In Cabin Pampering



Treat yourself without ever having to leave your cabin! Just like an all inclusive resort at Escape to Blue Ridge we have many local businesses happy to pamper and spoil you. Host a dinner or a party, have a spa day, or get a family photo shoot done to bring back memories from your trip. Check out these wonderful in-cabin services that you can book for your mountain escape.

In Cabin Chefs

Take the stress out of meal-time prep by hiring one of our amazing local private chefs to come to the cabin and prepare a delicious meal for you and all of your guests! Enjoy an incredible multi course meal suited to your tastes and dietary needs. Watch them prepare an incredible dinner while you lay back and relax. And after dinner and dessert is served they’ll clean up all the mess, no hassle on your part! Our local chefs can also deliver ready to eat meals right to your cabin door. All you have to do is heat them up! We’d highly recommend using one of these wonderful chefs: Chef Eatz, Fine Dining Chefs, Blue Duck Eats, or Chef Trey Gourmet. Learn more about them from our In-Cabin Chef blog: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/the-ultimate-meal/ 

Yoga Over Blue Ridge 

Photo Courtesy of Yoga Over Blue Ridge

Get your body stretched and moving with an in-cabin yoga session from Yoga Over Blue Ridge. You pick the style and the pace of your class with all kinds of options like “Slow Flow”, “Revive and Restore”, “Yin”, and more. Find your inner peace on your cabin’s deck overlooking the beautiful mountains, outside on your cabin’s extensive lawn, or if you’re staying at a lakeside cabin you can even do your yoga session on a paddle board! Your choices are limitless. You can even do a yoga party with your whole crew! Private yoga sessions start at $65, learn more here:  https://www.yogaoverblueridge.com/private-sessions-parties 

Spa Day

Photo Courtesy of Cabin Conceirge

Find ultimate relaxation with an in-cabin massage. Tea Tree’s Boutique Spa located in the heart of Downtown Blue Ridge will come to any cabin within 10 miles of their shop. For your group of two or more people they offer massages, facials, and decolletage treatment. Enjoy the privacy and convenience of your in-cabin massage all while admiring the mountain views. Learn more here: https://teatreesmassage.com/in-cabin-services/ 

Family Photography 

Photo Courtesy of Zolu Photography

Get the whole family together for a family portrait at the cabin! Have your photographer come to the cabin and capture some special shots of you and your loved ones. The photos will be a reminder of your amazing mountain vacation and a memory that will last a lifetime. Here are a few of our favorite local photographers: ZoLu Photography, A Day In The Life Photography, and Burns and Crowe Photography. Need more suggestions? Check out https://www.flytographer.com/ to pick your own local photographer that matches everything that you’re looking for! 

At Your Service!

Our team is ready and waiting to elevate your escape. We can arrange for your rental to be ready with fresh flowers, candy and wine or champagne. The scattering of rose petals from the door to the bedroom or on the bed (Only silk ones) is also a service we offer. If you would just love to arrive and settle into your cabin without having to make a trip to the grocery store we can do your grocery shopping for you too, delivering it to you and stocking the fridge and pantry just in time for your arrival!

You’re on vacation right!? Take this time to relax, unwind, and treat yourself to the finer things in life. Slow down and enjoy your loved ones’ company in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains! 

Dreamy Cabin Kitchens



We know that when you escape to the mountains you want to make the trip as amazing as possible for your whole party. Here you will find stunning beauty, exciting adventures, and cabins that are packed full of amenities to make you feel comfortable at your home away from home.

While you may expect most mountain cabins to come complete with fireplaces, spacious decks, comfortable beds, and relaxing hot tubs, you might be suprised to know that many of our properties feature gourmet kitchens! We’ve comprised a list of our 7 favorite cabin kitchens perfect for creating and serving up a delicious meal! 

Boardtown Farms

A wonderfully inviting place in Blue Ridge, welcome to Boardtown Farms. This true vintage farmhouse has been lovingly updated & remodeled and is ideally situated on a 5-acre pasture. Take in the fantastic views! This house is truly unique up and down. The stairs to the second floor are made of refurbished wood from a 100-year-old church in Ellijay. You’ll love the antique cast iron functioning pot belly stove on the main floor. The home itself is professionally decorated in a modern farm motif, complete with beautiful art and farm doors throughout. In addition, the house is outfitted with custom shades that allow natural light through its oversized windows, allowing a clear view of the pasture. You won’t find any place else like here in Blue Ridge.

