Christmas Lights Around the Mountains



Every family has many Christmas traditions that they enjoy preserving. For this writer, one of my family’s favorite things to do is to go drive around and see all the Christmas lights! However, when you’re not from around here, you wouldn’t even know where to begin to look for lights to enjoy. Well, we tried to make it easy for you and stalked as many of our friends pages to locate all the Christmas light displays that you HAVE to go check out!

Each community offers a brief directions, but click on the town name to access a Google map to help you find your way! If you’re a local reading this and know of other places we’re missing please drop a comment or send us a Facebook or Instagram message. Merry Christmas!

Click to go to the Escape To Blue Ridge Christmas Light Map

Blue Ridge:

Escape to Blue Ridge offices – We are decked out for the season! Stop by and take a selfie with our Christmas Tree & pick up an activity packet for the kids and enjoy the lights by night!

Downtown Blue Ridge – East Main St.

Spur 60 – Between Mineral Bluff and NC State line. Drive through Winter Wonderland! Santa on certain nights.

The Penlands – Hwy 75, just past the North Carolina/Georgia state line.

Blairsville:

Gwynn’s Christmas Light Show

Chamber of Commerce – Tour of Trees. 9am – 5pm. 129 Union County Recreation Road, Blairsville

Downtown – On the Square

“Glenda’s Christmas Light Show” – 92 Wren Drive in Blairsville

Hyde Family Lights – 136 Birch Cane Dr

Gwynn’s Christmas Light Show – Tune your radio to 91.9 and enjoy! Address is 121 Birch Cane Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512

Christmas on Hicks Gap – Enjoy over 17,000 lights and feel free to get out of the car and take a picture under the present arch next to the nutcracker soldiers.

Stonehenge Assisted Living – Hwy 129 North towards Murphy, about 7 miles north of Hwy 76/129 intersection. Note: Nativity Scene

Ellijay

Holiday Lights of Ellijay – Located at the Lions Club Fairgrounds, this walk-through light show promises to be the highlight of your Christmas season. Imagine wandering through thousands of twinkling lights while sipping hot cocoa and even meeting Santa Claus for a memorable photo opportunity. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities

Downtown Ellijay – 10 Broadway Street

Hiawassee

Mountain Country Christmas in Lights

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds – Mountain Country Christmas in Lights every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday from November 23-December 9th. Open EVERY night from December 14th-23rd! (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Here you will enjoy beautiful light displays and food ops along with food, music, arts & crafts, hot chocolate, marshmallow, a petting zoo and Santa. Admission is $8 per person and children 12 and under are FREE! On the main drag – Hwy 76 in Hiawassee.

Scataway Road – About 5 minutes past the Towns County School, see sign for Mount Zion Church on left and follow the red glow. Off of Hwy 76, 5 minutes east of town. See Santa on certain nights. As seen on the Great Christmas Light Fight!

6 Charming Cabins for Two



Life is demanding and it’s so easy to get caught up in everything you feel like you have to do day in and day out. Even the happiest of couples can find themselves in a regular rut, but it’s important to take time out of your busy lives to work on your relationship and focus on each other.

One of the best ways to reconnect is to have new experiences together. This gives you the perfect opportunity to discover new things to talk about, acquire new memories, and appreciate uninterrupted time for intimate moments. Add a stunning mountain backdrop and these six charming cabins for two are a perfect escape for reconnecting with your partner!

Cabin Sweet Cabin

Set deep in the My Mountain area of Morganton this hidden gem tucked away at the end of a short country lane offers a secluded and serene setting for your mountain vacation. With its warm decor and cheerful atmosphere, Cabin Sweet Cabin will make you feel right at home. This pet-friendly cabin even has a security gate on the main deck for keeping pets safe, so they can share the view with you!

Cuddle by the stone wood-burning fireplace on cooler nights or warm up in the bubbling hot tub on the private deck while enjoying a nightcap and breathtaking panoramic vistas. Cabin Sweet Cabin is a sweet retreat, offering privacy and a perfect place to unwind. Spend some time here with the one you love and you’ll truly experience ‘la dolce vita’.

Cozy View

Your vacation time is precious, so make the most of it by choosing an extraordinary destination like the North Georgia cabin rental Cozy View. With breathtaking picture-postcard views of Lake Blue Ridge framed by a canopy of trees and a majestic mountain backdrop, this very special place will calm you down, soothe your mind, relax your body and renew your spirit.

