It’s time to cool off and soak in the views from North Georgia’s creeks, rivers, and streams. These small, but mighty, bodies of water offer an extensive variety of activities and adventure. The canopy trees, wildlife, and stunning boulders all around the waters provide plenty of sights for the whole group.
The spectacular waters found in the North Georgia Mountains are truly hidden gems. With hot temperatures rising, jumping into these cool waters is a must. These parks and recreation areas will allow you to experience the beauty of nature in a family-friendly environment. The best part is you can stay as long as you’d like! The sun is shining, the water is flowing and the mountains are calling! So what are you waiting for?! Grab your water shoes and let’s go!
Cooper Creek Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of USDA Forest Service
Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, Cooper Creek Recreation Area is a prime location for an afternoon or a weekend of adventure! Activities at this recreation area include hunting, hiking, and trout fishing. Cooper Creek is stocked with rainbow trout so all fishermen will not leave disappointed! After you’ve explored the shady banks of Cooper Creek, grill some burgers and hot dogs for a creek-side cookout!
Mulky Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of USDA Forest Service
Another spot located along Cooper Creek is the Mulky Recreation Area. This is a simple, yet serene environment to spend some time. Activities involving hiking, fishing, and creek splashing are all offered at the Mulky Recreation Area. Test out your hiking boots on the Yellow Mountain Trail, which follows an old logging road for 3.6 miles through forests of hemlock, pine and hardwood.
Deep Hole Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of USDA Forest Service
The Deep Hole Recreation Area is just north of Suches, GA, and sits alongside the banks of the Toccoa River. This campground has picnic tables, benches, and trails through the lush forest. There is also a canoe launch available if you’re looking to experience the river in a new way. Bring your portable hammock to swing within the trees and take a nap with the soothing sound of the Toccoa’s waters!
Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of Lilly Pad Village
The Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area is filled with towering hardwoods and views of the Toccoa River. It is in Morganton, GA, making it not too far from the town of Blue Ridge. There are places to camp, fish, swim, or sit and enjoy the outdoor scenery. This is a site that is pleasant all year long, but there is no better time than now to check it out for yourself!
Tammen Park
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
Tammen Park is only a few miles north of the town of Blue Ridge and is a great place for the entire family. The park amenities here include a softball field, sheltered pavilions with picnic tables, river access, and a playground. The Toccoa River access at the park is the perfect spot to cast a line or load in your kayak or canoe. With Lake Blue Ridge sitting right around the corner, you’ll find yourself wandering around the area all day!
Amicalola River
Photo Courtesy of 365 Atlanta Traveler
The Amicalola River is a stream part of the Etowah River and lends its name from the popular Amicalola Falls. This site offers walking trails, stunning sights of the water rapids, and a swimming hole. With its sandy beaches, there are multiple places alongside this stream to enjoy an outdoor picnic! After your adventure, head over to Amicalola Falls State Park to catch the 729-foot cascading falls. You can then watch the sunset fall behind the mountains at the Amicalola Falls Lodge and grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink!
Horseshoe Bend Park
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
This park offers a full day of fun! Located in McCaysville, it is a wonderful place to bring the entire family. The Toccoa River flows alongside the Horseshoe Bend Park offering non-stop views. Picnic tables, volleyball nets, and playgrounds are all available for use at this park. Horseshoe Bend Park is also the location of ‘Pickin’ In the Park’. ‘Pickin’ In the Park’ is an event with live music from local artists. It occurs every Thursday, May- September, from 6pm to dusk and is a relaxing place to enjoy a summer’s evening!
The Hiwassee River
Photo Courtesy of Simply Awesome Trips
The Hiwassee River begins in Towns County and flows through the spectacular North Georgia Mountains, into North Carolina, and eventually merging into the Tennessee River. Activities at the Hiwassee River include walking, fly-fishing, kayaking, or tubing. There are plenty of sights and plenty of opportunities for adventure!
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!):
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.
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!
Using the freshest, often locally sourced ingredients, Chef Trey will create an imaginative menu for your family or fiends, all in your kitchen. Giving consideration to food allergies or dietary restrictions is something he takes into account when writing the menus.
Here at Escape to Blue Ridge, we consider the current recommendation of “Social Distancing” a serious responsibility. Click HERE to learn more about what we’re doing to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus within our vacation homes.
We also believe our vacation homes provide a great resource for adapting to this new temporary way of life while still enjoying quality family time with your loved ones. In fact, providing incredible getaways in underpopulated areas is our specialty! Many of our cabins back up to National Forest service land making you feel like you are in your very own secluded heaven! Besides, last we heard, getting outdoors and spending time with family was not cancelled. So, let’s make the most of our situation and embrace the opportunities we do have.
Today, with
many schools being closed and offices shutting down, there is not a better time
to “seize the day” and take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy life a little.
Here in Blue Ridge, we have an abundance of natural resources to experience, comfortable
cabins to unwind in, and breathtaking views to enjoy your own secluded peace.
Take a Hike
There are
few better places to hike
than on the hundreds and hundreds of miles of trails that crisscross the Blue
Ridge Mountains in North Georgia. Not only is this an area that speaks to the
hiker in familiar terms – Appalachian
Trail, Benton
MacKaye Trail, Amicalola
Falls – but it’s the wide variety of experiences, from the casual to the
challenging, that make these hikes some of the most popular in America. Is Fido
traveling with you? These hikes
are perfect for your 4-legged adventure partner!
Ride a Horse
Photo Courtesy of @littlebitty87
There is
nothing more enjoyable than unplugging form the digital world, saddling up on
horseback, and heading out into the countryside. In Blue Ridge, forty percent
of the county’s land is located within the Chattahoochee National Forest which
means there are countless miles of trails to explore and enjoy. Fresh mountain
air, beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and getting in touch with nature is
what it’s all about. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced equestrian,
one of the area’s local
outfitters would love to show you our countryside and provide you with a
rewarding, memorable, and exhilarating trip.
Chase
Waterfalls
It’s hard to
imagine anything more tranquil, peaceful, powerful and appealing than a waterfall.
And if one is good, many are better. Fortunately, in Blue Ridge and Fannin
County, there is an abundance of rushing water, and impressive elevations –
and, thanks to gravity, it all inevitably leads to waterfalls in various forms
or fashion – all about 30 minutes’ drive from town.
If you’re
looking for a scenic trail with beautiful falls at the end, and to check off a
couple high profile hiking trails while you’re at it, Long
Creek Falls in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Blue Ridge, Georgia
should make it to the top of your list. Don’t forget to bring your best friend.
Dogs will enjoy the trail as much as their humans!
