Sewanee feels distinct the moment you arrive.
Centered around The University of the South, it blends academic energy with natural beauty. The campus, regularly named the most beautiful in the nation, combines dramatic architecture with spectacular vistas and peaceful hiking options.
The University’s iconic stone All Saints’ Chapel is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture and draws visitors from around the world. The historic downtown area of Sewanee contains a number of lovingly maintained, century-old structures, as well as several options for dining and a variety of unique retail shops.
Sewanee’s 13,000-acre domain is an outstanding place for hiking and cycling with 65 miles of hiking trails, including the Bridal Veil Falls Trail and the Shakerag Trail, especially known for its spring wildflower displays in March and April. There are biking trails for every cyclist, from the paved, family friendly Mountain Goat Trail to the challenging 20-mile Perimeter Trail for experienced mountain bikers.
Sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys are easily accessible by car at the Memorial Cross — itself an iconic point of interest — and at Green’s View, adjacent to an award-winning nine-hole public golf course.
Sewanee is also home to one of Tennessee’s newest state parks, Head of the Crow, with bluff overlooks, naturally-carved sandstone bridges and the state’s largest natural cave opening, out of which flows an underground river that drains the adjacent Lost Cove basin.
The Course at Sewanee, renovated in 2013 by Gil Hanse, Golf Magazine’s 2009 Architect of the Year, is one of the finest nine-hole courses around, with challenging green complexes and bunkers that work with the delicate ecosystem of the Cumberland Plateau.
The vibe is thoughtful and scenic— part college town, part outdoor retreat.
History
Sewanee traces its roots both to the construction of the Mountain Goat Railroad in the 1840s and to the founding of the University of the South in 1858, after Southern dioceses of the Episcopal Church acquired 5,000 acres of land from the Sewanee Mining Company.
Today, the University’s land holdings, known familiarly as “the Domain,” stretch across more than 13,000 acres, making it not only an ideal location for education and research but also for outdoor recreation.
Things to do in Sewanee
Taylor's Mercantile
Florist with gift items including collectables, jewelry, stationary, gift baskets and gardening items
Easy
Abbo's Alley
An easy-to-walk and carefully tended ravine garden at the University of the South in Sewanee.
Moderate
Tennessee Williams Trail
A moderate 2-mile out-and-back hike at the University of the South, from the Sewanee Village to Memorial Cross, with a dramatic overlook of Cowan, below.
Natural Bridge Events
Whether it’s an intimate dinner party or a bustling reception, Natural Bridge Events can design an experience that is personal and distinctive.
Difficult
Shakerag Hollow
One of the University of the South's most popular hikes - especially when wildflowers are blooming in the spring. Descend into Shakerag Hollow, climb stone stairs up to Green's View.
Sarah Sulfridge, LMT
Local Professional Massage Therapist offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, and Cupping massage to The Mountain.
Bodyworks Youniversity & Mountain Massage
Pilates mat classes, private and duet sessions as well as yoga and YouFit cardio/weight training classes
Sublime Haven
A mountain sanctuary of sacred rituals—massage, facials, Reiki, reflexology, meditation and sound healing—infused with wild botanicals to restore your glow and renew your soul
La Bella Pearl
Organic Mediterranean fine dining in a villa-style atmosphere
Difficult
Bridal Veil Falls Loop
2.7-mile out-and-back hike on the University of the South "domain", starting from Lake Cheston out to Bridal Veil Falls, which disappears into an underground stream. Not recommended during dry months.
Difficult
Buggytop Cave
This is a moderately difficult 4-mile roundtrip hike at Head of the Crow State Park takes you to one of the largest cave openings in Tennessee, and the only one from which water normally flows. There are two steep ascent/descent areas; one at each end of this trail. Access this adventure from the Lost Cove West Trailhead.
Frame Gallery Gifts & Art
Full-service custom frame shop with an art gallery that showcases work by local and regional artists and unique, one-of-a-kind gifts from around the world
Easy
Green's View Overlook
A scenic overlook at the University of the South in Sewanee, Green’s View is a favorite spot for picnics and sunset views. Access this adventure from University Avenue via Green’s View Road.
Easy
Memorial Cross Overlook
This scenic and historic overlook at the University of the South in Sewanee is also a favorite spot for sunsets. Access this adventure from University Avenue via Tennessee Avenue.
