Visiting Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center in Waynesville NC

Perfect Sunset on Lake Junaluska in Waynesville NC

Ever since spending my boyhood summers on Lake Hartwell in North Georgia, I’ve become a lifelong lover of the myriad beautiful lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Named after early 19th century Cherokee leader Chief Junaluska, Lake Junaluska NC is one of the oldest man-made lakes in North Carolina. The Lake Junaluska Dam on Richland … Read more

The 15 Best Romantic Getaways in the North Georgia Mountains

Romantic Getaways in North Georgia

[Updated December 16, 2023]  Looking for options for romantic getaways in the North Georgia Mountains where you can relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with the one you love? The idyllic landscapes of Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for some of the state’s best romantic getaways. Whether you prefer lazy days cozied up beside the … Read more

The 10 Best Smoky Mountains Hotels to Visit in NC & TN

Best Smoky Mountains Hotels

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg TN, and Pigeon Forge TN are huge vacation destinations complete with theme parks, ski resorts, and other fun attractions. Smoky Mountains Hotels provide a comfortable place to recharge for the next day’s adventures. The southern boundary of GSMNP in North Carolina is the town of Cherokee in the Qualla … Read more

The 10 Best Weekend Getaways in Georgia

Best Weekend Getaways in Georgia

I’ve lived in the state of Georgia for 50+ years now, so it’s safe to say I’ve visited most of the best Georgia vacation spots at least once. When I was a kid, my family’s Georgia vacations were largely limited to campgrounds in Georgia State Parks. But we did spend a memorable weekend hiking 14 … Read more

The 45 Best North Georgia Cabin Rentals

North Georgia Cabins to Rent

[Updated 8/22/23] North Georgia’s mild climate and prime location at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains allows for enjoyable getaways at just about any time of the year.  Spring is great for spotting wildflowers. In summer you can hike to North Georgia waterfalls or take a dip in one of the beautiful lakes. Autumn brings Fall colors and Fall … Read more

The 10 Best Hotels in Ellijay GA & Gilmer County

Hotels in Ellijay Georgia

Although it has a population of less than 2,000 residents, Ellijay GA is the seat of Gilmer County. It’s a town so nice that President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalyn, had a second home there. Ellijay is located about 22 miles north of the southern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, at the confluence of … Read more

The 10 Best Lake Houses in Georgia to Rent

Lake House Rentals Georgia

Growing up in North Georgia, lakes were always a huge part of my summer vacation because my grandparents had one of those homey little cabins on Lake Hartwell.  It was there that I first fell in love with the natural beauty lakes had to offer, from the fascinating wildlife and gorgeous scenic vistas to colorful wildflowers … Read more

The 10 Best Pet Friendly Cabin Rentals in Helen GA

Helen Georgia pet friendly cabins

Of all the lovely places to visit in Georgia, the Bavarian-inspired town of Helen is probably the one we’ve visited the most.  From its charming Alpine architecture, quirky personality, and traditional German restaurants to an array of outdoor attractions (including the 3,166-foot Yonah Mountain and the Appalachian Trail), there’s a lot to love about Helen.  You could … Read more

Visiting Deerwoode Reserve Cabin Rentals in Brevard NC

Adirondack Chairs at Deerwoode Reserve in Brevard NC- Lead Image

We’ve explored nearly 50 different Blue Ridge Mountain towns since we launched this site in 2020. But we’ve probably stayed in less than a dozen hotels during all that time.  Not that there’s anything inherently wrong with hotels, mind you. Many of them offer budget-friendly prices, proximity to popular activities and attractions, and plenty of … Read more

The 15 Best Hotels in Asheville NC to Visit

Asheville Hotels near Biltmore Estate

In the 15+ years we’ve been exploring Blue Ridge Mountain towns, we’ve had a chance to visit many of the best places to stay in Asheville NC. From charming B&Bs and hotels in Downtown Asheville to cabin rentals and historic inns nearby, there are countless options for accommodations around town.  In fact, there are nearly 80 … Read more