Scenic
Drives
Photo Courtesy of @heatherdrones
Expand your
horizons, pack up the family, and hit the road for a beautiful scenic
drive! Here are our three favorites:
The Russell-Brasstown
Scenic Byway is a nationally designated Scenic Byway that is 40.64 miles in
length and makes a loop through the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Brasstown
Bald rises 4,784 feet above sea level and is Georgia’s tallest mountain.
Visitors to this place on high find an observation deck which allows a
spectacular 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, exhibits, a film,
hiking trails, and gift shop.
The Southern Highroads Trail can be
traveled in its entirety or in sections.
This very scenic route travels through four national forests
(Chattahoochee, Nantahala, Cherokee, and Sumter) and four states (North
Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia)
Isolate in
Style
Black Dog of Blue Ridge Cabin
Escape to Blue Ridge cabins are equipped with every amenity you might look for in a home away from home. Complete with extraordinarily comfortable bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and entertaining game rooms. With every rental home we provide hotel-style linens with spa-quality bath towels for each guest and exquisite bath soaps and shampoos from William Roam. Our kitchens are well-equipped with appliances including a stove, oven, refrigerator, coffeemaker and all the preparation and serving implements you’ll need to cook and serve your family. The majority of cabins feature games rooms to keep you entertained, but once you breathe in that fresh mountain air and gaze at the vastness of the mountains, your soul will already be satisfied.
Play Games
There is no shortage of entertainment when you Escape to Blue Ridge. Compete in classic board games, shuffle a deck of cards, or play charades. Some cabins feature foosball, ping pong tables or a pool table. And don’t worry. You’ll be able to keep up with current events, if you really want to, because high-speed internet is included with every one of our homes.
Relax in the Hot Tub
Green Pine Cabin
Feel your stress melt away as you step into the bubbling, steaming 102° hot tub. When you soak in the warm water your nervous system slows down causing relaxation throughout your body. As the jets beat on your tense, tight muscles your body begins to release endorphins that provide you with a sensation to improve your overall mood. A little glass a vino. An incredible view. This social seclusion isn’t too bad after all!
Ring Around the Fire
Adventure Us Cabin
As the sun begins to set, go on a family stick hunt to get kindling for the fire. Once the fire is lit, break out the marshmallows and show your kids how to roast them. Do you like your marshmallows burnt too? Better yet, add graham crackers and chocolate for some campfire s’mores! The firepit is a good time to tell stories about when you were young or when your kids were young. This writer must have told her child the story of her birth no less than a million times! Break out the guitar, sing some songs, make wishes on stars, and enjoy every moment you have together. Regardless how you spend your time in Blue Ridge, be content in knowing that you are creating memories you and your family will hold on to and cherish forever. After all, that’s what life is all about.
I’m often referred to as the “ Santa Claus for Lovers”. I have a little bit of a problem with that. See, the big guy gets to wear a full suit, hat, gloves, boots, and the whole bit on December 25th. I get to fly around, shooting arrows to connect the hearts of couples, which isn’t a bad gig if I didn’t have to perform it wearing barely a loincloth, my chubby body exposed to the elements, in the second week of February.
This is one of the reasons I’m going to encourage you to cuddle up around the fire in your cabin on Valentine’s weekend. Yes, the big day falls on a Friday this year, so you and the person you love most in this world get to spend the whole weekend together. And if you’ve chosen to be here in one of the comfy, cozy and romantic cabins in Blue Ridge, you’ve already set the tone for a weekend to remember. So, get the checklist ready.
Majestic Peace Cabin
Plenty of firewood. Check.
Now we need something intoxicating. That could be wine. Out Of The Blue has you covered. They have an extraordinary selection of the finest wines, beers, and artisan cheeses from around the world. Chocolates are also intoxicating. Try the delectable hand-dipped chocolates at Chocolate Express. They are sure to win any heart.
Photo Courtesy of Out of the Blue
Intoxicating. Check.
Let’s face it. You aren’t the only romantic out there. It’s a busy weekend and though spontaneity is great in the boudoir, some of the other activities just might need reservations. I’m going to suggest you make arrangements with a private chef to have that quixotic feast for two, right there at your cabin. Chef Trey Griffith or Chef Jeff Servin can serve up a luscious feast, but they need fair warning. There are also very intimate dining experiences even in public eateries. The porch at The Black Sheep, with it’s towering flame heaters, is a place I’ve noticed lovers getting very starry-eyed over a plate of cold water select oysters.
Photo Courtesy of Chef Trey Griffith
Nourishment. Check
It has been my experience (my parents are Mars and Venus, so I’ve been around the block a few times) that occasionally destressing from the cacophony of everyday life needs an assist. A Salt Cave Couples Massage at Serenity In the Mountains is an experience neither of you will soon forget. And it might just be your favorite activity away from home, ever. There’s also an opportunity to engage in public intoxication without being unlawful. Imagine indulging in wine with chocolates that have been paired by the connoisseurs at The Vine Wine Bar on Main St. in Blue Ridge. This only happens on Friday evenings, so call for your reservations quickly.
Photo Courtesy of Serenity in the Mountains
Destressing mode. Check
Now. Maybe you’ve been together a very long time, like most of your adult life, and there needs to be more than a spark added to your relationship. You need an eight-cylinder rev to throw complacency out of neutral and into drive. That usually means you need to find a way to depend on one another again. Be a team. Find a new challenge. Like maybe drive a military tank together.
No, seriously.
And, why just drive a tank when you can crush a car with one? Get your heart pumping with 25+ minutes of driving excitement which starts with Tank Town USA’s exciting tank driving course and finishes with smashing a car. Yes, they have a couple’s package. And if that’s a little over the top, you could be locked in a room together for one hour, with only clues as to how to escape. Sound like fun? Make your reservation with Escape Blue Ridge and see if the two of you can figure out how to outfox your captures.
Photo courtesy of Heather Drones
Team challenge mode. Check
If the two of you love these mountains, almost as much as you love each other, why not merge the two and enlist a professional photographer to help? The professional shutterbugs at ZoLu Photography know these landscapes well. They will take you to beautiful places to capture your love in natural light, to be viewed for many years to come.
Photo Courtesy of ZoLu Photography
Photo memories. Check
Before I mention the Hot Tub stuff, let’s be sure to talk about the one big event that takes these mountains by storm every February, that happens to fall on Valentine’s Weekend this year! It’s the 10th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off being held Saturday, February 15 from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, in downtown Blue Ridge. The cook-off will happen come rain, snow or shine. You’ll enjoy live music, ice sculptures and amazing chili. You can purchase a $10 Tasting Card to sample the competition and vote for the People™s Choice Award. There will also be live entertainment from the Blue Ridge Community Theater actors. You’ll love strolling through an amazing display of individual and unique ice sculptures from the award-winning, National Ice Carving Champion Rock on Ice including several ice carving demonstrations.
