Activities <30 min from the house
Eagle Fork Vineyards
In addition to wine tastings, the vineyard offers live music on Saturday afternoons during warmer months. Guests are allowed to walk the property to see the vines and enjoy a snack at the outdoor tables.
Harrah’s Casino
A 25-30 min drive from the house in Murphy, NC, this is a full casino with sportsbook, poker, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, and slots. On-site restaurants are all very casual and quick service.
Horseback Riding at Chunky Gal Stables
Located at the base of Chunky Gal Mountain, Chunky Gal Stables offers 1 hour, 1 1/2 hour, 2-hour, and 4-hour long guided trail rides through the Nantahala National Forest.
Jackrabbit Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails
A relatively new trail system along the shores and hills beside Lake Chatuge, offering several low-impact biking and hiking trails from 0.5 - 4.6 miles. Trail info is available here and here, and a Yelp listing of local bike rental shops is here.
John C. Campbell Folk School
Located in nearby Brasstown, the famous Folk School campus sits on 270 gorgeous acres which visitors can explore via trails, a Craft Shop, History Center, and concerts.
Lake Chatuge
Just a few miles from the house in Hiawassee, GA is Lake Chatuge. In addition to the recreation area with hiking paths and a playground, there are several locations around the lake offering boat and jet ski rentals:
Walnut Hollow Ranch
A working cattle ranch offering tours and a store where you can purchase fresh, local steaks.
Things to Do
Surrounding Area Activities
Alpine Helen
An alpine village with authentic German food, shops, architecture, and cultural events, this 2 square-mile town is a must-see. Waterfall and trail hikes, ziplining, and river tubing are all available in Helen. The town’s website has all the latest links and event information.
Area Wine Tours
North Georgia and surrounding areas are an up-and-coming wine region, and several companies offer half or full-day guided tours with stops at different area vineyards.
Elite Excursions and Wine Tours
Whitewater Rafting
There are many whitewater rafting and kayaking companies offering guided and unguided trips down the Nantahala River, view the Yelp listing here for updated availability, contact info, and reviews.
Breakfast
Casual and Family-Friendly
Chevelle’s Restaurant & Bar (American)
Firehouse 17 Pizza (Pizza and Italian)
Marina Station (American, lake-front)
Mariolino’s (Italian)
Rib Country (BBQ)
Mid-Range
Brother’s (steak)
Nocturnal Brewing Company (Brewery with gastropub food)
Upscale (reservations needed)
Copper Door (rotating four-course prix fixe menu)
The Crown (gluten-free, craft cocktails, locally-sourced ingredients)