The Old Military Road at Mentone, Ala., on Lookout Mountain winds away from Jack Jones' Dude Ranch - far from civilization and into the tranquil seclusion of deep forest and the ever-flowing Little River.
The road is much like it was built in 1864 as Gen. McCook's Union Army hacked a narrow route up the steep, boulder-strewn mountain from a river ford.
When we pushed our way along the winding, narrow road, a small tree had silently fallen into our path. We half expected banditos to ride up brandishing firearms.
There are some open fields along the way where you are sure to see deer if it is the early evening.
When you reach the river, a covered bridge will be among your first sights.
Then you will finally arrive at the Little River Hideway - a charming home built with the ingenious use of tall piers upon the huge hillside boulders.
Just beyond it, the old road narrows still further and is waiting to be explored on foot.
Barbara Neel is the proprietor of the Hideway, which started out as the typical bed and breakfast, but is now more of a rental with breakfast bread and fruit supplied ahead so you can enjoy it at your leisure in your pajamas.
There is a 57-foot porch facing the river complete with an inviting hammock and Adirondack chairs.
The rustic-style home features two bedrooms on the main floor and another underneath. There is Direct TV to provide some connection with civilization.
The Neels fell in love with the Mentone community and built their dreamhouse across the river. When they learned last fall that the wonderful house across the way was for sale, they encouraged Barbara's mother to buy it. When she decided it was a little too much out of the way for her, the Neels bought it and began its conversion to a bed and breakfast.
Husband Mike helped get the house ready, and daughters Emily and Hannah often help out.
The entire house is available for $200 per night for up to eight persons.
Contact:
Little River Hideaway
895 County Road 614
Mentone, AL 35984
Tel: (256)634-0006
Mob: (256)393-5072
E-mail: info@littleriverhideaway.com
Web: www.littleriverhideaway.com