Located in a gated community on two wooded acres on former Native American land – many arrowheads and stone tools have been found right outside the door – the cabin is just six miles from downtown Blue Ridge and minutes from the Toccoa River and all the land and water activities the Aska Adventure Area has to offer. For a couple wanting to reconnect and unplug (not child friendly with open staircase and hot wood burning stove). Cozy Lakeview will soothe and comfort you and fill you with a sense of peace that you can only find when you’re surrounded by nature. Your worries and cares will melt away like magic, and you’ll feel relaxed and renewed – and never want to leave.

Farmhouse on Pine Terrace

Cozy, comfy, relaxing, peaceful, and serene. Just a few words to describe the Farmhouse on Pine Terrace. Perfection, epitomized. This beauty can accommodate six with plenty of room to relax. This brand-new home has every convenience you could ever want for your vacation! You will love the close proximity to everything and the quiet seclusion and privacy of this farmhouse.

With perfect places for gathering inside and outside, you can enjoy quiet evenings by the fireplace or step out on the front or on the back porch to enjoy a cup of coffee – the choice is yours! There are limitless opportunities for connections and memories to be made. You’ll be sure to cherish the atmosphere that this fashionably designed farmhouse can bring, with the warmth of home and the proximity to the healing power of nature. Modern meets rustic at this farmhouse! The house is professionally decorated, keeping both form and function in mind.

Lil’ Slice of Heaven

https://youtu.be/NYm6V_SeNTI

This enchanting Georgia mountain cabin rental is indeed a Lil’ Slice of Heaven. Perfect for a romantic getaway, this two bedroom cabin has plenty of room but is small enough to feel warm and cozy. It’s a place so relaxed and comfortable; you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds. Your ride up Cherry Log Mountain will set the tone for your tranquil escape.

Looking through the canopied trees towards the mountaintops, you’ll feel so at peace here in your quaint little haven. Lil’ by lil’, the sky will change a spectacular array of colors before you as the sun goes down. Enjoy romantic evenings under the stars as you share a champagne toast by the light of the gas fire stand, or while immersed in the soothing bubbles of the hot tub. Spend some time on cloud nine with your special someone, and enjoy your own Lil’ Slice of Heaven in the North Georgia Mountains.

Stairway to Heaven

Ascend high into the mountains and climb up the front stairs of Stairway to Heaven where your vacation will reach a whole new level. This perfectly-appointed two-bedroom cottage is a truly romantic getaway with custom touches throughout. The home’s private ambiance belies its treasured location in My Mountain community and its easy 15 minute proximity to downtown Blue Ridge.

Stairway to Heaven’s dramatic wall of glass will draw you out toward the amazing covered deck overlooking spectacular mountain and pastoral views. You’ll feel torn about where to spend your time — out on the deck relaxing at the dining table and eating al fresco or back inside where the home’s unbelievable touches draw you in for restful luxuriating. Whatever your desire, Stairway to Heaven has it all. This custom home with true luxury fineries will keep your romantic getaway on Cloud Nine.

Sunset Lodge

Nestled on over three acres of unspoiled beauty, Sunset Lodge is located in one of Blue Ridge’s most serene and ideal spots. Sitting on a ridgeline located on Sunrock Mountain, this home has been thoughtfully built to perfectly face the ever-changing, natural light shows that continuously play against the mountain ranges. This inviting, mountain retreat sleeps four and is a wonderful escape for two couples, a small family, or a romantic getaway.

When you first arrive at Sunset Lodge, you won’t know what to explore first… Will you run around the wrap around deck to scan the magnificent views from all of its vantage points? With rocking chairs and patio furniture dotted around the deck’s perimeter, there is no shortage of viewing opportunities. Relaxation also awaits in this area during afternoon cook-outs on the gas grill, and evenings warmed by the chimanea. Or what about roasting some marshmallows to make s’mores over the fire pit located just few steps down onto the property. Regardless on how you spend your time, you realize you’ve found your perfect mountain getaway in Sunset Lodge.

The Blue Ridge Experience: Summer Edition



Every season in Blue Ridge is special but summer is one of our favorites! The days are longer, which is perfect for a full day of exploring our quaint mountain town. Enjoy spending time on the waters of Lake Blue Ridge or boating down the Toccoa and Ocoee rivers. Go on an adventure with your family and create memories that will last a lifetime! No matter how you like to spend your summers, Blue Ridge has a little something for everyone! Here’s 15 of our favorite activities to do in and around Blue Ridge all summer long!

