GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Waterfall Wonder, Mountain Mania and Idyllic Gardens

Dahlonega (population nearing 7000) in Lumpkin County, North Georgia was once actively mined for its plethora of gold. Formerly called, Talonga, the name was changed to Dahlonega by Georgia's General Assembly on December 25th, 1873. This new name comes from the Cherokee word, "Dahlonega", meaning 'yellow' or 'gold'.

Today, an imposing gold museum strides near Dahlonega’s darling picturesque square – a gem in its own right.
Most of the gold in Dahlonega is still underground (too hard to extract as the main vein runs through the town). Nevertheless, this popular town boasts another kind of timeless opulence in its above ground beauty: nature spreads out from the town  into a bounteous bastion of connecting counties.

                                                             

The Camerons (to my left)

Visiting the Camerons, my long time dear friends who home half of the year in the area was wonderful. They're great company, and aside from being remarkably hospitable, superb cooks and keenly knowledgeable about the area, both Bobby and Eileen are incredibly fit; they defy the stereotypic image of a retired couple. Suffice it to say the lure of the rocking chair is non-existent for them. This dynamic duo jogs miles almost every day, and is constantly on the go – usually in an uphill fast-moving direction.

I wanted to strengthen my stamina and felt fortunate to have them as my guides. Bobby knows I love nature, and so foremost on the agenda was hiking.

Waterfalls abound here and are accessible as they spill down Smokey Mountain’s impressive range. Many seem to spoke out from Dahlonega within a 40-minute drive time. 

Mountain Climes

First stop was an 8-mile approach trail starting at Amicolola Falls which leads to Springer Mountain where the Appalachian Trail begins.

What they didn’t tell me was the over 400 steps that were waiting for us to climb. A piece of cake for them, but tough for me, the end result was exhilarating, and we avoided any sweat bath along the way; the tall old trees of this area provided ample shade during most of the ascent. Bobby mentioned many of these trees names, including the sturdy, solid white pine, hemlock, poplar, and many more species. We even came upon sassafras. The trail certainly had a lot of rocky areas, but it was well marked with white “blazes” (Bobby taught me that moniker) – white shallow gouges on the surface of tree trunks to guide all hikers.

Tree shaped by Indians to point out a direction

Another climb consisted of a 2-mile easy ascent. It brought us to Preacher Rock - part of the Appalachian trail. Here folks used to get married. At the top, the Smokey Mountains with their bluish hue halo loomed in the distance; it was inspiring to behold. Preacher Rock’s lofty lofty location - also part of the Appalachian Trail - beckons from Suches, an old farming community now sparsely populated and full of tumble-down barns buried in valleys of green.

Bring on the Grits and Serve them in a Gourd

After so much physical activity, it was time for me to find an excuse to get even fatter.

Bobby and Eileen took me to so many wonderful places, including The Gourd Place in Sautee Nachoochee. Here gourds have been crafted into amazing utility-ware, art and decor - even musical instruments -  all on display for purchasing. This place makes you smile. Eileen did when she plunked a huge pumpkin gourd over my head!

Priscilla Wilson and Janice Lymburner

 Priscilla Wilson and Janice Lymburner are the two eccentric women who opened this one-of-a-kind boutique. Their memoir, called Gourd Girls tells their remarkable story and proves them to be pioneers in the art of the gourd. It also shows them to be made of grit.

 Speaking of grit...

We also went to Nora Mill Granary in Helen, Georgia. It’s an 1876 grist mill, sitting alongside the Chattahoochee River. 

The mill still uses the original 1500-lb French Burr Stones for grinding for whole grain products.

 You can buy all kinds of jams, jellies, local honey and candies and more there. Once you taste their grits (they have tasting there) you go gaga over the grits. I got gong –ho addictive on those grits! Dear Bobby made them for  almost every day for breakfast.  

Titanic Waterfalls

Tallulah Gorge State Park covers 2689 acres with trails that both skirt the rim of the gorge or descend to its floor where its river flows. Much information about this extraordinary wildlife and the park’s history can be enjoyed in a video within the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center.  Discovering this outdoor world wonder, I marveled at its five spectacular cascading falls - best viewed from a very sturdy suspension bridge that admittedly challenged my fear of heights. 

Luckily, I had Bobby and Eileen to hold my hand as I traveled at a snail-pace across it.  One of these falls was called “hurricane” - an apt name for the fierce downward force of the water. Standing and looking down from the bridge was a miraculous moment for us all. It is so compelling to see the turbulent endless flow; the rush of water was deafening rush. And you are right in the middle - high up above it!

On July 18, 1970, a 65-year-old Karl Wallenda performed a high-wire walk across the gorge. About 30,000 people from around the world came to watch Wallenda’s performance which included two headstands as he crossed the quarter-mile-wide gap! You can still see one of the cranes used for his death-defying act.