Photo Courtesy of the Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off
Fire and Ice Festival. Check.
Now let’s talk about the hot tub. Well…..
No, I think you already know enough about the hot tub.
Last week this blog featured a tremendous round up of cabins
with great firepits. One of our favorite things about the weather changing is
sitting around the fire pit with a chill in the air, but you are completely
warm, not just by the heat of the fire but by the company you are so
enjoying. Adding to the ambiance of the
evening includes singing songs, swapping tall tales, and of course fire pit
cooking!
It’s so fun if someone in your group has a guitar or harmonica, they could play for everyone to sing and clap along, but you don’t even need music to sing your favorite campfire songs! Telling ghost stories always proves to be a good time too. Although the ghost stories typically end up in squeals of laughter because you know that one person that is SUPER scared and they end up falling out of the chair, jumping & panicking, or making funny noises as they try to tame their heebee geebies. Oh yes, good times! Most importantly, you can’t forget about marshmallows!
Who doesn’t love to roast marshmallows? This might be the best and most memorable part about having an outside fire. First, you go on a stick hunt to find that perfect length and sturdiness then roast your marshmallow to the perfect amount of burnt that you prefer. Or, take it to the next level and break out the chocolate and Graham crackers for a melt in your mouth, perfectly crafted s’mores! But s’mores aren’t the only thing you can cook over the fire. Try one (or all) of these “fire pit fixing” ideas next time you Escape to Blue Ridge!
The Healthy-ish Approach
Have you ever considered roasting fruit over an open fire? No? Well, you should because it is F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S! Choose from pineapple, bananas, watermelon, apples or peaches. The fruit sugars almost caramelize making for a divinely delicious guilt free treat. Of course, having a little caramel or chocolate on hand to dip your roasted fruit into never hurt anyone, and definitely adds more “pow” to your taste buds! Make ahead fruit kabobs or just place them on your stick like you would a marshmallow! Side note: strawberries dipped in marshmallow fluff and then roasted will make your mouth do a happy dance!
Go Fancy
Who says fire pit cooking has to be basic and boring? Impress your guests with fireside Shrimp Scampi! This meal is super easy to prepare, but even more divine to eat! All you need is foil, butter, peeled & deveined shrimp, a little lemon, and your favorite seasonings. We typically improvise with a little bit of this and a little bit of that, but for you by-the-bookers, here’s a simple go to recipe with exact measurements.
Classic
It may not be fancy, but there is something extra delicious about a roasted hot dog! It really doesn’t get any easier than this. Pick your favorite dog, we are partial to the Hebrew National all beef hot dogs, pierce it with your stick and roast away. You can even toast your hot dog bun on a stick for a well-rounded hot dog experience!
Kid Friendly
Fast, easy and delicious…that’s my kind of cooking! You can prepare these French bread pizzas ahead of time or create a little make-your-own station on the picnic table. Slice your French bread, cover with marina sauce, add your favorite toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, Canadian bacon, olives) and finish with mozzarella cheese. Wrap your creation in heavy duty aluminum foil and throw them on the fire!
Dare To Be Different
Super easy, but super delicious is campfire cinnamon rolls! Simply buy your favorite brand of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, we personally love Pillsbury Grands. All you have to do is unroll a cinnamon bun and divide the long pieces of dough into sections. Wrap a portion around your stick, careful not overlap for even cooking, and roast away!
Next Level S’mores
Bacon. Yes, you read that right. A little graham cracker, a little
marshmallow, a little chocolate, and a couple of pieces of bacon (which you
could also roast over the fire) will have your tongue jump out and lick the eyebrows
right off your head!
We also encourage you to mix up your chocolate options. Truth be told, it’s hard to beat a piece of Hershey’s Milk Chocolate, but have you ever thought of using a Reese’s Peanut Butter cup? What about a Kit Kat Bar? We suggest you try a York Peppermint Patty next time, you won’t regret it. In fact, you may never go back to the traditional s’mores again!
Adults Only
If you’re looking for a way to warm up from the inside out, a Hot Toddy is definitely in order and extra enjoyable sitting outside by the fire. Boil water over your fire and add a tea bag to your cup. Let your tea steep for about two minutes, then add a shot (or two) of whiskey, a little honey, a slice of lemon, and some cloves for extra spice. Bam! Now we are ready to make some fireside memories!
Our rock. Our protector. Our hardworking, sacrificing, Mr.
Fix It, all around wonderful man. Often times the fathers in our life don’t
always get the appreciation they deserve. However, you can change that this
Father’s Day and honor the man in your life with a perfect Escape to Blue
Ridge.
So how do we make Dad happy? Well, through his stomach of
course! And boy, do we have some good eating right here in Blue Ridge. Here are our top 3 picks that Daddy-O is sure
to love:
I mean, if “World Famous” is in their name, how could you
possibly deny Dad the most sacred of southern cuisines – BBQ! Whether he is a
simple man and just wants some slow smoked pulled pork or he is a purist choosing
the rib option, your Pops will LOVE the smoky and flavorful BBQ from Blue
Smoke. This Father’s Day they are featuring a special: For $55 you can get 2
Racks of Ribs OR 2 lbs of Brisket AND 1 Pound of Pulled Pork or Chicken! You
also get cole slaw, baked beans, Texas toast, BBQ sauce, and 1 gallon of Sweet
Tea! You can’t beat that deal with a stick! Check them out in Downtown Blue Ridge
at 3365 East 1st St.
You don’t actually have to get into a brawl to enjoy a meal at Fightingtown! Named after a nearby creek, Fightingtown brings you regionally-sourced comfort food with a pretty big twist. Known for their delicious yet unique burgers, Dad will flip over the Megadeath Burger: two 1/2lb burger patties, 2 fried eggs, 2 slices of cheddar, 2 slices of pepperjack, 4 slices of house cured bacon, grilled jalapenos, grilled onions, beer cheese & sriracha all separated by a Krispy Kreme glazed donut! Yep, you read that right, a donut in between all that meaty goodness! Sounds healthy right? Well, calories don’t count when you are celebrating the toughest man in your life! Go ahead and live a little. Don’t worry, they have plenty of beer to wash it all down!
Take Dad to a sunny spot for shady people and enjoy a delicious meal, heavenly drinks and the most incredible view of Lake Blue Ridge and the surrounding mountains! Not only can you sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery, but you can fill your belly with favorites like fried grouper tacos or their smoked chicken wings. Before or after your meal, head next door to the Blue Ridge Marina and rent a pontoon boat to go explore all the coves around the lake. If you really want to make this a Fathers Day to remember, the folks at the Marina would be happy to sell you a new wave runner or boat.
