Welcome, Storytellers!
A Place for Connection, Craft, and Renewal
From October 4-8, 2026, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center is honored to serve as the home base for the Society of American Travel Writers Annual Convention.
As the air turns crisp and the Blue Ridge Mountains begin their vibrant autumn transformation, we invite you to a setting designed for both professional growth and personal restoration. Here, “lake time” governs the pace, allowing you to move from high-level professional development to quiet reflection by the water’s edge in a single breath.
Historic Venues, Modern Inspiration
Experience a “renewal of mind” within our historic lakeside venues. The Stuart Auditorium and our dedicated meeting spaces offer an atmosphere of timelessness that inspires deep focus and creative clarity. Whether you are attending a keynote session or a networking breakout, you will find that our facilities provide a sanctuary for the exchange of ideas and the sharpening of your craft.
Panoramic Vistas & Peak Experiences
Located in the heart of the Haywood County mountains, Lake Junaluska offers panoramic views of the water framed by the peaks of the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains.
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The Blue Ridge Parkway: Just a short drive from our gates, North Carolina’s most iconic scenic drive awaits, offering endless inspiration for your next travel narrative.
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Autumn at the Lake: October brings a glorious display of color to our grounds. Take a morning stroll along the Rose Walk or find a quiet bench to watch the mist rise off the lake before the day’s sessions begin.
Appalachian Hospitality
Our commitment to hospitality is rooted in a desire to see every guest leave feeling more whole than when they arrived. Between sessions, explore the vibrant culture of our neighboring small towns—Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Canton, and Clyde—and discover the authentic culinary and artistic spirit of Western North Carolina.
