Franklin is a charming, walkable mountain town in the Nantahala National Forest with a friendly downtown, seasonal festivals, gem-mining, waterfalls and miles of hiking — a relaxed, restorative base that feels welcoming for multi-week stays.
About 30 miles to Highlands for galleries and upscale dining and roughly 65 miles to Asheville for major restaurants, breweries, arts and an airport, so you get quiet mountain living with easy day-trip options.