The Bar at the Boat Dock Bar & Grill
Three Cheers for Dad!
Because Dads work so hard day in and day out, they deserve a
reward and what better treat than a cold one? Here in Blue Ridge we have several
craft breweries to choose from. We think Dad will be in heaven when he gets to
enjoy a brewsky at one of these fine establishments:
Just like Dad, this is a no frill joint. They don’t mess around: “If they don’t like it, they don’t drink it, and if they don’t drink it, they don’t sell it.” Doesn’t get much simpler than that! At this micro-brewery you can enjoy nine different beers on tap like the Aska Pale Ale or Moon Over Blue Ridge Wheat Ale. So, if you are looking for a dog friendly business that tolerates people and specializes in delicious beer, this is a must stop for your best father figure.
If the Dad in your life enjoys delicious food and some live music with his cold brews, he’ll love the ambiance and views of downtown Blue Ridge at the Blue Ridge Brewery. Here both the craft beers and scrumptious eats are created with only the finest of local ingredients. Grab some peanuts, pull up a bar stool, and enjoy the band!
Take a flight….of brews that is! This craft brewing company has grown like wildfire since inception, but they stick to their roots creating fresh beer, with fresh water, all while enjoying the fresh mountain air! Created in a German tradition, you’ll love lagers like the Blue Ridge or Black Bear lagers. If ales are more your Pop’s speed, sample the Toccoa Brown or the Hiawassee Golden. Music is as plentiful here as the brews are so be sure to mark this stop on your Blue Ridge escape!
Fresh Craft Beer at Fannin Brewing Company
Go Fish
Sometimes all a person needs to recharge their soul is time
out in nature. Let Dad recharge his batteries along the banks of the Toccoa
River with a rod, a reel, and a whole lot of fish! Being the Trout Capital of
Georgia, the rivers and streams around Fannin County are plentiful with fish.
Give him a day alone on the waters or treat him to a guided tour from Fly Fish Blue Ridge or Fly Shop Co. You can guarantee he will be
talking about that experience for years to come!
Look at that trout caught with Fly Fish Blue Ridge!
Hit the Links
If the Dad in your life doesn’t feel like life is complete
unless he’s on the golf course, well, he’ll be in for a treat when you take him
for an afternoon at Old Toccoa
Golf Course. Here he can practice chipping and putting on the greens or taking
big swings on the driving range. There are currently nine holes on the Par 70
course available to play and an additional nine will be opening soon!
Old Toccoa Golf Course
Get Extreme!
Bring a little excitement into your Dad’s life by booking a Whitewater Rafting trip with the Ocoee Adventure Center. Here your main man will get the best adrenaline rush as you race down class three and four rapids in the Ocoee Gorge. If he still wans more heart racing experience, try zipping through the Blue Ridge Mountains at Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge. Here you’ll get to see the mountains from the treetops, zip into the valley and then soar over pastures, and come in for a landing as you cross over Fighting Town Creek. Fun, fun!
A happy Dad at Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge
No matter how you choose to celebrate the best Dad in your
life, be sure to tell him how much you care about him and how much you
appreciate him. Happy Father’s Day!
As the days grow longer and the temperatures begin to sore, it’s finally time for our favorite season of all – Sweet Summertime!
It’s a perfect time to come enjoy the Blue Ridge Georgia mountains and get on the water. If you’re looking for some exceptional Lake Blue Ridge cabin rentals, Lake Nottely cabins, or a great Blue Ridge riverside cabin to getaway and enjoy some mountain streams, we’ve got you covered.
Take some time out to relax on the patio with a cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade while you take in the magnificent mountain and lake views of the North Georgia mountains. Once you get hot enough, splash into the lake and cool off or take a boat ride to explore all the coves of Lake Blue Ridge or Lake Nottely. As the sun begins to set, finish off your perfect day roasting s’mores around the fire or catch lighting bugs in a jar. Just because you’re grown up, doesn’t mean like you shouldn’t feel like a kid again while you’re on vacation! Slow down, savor summer, and soak up the Lake Life at one of these nine lakeside cabins!
Get a look at all of our Blue Ridge waterfront cabin rentals and book your time to getaway. Get a taste of what Blue Ridge Lake and other great Blue Ridge waterfront cabins we offer below that you can vacation in when you’re ready for adventure.
Dock Holiday
When you think about your dream
vacation, does a beautiful mountain setting, proximity to water, and plenty of
space for your family and friends top the list? Then look no further than the
North Georgia cabin rental Dock Holiday. This
magnificent four-bedroom cabin is situated in a wooded lot on Lake Nottely. True
to its name, this retreat comes with a double-decker dock that’s tailor made
for swimming, fishing, and sunning. The nearby marina provides boats and jet
skis for rent, and it’s an easy drive to activities like tubing, golf, hiking,
or exploring vineyards, parks and waterfalls. The possibilities for adventure are endless here, but if you
just want to relax and unwind, you’ll find that too, without leaving the
property. You can soak your cares away in the eight-seat hot tub with a view of
the lake, settle into a rocking chair with a book, a beer or a glass of wine,
or simply enjoy a spectacular sunset from the porch!
Eagles Landing
Take in the breathtaking beauty of natural surroundings and the serenity of a lodge situated against the National Forrest and directly on Lake Blue Ridge. Eagles Landing is a spectacular showplace that has incomparable views of the surrounding mountains and will capture your attention and your heart before you even step through the front door. The epitome of rustic elegance, there are seven bedrooms to accommodate 19 guests, making it ideal for large families, reunions, couples’ weekends or getaways with all your friends. By day, enjoy boating and swimming at the lake and all the activities the nearby Aska Adventure Area has to offer. Unwind afterward with good food, conversation, and entertainment indoors or under the stars. Whether inside or out, enjoy views and privacy that cannot be found anywhere else!
Firefly Lake House
Ahh, the lake! If you’re looking
for a waterfront home away from home, Firefly Lake
House offers a refreshing respite right on Lake Nottely during the summer
months. This contemporary,
spacious three-level house provides plenty of room for everyone, easily
accommodating several couples or one or two families. Professionally decorated,
it features upscale furnishings throughout the home and four luxurious bedrooms
awaiting you at the end of each fun-filled day on the lake. Like catching fireflies in a jar,
capture brilliant memories here that you’ll treasure forever!
