Basics
- Length:
- 17 miles (27 km)
- Time:
- 1 hour
Description
The Altamaha Historic Scenic Byway displays a collage of history; from Guale Indians and 16th and 17th century Spanish missionaries to the pre-colonial occupation of Fort King George; from hardy Scottish Highland soldiers and colonists to the rice and cotton planters who succeeded them. Descendants of early African slaves who built the nineteenth-century plantations live in the area today, contributing their culture and traditions to life in communities scattered along the byway. The Geechee community still survives on Sapelo Island and descendants of the 177 Scottish Highlanders who first settled Darien are scattered throughout McIntosh County. Enhanced by the archaeological remnants of a long ago era, this byway adds a rich cultural and historical note to the ecological beauty found in the present.
Tourism Resources
Helpful Links
Tourism Resources
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge (GA)
The refuge's 5,618 acres include maritime forest, salt marsh, freshwater marsh, and beach habitat.
Directions
Charters are available from local marinas. Individuals can also access the island in personal boats.
Fort King George (GA)
Georgia's oldest fort was built to defend the southern colonies from French and Spanish invaders.
Sapelo Island Visitor Center (GA)
The Sapelo Island Visitor Center serves as a major distribution point for information concerning educational opportunities, coastal ecosystems, and various tourism activities.