KAYAKING 

Without a doubt, Bobby and Eileen had to put on hold their usual tubing and kayaking into rapids. Having never stepped into a kayak before, I eagerly wanted to embrace this method of traversing water,  but when things are calm, rather than using a canoe or rowboat.

Bobby loaded up the kayaks

 I fell in love with the ease and gentleness of the kayak. We went to two lake areas to do this. One was at Vogel Park and the other at Lake Winfield Scott, near Suches. Tranquil and quiet, Winfield Scott Park also allows for swimming right off the dock and a walk around its lake perimeter.

 Gibbs Gardens...24 ponds, 32 bridges, and 19 waterfalls

The serenity continued when, on my last day, Eileen and I visited Gibbs Gardens. This private sanctuary of floral beauty is owned by Mr. Jim Gibbs himself who generously opened his impressive gardens to the public in 2012.

His manor home can be seen from the outside by visitors who pause to rest on benches placed near one of the facades. The house and gardens' 220 acres include a beautiful stream in this valley haven.  

Eileen and I lingered at the Japanese section in the Valley Gardens section.

   

Most captivating was the endless parade of day lilies. Dazzling shades of orange and yellow greeted our eyes. We hit “gold” with this special exhibit.

Many years ago, I wrote a song titled “Mountain Girl". I feel it apt to share it with you after this unforgettable visit to this Appalachian region – made all the sweeter because my dear friends (whom I call family) shared it with me.

 

Lake and Land Fun with Vistas in New Hampshire

It may be a small state, but New Hampshire has 373 lakes - more than one for every day of the year! Head for Squam Lake or hike up Rattlesnake Mountain for some breathtaking views of the lake. Hikers need not worry, there are no rattlesnakes here - just deep slithery lines embedded in the summit’s bedrock. The 35-minute ascent is so easy, young kids have no problem hopping along in sandals.

This lake has loons, so if you want to see them, take the 90-minute Squam Lakes Cruise from Holderness. The cruise boat is a cozy pontoon whose open sides allow for close viewing from all angles; plus binoculars are handed out. We spotted a mother loon gliding along with a chick on her back while hooting as dad dove for food. A naturalist from the Natural Science Centre is always on board to lead the way. Ours was Margaret, who actually comes from Saint-Jérôme. While steering the boat, she explained in lay-man’s lingo a lot about loons, and always invited us to spot them. It was exciting. Everyone felt they had just won the jackpot when they saw one. On board, we held replicas of eggs and examined facsimiles of loon bones as our guide gave us a short lesson on loons. In this very area The Loon Preservation Committee - open to the public - monitors their health and protects them. Harry Vogel, also a Canadian, is the chief biologist for this organization. “We were able to change the law. The use of led fishing tackle, and big jigs that kill these birds is now prohibited. So many end up swallowing them and die within hours.”

Squam Lake is small compared to Lake Winnipesaukee 34- kilometre length. Cruising in style on this famous lake – the third largest in New England – is the way to go.  I headed for the Ekal Activity Center in the touristy town of Meredith to hop on board a very special 7-seater boat.  Fittingly called Miss Meredith, this speed boat’s claim to fame resides in another name. It was once owned by Madame Chiang Kai Shek who summered here.  The Americans instantly took ownership of her precious vessel when the Chinese refused to side with them after the bombing of Pearl Harbour. They also booted her out of Meredith where she homed every summer. Miss Meredith smoothly made her way towards Governors Island where splendid mansions had us gushing with envy. They collectively seem to embody various lifestyles of the rich and famous. Sumptuous yachts docked beside throne-like deck chairs, and ornate facades with12-feet-tall cathedral windows looking out from on high made us feel very small. So much for Miss. Meredith!

Cottages goers and residents who live on some of the lake’s 258 islands need never worry about missing the mail - thanks to the (M/V) Sophie C. that leaves Weirs Beach weekdays and Saturdays. Since 1892, she’s been delivering mail to families who home here year-round.  Purchase your ticket at Weirs Beach; then hop on board the oldest floating post office on the continent.  You’ll see how it all happens as Sophie approaches several islands where residents wait to get the mail dropped to them on their docks.  Sophie also hands out ice cream and all kinds of snacks to everyone, including all hands on deck tourists.

The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center gives you incredible views into our world via its magical immersive exhibits. It’s just across from the loon cruise pontoon. If your feet long for land grounded in history, then tread back in time by visiting the abandoned 19^th-century Canterbury  Shaker Village nearby. Guided tours every day.

                                        For information on this region, visit: www.lakesregion.org

DANCING AND DREAMING WITH YOUR DOG AT VERMONT’S PHINEAS SWANN B & B INN

Wonderful hosts welcome dogs as warmly as they do you!