Lake Blue
Ridge Overlook
This unique three-bedroom cabin is
situated directly on Lake Blue Ridge, which makes it perfect for water sports
enthusiasts. It comes with a private dock and boat slip, so you can swim, water
ski, and go fishing, boating, kayaking or canoeing to your heart’s content, all
just a few steps away. Have a Labrador or other four-legged family member that
likes to swim? Bring them! This cabin welcomes well behaved (and dried off) fur
babies. Lake
Blue Ridge Overlook was designed for outdoor living. Grab a good book and
relax on the screened in porch, soak your sore muscle in a hot tub, or kickback
on the party deck complete with a wood burning fireplace, flat screen tv, comfortable
seating, and an incredible view!
Lakefront Getaway
True to its name, Lakefront
Getaway has 94 feet of lake frontage and a huge double-decker dock with
chaise lounges, two Jet Ski lifts, and a boat hookup. A nearby marina rents Jet
Skis, pontoon boats, paddleboards and kayaks, but feel free to bring your own. Uniquely
designed and luxuriously furnished, with a wall of windows in the open-plan
great room and the two master suites on either side opening onto an enormous
deck framing the view, this cabin elicits the same reaction from everyone that
visits: “Wow!” Ideal for a small family or a couples’ weekend with
your best friends, this two-bedroom cabin is like having your own private
high-end luxury resort with a beautiful lake steps away!
Luxury Lakeside Lodge
Swim in the lap of luxury as well
as Lake Nottely with every amenity imaginable all on the shores of deep lake
water with its own private boat dock. This welcoming log home with its
green shingled roof complimenting the bright blue-green color of the water will
take your breath away. At Luxury
Lakeside Lodge, you’ll be living large in every way as this home is about
all things abundant or oversized! This cabin features king-sized beds and
seating areas in each of its five bedrooms. There is a huge deck
with an outdoor dining area and new gas grill for those fresh caught fish
coming in from your guests’ fishing excursion. Greet them at the dock just
steps away from the home — or take a little dip before heading back inside.
Inside, there’s a great wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, just one indication
that everything about this North Georgia cabin was built to showcase the
gorgeous views of the lake and mountains. It has been professionally decorated
with well-appointed furnishings that were also chosen for comfort and
relaxation. Truly living up to its name, Luxury Lakeside Lodge can
easily accommodate one or multiple families for a truly spectacular lake side
vacation!
Meant to Be
Located on Lake Nottely five miles
from the town of Blairsville, this spectacular tri-level showplace offers you
breathtaking mountain and water views, accommodations for 14 guests in its five
bedrooms and loft, and all the amenities of a top-flight resort. Meant to Be has
a game room, but the outdoor living is where it’s at in this spectacular
getaway. Dine alfresco at the marble table that seats eight while you cook your
fresh catch on the gas grill. Need more seating? There is plenty on the
screened-in porch or down at the dock. On the lower level deck, there’s a
six-person hot tub with a great view of the mountains and lake, providing
magnificent scenery as you soak your cares away. Designed for maximum comfort,
each of the five spacious bedrooms has its own bathroom. But the best
thing about this unique mountain retreat is its wonderful setting, welcoming
ambiance, and the feeling of peace and serenity that you’ll remember long after
you’ve left!
Pure Pleasure on the Lake
This magnificent North Georgia
cabin rental is located on Lake Nottely and has one of the best lake views the
area has to offer. This pet friendly retreat sits just over the shoreline with
tiered steps down to its private dock with a ladder. Year-long deep water makes
it a great property if you’d like to bring your own boat or rent one from the
nearby marina. Double your pleasure at Pure
Pleasure on the Lake, because when it comes to this home, it seems to have
two (or more) of everything you really want. There are two top-of-the-line
kitchens, one located on the main and the other in the game room. Two
indoor dining tables, adjacent to each of the kitchens and another table out on
the deck provide plenty of spots to share and take pride over the fresh fish
that was caught earlier in the day. When its time to turn in for
the day you can choose from four bedrooms that all have plush king-sized beds.
This home has been thoughtfully designed all for its guests’ pleasure and
you’ll find that it fulfills all of your family’s vacation needs from endless
fun to never-ending tranquility!
Southern Comfort
Standing tall on the lakeshore, the
three-bedroom Blue Ridge mountain cabin rental Southern
Comfort offers you two vacation destinations in one: a magnificent mountain
retreat and an aquatic playground that boating, fishing and swimming
enthusiasts will love. Located
on Lake Blue Ridge near Morganton boat launch, this lovely lakefront property
comes with its own double-decker dock with a boat slip below and a lounging
area above with umbrella-shaded table, chairs and lounges. If you settle in
there or on the cabin’s double deck, you’ll be treated to a magnificent
year-round view. Sunsets are especially incredible, with the sun shining on the
lake as it dips behind the mountains!
There is nothing like sweet summertime in the mountains! Lounging on the lake by day and sitting around the fire pit in the evening. Hiking up to waterfalls or splashing down a river. Exploring downtown or exploring nature. However you vacation, you’ll be happy to Escape to Blue Ridge for your summer getaway!
Local produce, handmade arts and crafts, baked goods and more! What better way to usher in June, the summer and the growing season! Every Saturday throughout the summer, vendors will set up in front of the Courthouse from 8am until “Noon-ish”.
Artisans, beekeepers, bakers, potters, painters, and more gather every Saturday morning starting at 7am to display and sell their wares. Home grown and handmade is their promise, which comes with freshness, quality, flavor and variety!
The perfect combination – yoga, followed by wine tasting at a vineyard with a view. Ashlee Lofton leads the yoga class, beginning at 10:45 and then there’s a moment of reflection before moving on to Bear Claw’s Grizzly Tasting. OMMM & AHHH. Nothing better!
Help raise funds and awareness for lung cancer at LUNGevity. The concert starts at 6pm with music by Kharisma Jazzmatic Funk, a 10-piece jazz/funk band covering a variety of genres, including Motown, smooth jazz, classic rock and country. Admission is $20.
One of downtown Blue Ridge’s finest restaurants and night spots! With an operating brewery at its core, for optimal fresh beer, this place has a fun-with-your-friends vibe and a reputation for bringing great music to the stage!
June 1 – The Highbeams June 7 – Shannon York and Rob Harper June 15 – Gopher Broke
The Blue Coyote is known for their live music and entertainment. While you’re there you can enjoy their tasty bar food and a whole bunch of beer! They even have a dog-friendly patio! Stop by, check it out, and enjoy the music!
June 1 – Bottoms Up Band June 7 – Topper June 8 – Southern Vantage June 14 – Steven Phillips & The Midnight Express June 15 – The Bone Daddy’s June 22 – Breaking Point June 28 – Azus! June 29 – BEATS Workin’
Looking for a serene setting on the hillsides near Ellijay with twisty grapevines, a fireplace with outdoor seating (including a statuesque still-standing chimney, which is the winery’s icon), and live music on weekends? Come out to Cartecay Vineyards!
