Appalachian Arts: Glass blowing
There’s nothing quite like a cozy cabin getaway in November. The air is crisp, the trees are bursting with color, and the Smoky Mountains make the perfect backdrop for a relaxing retreat. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a quiet escape with friends, here’s how to make the most of your cozy cabin stay this fall.
1. Settle In and Get Cozy
Start by creating that classic cabin atmosphere. Light a fire in the fireplace, curl up with a blanket, and enjoy a good book or conversation by the glow. Make use of the cabin’s amenities, play a round of pool or board games, watch a movie on the big screen, or soak in the private hot tub while taking in the cool autumn air. With a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor grill, you can cook up a hearty dinner and enjoy your meal on the deck surrounded by the beauty of fall.
2. Explore the Great Outdoors
When you’re ready to venture outside, take advantage of the season’s stunning scenery. Drive along scenic routes like Cades Cove Loop Road or the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views of fall foliage. Go for a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just start early to avoid crowds. You can also visit a local pumpkin patch, explore Gatlinburg’s charming downtown, or stop by the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival for crafts and seasonal fun.
3. Plan Ahead for a Perfect Trip
November is a busy month in the Smokies, so book your cabin and activities early. For a quieter experience, try visiting midweek instead of the weekend. And don’t forget to plan your meals and stock up on groceries before you arrive so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your autumn escape.
If you're ready to take the plunge or are just interested in where you should stay this fall click here for the best autumn cabins around.
The earliest evidence of glassblowing was found by Roman Ghirshman in Chogha Zanbil, where many glass bottles were found in the excavations of the 2nd millennium BC site. Later evidence comes from a collection of waste from a glass shop, including fragments of glass tubes, glass rods and tiny blown bottles, which was dumped in a mikvah, a ritual bath in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, dated from 37 to 4 BC. The tradition carried on into the Roman Empire and through the Middle Ages in Europe. Today you can see the modern take on blown glass in museums by Dale Chihuly, Dante Marioni, Fritz Driesbach and Marvin Lipofsky to name a few. If you're taking a trip to Gatlinburg this summer you have the opportunity to witness demonstrations and pieces made by local artists in several shops. Dollywood's Rainbow Glass Factory offers just one opportunity to do so. In addition there are also many small shops around to visit. So make a weekend stay with us at Bear Camp Cabins and take home some truly fine local art work from one of these glass blowers.