Imagine sitting in a lounge chair, gazing at gorgeous gardens. while listening to water gently flowing from fountains and skipping over rocks in a narrow river just a step away. 

 

Birds flit among a gazebo and apple trees.

  

Some settle in colorful birdhouses hung in rows on a facade.  

                   

    Nearby, weather-worn signs and items from another era bring a smile to your face. 

Your soul is drifting into a cocoon of nostalgia nestled in the bygone days of Montgomery Center in Vermont. 

Then you see the face of a huge bull dog staring right back at you, and he has a pipe in his mouth! Are you dreaming? No, you aren’t. You’re at a very special inn with a very funny-sounding name. Welcome to Phineas Swann B & B Inn!

                                                      

                                               A true pet-friendly haven

Best of all, your dog(s) at your feet looking very content. You’re thinking how lucky you are that you didn’t have to leave your pup at home. No separation anxiety. Yippee! Both of you can wake up to this utopian piece of paradise for as long as you want. That’s because the folks at Phineas Swann Inn know how important it is for you and your canine to enjoy a stress-free holiday together. No wonder it ranks among America’s top three B & Bs for pet friendliness. 

 This is the place to park your pup

 

 The humor is dog darn good!

Two extraordinary people make this B & B  a beautiful experience

Married couple, Lynne and Darren Drevik – the inn’s hosts – were both born with a huge hospitality gene. Not a trace of pretension or personality stuffiness in either. The minute you walk in, you notice how happy they are; their good- -natured manner and casual ease probably comes in part from knowing all about leaving behind city clamour in search of calm and inspiration in nature. I was looking for that too when I booked my reservation at this acclaimed B & B.

In 2013, Darren and Lynne quit their high-powered jobs in New York City to change their lives in a meaningful way. Lynne was a logistics manager at Colgate, and Darren had corporate writing contracts – fresh off his chief editor position at two newspapers in Georgia and South Carolina.  He’s written a novel titled, “Appalachian Trail”, and his recitation of Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales” is impressive.  Ask him to speak Spanish using his native Tennessee accent. Very entertaining!

Darren Drevik

After looking at three Bed and Breakfasts for sale, the couple settled on the Phineas Swann B & B – named after a man who once lived here with his 13 children in 1880. They kept the funny name, and even have a book with his photo in it.

Charm and authenticity

Lynne is an avid antique collector, so many of the treasures you’ll see at the inn reflect back to 1780 when Montgomery Center was founded. The furniture, unique items and décor are a harmonious blend of country chic and old-world ways.

Having passed through five owners, the historic building was not always a B& B. It was an 1880 farm-and-barn dwelling that underwent renovations. 

The result is a remarkable B & B that features nine country-style bedrooms each with its own fireplace and ensuite bathroom (save for one). Rich in wainscoting, with original oak floors in many areas and graceful crown molding, each is utterly appealing, peaceful, and private. Six of these rooms are ready to welcome your cherished dog. Another perk: all rooms have phones and your call is free anywhere in North America!

Ambiance and pleasure in loving comfort

If you’re not punch-happy about pets, don’t worry; you’ll never see them in the inn’s main large house which comprises several inviting rooms.

The living room boasts really comfy couches and period armchairs that act like lazy boys. 

Stained glass windows are a stand-out feature in the main house.

The fireplace enhances the warmth of this sitting area as it captures the ambiance of the room’s former farmhouse roots. 

 

Updated with charm and class, this main room beckons you to lounge as long as you wish while munching on all the free snacks and beverages and the amazing chocolate chip cookies freshly baked every day by Barb, the inn’s consummate chef.

A spacious dining room with separate wooden tables looks out onto the splendid floral ground that also includes a Jacuzzi – all part of your sensory pleasing experience.  

Pampering for everyone – dog or no dog

As mentioned, dogs are not allowed in any part of the main inn, so upstairs, three pretty rooms awash in pastel colors house non-dog accompanied guests.  It’s the unattached buildings just outside the main inn that are designated for canines, such as the stunning carriage house with its four spacious bedroom rooms – two upstairs, and two downstairs (I stayed in the upstairs “terrier room”). 

 

Big beds, big space, beautiful colors

                                                          

An original light in the Carriage House

A painted snowboard  greets you at the landing of the Carriage House

                                                                      Picturesque rooms

The carriage house, along with the other dog-friendly suites, even comes with towels for your canine companion.

Conveniently located, the carriage house is a mere stairwell and veranda away from the main house. The River house that faces a small section of the Trout River has two separate upstairs/downstairs apartments that also welcome your dog. 

Gardened grounds – most planted by Lynne – are there for your dog to enjoy.

Lynne and Darren have three of their own dogs that are not free to roam into your space.  But they do own over 500 ceramic dogs. You can’t miss them; they’re everywhere: on shelves, tables, high chests, low chests, even the floor, Can you spot your breed?