Cover photo courtesy of @_Chanel Josephson

Whitewater Rafting

Photo Courtesy of Ocoee Rafting

Nothing says summer adventure like whitewater rafting through the rapids and waves of the Ocoee River! You’ll cool off from the summer heat in no time as the waves splash you and leave you feeling refreshed. The Ocoee River, just a couple miles away from Blue Ridge in Tennessee,  is the perfect place for whitewater rafting. The upper part of the river was actually used during the 1996 Olympics for their whitewater events; that’s how you know it’s a great spot!

One of our favorite rafting companies is Ocoee Rafting in Ducktown, TN. They’re the oldest rafting company on the Ocoee and have been guiding whitewater rafting adventures for 44 years! Ocoee Rafting will guide you over 20 continuous rapids and many play spots. Beginners and experts alike are welcome! 

Adventures on Lake Blue Ridge 

Summers are made for relaxing and having fun by the water. All that and more awaits you at the beautiful Lake Blue Ridge! Rent a boat at Lake Blue Ridge Marina and spend the day floating on the water. Have your own boat? Hit the lake at any of these access points: 

  • Lake Blue Ridge Day use Area and Boat ramp
  • Morganton Point Recreation Area
  • Lakewood Landing Boat Ramp
  • Lake Blue Ridge Dam and Lake Blue Ridge Dam Recreation Area
  • Lake Blue Ridge Marina

Feeling hungry? Grab a quick bite to eat at the Marina’s Boat Dock Bar & Grill. They have delicious food, specialty cocktails, a great view of the lake, and live music Friday & Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon! If you’re up for a refreshing swim head to Morganton Point where you can splash in the water! Also at Morganton Point play on the beach and build sandcastles, or have a picnic in the picnic area, fish, or even go for a hike around the lake. And if you’re in town for 4th of July don’t miss out on the annual fireworks display over the lake! You never even have to leave, with numerous Escape to Blue Ridge cabins right on the lake: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/lake-side-cabins/ 

Explore the Toccoa River

Head to the Toccoa River for more outdoor fun! Canoe or kayak down the river for a relaxing day on the water. For rentals or guided trips you can look up our friends at Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking, Toccoa River Outfitters, or Rolling Thunder River Company.

Have your own boat and want a little adventure? Take the Toccoa River Canoe Trail which is a 13.8 mile river trail beginning at Deep Hole Recreation Area. If you’re more interested in a laid back experience where you can just float, try out tubing with Blue Ridge Tubing, Toccoa River Tubing Company, or Toccoa Valley Campground Tubing.

Explore the Toccoa River from the shoreline and hike on Benton McKaye trail. Along the way you’ll run into the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge which is the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi! If you’re brave enough, walk across the 270 foot long bridge, over the Toccoa River, to the other side!

Trout Fish in Georgia’s Trout Fish Capital 

Photo Courtesy of KC Outfitters

While you can fish at both Lake Blue Ridge and the Toccoa River, there are hundreds of miles of streams and rivers for fishing in Fannin County. Blue Ridge is especially famous for their trout fishing and is known as the Trout Capital of Georgia! Find trout in Rock Creek, Copper Creek, Noontootla Creek, The Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery, and of course the Toccoa River. If you’re just starting out and need a guide to assist you some of our favorites include; Blue Ridge Fly Fishing School, Noontootla Creek Farms, and North Georgia Trout Fishing. Spend the day catching trout in the beautiful waters of North Georgia! 

Visit a Waterfall

Photo Courtesy of waterfall @hike_the_ridge with @hendersonfamilyadventures

If you want to go for a hike through the beautiful forests and mountains of North Georgia you might as well cool off with the refreshing mists of a waterfall. Blue Ridge has 4 waterfalls nearby that offer stunning views and great hikes. Our favorites are Amicalola Falls, Fall Branch Falls, Long Creek Falls, and Helton Creek Falls. For more details on where to access each falls check out our waterfall blog here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/5-must-see-waterfalls/ 

Pick Blueberries & Blackberries at Mercier Orchards

Photo Courtesy of Forever Freckled Blog

Summer is the season for berries! Mercier Orchards grows blueberries and blackberries during the summer; and you can pick some for yourself with their U-Pick events! Check out their website for U-Pick sign-ups: https://mercier-orchards.com/u-pick/

Don’t feel like picking the fruit yourself? They also have a selection of fruits and vegetables available in their market; like sweet Georgia peaches. While you visit be sure to try some of Mercier’s refreshing hard ciders and stop by their Café for tasty treats. One of our favorite treats are their delicious fried pies available in apple, blueberry, cherry, peach, and chocolate flavors. Yum! 

