Lake Chatuge - Why people are vacationing here and never leaving!
Why Lake Chatuge Is the Perfect Place to Live, Vacation, or Invest in Real Estate
Tucked into the scenic folds of the Appalachian Mountains and straddling the North Carolina–Georgia border lies Lake Chatuge, a hidden gem surrounded by the small towns of Hayesville, NC, Hiawassee, GA and Young Harris, GA. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain backdrops, and year-round outdoor adventure, Lake Chatuge is more than just a picturesque destination—it's a lifestyle. Whether you're dreaming of a peaceful retreat, an exciting family getaway, or a smart real estate investment, this area delivers it all.
A Mountain Oasis Just Two Hours from Major Cities
One of the most unique things about the Lake Chatuge region is its prime location. It's only a two-hour drive from Atlanta, GA, Chattanooga, TN, and Asheville, NC, making it the perfect escape from the city hustle without being remote. You can spend your weekends in a serene lakeside cabin and still get back to work Monday morning without missing a beat.
Why People are vacationing here—and never leaving
More and more people are discovering the magic of mountain living. Here are just a few reasons why:
Clean air and stunning views in every direction
Low cost of living compared to urban areas
Friendly, small-town communities where neighbors know your name
Four distinct seasons, each more beautiful than the last
A perfect balance between peace and adventure
Whether you're looking to retire, raise a family, or buy a second home, the Lake Chatuge area offers a laid-back lifestyle that’s hard to match.
A Hotspot for Vacationers—and Investors
Vacationers love Lake Chatuge and surrounding areas for its natural beauty, recreation options, and charm. That makes it a prime market for short-term rentals (STRs) and second-home investments. With year-round tourism and limited hotel accommodations, Airbnb and VRBO properties are in high demand—especially those with lake access, mountain views, or cozy cabin aesthetics.
Benefits of investing here:
Strong rental demand in every season (especially summer and fall)
Affordable real estate with high appreciation potential
Lower property taxes than metro markets
A growing market with increasing visibility through social media and travel blogs
Boating on Lake Chatuge… Sailboats, pontoons, speed boats, bass boats… the options are endless!
There’s no shortage of activities around here. From thrilling adventures to peaceful moments, here’s a roundup of must-do experiences in the Lake Chatuge area:
On the Water:
Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Chatuge
Fishing for bass, trout, and catfish
Swimming and picnicking at the Towns County Beach or Jackrabbit Recreation Area
Sunset cruises or pontoon rentals from local marinas
In the Mountains:
Fires Creek, Hayesville, NC
Hike the Appalachian Trail or take day hikes to Bell Mountain, Jackrabbit Trail , Brasstown Bald (highest point in GA), or Fires Creek (video of Fires Creek on the left)
Mountain biking at Jackrabbit Trails
Waterfall chasing (Turtletown Falls, High Shoals Falls, and more nearby)
Camping under starry skies
Local Culture:
Explore charming downtowns in Hayesville and Hiawassee with antique shops, artisan boutiques, and coffee spots
Attend summer concerts at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Visit local wineries (Crane Creek and Shooting Creek Vines are among our favorites!), local breweries (Nocturnal and the Hiawassee Brew top the charts) or Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris for spa, golf or horseback riding!
Seasonal Highlights:
Fall foliage tours and scenic drives along US-64 and the Cherohala Skyway
Winter cabin getaways with cozy fireplaces and occasional snow
Check out Chatuge Home Concierge for help in finding the perfect vacation rental
Spring blooms and festivals
Summer watersports and 4th of July fireworks on the lake
A Place to Call Home—or Your Home Away From Home
Whether you're buying your dream retirement home, investing in a vacation rental, or just looking for a peaceful place to unplug, Lake Chatuge offers the best of mountain living with modern convenience. It's no wonder more people are falling in love with this area every year.
So pack your hiking boots, bring your kayak, and don’t forget your camera—because life at Lake Chatuge is as beautiful as it gets.
Ready to Explore Real Estate Around Lake Chatuge?
I take loads of photos for a wide variety of realtors that specialize in different locations and style properties. I am happy to connect you to one of the amazing realtors I work with who knows the ins and outs of this unique market. A great set of listing photos and marketing can make all the difference—whether you're buying, selling, or renting out your mountain dream home.
Partnering with Kristin Boyer for your Real Estate Media
Whether you're a real estate agent, property manager, or a homeowner looking to sell or rent out your property, partnering with K Boyer Photography guarantees a superior visual representation that drives results. Kristin Boyer’s dedication to excellence and her knack for highlighting a property’s best features make her the go-to choice for anyone serious about maximizing their property’s market potential.
Kristin Boyer - Photographer Extraordinaire! :)
Based in North Carolina - shoots anywhere you want me to go!
Don’t settle for ordinary—elevate your property listings with K Boyer Photography today. Visit our website to learn more and schedule your consultation.
Kristin Boyer, K Boyer Photography, is a professional real estate photographer offering HDR images, Matterport and Zillow Virtual tours, social media videos, and 2D or 3D floor plans. She is located in Hayesville, NC, and serves North Georgia (Blairsville, Hiawassee, Young Harris, and surrounding areas) and Western North Carolina, including Franklin, Hayesville, Murphy, and surrounding areas.
Are you a real estate professional looking for high-quality HDR photos in Western North Carolina or North Georgia? Are you looking for professional images for your For Sale by Owner, VRBO, or Airbnb to set your property apart from the millions of homes online?
Professional Member Organizations:
Professional Photographers of America
Georgia Professional Photographers Association
FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot
Clay County Chamber of Commerce Member Bronze Member
Lake Chatuge Chamber of Commerce Member Gold Member
Northeast Georgia Board of Realtors - Affiliate Vendor
CCCRA Member Clay County Communities Revitalization Association