I surely don't intend to seem like I am pushing Arab, but since I live there, it is one place I do know about in NE AL.

I can posters about S. AL, since I am from there and visit family there. I will take your comments to heart and try not to post in a way that can be taken as I am pushing any one place.
Scottsboro is just up the road and seems like a nice town. It is close to the Tennesse river. Scottsboro has a nice downtown from what I have seen. Goose Pond is just outside of Scottsboro and has a lot to offer with nature walk, pool, community center and is right on the water.
Ft Payne, I have been to only a few times, pretty area and hilly. Close to the interstate and the main hwy was pretty busy. The ppl I met there were very nice.
Hopefully others can give you more info on that area.