Dahlonega offers a variety of lovely mountain views, and while this list is by no means exhaustive, these are my top five favorite places to read.

1. The swing in front of Young Hall at University of North Georgia

I place my book bag behind my back and lounge, the heel of my foot kicking gently against the painted concrete of the swing. Shaded by leafy oaks, the pages of my books are sun-dappled in the cool afternoon.

2. The bay window of the Picnic Cafe

A large cup of Strudel coffee, and the quaintness of the Dahlonega square outside. Natural light, and the pleasant sound of chatter punctuate my reading time as I dwindle the morning away with Steinbeck or Boccaccio.

3.The benches outside of the "Old Courthouse"

In the shadow of the 1836 "Old Courthouse," in the center of the Square, is a tidy courtyard. Shaded by a parasol of trees, this spot is a town favorite.

4. This may sound weird, but the cemetery outside of UNG

This cemetery pre-dates the Civil War, and sprawls over a small foothill. Rarely traveled and neatly kept, it offers a serene place to finally finish War and Peace.

5.Chow Hall (just kidding)

No.

6. The steps outside of Price Memorial

Overlooking a pleasant arbor, UNG doesn't get much prettier than Price Memorial in the evening. My overhead photograph reveals the loveliness of Price Memorial in the fading sun.