Totally comfortable and cozy, you’ll love the living spaces inside Boardtown Farms. The living room has a great designer L-shaped couch and a pot-belly stove. The heart of the house, however, is the professional kitchen. Boasting brand new cabinets, a beautiful custom walk-in pantry, top-of-the-line quartz counters, and so much more, it’s a dream. The chef’s kitchen also has a professional-grade gas stove with a built-in water faucet that instantly produces hot and cold water.

Cherokee Vista 

This newly built (2021) 4 bedroom cabin has so much to offer!  Cherokee Vista sits high on a hill where the views are out of this world! The cabin includes amazing amenities like a huge fire pit outside,a game room with a wet bar, a reading nook in the loft, a covered porch and outdoor entertainment area, and even a light fixture in the great room made from a cannon wagon wheel from the War of 1812. But one of the best parts of this cabin is it’s large and stunning kitchen!

This fully-equipped kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, walnut cabinets, and a gas stove with 5 burners. While you admire this lovely kitchen you’ll notice the custom fossil countertops, a unique design we absolutely love! Need lots of room for all your ingredients? Just steps off the kitchen is a butler pantry with a huge sink,  a 2nd dishwasher, and more storage opportunities. You’ll have plenty of room to cook up an amazing meal here! 

Legend 

Legend is a luxurious 6 bedroom cabin located in Ellijay with incredible attention to detail. And the kitchen in this beautiful cabin is simply “legendary”! You can cook up a feast for all your guests in this enormous gourmet kitchen complete with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, custom cabinets, and 2 sinks. You’ll love preparing meals in this gorgeous kitchen with plenty of room for you and all your cooking assistants! There’s even a small TV in the kitchen so you won’t have to miss the big game while you prep the game day snacks.

And when it’s time to eat you have two dining options. Gather around the large dining room table with a view of the mountains right outside your window or eat on the patio at one of the two picnic tables while you listen to the calming sounds of the babbling brook below. And it’s not just the luxurious kitchen that will help you to entertain your guests; there is also a trout stream on the property perfect for fishing, a hot tub just waiting for you to take a dip in, two outdoor fireplaces, a huge variety of games in the game room like pool and pinball, and you can even watch movies on the big screen in the cabin’s very own movie room! Legend has everything you need and more to make your mountain getaway amazing! 

Lonesome Dove 

You’ll be feeling anything but lonesome in this stunning, 4 bedroom cabin with room for 13 of your closest friends and favorite pets! Lonesome Dove is beautiful inside and out. Outside you’ll find a garden with a waterfall, a large landscaped yard, a screened in porch and entertainment center, a firepit out front, and beautiful mountain views. The inside is something to awh over as well with an open floor plan, soaring ceilings and a tasteful south western design throughout.

One of our favorite spots however is in the spacious kitchen. Lonesome Dove’s kitchen is your “kitchen goals” with it’s butler’s pantry, stone hearth, large island with a sink, stainless steel appliances, double sized refrigerator, electric stove/oven, and so much more! Plus we know you’ll love the stone and fossil accents just like we do! And once the meal is prepared there’s plenty of room for everyone to dig in at the dining table that seats 10 and the breakfast bar that seats 4. Lonesome Dove is the perfect getaway for large groups with plenty of space to spread out and cook up a great meal! 

Mountain Serenity

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3xHMWw5QhQ

When farmhouse style collides with modern luxury you get an incredible kitchen experience at Mountain Serenity. This fabulous chef’s dream features all stainless steel appliances, a HUGE fridge, a 6 burner professional gas burning Viking stove, a 26 pound Oster Turkey roaster perfect for holiday dinners, and to top it all off, the countertops are Soapstone! So dreamy.

Your guests can enjoy your perfectly cooked meal at the 6 seat dining room table, the 2 seat breakfast bar or outside on the deck to take in the stunning Blue Ridge mountain views! If you prefer you can always cook a meal on the grill or get adventurous with some campfire cooking over the firepit. However you decide to prepare your meals, you can be guaranteed lots of comfort and relaxation in style at Mountain Serenity.

