Vacation at the Lake

After we had some unexpected, expensive and time-consuming problems with the plumbing at our 40year-old house in Alabama, we decided to take a break, treat ourselves and drive up to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. It was just what we needed. Many years ago, I lived and worked in Waynesville, NC which is right next to Lake Junaluska.

It has been a Christian Conference and Retreat Center for over one hundred years and consists of about 200 acres. If you should decide to visit the lake, make your first stop the Bethea Welcome Center at 91 Lakeshore Drive once you turn into the property. You can get every map and brochure you will need to ensure a great visit.

Teddy had never been to Lake Junaluska, and I had never stayed on the property because I had once lived nearby so I was excited to book a room at the historic Lambuth Inn, built in 1921 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Lake and surrounding properties are a jewel in the mountains. There are several walking trails, many sports courts like tennis, pickleball, shuffleboard and mini golf as well as a large and beautiful golf course.

There is even a prayer labyrinth if you choose to walk the circle and meditate. There is also no better place to take great pictures as you enjoy the lake and even travel into the Smokey Mountain National Park. Any time of year is a good time to go as you will be presented with spectacular views, and you don't have to hunt for them.

You will be surrounded by amazing vistas. And in the Fall, the changing of the colors in the trees is amazing. Just remember to follow the rules and stay away from the bears and any other wildlife.

At various times of the year the Stuart Auditorium hosts choirs and other entertainment venues. You may enjoy the butterfly garden, fishing pier or the fitness center. You may choose to rent a kayak, canoe or boat to go out on the lake for fishing.

Or you can pay a small fee and take a peaceful ride around the lake on the Cherokee IV tour boat and learn more about the area's history. If you want accommodation other than the Lambuth Inn or Terrace Hotel there is a spacious campground for you to park your RV. If your vehicle is electric there is also a handy charging station.

The Lake certainly offers a quiet and relaxing feeling, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We sat outside in the evenings facing the huge lighted cross, constructed in 1922, which serves as a symbol of hope and light. We watched tiny wild bunnies hop around in the grass and the beautifully landscaped gardens.

There is so much to do and see there, but eventually you will get hungry. The town of Waynesville, NC is nearby offering lots of restaurants as well as fast food choices or you can plan a picnic on the lake property near the one lane bridge. Remember, Lake Junaluska is right smack in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains so you must ask about where to go to see elk and please take a side trip to Maggie Valley only 10 minutes away.

I can truly say the lake was the perfect place for us to relax and decompress after a very upsetting week of plumbing problems at our house back in Alabama. And I hope you can visit there as well someday. Note: I will not be held responsible for the horrendous traffic in Atlanta so be forewarned that it is awful no matter when you go.

Always: God Bless America!