Did you stay in NC?
Yep, in a little place called Maggie Valley. Take Westport, put it in the foothills of some
real mountains, lose the seasonal yuppie cottagers, and you have Maggie Valley.
I'd go back there some day for a vacation.
If I might make a recommendation...
Find a place to stay near the NC/TN state line, around the Knoxville/Asheville area. Beautiful sightseeing/driving area, and if you take the Fiero you're only an hour or two from Deal's Gap.