Nighthawk 

Hide out in the woods with all the amenities of a high-end resort! If that sounds like something you’d enjoy then Nighthawk is the cabin for you! This rustic, wooded cabin is complete with spectacular mountain views, beautiful design and architecture inside and out, 4 bedrooms, and plenty of peace and quiet. 

And don’t even get us started on the kitchen! It has it all! This rustic yet modern style kitchen features industrial lighting, slab stone counters, custom wood cabinetry, new stainless appliances, and everything you need to prepare a delicious meal. Not too big, not too small; this kitchen is the perfect size for creating your masterpiece. When your guests are ready to dig in to your creation you can dine at either the dining table or the breakfast bar. And with their stomachs full they can head off to bed in one of the 4 comfortable bedrooms, 3 of which have King beds. If a peaceful mountain vacation is what you’re after then Nighthawk is the place for you! 

The Haven on Toccoa

Find a piece of heaven on earth at The Haven on Toccoa! This lovely cabin will be your own private oasis hidden away in the woods alongside the Toccoa River with incredible mountain views! And the spacious, fully-stocked kitchen will have you feeling like a 5 star chef with its custom wood cabinets, granite countertops, and professional gas stove and oven. The beautiful stone detailing above the stove will blow your mind!

And when the dinner bell is rung you have many options on where to dine. Eat your home cooked meal at the kitchen island which seats 4, or the dining table next to the window that seats eight, or head outside to the covered deck where you’ll find plenty of seating and a great view. Outside you’ll also find a wood-burning fireplace, gas grill, a five-seat hot tub and two fire pits! And to top it all off The Haven on Toccoa is even pet-friendly!

We hope you’ll create some incredible dishes and chef inspired masterpieces here in these AMAZING cabin kitchens! If you create something that you’re especially proud of be sure to take a photo and share it with us, we love seeing the fun you have on your Escape to Blue Ridge!

Cabin Provisions To-Go



Even on vacation sometimes you may just want a night in to relax. We totally understand! So sit back and do just that; while others prepare your hot, fresh meals for you. All you have to do is be ready to eat! Instead of cooking for hours, enjoy that extra down time with your friends and family and then come together for a delicious meal. Your taste buds and your tired feet will thank you!

You can now enjoy meals from the comfort of your own home away from home thanks to take out and delivery options. When you don’t feel like cooking in the cabin you can order food from many of the favorite Blue Ridge restaurants to-go. You can even order meals from some of our favorite local chefs! Here’s a list of 6 Blue Ridge restaurants, shops, and chefs that are helping to make mealtime easy!

Mercier Orchards 

Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards

Mercier Orchards has a variety of pre-made, ready-to-cook meals to choose from. They’re made right on the farm and with fresh ingredients! Each meal serves two people and includes step-by-step instructions for preparing in under 30 minutes. They have a variety of options for you to take home including; Chicken Parmesan, Savory Pot Roast with Gravy, Stuffed Pork Chops, Local Trout wrapped in Applewood Smoked Bacon or topped with Lemon & Dill, and Chicken Cordon Bleu; and each come with a delicious vegetable side of your choosing! New meals are added weekly, so there will always be something fresh and new. To place an order email at theresa.waggoner@mercierorchards.com or call at 706-632-3411.

Mercier’s also has a Grab-N-Go Bakery where you can pick up all your favorite sweet treats like fried pies and apple cider donuts! Even pick up a bottle of their famous hard cider or wine while you’re there to bring home for a night in at the cabin. With so many delicious meals and treats to bring back, you won’t need to cook a thing! 

Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill 

Photo Courtesy of Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill

Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill in Downtown Blue Ridge has take out! That means you can take any of their delicious meals home and enjoy them in the comfort of your own cabin. Bring Chester’s incredible wings home with you to share with the whole family; choose from 10, 20, or 50 wings. Or bring home a delicious burger and fries or for a fancy meal in go for the Blackened 14oz Ribeye Steak. And don’t forget to take home the dessert of the week too! Choose anything off the menu and enjoy a night in your home away from home!