See a Summer Film at the Drive In

Did you know that Blue Ridge has its own Drive In movie theater? Well that’s right we do, Swan Drive In Theater! They’ve been showing movies here since 1955! Turn back the clock and live life like you’re in the 1950’s by watching movies the old-fashioned way. Just tune your car to the radio and munch down on some delicious classic movie theater snacks; all from the comfort of your own vehicle! It’s a perfect way to spend summer nights! Check their website for movie showings: http://www.swan-drive-in.com/now-showing.php 

Georgia Mountain Fair 

Venture on over to Hiawassee, Georgia between August 13th & August 21st for some good old fashioned fun at The 70th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair! There will be carnival rides, music performances, arts & craft booths, special attractions & experiences, delicious food, a parade, a beauty pageant and so much more! This is a fantastic event you won’t want to miss! 

Live Music 

Photo Courtesy of Tooneys Music Venue

Local businesses have live musical performances all summer long! Stop by any of these establishments Friday-Sunday to listen to the sweet sounds of local artists, while you sip on craft drinks & eat delicious foods!

Downtown Adventure 

Shop till you drop & dine at delicious and trendy restaurants in Downtown Blue Ridge! Bring home treats & souvenirs from your trip from some of our favorite shops like Blue Ridge Cotton CompanyBlue Ridge Adventure Gear, Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company, Blue Ridge Mountain Mall, and so much more! After a long day of shopping on main street try out one of these delicious restaurants Chester Brunnemeyer’s Bar & Grill, The Black Sheep, The Dogwood, or Harvest on Main. Then grab a sweet treat at The Sweet Shoppe or Mona Lisa’s Dessert House to end the day!

Outdoor Thrills 

Photo Courtesy of Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge

Up for a day of fun-filled thrills? Reach new heights and zip through the trees at Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge or take on the ropes course Blue Ridge Adventure Park, are you up for the challenge? Or ride a rollercoaster through the mountains in Helen, Georgia. You’ll control the speed as you fly past mountains, forests, and ruins over 100 years old! Then get ready to crush it at Tank Town USA in Morganton, Georgia. Drive tanks, crush cars, fire off machine guns, and even operate construction vehicles. Tank Town is the amusement park of your action hero dreams! End the day by taking to the skies and getting an aerial tour of Blue Ridge with Blue Ridge Helicopter Tours. The views from up above are simply incredible! 

Horseback Ride 

Photo Courtesy of Appalachian Trail Rides

Ride horses on trails through the mountains, forests, and North Georgia countryside. Whether you’re just a beginner or consider yourself an expert rider there’s something for everyone. Some of our favorite stables include Appalachian Trail Rides and Cowgirl Up Stables. You’ll follow experienced guides on a beautiful trail ride. It’s a perfect activity for friends & family alike! 

Explore Historic Village 

Photo Courtesy of INOLA Blue Ridge

Feel like you’re walking back in time at INOLA Blue Ridge. INOLA  is a colonial styled village, built in the 1980’s, and is modeled after Colonial Williamsburg. The village is made up of replicas of historic buildings. As you wander around you’ll see a colonial manor house, shops, a post office, a tavern, the Wythe House, and a 1740’s chapel. Learn about what life was like in a colonial village and feel like you’re really in the 1700’s for a day. INOLA also does weddings in the chapel or pavilion; so if you have a special occasion coming up and you want to celebrate in Blue Ridge, then you know just where to go! 

Grab drinks with friends 

Photo Courtesy of Forever Freckled Blog

One of the great parts of summer is spending time with friends. Relax with your closest of friends at a local winery or brewery. Not only do many of them have live music on the weekends; but a lot of them also have beautiful mountain views, comfortable outside seating, good food to pair with drinks, and a relaxing environment to unwind in. Many even have dog friendly patios!

