With the holiday season in the rear-view mirror, there’s no better time than the present to focus on what’s ahead for 2019. Given that January 29 is National Plan for Vacation Day, it’s the perfect time to plan your vacations for the coming year. While it may come as a shock for those who make the most of their yearly vacation days, more than half of Americans – 54 percent – don’t use all their time off. There are an astounding 662 million unused vacation days every year. National Plan for Vacation Day serves to remind everyone to make vacation plans now with the goal of limiting the number of unused vacation days. By setting 2019 travel goals and making plans to accomplish those goals, it’s more likely every vacation day will be used to its fullest potential.

Therefore, as frigid temperatures and holiday blues have many looking forward to warmer weather getaways, look no further than the Western North Carolina mountain towns of Jackson County – Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva. Thanks to our central location to America’s favorite National Park and sprawling mountain ranges, this region is full of a plethora of outdoor activities providing ample opportunity to escape cabin fever and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Plus, Jackson County’s variety of affordable accommodations takes the guess work out of finding an reasonably priced vacation spot!

In fact, there are numerous benefits to vacationing in Jackson County. These include the chance to sit back, relax, rejuvenate and decompress. This could be sleeping in or napping in the comfort of a cute bed-and-breakfast or the pampering confines of one of our local spas. Here, vacationers also can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of today’s tech-heavy world, and instead reconnect with nature. After all, nothing is more invigorating than breathing in fresh mountain air while surrounded by awe-inspiring views.

Visitors will find easy access Jackson County from many major Southeastern cities. For instance, it’s less than three hours from Atlanta, Chattanooga and Charlotte, two from Knoxville, and one from Asheville.

Jackson County is perfect for any vacation length, from a long weekend to a weeklong stay. Vacationers will find more than enough to fill their itinerary with activities and events galore taking place throughout the area. For example, take in the views by biking or hiking, especially to some of the area’s gorgeous waterfalls, or try your luck fishing one of the many lakes or rivers that you will find spread across the county. If you want more action on the water, the county has three whitewater rivers with difficulty ranging from Classes I to IV for rafting. Those who prefer to hang out on the fairways and putting greens will enjoy our signature courses designed by such golf legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones II and George W. Cobb.

Of course, there are also those who excel at the sport of shopping, and we deliver in that department as well. Throughout the county, you’ll find an abundance of boutiques, galleries and stores filled with locally-made wares, beautifully handcrafted artwork and unique collectibles.

To make the most of your vacation, be sure to check out our calendar of events to see what’s taking place during your visit. From festivals and concerts to marathons and holiday celebrations, there’s no shortage of fun to be found in Jackson County.

In an effort to make your planning even easier, we have put together a variety of itineraries built for any type of trip. Print them out and follow them step by step, or pick and choose to create the perfect itinerary just for you. In addition, you’ll find a wealth of accommodations for every taste and budget, from larger hotels to intimate B&Bs, on our website.

Celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day by planning your getaway to Jackson County. Once you discover all there is to see and do here, you won’t have any trouble using up all your vacation days for the coming year. Request a free visitor guide to get started today.

(photo courtesy of @zacharyakelley)