Rum Cake Lady

Photo Courtesy of the Rum Cake Lady

With two locations to serve you, Rum Cake Lady in Downtown Blue or in McCaysville/Copperhill makes it east to order anything off the menu for take out or delivery! If you’re feeding a large family or group, the Party Sandwich Platters and a handful of different Bundt Cake flavors are the perfect fit. Or order a bunch of Cuban Food Bowls to fill you up with a mix of rice, meat, and beans. Bring the taste of Cuba home to your cabin and some desserts that everyone will enjoy! 

Fine Dining Chefs

Photo Courtesy of Fine Dining Chefs

Cabin chefs are great for making preparations at mealtime a breeze, and Fine Dining Chefs is one of our favorites! You can order a private chef to come in and give you a fine dining experience, cater in, or use their cabin concierge service to bring in groceries and packaged, ready to cook meals before you even arrive. Chef Jeff & his team makes it easy for you to relax and enjoy your time with your loved ones. For meal selections, enjoy delicious choices like Heritage Pork and Georgia Peaches, Beef Wellington, New York Strip, and so much more. Chef Jeff Servin & Company bring the fine dining straight to you! In fact, they will create a tailor fit menu based on your preferences, allergies, and dietary restrictions. Trust us. You will not be disappointed with this company, this service, or their food!

Pasta Market 

Photo Courtesy of the Pasta Market

Stock up on all things pasta at the Pasta Market in both Downtown Blue Ridge and McCaysville/Copperhill. Pick up all kinds of pastas, sauces, spices, flatbreads, desserts, and more then bring them back with you to prep an easy meal at the cabin. You’ll love their large selection of imported Italian goods that will make you feel like you’re dining on a delicious, authentic Italian meal at a Tuscan villa. Even when you’re not in Blue Ridge you can order online to have your favorite Italian goods delivered right to your door! Take the taste of Italy with you, wherever you go!

Ingles Markets

Ingles Market is a great place to stock up for your week in Blue Ridge. You can find all your basics here like bread, cereal, meat, and more but you can also find a wide selection of local goods that you wouldn’t be able to find at the bigger grocery stores. Not only can you stock up on your usual groceries here but you can also order catering from The Chef’s Kitchen to serve your family and guests at your cabin. They have everything you could imagine from hors d’oeuvres, party platters, ready to eat boxed meals, soups and salads, wraps, bakery items, and hot buffets. Ingles is great for everything you need whether you plan on cooking up fresh meals in the kitchen or having them catered in; you can do it all easily!

The Ultimate Meal



Cover Photo of delicious meals courtesy of Chef Jeff Servin

Fine dining is different at every restaurant, but there is something magical about having a fully prepared gourmet meal in the privacy of your luxurious mountain cabin. Lucky for us, so many of the finest award-winning international chefs have found their way to the Appalachian mountains, tired of the hassle of metropolitan restaurant life, and a few special ones chose to settle right here in Blue Ridge to share their talents.  

These professional chefs will come to your cabin, prepare an incredible meal suited to your tastes and dietary needs, and the best part is they clean up all the mess! The surprising part, is this 5-star service is much more affordable than you might think. Seriously. It is! We recommend you consider one of these amazing options (listed alphabetically because we love all 3!) on your next Escape to Blue Ridge.

BLUE DUCK EATS

Chef Steven – Blue Duck Eats

Steven Lash is a veteran of the restaurant world having worked in some of the top kitchens in Atlanta for over 15 years. Steven’s food is best described as “inspired American cuisine” combining fine dining with local influence inspired by his extensive travel, passion for the outdoors, and hunger for understanding cultures.

Jumbo lump crab cake with Meyer lemon Beurre Blanc and Microgreen salad

FINE DINING CHEFS

Photo Courtesy of Fine Dining Chefs

With over 15 years of restaurant experience, this 33 year old Executive Chef takes pride in sourcing his produce from local farmers, and bringing the best quality to the table for every plate he delivers, so you know it’s fresh! He puts his entire heart, passion, and skillset into dinner parties, family dinners, or an exotic feast for two. He also offers packaged meals that are ready in minutes, so you don’t even need to leave your cabin!

Wedding Reception for Escape to Blue Ridge partner, Ernie White
  • Featured blog cover photo courtesy of Fine Dining Chefs.