Some of our favorites include Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Bear Claw Vineyards, Cartecay Vineyards, Serenberry Vineyards, and Fannin Brewing Company. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a refreshing glass of wine or a cold beer on a summer’s day; while laughing with your best friends. To learn more about our local wineries & breweries and see even more of our favorites, check out our guides here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/beer-hunting/ & https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/8-north-georgia-wineries/ 

Watch the Sunset 

Almost Everest Cabin

And absolutely nothing beats ending a long summer day full of fun, then watching the sunset. Watch it set over Lake Blue Ridge or from the top of Brasstown Bald. You can even watch the sun set below the mountains from the back porch of your own Escape to Blue Ridge cabin. Grab the family, kick your feet up, and unwind after a big day. The sunsets over Blue Ridge will leave you speechless. They are truly breathtaking and a sight you won’t soon forget! 

Kid Friendly Cabins



At Escape to Blue Ridge, it’s easy to find the perfect family getway that works for the whole entire family! These 10 cabins will not only give you a relaxing and wonderful getaway but will ensure that the kids have a great time as well! From game rooms, to playgrounds, to movie rooms, to special bedrooms the kids will be entertained so you can kick back and relax for awhile! Afterall, isn’t that what vacation is all about?

Toccoa Overlook

Come experience the sounds of the rushing Toccoa River by adventuring to the luxurious retreat known as Toccoa Overlook. Whether it’s a friends gathering or a family vacation, Toccoa Overlook comfortably sleeps ten in four different bedrooms, all with their own private bathrooms. The fully equipped kitchen is a chef’s dream with its large gas stovetop and stacked double ovens. The dining and living room area also share the main floor family room, with windows across the length of the two rooms, allowing you to take in the amazing panoramic view of the mountains.

The outdoor amenities are a delight! With locations to gather, eat, and relax, there’s a place for everyone. Your guests will enjoy the large dining table on the main level covered deck, as well as the hot tub and fire pit on the lower level terrace, the perfect place to make amazing memories of shared time together.

Indoors, you and your guests will have your pick of entertainment from watching your favorite TV shows and movies on the Smart TVs inside, to challenging each other to a game of pool in the game room downstairs. Toccoa Overlook also has a designated workspace in the loft complete with views of the Toccoa River!

Bear Claw Cabin

Set high on a mountaintop above the trees with spectacular long-range mountain vistas and exquisitely appointed inside and out, Bear Claw Cabin is the perfect blend of contemporary design, country charm, and nature’s natural beauty. Located in the Aska Adventure Area, it’s close to hiking trails and boating on Lake Blue Ridge and just 15 minutes from the shops, bars and restaurants downtown. At the same time, it has the quiet and serenity of a calming oasis that will instantly transport you far from the stresses and pressures of daily life.

Inside, walls of enormous windows and vaulted ceilings give the cabin a bright and airy feel that brings the outside in. Professionally decorated with new, upscale, modern furnishings in neutral tones of beige and gray that complement the natural stone and wood construction, the ambience is welcoming, relaxing and cozy. You can gather and unwind in the main level family room with its floor-to-ceiling stone gas fireplace or head downstairs to the game room, where there’s a pool table, gas fireplace and wet bar. 

Bigfoot of Blue Ridge

Relaxed, peaceful, and feeling like you’re right in the comforts of home. That’s what this cabin is all about—introducing our very own Bigfoot of Blue Ridge. A beautiful vacation home perfect for your upcoming adventures and escape to Blue Ridge. Filled with warmth, thoughtful amenities, and fun things to do, it’s a great spot to relax.

Are you looking for fun for the whole family? The game room has a billiards table, shuffleboard table, arcade machine, and more. Then, turn another corner, and you’ll find the movie room with its immense 86” Smart TV and movie theater recliners. The outdoor areas are immense and inviting. You’ll enjoy the screened-in porch, the gas grill ready for your fixin’s, and the outdoor wood-burning fireplace and TV on the porch. The cabin also comes with an outdoor fire pit area perfect for the whole family, a lovely hot tub with seating for 7, and incredible views of the mountains, wood, lake, and beyond.

Meadow Creek Retreat

Modern, delightful, comfortable, and cozy are just a few of the many ways that we can describe the Meadow Creek Retreat. Nestled in between a mountain and a meadow and full of dark and rich woods inside, this is the perfect place to stay on your upcoming getaway to our mountain home. This custom-built home is located perfectly in the Aska Adventure area, where hiking, biking, tubing, and adventure await. Travel inside to find soaring ceilings in the great room, a stacked stone gas log fireplace, and a wall of windows.  You’ll love being on Stanley Creek with over 200 feet of creek frontage! No detail was spared in the construction and design of this oasis.

