Rabun County, Georgia

There aren't many places where I feel as much at home as I do in Rabun County, Georgia. The people there are just unlike any others. Just south of Franklin, North Carolina and west of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Rabun County is a hidden gem. Full of beautiful hikes, peaceful lakes, family-run restaurants, goats on a roof and gorgeous scenery, Clayton is a town that you do not want to pass up. I might be biased, because I call this place my second home, but after all of this time, I truly think that there is no better place to vacation. 

When Josh & I traveled there over Memorial Day, it was no exception. We spent our first day on the beautiful Lake Burton. We rented a pontoon boat from La Prade's Marina and spent the day exploring the beautiful homes that line this lake. La Prade's has excellent costumer service and their boat rentals are par none. We had almost a brand new boat and enjoyed a day out on the water with 10 of our closest friends. For lunch, we thought it would be fun to eat at the marina. Although the food was good, I would only recommend eating here if you are willing to wait an hour for concession stand food. The Chophouse is a sit-down place upstairs, or there is a stand where you can walk up and order downstairs. There is also a bar for the adults outside, and a store with popsicles and ice cream for kids inside. 

An evening is not complete in Rabun County without a trip to the Universal Joint for dinner or drinks after work. This eclectic restaurant/bar (and frankly, probably the only place that is open past 9pm on weeknights) is a relaxing and laid back environment, and completely worth the wait. Although it might be pushing upwards of an hour at time, just grab a drink, enjoy the tunes and wait your turn for one of the best burgers you've ever laid hands on. Full of live music, tasty eats, a variety of tap beers, and great decor, the Universal Joint is the place to eat. 

Another place that you need to visit in Rabun County is the Tiger Drive-In Theater. I know what you are thinking, you didn't even know that these existed anymore! Well, a diamond in the rough of Tiger, Georgia is this Drive-In. The one struggle that I have with the drive-in is hearing the movies if you are not watching from your car, so make sure that you get there early and park your car close to the projection room/concession stand! Call in to see what movies are playing, and know that it is only open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the months of March - November. A few helpful hints -- 1) dress appropriately (it can get cold in the winter, and buggy in the summer {bug spray!}); 2) make sure that you turn your car back on between movies (we don't want any dead batteries). 

  

There are a ton of fantastic hikes that are close to Rabun Co, but one of my favorites is at Black Rock Mountain State Park. There are a few different hikes, from easy to strenuous. The hike we took this time was the Tennessee Rock Trail. It's a loop with a gorgeous view over the state of Georgia. This particular trail is rather treacherous, and is not for the "out-of-shape" (and if you aren't sure if you're in or out of shape, you'll learn real quick on this trail, TRUST ME!).  **Be aware: Black Rock Mntn is closed December 1 - March 15 for weather. 

Until next time, Rabun County. You will always be my second home and most treasured adventure.