CHEF TREY GOURMET

Chef Trey Griffith

Using the freshest, often locally sourced ingredients, Chef Trey is passionate about sharing the experience of fine dining with his clients. His services include initial client consultation, a customized menu plan, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and kitchen clean up!

Five spiced wild caught Steelhead Trout with Honey glaze, Saffron scented yellow rice, diced sautéed yellow Beet Root, Soy glaze

Provisions for Your Great Escape!



I’m not sure if I was in my right mind when I let my two cousins convince me to spend a week with them in the cabin they rented in Blue Ridge last September. It started as friendly banter between us at the annual 4th of July family reunion. My Aunt asked me about my love life, and my cousins snickered. They accused me of being a workaholic. I assured them that was not the case. They asked me how much vacation time I had accrued at my job. I admitted to three weeks (It was actually 5). They challenged me to join them on their annual fall fishing trip, promised me the master bedroom, and said that if I’d agree to cook the fish they caught, they’d foot the bill for everything, all week. That included my choice of wines.

I contemplated.
I made them pinky swear to the wines of my choice.
My Aunt chided me when she kissed me goodbye that evening. “I look forward to hearing all about you great escape adventure”.

Happy friends travelling together by a car

Ten weeks later I was in the back seat of a jeep sans shock absorbers, my suitcase stuffed with ten books I had been collecting to read on the vacations I had never found time to take and my cast iron frying pan (because frying fresh trout in anything else would be a crime).

That evening when we arrived at Eagles Landing, all my trepidations about the “deliverance” experience were evaporated. This cabin was gorgeous. And true to their word, they dropped my bags in the upstairs master suite. I decided to explore the kitchen to see what might already be there to help me execute my “duties” in the next six days. I was impressed with the tools of the trade and took out my tablet to start to create my menu.

My cousins, Jake and Jeff are twins. My Aunt and her sister (my Mom) were pregnant at the same time. I was born a mere 34 hours after they were. At family reunions, we were referred to as the triplets. Growing up we lived just two blocks away from each other until we all left for college. Our families took summer trips together for as long as I can remember. Vacationing with these guys wasn’t going to be a new journey. In many ways, I was hoping it would be a rekindling of such joyful past adventures. While deciding on the culinary options, I knew what they’d eat, what they’d abhor, and what would make them gastronomically delirious.

The next morning I woke up to find the car keys on the counter and a credit card. The note from my cousins said their guide picked them up and I should feel free to take the jeep into town and shop for whatever was needed to keep us all well fed and hydrated.

I had done my internet research on possible provisions before our arrival. My first stop that morning: Out of the Blue. This is one of the finest gourmet shops I’ve ever had the pleasure of shopping, and now, on my cousin’s tab, I was going to indulge for all three of us.

Photo Courtesy of Out of the Blue

Sara, Out of the Blue’s founder, who travels all over the world to select wines from small producers, asked me my vin likes and dislikes. We also discussed my menu ideas for the next week. I settled on wines from three countries, craft beer for the boys from the region as well as from Europe, and a selection of cheeses that she packed on ice for me so I could continue on my shopping adventure. I left feeling accomplished and I also bid farewell with a promise to revisit before heading back to the city.

My next stops were Blue Ridge Olive Oil Co. and Tupelo Tea, two sister stores that abut one another. My morning rituals are always accompanied by at least one cup of freshly brewed tea so the first door I chose was Tupelo Tea. It was amazing; a “candy store” for tea drinkers. I browsed and sniffed and tasted. After having indulged in a cup of MOCHA NUT MATE, I left with pouches of PU-ERH HAZELBERRY and CHINA MILKY OOLONG, as well as a pump jar of honey. 

Photo Courtesy of Tupelo Tea

Next door, I found the Blue Ridge Olive Oil Co. to be more than irresistible. I wanted to taste-test every one of their 65+ olive oils and balsamic vinegar from around the world, but alas, the day was short and my palette overwhelmed. I had two salads and two appetizers on my menu that needed the right dressings. Two bottles of olive oil and two of balsamic seemed a bit excessive, but it was my cousins’ nickel. I added a small bottle of blood orange olive oil to the purchase and made a note that I was going to have to make a dessert with this that both of the guys would adore (recipe below).