Perfect for small kiddos with a bunk room full of toys it also accommodates teens with a basketball game, Multicade, Microsoft Xbox with Guitar Hero, Nintendo Wii and over 40 board games. When it’s time for bed, there are plenty of great places to rest your head. The primary on the main floor has a great ensuite bathroom featuring a large double sink and walk-in tile shower and a large laundry/mud room with plentiful storage and hanging space. And there’s room for the whole family with three more rooms with king beds as well as twin bunk beds.

The Edison

Are you looking for a place to stay during your vacation that will get you ready for adventure and relaxation simultaneously? Let us introduce to you a cabin off Aska Road in Blue Ridge, called The Edison. As soon as you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the real, pine wood walls, the lovely oak floors, and the great custom shiplap! Filled with lovely touches like these, you’ll be immediately at ease upon entry.

The Edison boasts several outdoor amenities for all seasons that will allow you to truly connect with nature and with one another. Enjoy relaxing inside the screened-in porch with some burgers made on the gas grill outside. Make some s’mores and spin some tales with one another at the fire pit. Or, if you really need to soak off the day’s fun and relax, enjoy the fabulous hot tub with perfect views. When it comes to entertainment and gaming, the cabin has a lot to offer. Let’s start in the game room, where you will find a Star Wars virtual pinball game, shuffleboard, and a whiskey barrel arcade with 412 classic games. In addition, there are multiple smart TVs throughout the cabin that are perfect for watching your favorite shows or sports. The possibilities are endless!

Skyview

For a great place for the kids and some peace and quiet, Skyview is your place! It’s unique and beautiful design and decor will have you feeling relaxed the second you step in the door. In the family room you can nestle into the leather sofa or recliner chair, stay warm by the stone stacked gas fireplace, watch a movie on the 65” flat screen TV, and take in the incredible views all at the same time! Doesn’t that sound relaxing? And while you’re relaxing in the family room the kids can be playing in the game room; complete with a pool table, board games, puzzles, and a 65” TV. The kids will be entertained for hours playing round after round of their favorite games and watching their favorite movies.

Outside the kids can make s’mores at the firepit or play a round of corn-hole. Parents can watch from the comfort of the deck’s rocking chairs or in the hot tub. And when it’s time for bed the kids won’t complain about their sleeping arrangements. The kids room has 2 twin beds, 2 full beds, bean bag chairs, an Xbox with a 50” TV, and even more games! When the morning comes and you’re ready to get out of the house; you’ll love how close everything is. The cabin is just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, waterfalls, hiking trails, and the Toccoa River. Relaxation and adventure await you when you stay at Skyview! 

Sasquatch Chalet

Looking for a cozy, family-friendly place to stay during your vacations? Let us introduce you to Sasquatch Chalet, a beautiful cabin convenient to downtown and with a fabulous mountain view. Perfect for the entire family, this chalet is named after the lure of Sasquatch (aka BigFoot) in Blue Ridge. A fun and lovely vacation awaits when you stay at this beauty.

As you enter the cabin, you’ll be taken aback by the wonderful mix of rustic and modern decor. The living room was made for relaxation. Enjoy moments on the leather couch in front of the fireplace. Watch your favorite movies on the large TV in the family room. Stream music throughout the whole house with the whole house Sonos speaker system. Get ready for fun and games at the pool table in the game room. When you’re ready to rest after a long day of fun in Blue Ridge, the bedroom accommodations (and bathrooms, too) are something to write home about including a fun bunk room! With deck access in both of the king bedrooms, you’ll be able to enjoy some R&R here after your day of exploration.

Alpine Ridge

If you and the family want to be just minutes from the heart of downtown Blue Ridge but also have beautiful long range mountain views then Alpine Ridge is your place! This cabin was meant for families. The great room has two full sized sofas, a gas log fireplace, and a 50” TV with DVD player; perfect for family movie nights. And the dining room table seats up to 8 with a live edge wood peninsula that seats an additional three.