June 1 – Dom Weir June 2 – Tommy Joe Conner June 8 – Man Bites Dog June 9 – Robert Ferguson June 15 – Timothy O’Donovan June 16 – Buck & Oz June 22 – Rose Brown June 23 – Surrender Hill June 29 – Travis Bowlin June 30 – Scott Stambaugh
If you like songs by famous country stars like Patsy Cline, Ray Price, Merle Haggard, Tammy Wynette and George Jones, you’re going to love Gail Bliss and the Nashville Barn Dance! Gail has actually played Patsy Cline in a hit musical that spans Patsy’s career. If you enjoy fiddle and steel guitar, don’t miss this concert!
The definition of “senior” these days is 55 or older, so if you fit that description, this event is free! All you have to do is bring fishing gear and bait and you can fish for beautiful rainbow trout in Rock Creek. The event starts at 9am and continues to noon.
The art of weaving a market basket is not only truly art, and an admirable avocation, it is also pretty darn practical, if you’re planning a trip to a farmers market anytime soon. Plus you learn about historical uses, designs and materials that were used years ago in Appalachian culture.
An American play, accompanied by the Bergonzi String Quarter is a wonderful mix of theater and concert to tell the story of a modern couple living in Appalachia, tracing their families’ story through letters saved from the 1800’s.
Great beer (18 beers on tap), a fun atmosphere and a stellar philosophy (delicious beer, dog-friendly, people tolerated). Plenty of craft beers, including those brewed in the brewery, and lots of live music! It’s one of those places that locals like!
June 7 – Gerry Herndon June 14 – Lindsay Beth Harper June 21 – Highbeams June 28 – Gregg Erwin
You can’t get a better venue or greater acoustics than right on the lake. With delicious food and jamming tunes, you’ll love the atmosphere and entertainment at the Boat Dock Bar & Grill at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina!
June 8 – Gopher Broke June 21 – Buck & Oz June 22 – David Welch Unplugged June 23 – Gopher Broke
There’s nothing quite like the sound of bagpipes on a lovely summer day – and you’ll hear and see that and more at the Blairsville Scottish Festival. Enjoy pipe and drum bands, a parade of tartans, border collie demonstrations, amateur athletics, children’s games, and more as Blairsville celebrates its Scottish heritage!
Kids Fishing Rodeo June 8 LOCATION: Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery
First of all, it’s not a rodeo – so don’t expect horses and cowboys. It’s another kind of rodeo, where kids gather up and fish for fun at a hatchery with a lot of fish. You see what you’re about to catch, and then you catch ‘em. It’s fun and enormously rewarding when you see the look on a child’s face as he or she catches their first fish!
The great thing about looking at the sun in an observatory is you don’t have to stay up late at night, like you do when you’re trying to catch a glimpse of a planet or two through a telescope. Looking directly into the sun is highly not advised, but the Brasstown Bald astronomy people have tools for that. They just recommend you wear a fair amount of sunscreen, since elevation equals an increase in the sun’s rays intensity and Brasstown is Georgia’s highest point at 4,784 feet. You’ll learn a lot, and it’s free, just the cost of admission to the park. This event aligns with Junior Explorers Day also on June 8.
Come out for the first in a series of live concerts at a great outdoor venue on the shores of Lake Blue Ridge. You have access options – come by boat and anchor in Morganton Cove, or carpool and park on Lakeshore Drive. The lineup of artists include Buck & Oz, Kurt Thomas Band, and it all starts with Jacob Davis Martin at 5pm.
A real rodeo straight out of the Wild West – with plenty of action, rumbles and tumbles and opportunities to see bronc riding, roping and barrel racing. Always held on the third weekend of June, this rodeo has become one of the most popular in North Georgia.
It’s hard to beat hot jazz, good wine and stunning mountain views, but add in the setting: in the middle of Georgia’s largest orchard, and you have a wonderful recipe for a great day! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and get ready for the Rhythm Jets, Cadillac Jones and Kharisma Jazzmatic Funk to perform. And wine – did we mention wine?
Yes, there’s the Wild West. But this event asks that we don’t forget there’s also a Wild East and a lot of it is along a narrow, 2,000-mile strip of hiking trail known as the Appalachian Trail. Each year thousands hike sections of the trail and some try to thru-hike it. It’s sometimes hard to imagine the challenges, hardships and rewards of that journey, but this Day in the Life attempts to capture a slice of that.
New Homes Added to Our Program
Hilltop Hideaway
You have a lot of choices when deciding where and how to spend your vacation, and it can be overwhelming. But if you want magnificent architecture, and first class amenities in a secluded setting less than five miles from downtown Blue Ridge, look no further than Hilltop Hideaway. Truly spectacular inside and out, this Blue Ridge cabin rental is the perfect relaxing retreat to enjoy with family and friends. Located on a mountain with wraparound decks to showcase the view from every angle, the cabin is the epitome of rustic elegance, with plenty of country charm and a relaxed, welcoming ambiance.
Above The Blue
Aptly named for its perfectly situated location above the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Blue Ridge, the North Georgia cabin rental Above the Blue is all about its million-dollar view. Breathtaking, magnificent, and stunning are words you might use to describe its spectacular sunrise-to-sunset picture postcard vistas, if you’re not rendered completely speechless by nature’s beauty. This private, wooded oasis is convenient to popular attractions like Falls Creek Falls, the Swinging Bridge on the Toccoa River, and of course Lake Blue Ridge, and the shops and restaurants of Blue Ridge are just five miles away. Constructed of the finest pine and furnished in modern rustic style, the tri-level cabin is warm and inviting, the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy a carefree experience with friends and family.
BUCKingham Palace
What qualities do you crave most in a mountain vacation? Is it the peace, quiet and serenity your daily life lacks, the magnificent beauty of unspoiled nature, or experiencing all the fun and adventure the Georgia Mountains have to offer? At the Blue Ridge cabin rental BUCKingham Palace, you can have all of the above, and so much more. Located on more than an acre in the heart of the Aska Adventure Area just 10 miles from downtown Blue Ridge, this serene woodland oasis replaces asphalt with lush forest greenery and traffic noise with the sound of a nearby waterfall. Here, you’ll have privacy, tranquility, and a sense of calm that allows you to leave the world behind.
