Hiawassee, Young Harris and Lake Chatuge

The little town of Hiawassee, population 750, and nearby Young Harris, population 600, are near the largest lake in North Georgia, Lake Chatuge, and the tallest mountain in the state, Brasstown Bald. The lake has excellent boating and other water-themed recreation. Appealing mountain resorts are nearby as well. A half-hour drive leads to Brasstown Bald, where temperatures even on the hottest summer day rarely rise above 80°F. The annual Georgia Mountain Fair has a permanent location on the shores of Lake Chatuge. A number of festivals are held at the fairgrounds, including the Rhododendron and Bluegrass festivals in May and the Fall Festival and State Fiddler's Convention in October. The Georgia Mountain Fair claims to be the "Country Music Capital of Georgia."