Hiawassee, Georgia, is a small town two hours north of Atlanta and near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Although it is home to only 800 residents, this Georgia town and its neighbors offer a number of interesting activities throughout the year.
The Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens, located on the same property as the Georgia State Fairgrounds, has one of the largest collections of hybrid rhododendrons in the state of Georgia. The gardens also offer a view of Lake Chatuge. The prime months for the garden are April and May, but it is open daily, year-round. As of 2011, a suggested donation of $3 is requested to enter the garden.
Crane Creek Vineyards, in the neighboring town of Young Harris, offers wine tastings. Crane Creek runs a full-scale winery that includes a tasting room. Visitors can tour the culinary garden and small apple orchard on the property. The winery is open year-round and tastings begin at $3, as of January 2011. Special events are scheduled throughout the year.
Horseback riding offers a chance to see the mountain ranges, waterfalls, lakes, streams and meadows in this area. Several establishments offer trail rides for all levels of riders. Most offer pony rides for children. As of January 2011, the average rate for an hour of riding was $30.
The Georgia Mountain Fall Festival is one of the most popular yearly events in Hiawassee, Georgia, and is held every October at the Georgia State Fairgrounds. The nine-day festival combines a crafts fair, food, nightly musical performances from artists such as Crystal Gayle and the official state Fiddlers' Convention. Attendees can also visit Pioneer Village, which approximates mountain life in the 19th century. Ticket prices are subject to change, but, as of early 2011, were $9 for adults and free for children under 10.
Lake Chatuge, near Hiawassee, offers opportunities for motor boating, jet skiing, paddle boating and canoeing. Several full-service companies near the lake rent boats, canoes, kayaks and jet skis by the day or week. The lake is also popular for anglers.
