and socializing.

Outdoor Features — Hot Tub, BBQ, and Mountain Air

Spending time outdoors at 270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin is one of the top perks. The hot tub is a particularly nice feature—perfect for unwinding after a day out around Gatlinburg or hiking in the Smokies. On clear nights you can sit in the warm water and take in the stars; on cool mornings you can sip coffee on the deck and enjoy the stillness of the woods.

The outdoor BBQ provides a low-fuss option for dinner; grilling is a great way to fuel up before heading into town or coming back from a day at Dollywood. The deck area gives you a private outdoor space where you can eat, play board games, or simply relax.

Location — Convenience Without Crowds

One of the biggest advantages of this cabin is how centrally located it is for Gatlinburg attractions while still feeling tucked into nature:

• You’ll be only minutes from downtown Gatlinburg—meaning you can head into town for dining, attractions, and nightlife, and then return to quiet and privacy.
• Ripley’s Aquarium is roughly 3.7 miles away, a short drive that’s easy with kids.
• Ober Gatlinburg is about 4.3 miles away for skiing, mountain rides, and family fun depending on the season.
• Dollywood is approximately 11 miles—close enough for a full day trip without a long commute.

Being this close to points of interest makes your time more efficient. You’ll spend less time driving and more time enjoying activities or relaxing at the cabin.

Practical Conveniences That Matter

You get several practical perks that make an extended stay comfortable:

• Air conditioning helps keep you cool in summer months.
• A washing machine lets you pack lighter and recharge clothes after hikes or theme park days.
• Ironing facilities are handy if you have work commitments or want to freshen clothing quickly.
• Private parking simplifies logistics if you bring one or more vehicles.

These touches may seem minor, but when you’re staying for several nights or traveling with kids, they make a real difference in convenience and comfort.

Cleanliness, Maintenance, and Guest Ratings

Past guests have rated the cabin very highly, with a 9.7 overall score and top marks for location, cleanliness, comfort, and value. You should expect a clean, well-maintained property on arrival. The management by RedAwning Vacation Rentals and their 24/7 guest support further adds reliability: if anything arises, you can contact support at any hour.

Because cleanliness is consistently praised, you’ll likely find linens, towels, and surfaces well kept. If you have particular cleaning needs or accessibility concerns, contact management so they can address them before arrival.

Rules, Policies, and Check-In Requirements

Make sure you’re clear on these important rules, because they affect booking and check-in:

• Non-smoking property: You can’t smoke inside the cabin or on the property. If you smoke, plan to do so off-site.
• No pets allowed: Leave pets at home or arrange boarding; this cabin won’t accept animals.
• Check-in age: At least one guest must be 25 or older. You’ll need to present a photo ID and credit card at check-in.
• Managed by RedAwning Vacation Rentals: They provide 24/7 support for questions or emergencies.

These policies are fairly standard for higher-rated vacation rentals. Make sure the main guest who books meets the age requirement and brings the necessary ID and card.

Safety and Accessibility Notes

The cabin sits in a mountain setting, so think about the following before arrival:

• Road access may include steep or winding sections, especially in wet or icy weather. If you’re driving from out of state, plan for potentially slower driving times.
• The property has stairs and deck areas—if you or anyone in your group has mobility limitations, confirm accessibility details with management.
• The hot tub is a great amenity, but supervise children and follow any posted safety guidelines.

You’ll want to plan your arrival time and route carefully, particularly in winter months or during peak tourist seasons.

Who This Cabin Is Best For

You’ll find this cabin well-suited to certain types of stays:

• Families: With multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and family-friendly nearby attractions, it’s ideal for families who want a mix of local attractions and downtime.
• Groups of friends: The living space and outdoor areas support group socializing, and nearby nightlife in Gatlinburg is convenient.
• Couples traveling together: If two couples want separate rooms, each couple can have privacy while sharing common spaces.
• Weekenders and longer vacations: Washing machine, dishwasher, and comfortable living areas make longer stays comfortable without constant reliance on dining out or laundry services.

It’s less ideal if you must have pet accommodations or require a totally accessible single-level unit. Also, if you’re looking for a remote backcountry experience, this cabin’s proximity to town means it won’t feel isolated.

A Typical Day at 270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin

Morning:

• You’ll make coffee in the fully equipped kitchen and possibly enjoy it on the deck, listening to birds and the quiet of the woods.
• If you’ve got an early plan to visit Dollywood or Ober Gatlinburg, you’ll be out the door quickly due to the short drive.

Afternoon:

• Return for a light lunch or a quick nap after sightseeing. The living room is ideal for stretching out and recharging.
• If the weather’s nice, barbecue on the deck and relax in the hot tub in the late afternoon.

Evening:

• Gather around the fireplace for conversation or a movie on cable TV. The hot tub is also a great evening activity if you missed it earlier.
• Early nights are peaceful; late nights in town are an easy option when you want more lively dining or entertainment.