To many in this neck of the woods, Bigfoot (aka Sasquatch, Yowie and Yedi) isn’t just a 20th-century folk legend. The first recorded sighting of him here in Fannin County was June 26, 1873. Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest has long been known as a hotbed for Bigfoot activity amongst the Bigfoot research community. And if you think that those who have an interest in this mysterious creature are just a little bit left of center, take into consideration that the famed anthropologist and highly regarded scientist Jane Goodall has said of Sasquatch beings, “I’m fascinated by them and would actually love them to exist”. This reddish-brown hairy creature is reportedly about 8 feet in height and his alleged footprints that have been found all across the globe suggesting he has a 24-inch long foot that measures 8 inches across. To put that into some perspective, NBA giant Shaquille O’Neal is 7’1” and the length of his foot measures 15 inches. Keep Reading.
Whether your family gets together every year or every few
years, it’s always a good time to come together and celebrate your history and
heritage. Reunions give the older generations time to sit together and
reminisce and the younger generations and meet each other and develop lifelong
friendships.
Blue Ridge, Georgia is the perfect location to plan a family
reunion because there is something to entertain the entire family. Book a ride
on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or plan
a hike to Long
Creek Falls along the Benton Mackaye Trail.
Maybe a tractor ride and apple picking at Mercier Orchards is on the agenda
or an exhilarating rafting trip on the Ocoee River will bond together
long-lost family members. Either way, you need a base camp and we have the perfect
cabins to accommodate your group!
Ambleside
Not every Georgia mountain cabin rental looks like the
elegant homes in “Southern Living” magazine, but Ambleside is that
kind of place! Exquisitely appointed, this five bedroom, five and a half bath lodge
is roomy enough to accommodate (16) sixteen guests in comfort and style. Add in
magnificent mountain and river views from every window and fun things to do
right on the property and nearby, and you have the makings of a magical vacation!
Ambleside rests on a hillside in a
secure, gated community eight miles from downtown Blue Ridge, between the
seventh and eighth holes of the top-rated Old Toccoa Farm golf course which you
have “member rate” access to play. The cabin’s property overlooks the fairway
and the Toccoa River below inviting your family to fish, kayak, or explore the
beautiful hiking trails.
Take turns preparing meals in the
fully stocked expansive kitchen with its new stainless-steel appliances,
granite countertops, and conveniences like an icemaker, coffeemaker, blender,
and anything else you may need to prepare a feast for your crowd. After dinner,
enjoy a friendly game of ping pong or foosball or take it outside for a corn
hole tournament! End the day relaxing in
the hot tub or roasting s’mores over the fire pit area.
Eagles Landing
Situated directly on Lake Blue
Ridge, Eagles
Landing is a spectacular showplace that has incomparable views of the
surrounding mountains! If the epitome of rustic elegance is what you’re looking for, this spacious
lodge has seven bedrooms to accommodate (19) nineteen guests!
By day, the whole family can enjoy
boating and swimming at the lake and all the activities the nearby Aska Adventure
Area has to offer. Unwind afterward with good food, conversation, and
entertainment indoors or under the stars. Whether inside or out, enjoy views
and privacy that cannot be found anywhere else. You may even be lucky enough to
spot the family of bald eagles that nests nearby!
There are three decks spanning the
length of the home, a hot tub, swings, and a picnic table, but that’s
not all! This home comes complete with a two-story dock that has enough
furniture enough to accommodate sixteen! Enjoy a picnic on the water,
fishing directly from the dock, taking a ride on the paddleboat, or
swimming. There are also two ramps for watercraft, as well accommodations
for a motorboat. Whether you and your family spen time watching the skiers
and wakeboarders, or watching an incomparable sunset, you’ll spend as much time
as possible on the dock!
Falling Waters Lodge
Falling Waters Lodge sits at the pinnacle of luxury in every way. The four bedroom, three and a half bath retreat can comfortably accommodate (12) twelve guests. Lucky for you, the home’s location is at one of the highest points in the Aska Adventure Area. Step out on the expansive decking, which provides the best seat in the house, as you become the ultimate spectator of nature’s most majestic scenic views!
Every detail put into Falling
Waters is living testimony that craftsmanship is alive and well. It is large
and spacious with abundant windows, yet it is also – somehow – inviting and
snug. You will become invigorated as you inch up the driveway
passing the gazebo, fire pit and of course, the home’s multi-level waterfall
for which it is named, and that bids you welcome.
At Falling Waters, every luxury is
thoughtfully provided from high-thread linens to a gourmet kitchen. The home
offers entertainment you can share from the game library or billiards, ping
pong and air hockey fun. Or, make your time as personal as a work out in the
home’s private gym. In the evening, take in the sun set over the mountains,
from the hot tub which is set on the lower-level deck or choose to cap off the
evening with a movie in the theater-quality media room.
Just Like Heaven
Just Like
Heaven is a gorgeous mountain retreat that features six bedrooms for up to (16)
sixteen guests making it perfect for a vacation with your entire family!
With incredible seasonal mountain views this
cabin in the Blairsville woods is your own private, secluded hideaway but close
to activities like hiking, horseback riding, fishing and boating at Cozy Cove
Marina. There’s even an ATV trail at nearby Davenport Ridge!
Inside, Just Like Heaven is warm, airy, and bright, with décor
that’s a professionally decorated mix of modern and traditional furnishings,
colors and touches. The solid pine interior, vaulted ceilings and spacious open
living area provide a welcoming setting for gathering before the wood-burning
fireplace. Upstairs in the media room, you’ll find billiards, shuffleboard,
board games, a karaoke machine, foosball, an enormous 103” flat screen TV with
DirecTV and DVD for hours of fun and entertainment!
There’s even more fun to be had
outside, where you can play corn hole, basketball, ping-pong or fire up the
charcoal grill for an al fresco meal. There’s plenty of comfortable seating on
the covered deck, where there’s a wood burning fireplace to keep you cozy on crisp
evenings while you enjoy the mountain air. But the best attribute of Just Like Heaven is the feeling it
gives you while you’re there and the experience you’ll take home with you. The
name says it all!
Legend
Staying at Legend is like
having an entire five-star resort all to yourself. This luxury log cabin is
truly in a class of its own. It’s built from handcrafted Douglas-fir logs and
each spacious room presents incredible attention to detail with cathedral
ceilings, arched doorways, sumptuous furnishings, stylish fixtures, and every
amenity you desire to relax in complete luxury!
You’ll have everything you need to
entertain your (13) thirteen guests in this six bedroom, six and a half bath
lodge and on the land surrounding you. Bring your fishing pole and spend the
day at the stocked trout stream rushing right outside your door, or simply have
fun splashing around and getting a little sun! Go on an exhilarating hike
through one of the property’s hiking paths, or enjoy a leisurely stroll in the
pastures, taking in breathtaking mountain views around you. The gang can even
play a little touch football on the sprawling lawn. You can also take a
foursome just a short drive to one of three fantastic golf courses in the area
or indulge in a little pampering at a spa in town followed by some shopping.
