Nottely Lake is where we got engaged! It's our favorite place to kayak and hike around. Nottely Marina offers boat, jetski, paddle board, and kayak rentals. If you would like to go for a hike around the lake, go to the Nottely Reservoir Trail located just past the Nottely Dam.
Lake Chatuge is another beautiful lake located in Hiawassee, about 20 minutes away from where we live. There is a large inflatable water park for kids, as well as several restaurants, bars, and shops in the area. There is also a marina at this lake that offers boat rentals (they are a little more in cost compared to Lake Nottely rentals). While you're in this area, make sure to visit Bell Mountain for a breathtaking view of the area!
Bell Mountain is the best view in GA! It is located in Hiawassee, about 20 minutes from our house. From here, you can see 360 views of the mountains and an arial view of Lake Chatuge. Once you're on Shake Rag Rd, follow the signs all the way to the parking lot at the very top. Please keep in mind that the drive up is very steep and narrow, so please drive with caution.
Vogel Park is where we fell in love! There is a small lake, where you can rent kayaks or pedal boats, or just chill on the beach. To visit the beautiful waterfall, walk around to the backside of the lake and go down the trail less than 1/4 mile.
For the more adventurous and advanced guests, wander up Blood Mountain to the southern tip of the Appalachian Trail! This store is the only crossing on the Appalachian Trail where the trail goes through a building. 1,000 mile views and plenty of wildlife. May require some hiking gear.
One of the many wineries in the area! This is the closest winery to our house. Be sure to visit The Farmhouse Market on the property for local cheeses, jams, and other snacks!
Another excellent winery in the area! Live music and food trucks are typically here every weekend.
One of the many golf courses in the area! Central to downtown Blairsville. Beautiful views with a bar and grill located inside the club house. Challenging but fun course!
Another gorgeous golf course in the area! Long, wide open, and affordable.
A cute little country plaza with a moonshine distillery, shops, and tubing on the river! Roadside Distillery offers free moonshine, whiskey, and vodka tastings. Be sure to grab one of their moonshine slushies while you tube down the river! Go through the country store on the back deck to feed the fish in the river.
This is our go to Mexican restaurant in the area! Delicious tacos and margaritas.
Great steak and seafood! Must try the Drunken Mushrooms. Rustic vibe and slightly more upscale
Our go to restaurant for more upscale yet affordable Italian cuisine! Located in the square of downtown Blairsville.
Cute little restaurant with amazing Cuban food! Owned and operated by a sweet wife and husband from Cuba.
Our go to bar in the area if you're just wanting to chill and drink! Located in Hiawassee across the street from Lake Chatuge. Sit around the fire pit or play corn hole in the sand! There is typically live music every weekend.