Robbinsville, North Carolina
End of the Line
June 2024
Article and featured photo Polly Dean
On the banks of the Cheoah River in Robbinsville, North Carolina, the Tapoco Tavern at the Tapoco Lodge is truly a destination. Outdoor adventurers, gearheads and nature enthusiasts have been coming here since 1930. The Tail of the Dragon, an 11-mile drive with 318 curves and the favorite destination for motorcycles and sports car enthusiasts who come to brave the tight turns are also attracted to this area of the Smoky Mountains.
I discovered this was a favorite destination of a number of my friends when I posted pictures of this scenic watering hole after riding past it while fishing elsewhere on the Cheoah River the previous day. It looked to be a place we needed to return, and we are glad we made the effort to do so.
Water on the Cheoah was being released from Santeetlah Lake upstream and flowing furiously alongside deck of the tavern. It was quite different from the calm low water we were wading the day prior. Whitewater kayakers were taking advantage of the swift water and the outdoor patio of Tapoco Tavern provided the perfect vantage for watching these daring men and women maneuver their vessels through the rapids. The weather was sunny and beautiful and I could see that this was a place to spend the afternoon sipping a cocktail and enjoying a meal while being entertained by the kayakers.
Tavern hours are every day from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. They will seat guests until 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. The menu has a wide selection of mouth-watering appetizers, soups and salads, burgers, pizzas, house specialties and desserts. Drink options include a selection of draft, bottle and canned beers, wines and hand-made cocktails.
Though the tavern provides plenty of reason for a visit, those that wish to explore the area more have the option to stay in Tapoco Lodge or their cabins. They describe the accommodations as having a rustic charm with modern comfort.
The lodge offers guests the choice of three spacious suites or rooms with a king-sized bed and offering a view of either the rushing Cheoah River or the Yellowhammer Mountains. Spa services such as massages and facials are offered in the privacy of your rooms as well.
Rooms do not have television, and due to the historic nature of the property, children are not allowed in the lodge rooms. A couple of homes offsite are suitable for larger groups are offered on the Cheoah River are also offered for availability. For more details on the accommodations or the tavern visit their website.