Word of Mouth Provisions
Have your vacation rental stocked for your arrival with groceries, welcome meal, charcuterie board, chilled drinks, fresh flowers, and breakfast bakery items.
Easy
Crow Creek Valley Overlook
Another outstanding overlook on the Sherwood Loop Trail at Head of the Crow State Park, the Crow Creek Valley overlook (near mile marker 2.5) offers views all the way into Alabama with multiple picturesque ridge lines framing the view. Access this adventure from the Lost Cove East trailhead.
Woody's Bicycles
A full service bicycle shop offering sales, service, and rentals of bicycles and electric bicycles. Woody's is an authorized Trek and Electra dealer and is a great resource for local trails, routes, and amenities
Easy
Sherwood Loop and Pack Hollow Trails
This is an easy 2.9 mile loop trail at Head of the Crow State Park that includes the Sherwood Natural Bridge and several outstanding overlooks. The new Pack Hollow trail is a spur off the Sherwood Loop Trail. Access both of these adventures from the Pack Hollow Trailhead.
Moderate
Lake Dimmick
6-mile out-and-back hike or mountain bike ride starting on the paved Mountain Goat Trail, continuing on a dirt trail to Lake Dimmick, all at the University of the South.
Moderate
Caldwell Rim Loop
Moderate 2.7-mile hike at the University of the South, from the Sewanee Visitor Center. It leads to a wooded loop featuring views of Lost Cove
University of the South
History Awaits at the University of the South
Lemon Fair
Clothes, jewelry & accessories, home goods and Sewanee-themed items
Easy
Piney Point
2-mile out-and-back hike from the University of the South's Western Gates to a beautiful overlook of Shakerag Hollow
University of the South Archives & Museum
University Archives and Special Collections
Shenanigans Live Music
Restaurant & pub featuring sandwiches, pizza and craft beers with a back room "speakeasy" serving fine cocktails and live performance venue featuring regionally touring bands.
Easy, Moderate
Morgan's Steep Overlook
A third scenic overlook at the University of the South in Sewanee, Morgan’s Steep is also a favorite spot for picnics. Access this adventure by parking at Lake Cheston and hiking 3/4 mile each way to/from Morgan's Steep.
Easy
Mountain Goat Trail
A real-life version of “The Little Engine that Could”, and now a great paved trail running from Sewanee to Tracy City and beyond.
University of the South Ralston Listening Library
Million-dollar listening room with world-class collection of recordings
Easy
Pack Hollow Overlook
One of two outstanding overlooks on the Sherwood Loop Trail at Head of the Crow State Park, the Pack Hollow overlook (at mile marker 0.5) has one of the longest viewing distances of any overlook in the region. The adjacent Sherwood Natural Bridge is also a great place for a photo. Access this adventure from the Pack Hollow trailhead.
The Course at Sewanee
This recently renovated golf course, featuring gorgeous bluff views, is open for play at the University of the South.
LUNCH
Farm-to-table restaurant with a rotating breakfast & lunch menu featuring local farmers & provisioners and a market for frozen meals, local meats, cheeses, craft beer, crafts & other gifts.
Easy
Sewanee Natural Bridge
A remarkable natural sandstone arch, easily accessible via a 400-foot stair-stepped path from the parking lot. Access this adventure from the Head of the Crow State Park's Natural Bridge Trailhead.
Mountain Mobile Massage
Individual or couple massages with optional add-on treatments in your accommodations
Easy
Lake Cheston Loop
This easy half-mile trail at the University of the South circumnavigates Lake Cheston, a popular swimming area for the University.
Fine Arts at the Mountain
Full line musical instrument store and music school
Shakerag at Sewanee Inn
Located at The Sewanee Inn, Shakerag overlooks a golf course with expansive views of the verdant valley known as Shakerag Hollow.
Tim Graham Mountain Bike Trails
More than 13 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails on the campus of St. Andrew's-Sewanee School that are open to the public year-round.
Stirling's Coffee House
Campus coffee shop with sandwiches & salads
Green's View Grill
Burgers, hot dogs & gourmet salads adjacent to golf pro shop
Shenanigans
Restaurant & pub featuring sandwiches, pizza and craft beers with a back room "speakeasy" serving fine cocktails and live performance venue featuring regionally touring bands.