The bells are ringing for me and my gal

Phineas Swann Inn creates a fabulous four-season environment for romance, weddings and more group affairs. Darren is also a pastor, and so when Lynne purchased a very big antique church bell, Darren was inspired at Lynne’s urging to build an open-air darling cupola on the grounds. When couples marry, they swing the rope attached to that bell, and love is sealed forever. 

Wedding receptions take place under the enormous white tent top where over 145 guests can be seated most comfortably to enjoy the evening along with the gourmet food, prepared by Lynne, Darren and Barb. The newly weds can choose from one of three options: pasta, fish or chicken.

 

Lynne and Darren have their own gift: the newly married couple can enjoy their honeymoon night free and toast their union with a free glass of champagne.

I fell in love with Phineas Swann B & B Inn, and went on the hunt for a husband to be, just so I could get married under that cupola where both of us could swing the bell and live happily ever after. I found no hubby but the inn’s morning meal sufficed as a sweet substitute.

Breakfast is a belly-full of variety

Deb has been at the inn for years, and she is a master cook and baker. In fact, when I landed, she was in the middle of making the wedding cake for an incoming wedding. She also makes gluten-free food goodies. During my four-day stay, I savoured Darren’s homemade black berry sauce. It was poured over thick, tender black-berry-filled French toast... A tasty veggie round sausage was also served, and on another day, I gobbled up the soufflé-type baby Dutch pancakes topped with apples. I also tried their smoked bacon. All food is freshly prepared and most ingredients come from the farmlands that dot the area. Of course, there is Greek yogurt served with blueberries, an array of cut-up fresh fruit, juices and cereals to fill you up even more! 

 

Music nights, fall foliage tours and sleigh rides during winter also define Phineas Swann Inn’s way for enjoyment. To prepare you for those harsh winters every Wednesday, ladies from the 9-member co-op store, called Fabric Folks (located across the street) flock to the Phineas Swann to knit, sip wine and dig into Barb’s cookies.

Lynne also has her knitting needles in hand. Is there anything this wonder woman can’t do? Did I mention she just became a grandmother too? Congratulations, Lynne!

In Vermont, this is the perfect place to hang your hat. There's no other better B & B to stay at -- with our without the dog. 

I'll be back with my dog, Zak.

Phineas Swann B & B Inn is located at:

195 Main Street

Montgomery Center, VY 05471

Call: (802) 326 4306.

For information and reservations, click here: www.phineasswann.com.

You can also email them at: info@phineasswann.com

Phineas Swann B & B Inn is ideally located. It’s only eight miles from Jay Peak Resort, and sits amidst breathtaking Green Mountain scenery. I definitely wanted to explore the North East Kingdom, and so Lynne arranged two half-days for me to pursue a personal custom-guided excursion given by Montgomery Adventures.  
Click here to read about my adventures and the amazing man who brought me into the wilds.

A salt cave and more healing therapies await you

Also across the street from the Phineas Swan inn is one of the North East Kingdom’s most unique healing hideaways. Called, Vermont’s Salt Cave and Halotherapy Center, this cozy place houses a salt cave. But its creation came with a cost for owners Sarita and Nafis Khan whose vision to promote well-being and holistic health is their great passion. 

Creating this salt cave involved the transporting of thousands of pounds of pink salt from Poland. After much arduous work, the former barn morphed magnificently into a magical healing salt cave. 

“We actually imported 20,000 pounds of pink salt from Poland.  4,000 pounds is the amount of crystal salt we placed on the floor which is reminiscent of a beach.  The remaining 16,000 pounds are from the salt boulders and rocks that have created the wall of the cave.  We only used white cement over foam to create the stalactites on the ceiling. This way there was no need to use any glue as the walls are mortared together and the cement is on the ceiling, not salt.”

There are also 52 salt lamps embedded into the walls and floor releasing negative ions for relaxation and air purification.

You will be walking on those 4000 pounds of glistening crystal salt to get to your resting lounge chair. For the next 45 minutes, you’ll enjoy the soothing sounds of two waterfalls while benefiting from their heavily saturated negative environment – a toxin flusher – so to speak.  

 The spa offers a 30-minute treatment where you simply rest your hands and bare feet on specially heated Himalayan salt block. Research shows this is great for joint and arthritic issues. I sat for a minute just to “try” it and it was very relaxing.

This spa has much to offer: an infra-red sauna hot stone treatment, massage, Reiki and sound healing. I loved all the natural products they sell and the colourful salt lamps you’ll see in their boutique. Meeting Sarita and Nafis has its own healing effect. They give you their full attention, and their caring is sincere. Prices are a steal!

   

  

Visit: www.vtsaltcaves.com.

Email them at: relax@vtsaltcaves.com