The outside decks are another great place for entertaining with a wood burning fireplace, 55” TV, a dining table, sectional, high top tables, Adirondack chairs, a gas grill, and a hot tub. Family can always be together here. And for more fun that the kids especially will enjoy there’s a game room complete with a game table, shuffleboard, checkers, puzzles, board games, a TV, and a wet bar for the adults to enjoy. And for sleeping arrangements kids can stay in the lower level bedroom that has a king bed and twin bunk beds. The whole family will have a blast at their stay in Alpine Ridge and love being close to so many great activities! 

The Hideaway 

If you need to grab your family and “Hideaway” from the rest of the world for awhile then look no further then The Hideaway. This cabin sits high on a hillside on nearly two acres of forests in the Aska Adventure Area. It’s a perfect cabin for the nature lovers and thrill seekers of the family. Hike or bike on numerous trails just steps away from the cabin, boat on the Toccoa River and Lake Blue Ridge, or explore waterfalls. The Blue Ridge wilderness is your oyster when you stay at The Hideaway.

Other than the great outdoors the game room and the kids bedroom will be your kiddos favorite rooms in the cabin. The game room is stocked with puzzles and board games, a game table, a gas fireplace, 48” Smart TV and a wet bar with a beverage fridge so the adults can have a drink while they partake in family game night.

The downstairs bedroom is designated for the kids wtih two sets of bunk beds and a Smart TV. And for dinner, Mom will love cooking in the fully stocked kitchen with custom hand painted countertops, stainless steel appliances, and even special appliances like a waffle iron, panini press, and Keurig! Then the whole family can gather in the dining room or on the deck to eat a fantastic home-cooked meal. For outdoor loving families with lots of adventurous kids The Hideaway should be your next home away from home! 

Blue Mist Heaven 

Blue Mist Heaven is an ideal cabin for large families looking for a luxurious stay with plenty of amenities for the kids. Inside the kids will love the library loft and the movie room. The library loft is a perfect place for kids to read and do schoolwork, especially if they’re learning virtually. And the movie room will be the BEST place for them to watch their favorite movies on the 82” TV, curled up in one of the many recliners. There’s even a cocktail game table with 412 games installed and just outside on the deck is a ping-pong table. The kids will also love having their own room with a set of bunk beds and a full sized crib and Pack n’ Play in the closet.

Inside the house is great but outside will be the kids favorite part where there’s a giant playhouse with swings and slides. The kiddos will have a blast and play outside for hours! Parents can even watch the kids have fun on the playground from the Gazebo or bench swings. There’s plenty of great adult amenities in the cabin as well like a wet bar, gas fireplaces and TVs scattered throughout the cabin, ample indoor and outdoor seating to take in the stunning mountain views, a gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, king sized beds, and a hot tub. If you and the family stay at Blue Mist Heaven you’ll all feel like you’re in heaven with its luxurious feel and wonderful amenities! 

8 Cabins with Incredible Lake & Mountain Views



When you plan an escape to Blue Ridge there is nothing better than spending time with friends and family while taking in the sights and sounds of natures’ majestic beauty. When you add in stunning mountain and lake views to your cabin selection, you’ve just taken your vacation to a whole new level! These eight amazing cabins with picture perfect postcard views of Lake Blue Ridge are all located in the desirable Aska Adventure Area.

Close to town yet miles away, you’ll want to get out and explore all the activities the Blue Ridge and Aska Adventure Area have to offer. Take the natural path and enjoy hiking, paddle boarding, tubing, fishing and geocaching or head just six miles into downtown Blue Ridge for shopping, restaurants, and winery and brewery tours. The wonder, excitement, and beauty of the North Georgia Mountains are waiting for your adventure to begin. So, what are you waiting for?

Aska Easy Day

You have a lot of choices in deciding where to spend your Georgia mountain vacation, but if you want breathtaking views, the ultimate in relaxation and comfort, peace and quiet, and proximity to all the activities you love, look no further than Aska Easy Day. Set high on a hillside overlooking Lake Blue Ridge with panoramic long-range mountain vistas for a backdrop, this magnificent cabin is perfectly situated for vacation fun with family and friends. It’s just two miles to the Aska Adventure Area, with its hiking and horseback riding trails, boating, kayaking, tubing, and fishing, and the shopping, bars and restaurants of downtown Blue Ridge are six miles away.

Beautifully constructed from local materials in modern mountain design and furnished to define the airy open spaces, the cabin features Brazilian hardwood floors, crown moldings, stained pine that adds depth and texture to the walls and ceilings. Two stacked stone gas fireplaces, soaring vaulted ceilings, and walls of enormous windows bring the drama and showcase the magnificent picture-postcard view from sunrise to sunset.


