This time last year those words held no meaning for me, they were just random words put together. However, over the past six months they have become the definition of a second travel pivot we made since Covid-19 invaded our country (and world). For those of you who don’t know, Grand Design is a manufacturer of recreational vehicles, here after referred to as RVs. For years we had gone to RV shows looking, pondering and debating the purchase of one but never felt it was the right thing to do at the time. Since cruising and international travel were no longer options and even travel in the United States was dramatically different we decided now was the time to purchase an RV.
My husband, Gary, spent countless hours researching different manufacturers, designs and options. After all this he came to the conclusion that Grand Design was the right maker for us and the Imagine line would fit our lifestyle. Until we started looking seriously I had no idea there could be so many different sizes, plans and layouts for an RV. There are fifth wheels, travel trailers and toy haulers and then you can choose between basic, lightweight and luxury models. We were able to narrow our selection down somewhat based on what our truck could tow with models weighing between 5,500 to 8,500 pounds and varying in length from 26 to 36 feet. After all was said and done we purchased the Grand Design Imagine 2670MK which sleeps 4, features 2 slide outs, tv, and so many other wonderful options. Did I mention the heated recliners, fireplace, integrated dog bowls and kitchen island?? And contrary to my first impressions about RVs not having much storage space this one has more than we can fill!
Along with the RV itself there were multiple purchases that had to be made before we could even consider going camping. First and foremost was an upgraded hitch with sway bars-mandatory! After this came the not so glamorous purchases like the sewer hose, water hoses, water filter, water pressure regulator, leveling blocks, rv toilet paper, surge protector/voltage regulator, and outdoor mat for under the awning. I haven’t even gotten into the interior details-next time!
While we were keeping Amazon in business with the purchase and delivery of all these items I was also looking for the perfect place for our first vacation. We wanted to stay fairly close to home but still get away. We briefly considered going to the beach but I couldn’t find a spot I liked. Since North Georgia offers a wide variety of campgrounds and endless activities once you are there we turned our attention to the mountains. Enota Mountain Retreat is located in Hiawassee, GA and had plenty of space for us and allowed us to pick exactly which campsite we wanted!
Enota had everything we wanted and nothing we didn’t! Our campsite was a suitable size for our rv, the power, water and sewer hookup were adequate; picnic table and deck were all good. Best of all was the babbling brook running behind us! There is just something about the sound of running water that calms the spirit and settles the soul leaving one with peace and tranquility. We were able to keep the windows open so whether inside or out the brook was our playlist for the week!
In addition to full hook up rv sites, Enota Mountain Retreat has remote tent sites, tent sites with water and electric, group camping areas, cabins and a retreat center. It is definitely a rustic place with a stocked pond, multiple waterfalls on property, a variety of hiking trails and a great play area for kids. The other important reason we choose Enota was because of its location; it is close to Helen, Vogel State Park, the Appalachian Trail, Anna Ruby Falls, High Shoals Falls, Chatuge Lake, and Brasstown Bald among other attractions. The other great thing about Enota was the people we met-from the owner to other visitors it had a welcoming family atmosphere!
Next weeks blog post will include details of what we saw, where we went and more on our RV life in our Grand Design Imagine!
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