The serene town of Townsend is situated in a scenic cove with grand mountains as its backdrop. Townsend is often referred to as the "peaceful side of the Smokies" and has attracted visitors since 1904. There’s little commercialism in Townsend with much smaller crowds than the more popular Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. What Townsend lacks in glitz it makes up for in incredible beauty. Proof of this was that the town was featured in the CBS show Christy. This show featured a caring teacher who decides to come to a remote mountain area to educate children who don’t have access to public education.   Besides the natural beauty of this town you will also find some rather interesting sites to take your loved ones to. A must see is the Tuchaleechee Caverns that takes you into the bowels of the earth to a constant 58 degrees year round. Call (423) 448-2274 for additional information. Another site worth seeing is the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum. You’ll experience a real working steam-driven saw mill, restored train, and photos and sketches of what Townsend looked like at its birth. There’s also musicals to see, camping, hiking, riding stables, and unusual local merchants selling their wares.   Townsend also features excellent accommodations for any vacationer with local condos, lodges, and chalets.