Monday, December 20, 2010

Winter Fun at Gatlinburg

The period between December to March is one of the best times to visit Gatlinburg. The many Gatlinburg hotels are abuzz with the Christmas spirit and there's a different kind of fun to be experienced here. If you are fortunate to visit Gatlinburg during this time, then the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park, is a must on your itinerary. During the winter months you will find many locals flocking to this resort, to have some fun in the snow. With the latest in snow making equipment, this resort ensures that visitors are always surrounded by heaps of soft white snow. It really doesn't matter if you are a ski expert or a novice, because you can have unlimited fun here. Besides this is the only ski resort in the whole of Tennessee, and is located at a height of 3,000 feet up Mount Harrison.

There are 8 trails for both skiing and snowboarding, with a fantastic scenery for company as well. Each of the trails has been earmarked for skiers who range from beginners to experts. There are certified ski instructors here as well who would be more than happy to show you the ropes and share with you a few tips on how to ski perfectly. Don't worry if packing your set of skis was the last thing on your mind- you can find skis in a number of sizes for rent at the Ski Rental Shop. Try snow tubing at top speed down a 50 foot vertical drop, and enjoy the unpredictable adventure. In fact the new ten lane, 400 feet park meant exclusively for snow tubing was built just so that more than 300 visitors could have the ride of their lives all at the same time! Just remember that children below 3 years are not permitted and older kids must be with an adult at all times. A ride on both the chairlift and the aerial tramway promise to simply blow you away. If you like skating then simply rent a pair of skates at the Ice Skating rink, which is at the heart of the mall. The fee is $9 per person and is really fun to try.

Of course, adventure doesn't have to be entirely about fun in the snow- there's even a well equipped amusement centre here to entertain you and your family. Plenty of indoor amusements such as game stations, skill games and interactive games will thrill your kids. Tickets bought can even be redeemed for toys or gifts later. Adults will enjoy the Alpine Slide, which involves taking a chairlift ride up a mountain and then descending through woods and ski trails. Each person on the sled can control their speed. This ride gives you lots of thrills and brings you close to nature as well. Try the Water rides who have steep vertical drops, and promise to have you screaming in excitement. Bumper cars, mini golf, a park exclusively for kids and a shooting range are some other activities kids will love. Check out the Wildlife Encounter area, where black bears, raccoons, turtles, skunks and squirrels are a few of the animals that are on display here.

The resort even has some great places to shop which are located near the Downtown Tramway as well as the Ski Lodge area. These shops, manned by friendly attentive staff sell everything from sports wear to food to souvenirs and t-shirts. Tourists say that some of the best shopping in Gatlinburg can be done here. If you get real hungry from all that strenuous activity, just head to the Ober Gatlinburg Restaurant. Fine dining doesn't get any better than this because the view of the mountains and slopes, are a fitting accompaniment to a meal here.

Choosing to stay at one of the city's many condominiums in comparison to Gatlinburg hotels, may actually be a good choice during the winter months. Many condos offer great facilities such a heated pool, a Jacuzzi and even a fireplace to help keep out the cold. You need not worry about being away from the heart of the city, because there are many condos which are located downtown. Take for instance the Laurel Inn, which offers visitors a choice in condos of one or two bedrooms, a gas lit fireplace as well as hot tubs. This inn also overlooks downtown Gatlinburg and is located on Holly Ridge. Mountain Vista Luxury rentals, which offers online bookings also has suites with a fireplace, a whirlpool, a heated pool as well as a luxury bathroom. The free wireless internet facility is wonderful for those who wish to stay connected to the office or family, whilst on holiday. If you are stopping by Gatlinburg for just one night then stay at the Oak Square which has more than forty condos to offer visitors. One bedroom suites with an attached kitchen, a Jacuzzi, a fireplace and wireless internet facility are also available. If you wish to keep an eye on your budget, then the Olde Gatlinburg rentals promise to win you over with their low rates and wonderful suites. Whatever be your preference, Gatlinburg has the solution.

No comments:

Post a Comment