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Think of these as perfect vacation ideas for every season.
You’ll find plenty of Southern stereotypes alive and well when it comes to around these parts.
Credit: Michael Hanson
Read on for some of our favoritesupersized swimming holesaround the region.
Lake Lure, North Carolina
Lead the family on an exploration of the grounds.
Several blazed nature trails weave through the 1,000 acres.
Credit: Photo: Richard Green
Skip the elevator and climb all 400 steps up tota daChimney Rockfor a look at Lake Lure.
Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana
Louisiana has more to offer than the always-festive city ofNew Orleans.
Mandeville nestles on the banks of Lake Pontchartrain.
Credit: Chris Granger
Walking alongside the lake makes for a perfect 30-minute stroll.
Book a room at thelodgeon the lake’s shore (and request a water view).
On the lake, guests water-ski, fish, kayak, and canoe.
Credit: Southern Living
Book a room at theRitz-Carltonfor a luxury lake getaway you won’t soon forget.
If you love the water, it’s worth the trek.
Boating, swimming, water skiing, and fishing await right at your doorstep.
Guests can choose between cottages, cabins, and handsome hotel rooms in one of three ridge-side lodges.
Access is incredibly easythe $140-million Branson airport is just 10 miles from the lodge.
Choose from the hotel, lake houses, houseboats, or campgrounds.
Credit: Courtesy of the The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
The hotel recently renovated all 216 guestrooms and added a new lobby.
If you’ve got more than two people in your party, opt for the 4-year-old Lake Houses.
These 30 handsome cottages perch above the lake.
Credit: Photo by Van Chaplin
Caddo Lake, Texas/Lousiana
Few lakes envelop their visitors like Caddo.
Each cottage has its own Acadian and Creole touches.
Today it’s a popular getaway for many.
Credit: Photo: Michael Hanson
At 4,848 feet in elevation, it’s cooler here onSnowshoe Mountainin the Alleghenies of West Virginia.
Start the fun with a ride down the Ballhooter Chair Lift to Shavers Lake.
The lake serves as the summer centerpiece.
Credit: Photo: Michael Hanson
Miles of paths encircle the lake and stretch out along the mountain’s ridge.
Hill’s Lake Escape atBrady Mountain Resorthelps visitors do just that.
The company provides a fleet of 20 houseboats for you to choose from.
Credit: Photo: Michael Hanson
Credit: Photo: Michael Hanson
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Credit: Michael Hanson
Credit: Getty Images