Packing Checklist for Your Stay

You’ll want to pack smartly for a comfortable stay. Here’s a checklist tailored to this cabin and the Gatlinburg area:

• Personal ID and credit card for check-in (main guest must be 25+)
• Weather-appropriate clothing: layers for mountain temperatures
• Comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to walk trails
• Swimwear and flip-flops for the hot tub
• Chargers, adapters, and power banks for devices
• Reusable water bottle and daypack for outings
• Any specialty kitchen items you prefer (spices, specialty coffee supplies)
• Toiletries (while basics may be provided, bring your favorites)
• Snacks and groceries for the first day to avoid late arrival shopping
• A flashlight for short evening walks or relaxed deck time
• Child safety items if traveling with toddlers (outlet covers, pack-n-play if needed)

Suggested Local Itineraries

Here are sample itineraries you can use based on your group’s interests.

Family-Friendly Weekend

• Day 1: Arrive, settle in, hot tub and BBQ, early movie night.
• Day 2: Ripley’s Aquarium in the morning, lunch in downtown Gatlinburg, Ober Gatlinburg in the afternoon for rides or winter sports, return for relaxing evening by the fireplace.
• Day 3: Local hiking trail in the morning (e.g., short Smoky Mountains trail), pack up, and head home.

Theme Park Focus

• Day 1: Arrive, grocery run, relax in the cabin.
• Day 2: Full day at Dollywood (≈11 miles), return for hot tub and dinner prepared at the cabin.
• Day 3: Light downtown Gatlinburg activities, souvenir shopping, depart.

Relaxation and Nature

• Day 1: Arrive, hit the hot tub, relax with a BBQ dinner.
• Day 2: Leisurely drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, picnic lunch, scenic viewpoints, return for an evening near the fireplace with board games.
• Day 3: Morning deck coffee, light nature walk, depart.

Pros and Cons — Practical Summary

Pros

• Central location: short drives to Gatlinburg attractions and Dollywood
• Comfortable, modern interior with a fireplace and hot tub
• Fully equipped kitchen and practical conveniences like washer/dryer
• High guest ratings for cleanliness and value
• Private parking and 24/7 management support

Cons

• No pets allowed: not an option for pet owners
• Non-smoking only: smokers must go off-site
• Requires a 25+ guest at check-in with ID and credit card
• Mountain roads may be challenging for some drivers, especially in winter

Booking and Pre-Arrival Tips

• Confirm the primary guest meets the age requirement and has ID and a credit card ready for check-in.
• If you require anything specific (crib, early check-in, accessibility accommodations), contact RedAwning Vacation Rentals ahead of time.
• Check weather forecasts and road conditions, particularly in winter months, so you can prepare chains or alternative routes if necessary.
• Plan grocery pickup or a first-night dinner treat if you’re arriving late—having basics on hand makes first evening smoother.
• Use the 24/7 guest support number if you have questions about directions, keys, or last-minute details.

Cleaning and Housekeeping Expectations

Given the strong cleanliness ratings, you should expect a well-maintained property. Nevertheless, note that most vacation rental setups operate on an “as-is” arrival with linens and initial supplies provided. You’re generally expected to:

• Follow any check-out procedures listed by management
• Dispose of trash in designated areas
• Start dishwasher or run laundry as per instructions if required

Double-check the house manual upon arrival for specific instructions and local disposal rules.

Frequently Asked Questions You Might Have

• Do you need to bring linens or towels?
  • No—linens and towels are typically provided. If you have special requirements, confirm with management.
• Can you host events or parties at the cabin?
  • Most vacation rentals limit large events. Check with RedAwning Vacation Rentals for specific rules about gatherings.
• What is the cancellation policy?
  • Cancellation terms are set at booking; review the reservation terms carefully and consider travel insurance for flexibility.
• Is the hot tub private and how is it maintained?
  • The hot tub is private to the cabin. Maintenance and safety instructions should be supplied in the house manual; contact guest support for issues.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

If you’re looking for a well-located, comfortable, and modern cabin that keeps you close to Gatlinburg’s attractions while giving you private outdoor space, 270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin is a strong choice. You’ll appreciate the balance of conveniences—fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, reliable Wi‑Fi, fireplace, and a hot tub—combined with practical management via RedAwning Vacation Rentals that provides 24/7 support.

For families and groups, the sleeping arrangements and common spaces will serve you well. For couples seeking a shared retreat, the property provides cozy moments and nearby activities without long drives. Just remember the policies on check-in age, no pets, and no smoking, and plan accordingly.

By planning ahead, bringing a few personal comforts, and coordinating arrival details with the property manager, you’ll be set for a memorable stay at 270 Black Bear Retreat Cabin that feels both restful and conveniently connected to everything Gatlinburg offers.