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One of the greatest things about life at Santeetlah Lakeside is the year-round beauty nature provides. Fall is obviously a popular time to visit the N.C. mountains as the autumn foliage puts on quite a spectacular show. But, as winter melts away and nature comes to life, spring offers its own display of splendor, from the dazzling wildflowers to the breathtaking azaleas. This area is known for its native azaleas and, in fact, nearby Robbinsville hosts the Graham County Native Azalea Festival, which is scheduled for June 1 – 15, 2021. Robbinsville earned the distinction of being certified and recognized as “Azalea City” due to its efforts in promoting the native azaleas and encouraging people to enjoy their beauty in their natural settings.
While there are plenty of hiking trails and scenic views all throughout this area, some of the best places to snap pictures of the blooming azaleas are on Hooper Bald and Huckleberry Knob along the Cherohala Skyway, as well as Wayah and Wine Springs Balds, Gregory Bald, and Andrews Bald. The flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) grows wild throughout Western North Carolina mountain region, and its large, showy flowers bloom in brilliant orange, red, or yellow and paint a magnificent scene each year. It’s certainly worth the trip.
The beauty sweeps throughout the area as the trees turn green against the North Carolina blue skies and the gleaming water of Lake Santeetlah. The best way to truly appreciate all this area has to offer is a weekend getaway.
There are many options for a memorable stay, from mountain cottages and retreats to resorts and bed & breakfasts. Here are a few of our favorites, all within a short drive from Santeetlah Lakeside.
Blue Waters Mountain Lodge
Drive Time: 1 minute
Experience lake living at the only hotel located on the lake. Enjoy water fun with activities the whole family can enjoy, not to mention the stunning lake views.
River’s Edge Treehouse Resort
Drive Time: 7 minutes
Fun, unique luxury treehouses along the Cheoah River. A true woodland wonderland near the Tail of the Dragon, these treehouses offer a tranquil getaway that you won’t forget.
Snowbird Mountain Lodge
Drive Time: 15 minutes
A luxurious lodge tucked deep into the Nantahala National Forest offers a perfect escape. Snowbird’s Fireside Bar has the finest spirits, from a wine cellar with over 500 labels to a broad selection of handcrafted beers.
Appalachian Inn
Drive Time: 30 minutes
This bed & breakfast, featuring five guest rooms with private baths, is a true log home overlooking Stecoah Valley that is sure to provide you with the perfect mountain retreat for a memorable stay in the Smokies.
For more accommodation options, visit Graham County’s website.
The cooler weather and spring showers make it the perfect time for fishing, whitewater rafting and hiking. Thanks to the rain, the waterfalls are spectacular, and the fish and rapids await you for fun adventures!
When planning your spring or summer trip to Western North Carolina, schedule your discovery tour with us to round out your perfect getaway and explore lake living at its best. Your tour is a private excursion around Santeetlah Lakeside to see first-hand our properties, homes and condos, amenities, and features that make this the perfect place for relaxing and having old-fashioned outdoor fun.
Spring’s in full bloom here…we look forward to seeing you soon!
