Gorham’s Bluff is a wonderful place to stay while visiting the Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro, Ala.

It’s also a destination in its own right.

The upscale planned community in nearby Pisgah features a lodge and string of vacation cottages overlooking the Tennessee River. From the pinnacle of the bluff, visitors can sit in Adirondack chairs or gaze at the valley from the cliffside gazebo, ride bicycles, fish in West Lake, swim in the outdoor pool or take a vigorous or leisurely hike along one of three marked trails.

The editors of “Southern Living” voted The Lodge on Gorham’s Bluff as “The Most Romantic Spot in Alabama.” In addition to being able to enjoy a hearty, indulgent breakfast buffet at the lodge each morning, guests can also take their evening meal — a four-course, gourmet meal — on white linen with flowers and candlelight in the dining room.

Founder Dawn McGriff is a culture buff and indulges her guests with everything from storytelling sessions to classical music concerts. Gorham’s Bluff is also the summer residency of the Alabama Ballet.

For more information, call (256) 451-3435 or log on to www.gorhamsbluff.com.

For more information on northern Alabama, call (256) 350-3500 or log on to www.alabamamountainlakes.org.