Tucked away in the North Georgia mountains, you'll find one of the most enchanting and beautiful destinations in the state, Young Harris. On your next getaway vacation, check out all that Young Harris has in store.
The town
The small town of Young Harris has a population of only 899, and although the town centers around Young Harris College, it's also surrounded by the some of the most lush mountains and luxurious resorts in the region. Named after Young Harris College, which is located in the center of town, Young Harris not only attracts students and outdoorsy types, but also offers visitors a well-rounded location to enjoy golfing, horseback riding, water sports, vineyards and utter relaxation.
Local attractions
Young Harris College features the Rollins Planetarium, which opens its doors to the public for free star shows on Friday nights. If you look out through the planetarium's observatory, you'll also get a chance to see the surrounding area, including Brasstown Valley Resort.
Not far from town, make sure to visit Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest mountain peak that stands an impressive 4,784 feet above sea level. At the top of the summit, you'll have 360-degree views that allow you to see Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina on a clear day. Take the shuttle to the top if you don't like hiking -- it can get pretty steep along the trail.
All around Young Harris, visitors can find plenty of hiking, biking, rafting, and horseback riding experiences. Its location right in the heart of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest makes Young Harris the ideal spot to take stunning fall photos, enjoy fragrant spring wildflowers and feel the quiet mountain splendor of the Appalachian Mountains.
For the animal lovers out there, stop by Destiny Alpacas where you can interact with some of the many alpacas on site and see where they're raised and sheared for their supple fiber.
As a resort town, Young Harris also offers a wide array of opulent lodging including all the amenities you could ask for, like golfing, wine tasting, spa treatments and dining at many of the resort locations surrounding the town.
Lodging
Brasstown Valley Resort. 6321 U.S. 76, Young Harris. 706-379-4617. www.brasstownvalley.com.
This luxury resort offers championship golf, horseback riding and stables, an unbeatable spa and activities for all ages. If you're coming to Young Harris for business, Brasstown Valley Resort features meeting facilities with all the bells and whistles -- as well as a magnificent view.
Lake Chatuge Lodge. 653 U.S. 76, Hiawassee. 706-896-5253. www.lakechatugelodge.com.
If you're looking for comfort, privacy and a well-rounded mountain retreat, give Lake Chatuge Lodge a try. All rooms include a balcony or a patio to soak in the surrounding wildlife, and is right next to Hamilton Gardens with its gorgeous rhododendrons.
The Ridges Resort and Marina. 3499 U.S. 76, Hiawassee. 706-896-2262. www.www.theridgesresort.com.
For a resort location that also includes water access, The Ridges Resort and Marina sits right on the shores of Lake Chatuge and offers boating, fishing, wakeboarding and rafting right on site. Combine that with amazing accommodations and top-notch amenities and you have the recipe for a vacation to remember.
Dining
Enrico's Italian Restaurant. 687 Main St., Suite 5, Young Harris. 706-379-1950. www.enricositalianrestaurant.com.
Enjoy casual Italian dining right down the street from Young Harris College at this family-friendly restaurant.
Brother's at Willow Ranch. 6223 U.S. 76, Young Harris. 706-379-1272. www.brothersatwillowranch.com.
Experience true Southern hospitality while sampling some of the best BBQ, steaks, seafood and chicken in the area. Conveniently located right in the town of Young Harris.
Chophouse of Hiawassee. 625 U.S. 76, Hiawassee. 706-896-3200. www.murphyschophouse.com.
If you're looking for gourmet cuisine in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, make sure to fit Chophouse of Hiawassee into your itinerary. Chef and owner James Reaux will serve up a delicious array of fresh seafood, steaks and dishes.
Bowl of Asia. 3921 U.S. 76, Young Harris. 706-896-8513. www.bowlofasia.net.
For Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese food, Bowl of Asia provides visitors to Young Harris with the best Asian cuisine around. If you have special dietary needs, make sure to ask for one of its customized dishes or gluten-free options.
Interested in a day of rigorous hiking? Try out the 5 most difficult hiking trails in Georgia.
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