A Solo Female Traveller’s Guide to Tennessee

For those seeking tranquillity, the Smoky Mountains provide the perfect escape. The peaceful side is home to many of Tennessee’s best waterfalls like Abrams Falls, Spruce Flat Falls and Laurel Falls. The Smoky Mountains offer no shortage of hiking trails, several of which depart from Tremont Visitor’s Centre. Most notable is the one-way, 11-mile, pedestrian-friendly Cades Cove loop that doubles as one of the Smokies’ most iconic bike rides. Also nearby in Pigeon Forge is Dollywood, the namesake of its owner and icon Dolly Parton. Dollywood boasts the DreamMore Resort & Spa and Heartsong Lodge & Resort in Pigeon Forge. And later this year, Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel will open in Nashville, housing artefacts from across her incredible career.

For an iconic USA road trip, explore Tennessee's small towns. From the quaint streets of Bell Buckle to the picturesque charm of Lynchburg, solo travellers can take their time discovering hidden gems and creating spontaneous adventures along the way– like the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and taste local whiskies and moonshine or the Tennessee Music Pathways for musical history and culture.

In Memphis, Graceland preserves the home and legacy of Elvis Presley. Visitors can tour the mansion, view personal possessions and explore exhibits that celebrate Presley’s music, cultural influence and enduring global impact. Sun Studios in Memphis and RCA Studio B in Nashville continue the story. For those who don’t want to drive, Vonlane operates a luxury coach service between the two cities.