Sometimes the most memorable getaways come from overlooked, lesser traveled destinations. These "unknowns," if you will, tend to surprise the most astute traveler by offering plenty to be explored and discovered.
One such destination is Hiawassee, Georgia in Towns County. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and nestled around Lake Chatuge, the Southern Highroads Trail runs through the town. Travelers are drawn to this area to unplug, unwind and just enjoy the simple aspect of being. But don't confuse all of that with being bored, because that won't happen here.
Whether it's an overnight jaunt or a weekend getaway, you'll quickly find out why Hiawassee is referred to as the "Enchanted Valley."
With over half of the county's acreage within the Chattahoochee National Forest and another good portion surrounding Lake Chatuge, Hiawassee appeals to every level of outdoor enthusiast. If that's you, the town will soon become one of your go-to destinations in the state, if not in the South. The Appalachian Trail runs through the eastern portion of the county, and there are access points along the way. For those wanting to hike on a smaller scale, there are plenty hiking trails in the area. Some of these even lead to waterfalls. About five miles from downtown Hiawassee, in North Carolina, there is the Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area with Jackrabbit Mountain Trail and the 13-mile Jackrabbit Mountain Biking Trail.
Created by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in the 1940s, Lake Chatuge, bordering both Georgia and North Carolina, is considered to be one of most scenic lakes in the TVA reservoir system. To fully appreciate it (and the mountains), take a walk over the dam for a view you won't forget. With over 130 miles of shoreline, there are many ways you can play on and in Lake Chatuge. Rent a pontoon boat or a wakeboard from Boundary Waters Resort & Marina (107 Boundary Waters Dr., Hiawassee. 706-896-2530, boundarywatersresort.com/boat-rentals). Boundary also offers kayak, canoe and SUP rentals. Jet ski rentals are available through Mountain Water Sports (1374 US Highway 76 W, Hiawassee. 706-435-0697, mountainwatersports.com). For something more relaxing, take a guided SUP tour with Southern Water Trails (6 Veggie Stand Dr., Hiawassee. 706-970-9053, southernwatertrails.com).
The lake and the nearby rivers are also known for being one of the best fishing spots in the state. Over 30 species are freshwater fish waiting to be caught. Seek out an outfitter to take you to the best areas.
Try your hand at pickleball at the Towns County Pickleball Complex (800 U.S. Highway 76, Hiawassee. 706-994-9105, wjhall3.wixsite.com/ga-mt-pickleball). If you are unsure what pickleball is, the sport is best described as a combination of badminton, tennis and table tennis. It can be played as singles or doubles.
If you are looking to stay on land or just take a break from the water, check out the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds (1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. 706-869-4191, georgiamountainfairgrounds.com). Best known as the site of the annual Georgia Mountain Fair held in July, there are other things to do and see here as well. If you like history, visit the historic Pioneer Village, which highlights old-time mountain life with its historic structures and during special events, skills from yesteryear. The Anderson Music Hall hosts various live entertainment, so definitely keep a watch on the calendar for information on upcoming performances. The Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens is open year-round, and houses one of the largest collections of hybrid rhododendrons in the state. Come back to see them in bloom from April to May.
Of course, your visit isn't complete without a stop at ArtWorks Gallery and Gifts (232-B Chatuge Way, Hiawassee. 706-896-0932, artworksgalleryga.com) for that something special you can't live without. Before you make your final decision on where to eat in town or nearby Young Harris, pop in the tasting room at Hightower Creek Vineyards (7150 Canaan Drive, Hiawassee. 706-896-8963, hightowercreekvineyards.com) to sample their wines.
Accommodations run the gamut from resorts to bed-and-breakfasts to cabins and more.
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