First, I would like to commend the owners (especially Kristina) for being very attentive in answering all questions and providing information and accommodations that made our stay even BETTER! (If that could be possible in this beautiful home.)
Here's the backdrop - My wife and I honeymooned in Murphy, NC at my Grandfather's cabin. We decided, at the last minute, to search for cabins available in the area. And...up popped this BEAUTIFUL home. As there was plenty of room, we invited our kids to invite a friend, and we then invited the parents of one of the friends to join us on Lake Chatuge. Upon arriving, our one friend (whose parents used to have a cabin between Clayton, GA and Hiawassee, GA) stated, "We used to drive over the bridge for the past 10 years, or more, and we would look up and see that home and think, 'Wow! I wonder who lives in that amazing place!' Now, here we are!!!"
AND...IT WAS JUST AS AMAZING AS THEY THOUGHT IT WOULD BE!
We enjoyed fires in the fire pits, grilling out for dinner, kayaking every day, and simply relaxing with friends and family as we would gaze at the beauty of the hills and the lake. We drove a short distance, and hiked the trail down to two wonderful waterfalls (High Shoals). We drove to Helen, GA (My wife and I visited Helen back in the 90's, on our honeymoon.) Personally, I felt like Helen has lost a little of it's luster. I don't think I would make that trek again, I am sorry to say. We also took our sons out to golf in the area, and we took them to the county fair grounds to play some basketball. It was all a lot of fun.
One recommendation, for those staying or for the owners, was that the stone seating was a bit far from the fire pits. The depth of the pits, and the distance from them, made it difficult to enjoy the warmth of the fire. So, we carried chairs down from the six top, outdoor table, and got a bit closer. We recommend that you do the same.
Finally, we hope to go back sometime soon! In fact, upon arriving home, we looked to see if the home was available in July. We usually vacation in July at the beach, but we thought it would be incredible to return to this restorative place and enjoy a summer vacation in the mountains instead! Unfortunately, the home is not available in the summer months. :(
Completely understandable!
In summary - tell your friends, tell your family, tell yourself...RENT THIS HOME! You will not regret it for one second.
Sincerely,
The Zielinskis