Judith
Seasonal menu of creative and approachable dishes including a selection of small, shareable plates perfect for the bar crowd with accessible wines and a cocktail list.
Lodging in Sewanee
Reverie Vacation Rentals
Licensed vacation rental management company offering 5-star stays in the South Cumberland and surrounding areas.
Caver's Paradise
Campground for cavers only with 11 RV hookups, shaded tent camping and direct hiking access to a nearby cave
Sewanee Inn
43-room hotel on University campus with restaurant, bar, golfing & event space
The Grove Airstream Campground
3 vintage Airstream trailers in a private campground
Monteagle
Amish Hippie
One of the quirkiest vintage shops in Tennessee, with clothing, jewelry, accessories, gifts, nostalgic souvenirs, vintage posters & stickers, tobacco accessories, t-shirts, Amish soap and baskets.
Monteagle
Cove Creek Farm
Working farm with indoor & outdoor playgrounds and guided tours
Monteagle
ECO E-bikes
E-bike rental, sales & repair right on the Mountain Goat Trail
Monteagle
Fade Medical Spa
Medical spa services by appointment: hydrafacial, dermal filler, neuromodulators
Monteagle
Fiery Gizzard State Park Visitor Center
Park info, gift shop, mini-museum and trailhead for a kid-friendly "storybook trail"
Monteagle
High Point Restaurant
Built inside a 1929 mansion that presumably once was financed by Al Capone, High Point serves a menu of traditional gourmet dishes including Brie en Croute, Blackened Salmon Oscar and Black Thai Duck.
Monteagle
Highlander Folk School
An historic site on America's journey toward a more just and inclusive society. (Closed for Restoration)
Monteagle
May Justus Memorial Library
Local library, named for a noted author and teacher who encouraged literacy among area citizens.
Monteagle
Monteagle Sunday School Assembly
One of Nine Surviving Chautauquas
Monteagle
Mooney's Market & Emporium
Located in a 1939 storefront, The Market is a Natural Foods Grocery, while the Emporium is a collection of "shops". Yarn shop, antiques, houseplants, pottery, African baskets and more.
Monteagle
Mountain Goat Market Catering
Killer eats, eclectic finds
Monteagle
Mountain Outfitters
Outdoor equipment and apparel store with rock wall inside and permanent 50%-off outlet upstairs
Monteagle
Mountain Top Restaurant
Bringing innovative techniques and recipes from across the globe to create an exceptional culinary experience. Open Mon-Fri for lunch, Saturday for brunch and Thur-Sat for dinner.
Monteagle
Music on the Mountain at The Smoke House Patio Grill
Features some of the best artists and songwriters from Nashville every Friday night from 6:30 to 9:30 and every Saturday night from 4:30 to 9:30. Also serving hot food and cold beer, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
Monteagle
Oakes & Oliver's Modern Mercantile
Cool vintage items, unique home decor and local handcrafted goods
Monteagle
Paco's Cantina
Mexican restaurant and sports bar serving tacos, beer and more
Monteagle
Papa Ron's Pizza & Italian Steakhouse
Local family-owned restaurant since 1992, serving a large variety of food such as pizzas, pastas, steaks and much more.
Monteagle
Smoke House Patio Grill
Grilled & fried chicken, grilled pork chops, pulled BBQ, burgers, sandwiches, salads, vegetables, fried pies, cold beer with live music Friday & Saturday nights, plus open mic on Sunday from noon to 4pm.
Monteagle
Storybook Meadow Trail
This is a 1-mile easy, round trip walk through a meadow with storyboards from a children's book and a forest playground made of logs and ropes -- a great way to introduce the little ones to the joys of hiking! Access this adventure from the Fiery Gizzard State Park Headquarters on US 41 in Monteagle.
Monteagle
The Depot Cafe
Home cooked Southern food, including burgers, Philly cheese steaks & desserts
Monteagle
The Hotel, The Eagle & College Hijinks
An Epic Tale of Fire, Abduction, Guilt and Repatriation
Monteagle
The Mabee Homeplace
A Storied Home with Connections to Al Capone
Monteagle
The Whimsy Willow
Clothing, gifts and home goods boutique with a little something for everyone
Monteagle
Werner Military Museum
Unique Military Equipment from a Unique Collector