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FALL MOUNTAIN CRUISE
OCTOBER 20 & 21
We had beautiful top down weather for our cruise which began by meeting at the Canton Cracker Barrel. Eighteen members enjoyed a hearty breakfast, and the ladies enjoyed a little pre-cruise shopping as well. The caravan started mid-morning and we cruised along winding mountain back roads admiring the panoramic views and fall colors. Our first stop was at the overlook atop Burnt Mountain. We enjoyed the view, and seeing who had good enough eyes to make out the Atlanta skyline on the horizon.
Our second stop was B.J. Reece apple barn where we had a great time choosing apples, baked goods, peanuts and the best cider ever! Our planned lunch stop was Lenny’s Grill the only restaurant in Suches Georgia. Oh well, the best laid plans…..Lenny’s was closed. Luckily there were some friendly folks sitting on their porch nearby, and recommended a lunch place in Blairsville just a few more (20) winding miles. We found Rib Country and enjoyed BBQ dishes with all the trimmings. It is a very unique place with original primitive country paintings. They were fun and colorful but with the hefty price tags, we settled on post cards.
On the road again, we traveled to Brasstown Bald, the highest peak in Georgia at a little over 5,000 ft. We opted to ride the shuttle to the top, only because it was getting late. LOL The view in all directions was breath taking especially the side with the bright blue waters of Lake Chatuge winding through the valley with mile after mile of colorful foliaged mountains as a backdrop. Some of the group walked down the mountain and others rode the shuttle.
One couple left us heading home but 2 more couples met us for dinner at Brasstown Valley resort. We were so pleased to have more wonderful friends and Allante’ fans join us. A big welcome to Charles and Phoebe Sutton from Knoxville that also have a home in Hiawassee. Also, John and Beth Niles from Stoneville N.C. joined us for their first outing and they are a delightful addition to our group as well.
After dinner, we headed back to the hotel and made plans for breakfast at the Georgia Mountain Restaurant. After yet another hearty meal, we said our good byes and headed our separate ways home. The vote was unanimous that we had another wonderful trip with really awesome people.
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