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The Inside Scoop on
Gatlinburg
by
Danielle Thorne
Settled along the northern
boundaries of The Great Smoky
Mountain National Park, Gatlinburg,
Tennessee attracts nature lovers,
families and honeymooners with its
choice location and magnificent
vistas. This popular weekend retreat
is famous for authentic cabins and
alpine chalets nestled atop lush
ridges of the Smoky Mountains.
Along the Gatlinburg Parkway (or US
441), are found all the shopping and
dining experiences that tourists
crave. Stroll through cobblestone
plazas and watch through plate glass
windows as candy makers pull taffy.
Stop by an authentic candle shop and
watch craftsmen dip and carve
magnificent candles by hand in just
minutes. Other stores showcase local
art and craftsmanship, rich in the
area's Cherokee and Appalachian
heritage.
Located on and off the Parkway are a
number of hotels that provide
accommodations and a variety of
packages for families, seniors, and
newlyweds. It is practically
impossible to get a room without
reservations and a last-minute whim
will cost you, so call ahead. Even
with planning, rates fluctuate with
the seasons, rising during the
summer months. In October when the
brilliant blaze of fall settles over
the mountains, prices reach their
peak. If you're on a budget, be
mindful they do drop dramatically in
February, where one can stay for
less due to the off-season.
Because of narrow streets, parking
can be frustrating on busy holiday
weekends. Hotels offer plenty of
space for guests, which alleviates
the congestion problem. There is
also a trolley service available for
those who wish to take it easy, or
just don't want to deal with the
traffic.
Known as the Honeymoon capital of
the South, Gatlinburg is popular for
its cedar wedding chapels that dot
the landscape of Sevier County.
Weddings are performed throughout
the year, and rather easily, as
there is no blood test or waiting
required. Companies such as the
Heartland Wedding Chapel
(1-800-448-8697) will provide a
service for around $400. This
package includes the chapel, music,
ministry, flowers, video and all the
extras.
Most newlyweds find it a natural
choice to select a mountain retreat
for their honeymoon, and the
selections are romantic and
affordable. Several rentals offer
hot tubs, Jacuzzis, and passes to
dining and entertainment. All of
them, however, supply peace, quiet,
and solitude.
You may find a chalet or cabin
rental more to your liking if you
are a devoted country person who
yearns for nature right outside the
door. There are units as small as
two bedroom, and up to as large as
10 or 11. Most companies also offer
an area clubhouse with a swimming
pool for hot summer days.
While rates do run a bit higher per
evening, the advantages of renting
often outweigh the cost. One of the
greatest benefits, besides the view,
is the homey-like ambience and
amenities. Kitchens are stocked with
microwaves, dishwashers, pots and
pans. All one needs is a sack of
groceries and meat for the grill.
Preparing your own food makes up for
the few dollars extra you spend
having a place of your own. There
are also televisions, VCRs and
stereos. Some places even provide a
washer and dryer for folks that just
can't stay clean.
Chalet Village boasts around a
hundred rentals and provides
honeymoon packages. Cabin Rentals
start at around $90 per night per
couple.
You don't have to be a newlywed to
enjoy these chalets perched high up
on Ski Mountain Road. These rentals
offer great views in any season,
from wild rhododendrons in the
spring, to snow-capped peaks in
winter. Even late in the year,
Gatlinburg is alive with winter
festivals, skiing, and ice-skating.
For more information call Rene or
Shosh at 305-756-2616
Hiking trails and scenic drives are
at your fingertips should you choose
to stay a spell in Gatlinburg. Enter
the National Park from right outside
of town and don't miss the
open-year-round Sugarlands Visitor
Center. Trail information is
available, as well as camping and
park guides. Visit historic Cades
Cove, or take the short hike up to
nearby Grotto Falls. Then when the
day is through go back to your
retreat, put your feet up, and enjoy
the magic of the Great Smoky
Mountains.
Click here to visit the website
of the local Chamber of Commerce for
the latest events and activities. |
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Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals |
Gatlinburg Vacation Rentals
Log Cabins | Gatlinburg TN | Luxury Rentals |
Budget Chalets Rentals | Honeymoon Chalets |
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