Easterners might know it well, westerners might never have heard of it, but the fact of the matter is that Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a thriving tourist destination and the gateway for The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If youve been longing for a little history and a lot of untamed wilderness, consider making this region the site of your next vacation.

Gatlinburg is by no means a bustling metropolis, but it does have enough going on to keep millions of people busy all year. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has the highest number of visitors of any other national park, so what would be a sleepy little village has stepped up to become a welcoming town with a big personality and a full calendar of events.

Known for its healthy arts community, seasonal festivals, and rare, woodsy beauty, Gatlinburg is also home to an array of vacation homes that will keep you well-rested and comfortable during your stay here. A luxury mountain chalet ideally located between the park and the goings on of the city will serve as the perfect home base for all your activities. Having a fully-equipped kitchen will prove indispensable when it comes to preparing quick, pre-hike power breakfasts, and the cozy den and entertainment center will be the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day.

Whether you like to spread out during vacations or use the opportunity for true family togetherness, cabins and condos exist of all size and level of extravagance. Go rustic by choosing a small wooden cottage, or live like a king for a few days. Whatever your style of traveling, youll find something to please you and your traveling companions.

The Great Smoky Mountains that you see through your window will likely tempt you to discover your inner explorer. The dense foliage could make you forget what the modern world looks like, and as you take a guided tour or picnic near a cool stream, youll be glad you took the time to travel here. Tennessee is not known for its glamour or hubbub, but take this as a good thing. Steal a minute to enjoy the silence of the trees, and rediscover the feeling of true relaxation.

Exploring the Smokies could occupy a few days, but dont forget that Gatlinburg has shopping, dining, and all sorts of amusements as well. Let the natural landscape serve as a backdrop for buying some pottery made by an independent artisan, or grab something that floats and participate in the River Raft Regatta. Bike the Cades Cove Loop for a little exercise, and then take a load off at a musical production celebrating a few local traditions.

Taking in all of these activities will make you happy that there are so many lodging options nearby, as returning to your private bungalow after a day spent hiking, golfing, or people-watching will leave you spent. This hasnt been your average vacation, so it makes sense that youre staying in a unique, almost personalized, place.

The authentic ambiance of your log hideaway is a getaway in itself, and seems a far cry from the crowds and traffic that youre used to hearing outside your window. The local art that decorates the walls, the extra thick mattresses, and the wrap around balcony will all melt together into an overwhelming sense of well-being, so break away from your usual vacation habits and open yourself up to new possibilities.