My husband and I are celebrating our 39th wedding anniversary in December and would like to go to The Smokies for a few days. Does anyone know of a nice quiet resort or B&B that is away from the maddening crowds. We haven't been back to that area in about 10 years and wonder if it will be very crowded the week after Christmas?

If your budget allows, check out Blackberry Farm near Townsend.

www.hereinfranklin.wordpress.com

One of our favorite places in Fontana Village on the NW side...this is definitely away from the maddening crowds! We go there at least once a year, and when we're lucky, 3 or 4 times a year. You can do as much or as little as you're in the mood for...great to crash & burn!

Check it out at www.fontanavillage.com

Have a look at the Buckhorn Inn. We are from Knoxville, but because we have kids, we have to rent bigger cabins, so we have not stayed there. I have eaten dinner there and took a look around recently since I would like to stay there sometime in the future. The dinner was delicious and the price reasonable for an upscale meal. I have also heard nice things from friends that have stayed there. Have a look at their website.

http://www.buckhorninn.com/

I don't know about crowds, but the schools will be out December 22 - January 2.

Be sure and have tea/lunch at the Wild Plum Tea Room.

Check out Oakhaven resort in Sevierville. Very nice cabins of all sizes. Extremely quiet.