Helen

The Chattahoochee River flows gently through Helen, a re-creation of a Bavarian Alpine village, complete with cobblestone streets. Local history is linked to the Cherokee Indians and early settlers who came to mine for gold and work in the lumber industry. Helen now has more than 200 specialty and import shops offering everything from candle making and glass blowing to cuckoo clocks and quilts. Dining options range from traditional German fare to traditional Southern. 

A favorite getaway is Unicoi State Park with trails for hiking and biking as well as swimming and boating on Unicoi Lake. Stop for a wine tasting at Habersham Winery or for some "Georgia Ice-Cream," otherwise known as grits, at Nora Mill Granary.

Recreation is in abundance with fly-fishing, golfing, horseback riding, tubing and paddling. Attractions include the Live Tarantulas Gallery, Charlemagne's Kingdom, Scarlet's Secret, the Black Forest Bear Park, the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway and waterfalls.