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company

While downtown, I found my way over to Huck’s General Store. I nearly didn’t find my way back out of there. This is the kind of place that our parents would find on past summer trips, knowing that we kids would be occupied for at least an hour deciding on how we were going to spend the five dollars they gave each of us. Then we’d negotiate with each other for the rest of the trip, swapping pieces of candy and taking turns wearing the raccoon hat.  Even though the barrels of candy were overwhelmingly nostalgic, my adult tastes led me to the outstanding selection of rubs, sauces, jellies, pickles, and other canned delicacies. I took a long time deliberating before making my choices: pickled okra, habanero pickled garlic, and Huck’s sweet potato pecan butter. (recipes below).

Photo Courtesy of Huck’s General Store

Man (or in this case “men”) can not live on just fish alone, so it was off to find some scrumptious protein. I knew that easy grill meats were in order this week. These guys were going to want to just kick back with a beer (or 3) after trolling the fishline all day. I needed to keep it simple but succulent. I wanted a variety of sausages so my research took me to Margo’s Gourmet Polish Kitchen. Not only did I find a great selection of European weiners and sausages, but she also carried locally raised beef, pork. chicken and free-range eggs.

Photo Courtesy of Margo’s Bistro & Deli Polish Restaurant

Now it was time to take a lovely drive out to Mercier’s Orchard. Mercier’s started over 40 years ago as an apple orchard, but the second and third generations of the Mercier family have developed an amazing farm to table experience that draws visitors twelve months of the year, seven days a week, and from all over the world. I decided that I would have lunch in their café, and stuffed myself with a delicious salad and a fried peach pie. That gave me all the energy boost I needed to continue on my shopping throughout their huge market for the best of provisions.

Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchard

Ladened with Mercier’s fresh produce, homemade cheese spreads, and a hefty selection of hard cider, I had just left myself enough time for my last stop of the day, Ingles Supermarket, Blue Ridge’s large grocery chain store. Trip Advisor reviews gave Ingle’s nearly 5 stars. It didn’t disappoint. I found all the rest of the staples on my list and made it home in time to sip a glass of fine wine while I read three chapters of my first vacation book before starting dinner.

The First Night’s Menu

Hordourves and Spirits

Snakebite Cocktail: Mix the following in a chilled mug: Six ounces of a dark German Guinness ale from Out of the Blue. A pinch of salt. A tablespoon of liquid from the jar of  Huck’s General Store pickled Okra. Stir.
Now pour six ounces of Mercier’s Sneaky Jack Hard Cider over the beer mixture. Serve with Huck’s Pickled Okra, (slit down the middle and scoop out the seeds)  stuffed with Mercier’s Pimento Cheese Spread. Shake a dash of Cayenne pepper over each filled okra.

Dinner

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: I cheated and bought Bob Evans family size at Ingles. You can’t tell the difference after I spiced them up with three minced cloves of habanero pickled garlic from Hucks and drizzled with Garlic Olive Oil from Blue Ridge Olive Oil.

Trout: What can one do to fresh trout besides adding a light dusting of flour, salt, and pepper then pan-fry in a hot cast-iron skillet and a large slab of Amish Butter? Well, I topped each filet with a tablespoon of Sweet Potato Pecan Butter from Huck’s General store. The guys devoured it all.

Vegetable: Steamed shredded red cabbage with a side of  Spice Apple Chutney from Mercier’s.

Dessert

Blood Orange Olive Oil Pound Cake

INGREDIENTS (Makes one 9 inch loaf)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for the pan
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 large eggs
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of Blood Orange olive oil
1/2 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons brandy (or bourbon)
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
¼ cup of grenadine (maraschino cherry juice)
Frosting Ingredients:
¼ cup of sugar
¼ cup of orange juice

PREPARATION
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Butter a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 cup of the sugar. Whisk in the olive oil, milk, brandy, lemon zest, orange zest, and 1/4 cup of the orange juice. Add the dry ingredients and whisk to combine. The batter is wet. It’s okay.
Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes, until a cake tester inserted in the cake comes out clean. You will smell the cake when it is done. Remove the cake from the oven and let cool enough to handle, then flip over onto a rack to cool thoroughly.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup orange juice. Turn the cake right side up. Using a pastry brush, brush the glaze all over the cake. Allow the glaze to harden some before serving.

Not a cook? Call the Chef!

