Georgia Atlantic Coastline

Here is a short summary of our Thanksgiving trip to the South Eastern part of Georgia over the course of four days in a Toyota Prius. I cannot praise enough the fuel efficiency of the Prius averaging more than forty miles per gallon. In addition, fuel was at its lowest point at that time. Putting everything together, we did not spend more than thirty dollars in fuel for this trip. Amazing!

The first major attraction was the Okefenokee swamp which is a large depression in the southeast of Georgia. Despite being the largest peat-based blackwater swamp in North America, it is not very well known. This result in very few tourists and this is a good way to let the ecosystem in its pristine state. There are no road through the swamp and people have to resort to horses or kayaks to move and visit the wildlife refuge.

Paddling in the Okefenokee Swamp is a treat

Okefenokee or the "Land of the Trembling Earth" is covered by cypress forests, marsh, lakes and island. It is home to a humongous number of animals including alligators, turtle, lizards, cranes, woodpeckers and bears.

The next point of interest was Cumberland Island which is a bariier island and a protected seashore. This result in miles of undevelopped beaches that are accessed only after a ferry rides and some trecking.

Lady Cumberland is the ferry linking Cumberland Island and St Marys

Jekyll Island was one of the last major thing we visited during the trip. From the early British settlers of the 18th century to the rich French landowners of the 19th century, from the gilded age playground of the early 20th century to its recent reconversion as a state park, Jekyll Island has had a rich past. Large and opulent mansions together with ruins of old stone houses are a testimonial of thisrich and changing history.

Nature trail are everywhere and I believe that the most convenient way of moving throughout the island without missing the details is by using a bike. The island is flat and it is easily possible to go around the island under the shade of moss-covered trees in a day.

Nature trail with autumn colors on Jekyll Island

And as usual, if you enjoy these pictures then do not hesitate to take a look at the short video of my trip to the Golden Isles of Georgia here. Enjoy!