by K.B. on February 2, 2009
In the Hartwell, GA area of Lake Hartwell? We recommend giving one of these places a try – all reasonably priced and casual!
Green Bean Cafe & Coffee House - a family favorite! This cool little coffee house on the corner of the square in Hartwell serves coffees, shakes, smoothies, pastries, muffins, lunches & gourmet desserts in a funky “bookstore” atmosphere. Small but delicious lunch menu includes panini, soups, and salads served through mid-afternoon. Be sure to try the “sweet potato fries” – the best we’ve ever had! While you wait for your order, play a board game, take advantage of the Wi-Fi, or just relax with a book or local paper. (Credit Cards Accepted, Open Daily Except Sunday, Inexpensive) – 126 West Franklin St, Hartwell 30643 – (706) 376-4199
Frohmuller’s Grill – cute bar and grill near Rock Springs boat ramp (yep, that’s what smells so good when you pull your boat at the end of the day). We’ve had the best luck with the sandwich, burger or dog baskets - or the Super Dry Rub Ribs. Good desserts! While the service can sometimes be slow, beer & wine are served here and indoor & outdoor seating are available. (Credit Cards Accepted, Hours Vary by Season – call or check the website, Moderate, Beer & Wine Served) – 3288 Rock Springs Rd, Lavonia 30553 – (706) 356-5916
The Depot in Hartwell (formerly Donuts on Depot ‘n’ More) - The place for donuts, scones and those famous apple fritters – Yummy! Plus they offer sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads at lunch. Open for music and drinks some weekend evenings – call to confirm. (Credit Cards Accepted, Closed Sunday & Monday, Open at 7:00 am Tuesday through Saturday, Closing Time Varies – call or check the website, Inexpensive/Moderate, Beer & Wine Available) – 90 Depot Street, Hartwell 30643 – (706) 376-3688
Tastes of Georgia – on the square in Hartwell, this cozy restaurant is also a store selling wines, local organic foods, artisan cheeses, jams and gifts. Enjoy fresh salads, burgers, panini and artisan pizzas for lunch. Soups, salads, pastas, and seafood round out the small dinner menu. Free wine tastings offered Friday & Saturday afternoons. Fresh desserts and kid’s menu, too! (Credit Cards Accepted, Closed Sundays, Dinner served Friday & Saturday evenings, Inexpensive/Moderate, Beer & Wine Available) – 350 Howell Street, Hartwell 30643 – (706) 376-0953
by K.B. on January 28, 2009
We always recommend Gumlog Barbecue & Fish Lodge to our guests! It’s a great casual place to bring the whole family!
From the minute you pull into the packed gravel parking lot, you know you’re in the right place! Locals have been coming here for years to enjoy the fried catfish and “barbecue” – love those ribs, pulled pork sandwiches & chicken! They serve hushpuppies like my mom used to make, big onion rings, and of course, brunswick stew! Aside from the ‘que and catfish, you will find shrimp, chicken, salads, hamburgers & hotdogs. Kid’s menu is available. You can eat in – or call ahead for “barbecue to go”.
Very casual atmosphere, so come as you are! Just keep in mind that Gumlog is open Friday through Sunday only, they don’t accept credit cards (checks are OK) – so plan ahead!
106 Whitworth School Farmer Rd, Lavonia 30553 – (706) 356-4061
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by K.B. on January 22, 2009
Just because you don’t have your own boat here at the lake doesn’t mean you can’t take to the water! Several marinas at Hartwell Lake have deck and pontoon boats available for you to rent! Most boats can be rented by the day, weekend or full week. There are minimum age requirements to rent and a valid drivers license and basic navigation skills are required.
Because Lake Hartwell is so large, with two main river channels, many islands, creeks and countless coves, becoming familiar with the navigational buoys is important. On top of this, we highly recommend a nautical chart of the lake to help you keep your bearings, especially if the area is new to you. The Hartwell Lake Association publishes a guide to navigating the lake and marine charts of the lake are available at area marinas and boat supply stores.
HARBOR LIGHT MARINA – Lavonia, GA
Harbor Light Marina offers pontoon boats from 18′ to 24′, which are perfect for fishing and cruising. With their 20′ deck boats, you can also enjoy skiing or tubing. Rates vary depending upon boat, length of rental and days/seasons.
www.harborlightmarina.net – (706) 356-4119 – near I-85 exit 177 and buoy T51
GORDONS MARINE – Hartwell, GA
The friendly people at Gordons Marine have 20′ and 24′ pontoon boats for daily and weekly rentals – enjoy cruising, fishing or pulling the kids (and kids at heart) on a tube. Rates vary – call for reservations & they will set you up!
www.gordonsmarineservice.com – (706) 376-3355 - 1057 Lightwood Road, near Hartwell
BIG WATER MARINA – Starr, SC
18′, 20′ and 24′ pontoon boat rentals available for fishing, cruising and dropping anchor in a quiet cove.
www.bigwatermarina.com – (864) 226-3339 – 320 Big Water Road
