We spent the past weekend showing our friends around our sweet little hometown of Hiawassee, GA. There’s really nothing like being a tourist in your own town. If you’ve never been, there are some hidden gems that you MUST know about! Here’s a peak into our weekend (plus some):
STAY:
- Brasstown Valley Resort + Spa – the ultimate resort experience complete with two restaurants, onsite bars, a pool and a beautiful spa with luxurious amenities
- Air Bnb – if you’re looking for a cute space to have to yourself with a mountain view, Air Bnb is your best bet. Here’s a list of our top picks in and around Hiawassee!
- Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds – located in the heart of Hiawassee on Lake Chatuge, this is the best spot for camping 🏕
SEE:
- Lake Chatuge – this is an obvious one, but for real if you’re visiting HIA, you can’t not take a cruise on Lake Chatuge! We recommend renting a boat or jet ski from a local watersports store
- Bell Mountain – the rugged mountain top with graffitied rocks & an observation deck providing panoramic views. Bell Mountain is newly paved and doesn’t even involve a hike, so it’s easily accessible for anyone to see 360 views of Hiawassee. Pro Tip: go for the sunrise or sunset! Address: 220 Shake Rag Rd, Hiawassee, GA 30546
- High Shoals Falls – if you want to go chasing waterfalls, High Shoals Falls is a moderate, 2.5 round trip hike and it’s pet friendly
SHOP:
- North and Main Clothing – the CUTEST boutique where you can find all of the trends; even if you aren’t into shopping, they have the best Instagrammable wall murals (and you know we’re soooo here for that 🤩)
- Trailful – this is the go-to place for all of your outdoor + camping gear if you’re planning to do the real hiking thing
SIP:
- Crane Creek Vineyards – not only is the wine delish, but the mountain view that the vineyard offers is like no other. Pro Tip: bring your own charcuterie
- Hiawassee Brew – if beer is more your thing, Hiawassee Brew has a great selection of local craft beer plus live music almost every night!
- Aqua Tiki – this fun boating service is bringing island vibes to our little mountain town; if you’re looking for an easy way to get out on the lake (without having to drive the boat yourself) this a great option! PLUS they offer complimentary beer + wine onboard –Pro Tip: make an evening reservation so you can enjoy the sunset on the lake!
- Bacchus Wine Shop & Beer Growlers – if you’re planning a night in, this is our go-to for local beer and wine pick up
SNACK:
- Happy Hawg – our FAVORITE bbq restaurant in the area; nestled in a tiny building on the side of the road, this place is hands down the best place for a quick lunch
- Paris and Company (located on the property of Crane Creek Vineyards) – if you’re a brunch lover, this is the place; sip on mimosas and have some of the best food with a view. Pro Tip: make a reservation and request a seat on the patio!
- Brothers Restaurant – if you’re craving a true southern food experience, Brothers is a great option. They recently remodeled and now have a full service bar if you’re into that!
- The Copper Door – if you’re feeling fancy, we recommend traveling about 20 minutes across the North Carolina state line to a crowd favorite. Located in the small downtown area of Hayesville, you’ll find The Copper Door offering delicious entrees (and dessert – seriously, don’t skip the dessert) on a finer scale; it’s a great place to celebrate a birthday or anniversary!
The next time you plan a trip to the North Georgia Mountains, make sure Hiawassee is on your list of places to stop (or stay) for a day or two.