Sewanee is home to the University of the South, a private institution often compared to the University of Oxford in England due to its elegant old-English style.
Though Sewanee: The University of the South is a must-see, the surrounding town boasts many other attractions, from great eateries to hiking views you can't beat. Just 52 miles from Chattanooga, visit Sewanee to see a bit of England right here in the South.
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For music lovers:> Festival of Lessons and Carols: This popular annual event was featured in Southern Living Magazine and calls Southerners from all around to the All Saints’ Chapel for traditional carols and scripture readings each December.> Summer Music Festival: For around $15, check out this summer concert series. The concerts are a part of the orchestra, chamber music and piano training camp for young, talented musicians from around the world that takes place each summer, typically June and July, at the University of the South.
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Where to Stay> Sewanee Inn: Get the full “England in the South” experience with a stay at Sewanee Inn, right on The University of the South’s campus. The inn is even on a nine-hole golf course, ideal for seasoned golfers.> Cabin 111: You may have seen the “tiny home” craze on HGTV’s “Tiny House Hunters,” but now you can experience a tiny cabin yourself. Cabin 111, located just blocks from The University of the South, is suited for a couple or individual guests and features a mini kitchen, bathroom and queen-sized bed.
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Hitting the TrailsWhether you’re looking for a vigorous cardio workout or simply wanting an easy hike to see some stunning views of the Cumberland Plateau, Sewanee has the right trail for you.> Bridal Veil Falls Trail: This 3-mile round-trip hike features a view of Bridal Veil Falls that descends about 50 feet down the side of a mountain.> Mountain Goat Trail: The Mountain Goat Trail adopts the path of a former coal and passenger railroad dating back to 1856 and links Sewanee to Monteagle with a 5-mile paved path perfect for running, walking or biking. The trail begins in downtown Sewanee and is accessible from Highway 41A at Hawkins Lane. The trail will eventually be expanded to stretch 35 miles and connect seven towns.> Perimeter Trail: This trail is a series of connecting paths that surround the University of the South at Sewanee and extends a total of 20 miles. Running alongside the western bluff of the Cumberland Plateau, this trail comes across two lakes and features overlooks such as Green’s View. Access the trail at the Memorial Cross or at Lake Cheston.
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Where to Dine> The Blue Chair Café and Tavern: Doubling as a popular breakfast spot in the morning and a tavern by night, the Blue Chair Café and Tavern has it all. On the menu is its famous pimiento cheese sandwich, and after 4 p.m., the tavern features Jackalope beer on tap. Also, you can test your knowledge at trivia on Tuesday nights.> IvyWild Restaurant: Experience upscale dining, even in a small town. Patron favorites at IvyWild are the tender beef filet and cherry-glazed duck. Dining tip: The restaurant is BYO wine, so don’t leave your favorite bottle behind.
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At a Glance> Population: 2,385> Date founded: 1857> Biggest employer: Sewanee: The University of the South> Landmarks/features: Popular overlooks of the Cumberland Plateau, including Green’s View, Morgan’s Steep and the University View (“The Cross”)> History: The University of the South served as a V-12 Navy training site during World War II.> Unique characteristic: The University of the South was one of the original members of the Southeastern Conference and still uses the oldest college football field in the South.