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Yes, the fishing here is great. But maybe you have family members who would enjoy something other than standing calf deep in freezing water all day, chasing fish that you're just going to release anyway. Well, not to worry. CastAway Farmhouse is centrally located in the Tri-Cities region of Upper East Tennessee, so you and your group can use us as a base camp for all sorts of outdoor activities (hiking, biking, paddling, etc.) as well as historic sightseeing and antique shopping. Below are some of the area's highlights. Each is within an hour's drive from the farmhouse. For each, I've tried to provide a brief description, with links to more complete information.
If you're a fisherman and a NASCAR fan, then we are the place for you! Bristol Motor Speedway is right around the corner. You can hear the racing from our house. We can also show you the back way to the track. Avoid the traffic on the main highway! Please note that there are special rental rates for race weekends.
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In nearby Piney Flats, Rocky Mount was the first capital of the Southwest Territory from 1790 to 1792. The grounds are now a living history museum, open to the public.
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If you'd like to get On the water for boating and skiing, there is a public boat launch into Boone Lake in Bluff City (not more than 5 minutes away). On Boone Lake, you'll find several full-service marinas, many with boat and jet ski rentals. There are even a couple of nice evening spots on the lake, that usually have live entertainment on the weekends.
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Historic Abingdon, Virginia is home of the Virginia Highlands Festival and Barter Theatre. There are really too many things to do in Abingdon to list here. It is a wonderful place for antique shopping, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. There are also some wonderful shops downtown, and several great places to eat. The Tavern, just to name one, is absolutely one of my favorite restaurants. By all means check out the Abingdon tourism website for a complete listing of area activities, events, restaurants, etc.
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Historic Jonesborough, Tennessee is home of the National Storytelling Festival. Jonesborough is Tennessee's oldest town. In old downtown, you'll find art & crafts, several antique shops, and cafes. Much more information about historic Jonesborough can be found at their website.
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If you like white water rafting, then you should definitely check out the Nolachucky in and around Erwin, TN. The nolichucky is an unregulated river that flows through the mountains from North Carolina into Tennessee. When the water's right, it's a great ride! Check out Cherokee Adventures for more information. They are just one of many outfitters that offer guided trips on the Nolichucky
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The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34.5 mile multi-use trail that runs between Abingdon and Damascus, Virginia. Originally a Native American footpath, early explorers (including Daniel Boone) and poineers followed the trail through the mountains. At the turn of the 20th century, the Virginia-Carolina railroad was built to haul lumber and iron ore. The train got the name "Virginia Creeper" from the steam engines struggling up the mountain. The railroad has now shut down, and the trail has come full circle. The Virginia Creeper Trail is open for hiking/biking and horseback riding (no motorized vehicles). The trail also parallels Whitetop Laurel Creek for some distance. You'll find bike rentals and shuttle busses in Abingdon. Click here to visit Abingdon's tourism website, with detailed information.
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Roan Mountain State Park contains over 2000 acres on the slopes around Roan Mountain. "The Roan" (as locals call it) is a 6,285 feet peak on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. The park is well known for the catawba rhododenron gardens that bloom in the early Summer, and for its expanse of natural balds, that provide truly breathtaking views. The park is excellent for hiking (the appalachian trail follows the mountain ridges), trail biking, riding and fishing.
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