Local area professional chefs will come to your cabin, prepare an incredible meal suited to your tastes and dietary needs, and the best part is they clean up all the mess! We recommend you consider one of these amazing options (listed alphabetically because we love all 3!):

Blue Duck Eats

Photo Courtesy of Blue Duck Eats

Steven Lash is a veteran of the the restaurant world having worked in some of the top kitchens in Atlanta for over 15 years. Steven’s food is best described as “inspired American cuisine” combining fine dining with local influence inspired by his extensive travel, passion for the outdoors, and hunger for understanding cultures.

Fine Dining Chefs

Photo Courtesy of Fine Dining Chefs

With over 15 years of restaurant experience, this 33 year old Executive Chef takes pride in sourcing his produce from local farmers, and bringing the best quality to the table for every plate he delivers, so you know it’s fresh!

Trey Griffith, cheftreygourmet

Photo Courtesy of Trey Griffith, cheftreygourmet

Using the freshest, often locally sourced ingredients, Chef Trey will create an imaginative menu for your family or friends, all in your kitchen. Giving consideration to food allergies or dietary restrictions is something he takes into account when writing the menus.

The Tastes of Europe In Blue Ridge



For Americans visiting Europe, an integral part of the adventure is partaking of the local cuisine and libations. When Europeans immigrate to our country they too enjoy our regional cuisine, at least for a little while. Eventually, they begin to miss a fine Irish whiskey or a delicately seasoned Polish sausage. Fortunately for Blue Ridge, some of these traditional European fares have established themselves here in the mountains. On your next stay with us, consider visiting one of these fine establishments.

The Black Bear Bier Garten

📷 @ancole78

Over 4,500 miles separate the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Bavarian Alps, but only a few miles come between our cabins and the genuine vibes of a German beer garden. If you are looking to have a non-American food experience, then try a sampling of sausages with choices that include Boar, Venison, Buffalo, Pheasant, and Elk. If you want to experience something on draft besides Miller Lite, then cozy up to the bar and start asking about their outstanding hops selections. And if you don’t want to take your husband shopping with you, the sign on the door at the Black Bear acknowledges that they have free husband daycare! Meet him later for a brew and a large German soft pretzel. You won’t be disappointed.

The Boro Inn Irish Pub

📷 The Boro Inn Irish Pub

The curb impression is very deceiving as you drive up to the Boro Inn. From the outside, there is nothing authentic about it. As you open the door, you enter a pub in the County Wexford, with Father Brendan Doyle (retired) officiating behind the bar. With 177 different handcrafted libations including whiskeys and brews whose recipes span 1,300 years, there is nothing that isn’t authentic at the Boro. Part pub, part museum, you will be as captivated by historical artifacts as you will be by the bartender’s brogue. The music, the stories, the potations and the grub will land you smack in the middle of The Emerald Isle while you vacation in the North Georgia Mountains.

Cucina Rustica

📷 Cucina Rustica

Chef Danny Mellman takes Italian fare to a new level at this fine-dining ristorante located in Morganton, GA, just a few miles east of Blue Ridge. This is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends. Start out with a plate of Frito Misto- flash fried calamari and fish with artichokes and lemon and charred tomato-lemon aioli. The salads are shareable in size. The Treviso is a patron favorite – with bacon, balsamic, fresh pear, walnuts, and Gorgonzola. A myriad of pasta, risottos, and polentas, with fresh roasted vegetables, compliment delectable fresh sauces, meat entrees, and the finest of seafood. This is Old World Italian cuisine served mountainside. Reservations are recommended.

Margo’s Gourmet Polish Kitchen

📷 Margo’s Gourmet Polish Kitchen

Do you often crave your Babciu’s pierogi? Maybe you always preferred her meat pies even though everyone else fought over the potato and cheese filled pockets. Has it been years since you dove into a dish of your grandmother’s cabbage rolls? Margo wants to satisfy those memories. She is in her kitchen preparing all of her menu by hand daily to assure the best quality taste. When the weather cooperates, you can enjoy amazing Polish sausages, krauts, goulash, soups, and baked goods served on the kawiarnia na dworze (outdoor patio). Whether seated indoors or out, having a chair in Margo’s kitchen means a visit from Margo, too. You will love the food, the experience, and the chef.