In case of inclement weather you can spend an afternoon in the
game room downstairs playing pinball, billiards, foosball, ping pong or board
games — there’s a little something for everyone. And with another gourmet
kitchen and wet bar at the ready, you’ll have everything you need — no need to
even go upstairs for snacks and drinks! Legend even has its own cinema
screening room downstairs, complete with stadium seating — it doesn’t get any
closer to an authentic movie theater experience than this! Make some popcorn,
grab drinks at the nearby kitchen and bar, then everyone can sink into
sumptuous loungers and enjoy a great movie up on the big screen!
Legend’s spacious, covered decks
with their sweeping views make entertaining easy as a mountain breeze! Nature
will entertain you and your guests for hours, with views of the rushing creek,
horses playing in the nearby pastures, and the verdant tree farm nearby. With
the smoker and gas grill at the ready, host a mouthwatering barbecue — with two
picnic tables, there’s plenty of room for everyone to dine al fresco, with the
soothing sounds of the nearby stream as background music. Or, perhaps make a feast
in the enormous gourmet kitchen, and everyone can gather ’round the large
dining table in front of epic mountain views!
Spyglass
SpyGlass
is the name, the view will explain. The
largest of our cabin rentals, this six bedroom, five and a half bath
home can comfortable accommodate (21) twenty-one guests. Seize the
opportunity to stay in this $5 million custom resort lodge with its own private
pool and spa, where you can come and go by helicopter, and treat the entire
family to 8,000 sq. ft. of pure luxury and decadence!
SpyGlass is the stuff of fairy
tales. The palatial custom gourmet kitchen is made for
entertaining, with two refrigerators, two dishwashers, two drawer warmers, a
double oven and wine cooler. Relax after a meal in the great room
with its 32 ft. vaulted ceiling, imposing iron chandelier, custom woodcarvings
of wildlife adorning the walls, and a huge stone fireplace as the room’s
centerpiece. The curved, windowed wall has built-in seating for a perfect view
of the hills and starlit sky offering wide-open 40-mile views!
Outside the fire pit is an enchanted place for stargazing and making s’mores. During the day, set out fresh fruit and snacks in the gazebo for your guests while they swim, sunbathe or chat at tables and chairs throughout the deck. They can also have lunch at the picnic tables whenever they’re ready. And there’s plenty of room for everyone at dinner as well – you can seat 20 between the formal dining room and informal dining seating.
Reservations
We are here to help make your family reunion one for the books! Our helpful Reservation Specialists can assist with any concierge services you would like. From stocking your fridge to booking an excursion, we are here to help! Escape to Blue Ridge for an unforgettable family vacation!
What Mom really wants for Mother’s Day might surprise you.
It rarely has to do with those lovely wrapped little boxes from the jewelry
store. And it has less to do with gift certificates to get body maintenance
done, like massages and manicures.
It was 50 years ago that this iconic ad first ran. “Calgon,
take me away”. It still epitomizes what
every Mom wants and needs – time away from the daily grind, if even for just
time for a private, quiet bath. So, this Mother’s Day we think we can help you
with giving Mom that Calgon moment she’ll remember for many years to come.
Mom with Little Ones
Daddy Daycare!
Mom is rising close to noon and not hearing a peep. As she
clears the cobwebs from her sleep, she realizes that she woke in the cabin they
came to last night. Oh, the bed felt so luxurious, and somehow, she was the
only one in it. Next to the bed is a note from hubby. “The kids and I are gone
for the day. White
wine in the fridge with brie, apple, and crackers. The hot tub is
waiting for you. Don’t forget your book at the bottom of the suitcase. We’ll see you at 6. Bringing dinner with us.
Relax and enjoy the solitude. You
deserve this. You’re the best Mom in the world. We love you.” She looks out over the magnificent view of
the mountains from her bedroom window. This is the best gift I could ever
imagine, she thought. Six hours later the gang rolls in, running into her arms
to tell her all about their visit to Lilly Pad Village, where they gem mined and went
trout fishing. After a great boxed
dinner from Blue Ridge Mountain BBQ was consumed, they all
packed up to head to the Swan Drive-in Theater for a nostalgic experience
watching the 21st-century Avengers on the outdoor screen. (Did you
know that you can choose from 177 of our properties that have at least two bedrooms and a
hot tub?)
Mom with Teen-agers
Growing up too fast!
Mom marvels at how they are growing and maturing. She
realizes that in just a few short years they will be leaving the nest. She
wants to make these times away to the mountains something special for them all
to remember. They all agree that ziplining
had been on their bucket list. But first, while the day was still cool, they’d
challenge themselves to trek on the swinging bridge across the Toccoa River. After an afternoon of adventure, they pull up
to the Rum Cake
Lady’s outdoor dining. Mom loves Cuban food, and they sit at the
picnic tables all sharing their menu picks, joyful and tired. When they get
back to the cabin, the fire pit is lit, the oldest son brings out his guitar,
the youngest starts to make S’mores. Mom gazes at her family in the glow of the
fire and wonders how she got to be the luckiest Mom in the whole world.
(Thirty-eight of our rentals have either fire pits or outdoor fireplaces. Which one would your family choose?)
Mom with Grown
Daughter
No matter how old you are, you’ll always be my baby.
Every Mom feels the same way once their chicks have grown and flown the coop. They yearn for one on one time with them again. When her daughter texts her to ask if she’d like to spend the weekend with her in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mom searches to find an emoji that can express her excitement. She ends up sending 10 happy faces, and the words, “yes, yes, YES!”. Saturday it’s a quick, trouble free keyless entry into their little lakefront cabin and off to the Himalayan Salt Caves for a 45-minute session of pure bliss, relaxing in zero gravity chairs, listening to soft music in a stress-free environment. After, they head into downtown Blue Ridge and make a stop at Blue Ridge Booksellers. As different as they can be in many respects, Mom and daughter share a love for vintage bookstores. With just enough time, they make their reservation at Harvest on Main for a relaxing evening of fine dining. Back to the cottage, another glass of wine to top off the evening and a wonderful heart to heart chat on the porch overlooking the moonlit lake. They sleep in late, pack up their things, close the door behind them and take a lovely drive out to Mercier’s Orchards for brunch and then to pick strawberries together, a memory they share from a Mother’s Day trip 20 years before. Now, they head home and banter back in forth as to whether it’s biscuits or pound cake that will host these sweet, juicy berries.
We think everyday should be Mother’s Day! Thank you to all the wonderful Moms who celebrate their families with us throughout the year. We hope your Mother’s Day is a Calgon day for you!
