North Georgia lodging options
 

We are planning a trip in June to the northeast GA mountain area and have a few options to choose from - Clayton, Helen, Blairsville, Hiawassee - and would love some input on them. We prefer something near to hiking and rafting, preferably something in the mountains or with a view of the mountains. Definitely want to rent a cabin. We like being in the outdoors but nearby some civilization - restaurants, shopping, etc.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks to all who take the time to post.

Well, IMO there's only one right answer - the Clayton area. It has it all - great trails, the best rafting right there and nearby, lots of restaurant options, and plenty of cabin rentals. Even better is to rent a boat for the day and enjoy a glorious day on mountain lake with crystal clear water - three lakes to choose from, Burton, Rabun or Seed.

It's my very favorite corner of this part of the world.

I hate Helen - faux alpine village kitcsh
Blairsville and Hiawassee have their fans. I just prefer Rabun County.

Oh, wineries too. And the other towns are easily drivable if you want to take a day trip.

having spent a month in Blue Ridge, Ga. last summer (and will do so again this summer) I was amazed at the bargains in rental cabins in the Blue Ridge area.

Here's the largest rental agency in the NE GA area (the website is open to the events page) -
http://www.rabunrentals.com/area_events.htm

Owned/managed by some of the nicest people you'll ever want to meet. :-)