Wine and Wildflowers Make Gatlinburg The Perfect Spring Destination
What is on your travel list for spring? Here is your specific guide to EAT, STAY, and PLAY in the Great Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg, Tennessee may have fallen under your radar. However, I have two reasons you should answer the call to action by The Great Smoky Mountains. I will humbly admit Gatlinburg, Tennessee was a sleeper for me. Beyond the fanfare and huge presence of the legendary Dolly Parton I was unsure what to expect from my visit. Fortunately, I was enamored with brilliant southern hospitality and a warm embrace during my visit for the Smoky Mountain Winefest Weekend and the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage. There is gallons of the good stuff (wine) in Gatlinburg and tons of activities that will have you returning seasonally to build a lifetime of memories.
Eat
When all is said and done wine tasting and hiking, then walk a half block from the hotel to the Log Cabin House. The food and service are unparalleled. Seriously, there a tons of dining experiences in walking distance from the hotel, I decided to patronize this establishment three times over my weekend stay. From my first dining experience, it was as if I met an old friend from the moment my server greeted me. Did I mention, the joint has the absolute best hash browns known to man. Take my advice and sprinkle your belly with this delightful southern dish you will not be disappointed.
Stay
Whether you are a solo traveler or with family and friends the convenience of being downtown Gatlinburg is a definite advantage. While the Swiss themed chalets and cottages in the mountains quite tempting, it is best to opt for the convenience of the Courtyard Marriott so that you may drink responsibly. Literally, steps away from the city center you can nestle down and perhaps stumble back to your hotel after dinner and enjoying local attractions. By the way, the indoor and outdoor oversized fireplaces make this hotel cozy, chic, and comfortable for fireside chats with friends to recap the fun of the day.
Play
Smoky Mountain Winefest Weekend
Who is ready to sip wine? We will not twist your arm but the local wineries make it easy to indulge. Wine is about what you love and by far my favorite wine find during this travel excursion was Tennessee Homemade Wines Proper Peach. Considering I’m a Georgia native it is only fitting that I gravitated to the acidic bliss of this beverage. The Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts serves as a cool backdrop for this friendly event paired with delicious local fare. Grab your tickets and get to Smoky Mountains. Click here for more details about Smoky Mountain Winefest Weekend
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
Don’t forget to wear your most comfortable shoes or footwear suitable for hiking in the great outdoors. Porters Creek Trail is phenomenal. While the hike is not arduous the rocks and slippery paths require support to keep your feet firmly planted. The multitude and medley of exotic colors are will have you in heaven. The tour guides are passionate about educating you on the different species of wildflowers which will have you engaged the entire experience. Be sure to fully charge your camera as the flowers make for the most brilliant natural photography. Click here for more details about the Wildflower Pilgrimage
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