Burrowed in the vast foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in northeast Georgia, Sautee Nacoochee is a small town rich in history. Legend has it that the town got its name from two young Native Americans, a Cherokee named Nacoochee and a Chickasaw named Sautee, who tragically fell in love despite a tribal feud. Generations later, the town’s heritage remains a part of its charm.
But it’s more than history that beckons visitors to Sautee Nacoochee. The natural beauty of the North Georgia Mountains abounds, and the town has a diverse cultural community that preserves traditional mountain art forms and explores new applications. From hiking trails to art exhibits to a 138-year-old general store, there is plenty for visitors to do in Sautee Nacoochee.
Don't Miss
SummerFest
The Southeast Tourism Society has ranked SummerFest at the Sautee Nacoochee Center among its list of Top 20 Events in the Southeast at least eight years in a row, says Teri Edgar, arts program director of the Sautee Nacoochee Community Association. This cultural arts event isn't a typical weekend festival — it runs from June 12 until July 25 and brings in thousands of tourists. Outdoor concerts by folk singer/songwriter David Wilcox (June 14) and experimental bluegrass duo Rising Appalachia (June 21) are on tap, as well as “Headwaters” (July 9-25) a song and storytelling performance of Native American and mountain lore. Other SummerFest events include a juried art show, a fine arts and crafts show, artist demonstrations and a children's day camp. Ticket prices vary. 283 Ga. 255 North. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org/summerfest/index.html
Sautee Nacoochee Center
Visual arts exhibitions, live music performances, a history museum and a nature preserve are only a few of the attractions the Sautee Nacoochee Center has to offer. The center's newest attraction is the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia. Visiting the Sautee Nacoochee Center is free. Admission to the Folk Pottery Museum is $5 for adults, $2 for children. 283 Ga. 255 North. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org.
Unicoi State Park
Visitors can canoe, fish, camp, picnic or simply lounge on Unicoi Lake's beach. The 1,050-acre park has 14 miles of hiking trails, and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to take the short hike to popular Anna Ruby Falls, a set of twin waterfalls created by two converging creeks. Cabin rentals, a lodge and campgrounds are available for overnight visitors. Park entrance $5 except on Wednesdays when it’s free. 1788 Ga. 356. 706-878-2201,www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi
Old Sautee Store
The Old Sautee Store, which was built 138 years ago, retains its old-fashioned charm, and stopping by and perusing its shelves is a must. Visitors will find everything from soaps, candles and lotions to a large jewelry display to a wide variety of household items. The shop specializes in Swedish Farmer Cheese -- about 20,000 pounds of this cheese is sold to visitors and nationwide companies annually. Everyone gets a free sample just for stopping by. Visitors also may be tempted by the old country store's candy collection. Open seven days a week. 2315 Ga.17. 706-878-2281, www.oldsauteestore.com
Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards
Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards is the town's newest attraction. The three-year-old vineyard includes two-and-a-half acres of cabernet sauvignon vines, and owners Hue and Jane Rainey buy grapes only from Georgia growers. Just a few miles away in the Nacoochee Crossing section of Sautee, visitors can indulge themselves at the Tasting Room. Every third Saturday of the month, the Raineys host "Swinging in the Vines" at the Tasting Room, where local and regional bands perform. Free visits and sample wine tastings. 1299 Ga. 17, 706-878-1056. www.sauteenacoocheevineyards.com
If You Go
It takes about an hour and 50 minutes to drive from Atlanta to Sautee Nacoochee. From Atlanta, take I-85 North, which turns into I-985 North, for about 55 miles. Take exit 24 toward US-129 North for about 25 miles.
Where to Stay
The Stovall House. Once a Victorian Farm House built in 1837, this B&B allows visitors to relax on the inn's large wrap-around porch. With 26 acres to explore and serene mountain views in the distance, this B&B offers a country experience. $98. 1526 Ga. 255 North, 706-878-3355, www.stovallhouse.com
Sautee Nacoochee Guest House. This B&B, open year round, overlooks the Nacoochee Valley, and visitors can relax and enjoy the country air on multiple outside patios. Breakfast is served every morning, and visitors can enjoy fresco dining daily. $89-$159. 2220 Ga. 17. 706-878-3830, www.letsgotobernies.com
Where to Eat
Nacoochee Village Tavern and Pizzeria. This pizzeria is a mix of a craft-style pizzeria and tavern. In addition to the wide array of made-from-scratch pizzas, such as the Carnivore Pizza, exploding with meat, or the Tree Hugger Pizza for the veggie lovers, the pizzeria offers guests a huge selection of sub sandwiches. A new American craft brewery is featured monthly. Entrees $6-$16. 7275 S. Main St., Helen. 706-878-0199. www.villagetavernpizza.com
Bernie's Restaurant. Serving everything from Maryland-style crab cakes to chicken Piccata to beef tenderloin, this restaurant offers fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. This restaurant is located at the Nacoochee Valley Guest House B&B. Entrees $14.95-$29.95. 2220 Ga. 17. 706-878-3830. www.letsgotobernies.com.
Visitor Information
White County Chamber of Commerce. 706-865-5356, www.whitecountychamber.org.
-- Provided by Demand Studios
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