- Sewanee is not a city, but a small unincorporated community in Franklin County, Tennessee, United States. It is located on the Cumberland Plateau, approximately 90 miles southeast of Nashville and 60 miles northwest of Chattanooga. Sewanee is home to the University of the South, which is a liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and scenic surroundings. The community is also known for its abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby state parks and natural areas.