Mountain retreats are scattered across the nation on every mountain range from the east to the west. Each one is different from the other, but none of them compare to the magical retreat found in Helen. There is a special ingredient that makes it so spectacular. That is the authentic appeal of a Bavarian Alpine Village.
Magical Alpine Village
Helen is set apart from other mountain retreats. With it’s cobblestone streets, red roof tops and German-style buildings you will feel as though you just drove into an authentic Bavarian Village. Helen has been transformed into a town of stunning architecture and filled with German culture. Lining the Chattahoochee River, you will find Bavarian themed restaurants serving authentic German cuisine. Also, throughout the village, you can shop to your hearts content in the many shops where you can buy German style merchandise and clothing. This village is magical all year round with it’s brilliant colors in Spring and Autumn, it’s snow-capped buildings in Winter and it’s bright lively appeal in Summer.
Activities for Every Season
You can enjoy a variety of activities all year round. There is never a shortage of fun to be had and each season offers something different from the last.
Aquatic Fun in the Sun
During the warm months of summer and early Autumn, you can swim in Unicoi Lake and take a dip in the many rivers and streams that flow throughout the area. This includes the beautiful and popular Chattahoochee River. If you have ever heard of Shootin’ the Hooch, this river is where the name originated. Shootin’ the Hooch simply means exploring the Chattahoochee River by foot, on a raft or with a tube. Tubing down the River is guaranteed to bring hours of enjoyment to the whole family.
Hiking and Biking Trails
There are also numerous hiking and biking trails in and around Helen that you can enjoy all year round. You can find several of them starting at Unicoi State Park. Right outside of Helen you can also jump onto the famous Appalachian Trail. Moreover, you can view stunning waterfalls as you hike on the trails located at Anna Ruby Falls, Dukes Creek Falls and Raven Cliff Falls.
Year Round Events and Festival
Throughout the year there are a variety of festivals and events. Whether you come alone or venture out with the family, you will find an event suitable for everyone. Here is a highlight of just a few that you may enjoy.
Volksmarch
In the spring, you can get outside for some exercise and fun during the annual Volksmarch. This 5k walk takes place in Unicoi State Park where you can witness the beauty of the surrounding landscape and listen to the sounds of nature.
Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race
In June, you can experience the rush of watching 30 colorful hot air balloons take off from Helen’s own Alpine Village. These balloons make their trek each year all the way from Helen to the Atlantic. The festivities then carry on throughout the weekend with local balloon flying and rides for visitors to enjoy.
Bavarian Nights of Summer
Once the winter is gone there is nothing better than staying out at night star gazing and feeling the cool touch of a summer night’s breeze. In Helen, you can enjoy this along with some great outdoor fun during the Bavarian Nights of Summer. During this festival, there will be lots of dancing, laughter and live music.
Oktoberfest
For a German-style parade, live music and dancing ladies in Bavarian costumes, come to Helen for the annual Oktoberfest. Bring your dancing shoes and an appetite, and feast on authentic foods such as strudel, bratwurst and schnitzel. Of course, there will be plenty of beer to go around as well.
Alpenfest
Experience the magic of a winter wonderland in the fascinating village of Helen. Alpenfest occurs right on the heels of Oktoberfest. This festival runs from November through December, showcasing bright lit up trees, streets and rooftops. In the midst of beauty you can also enjoy the brilliant Christmas Parade.
Weekend Getaway
Helen’s Alpine village is the ideal weekend getaway. It’s not too far away from most major cities in Tennessee, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama. For example Atlanta, GA is only 1.5 hours away and from Jacksonville, FL the drive is just a little over 6 hours. Therefore, whichever of these neighboring states you commute from you should be able to arrive in Helen within a day’s time.
Helen’s many activities and festivals accommodate visitors all year round. Bring your family and come to Helen to experience the magical mountain retreat of this authentic Bavarian Alpine Village.
