Across the peaks of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and into the foothills of Georgia and South Carolina, “cozy” pairs with adventure and local flavor. In Blowing Rock, The Blowing Rock offers sweeping views above Johns River Gorge and a chance to experience North Carolina’s oldest travel attraction. Farther south, the Blue Ridge charms visitors with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a four-hour ride that follows the Toccoa River through the North Georgia countryside. In Helen, the town’s Bavarian-style village center adds a playful touch, especially during its lively Oktoberfest celebrations. If you’re preparing for your next alpine trip, these Southern towns are well worth a spot on the itinerary.
Highlands is a mountain destination in Western North Carolina with an official elevation of 4,118 feet, making it one of the highest incorporated towns east of the Mississippi River. The town was not founded to cash in on its height, though. It has been known as a golfing destination since golfer Bobby Jones founded the Highlands Country Club, and it’s been attracting fans of the slow-paced game ever since. Highlands now has seven country club communities for its roughly 1,000 year-round residents. Visitors not only get in their steps on the golf course but can also explore a downtown filled with shops like Highland Hiker and Bear Mountain Outfitters for outdoor gear, as well as restaurants and inns such as Old Edwards Inn. Several of downtown’s restaurants, such as Ristorante Paoletti, have won national awards, and numerous buildings, like The Prince House and Highlands Inn, are on the National Register of Historic Places.