Adventure Us

If your idea of the perfect vacation getaway is a private mountain oasis where you can gather with loved ones in a magnificent natural setting, the North Georgia cabin rental Adventure Us has exactly what you’re looking for and so much more!

Set on a hillside on more than two acres with breathtaking unobstructed long-range views of the mountains and Lake Blue Ridge, the unique three-bedroom property has its very own waterfall and lots of areas to explore. You can take your pet for a walk (yes, your dogs are welcome!) along the fenced-in property for a small taste of the wondrous nature that surrounds you.

Bearway to Heaven

Perched on a forested hillside with an absolutely breathtaking view of the lush green mountains in the distance and Lake Blue Ridge shimmering below, this magnificent log home is surrounded by the glory of nature, and close to all the outdoor activities that the Aska Adventure Area has to offer.

Bearway to Heaven is a tastefully decorated five-bedroom retreat with comfortable furniture that invites you to kick back, relax, and relish in the blissful way you’ll feel when you’re there. With a stellar location, wonderful ambience, and a picture postcard view, you’ll never want to go back home!

Blue Chase Lodge

There are many Blue Ridge mountain cabin rentals, some with a view of the water, others with a mountain view. But if you stay at Blue Chase Lodge, you don’t have to choose. This handsome home overlooking Lake Blue Ridge offers you both water and mountain vistas, and they’re spectacular! This lovely property in the heart of the Aska Adventure is a hiker’s dream and paradise for fishers and boaters, and perfect for anyone who wants to relax with friends and family in an amazing setting.

Whether you’re enjoying coffee at sunrise or a glass of wine at sunset, the view from the cabin’s three decks is absolute perfection! The open floor plan and two large screened decks provide ample space to gather and relax, and the three bedrooms, each with rustic log furniture, sumptuous bedding, private bath, fabulous view, and 32” TV, provide a hotel-like experience. With the beauty of the lake and mountains surrounding you, a stay at Blue Chase Lodge offers a unique opportunity to get away from it all and experience a carefree, blissful vacation with the ones you love.

Heavens Whisper

Heavens Whisper is a peaceful 3-bedroom oasis in the popular Aska Adventure Area of Blue Ridge. Tucked into a hill, its serene setting is a haven from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A group of friends or couples looking for a relaxing mountain getaway will think they’ve found heaven on earth here.

Wake up to spectacular mountain and lake long range layered views set against picture perfect skies outside your window. You’ll feel close to heaven and nature at this quiet, secluded retreat… and if you listen closely, you’ll hear the Heavens Whisper, calling you back here time and again!

Lakin’ Memories

From the moment you turn off of the highway, you can feel the stress roll-off. First, the mountain view is beautiful. Then when you pull into the driveway, you catch a glimpse of the lake, and you know you are there. This is what the Lakin’ Memories cabin is all about! The best way to describe this gorgeous place? Quiet, tranquil, and togetherness. Lakin’ Memories has a lot of room for families to spread out and unwind and reconnect with one another. It’s the perfect place to be with family and friends, either on the deck, on the dock, in the kitchen, or the basement.

Lake Vista Lodge

Situated on Green Mountain just south of Blue Ridge, Lake Vista Lodge is a relaxing getaway where you can escape from the everyday world, enjoy the company of your family and friends, and marvel at the peaceful, 50-mile views of Lake Blue Ridge and mountains as far as the eye can see. 

Featuring a wildlife and nature theme, Lake Vista Lodge’s rooms are rustic yet modern with hardwood floors and tongue and groove walls and ceiling throughout, making this cabin a warm and welcoming place. The beds, dining room table and chairs were all handmade by a local furniture maker.  If you’re seeking a bit of rest and relaxation, there is nothing better than simply swinging or rocking on the porch and soaking up the beautiful vista of Lake Blue Ridge, the mountains surrounding it, and on clear days, the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina beyond. On rainy days, kids will have fun playing Xbox 360 Kinect with games, or choosing amongst plenty of books and board games. Grownups can play billiards or indulge in a dip in the hot tub from the comfort of the covered porch. 

Serenity Cove

A unique cabin retreat built to become the backdrop for large families to gather and create lasting memories. If you’ve had your heart set on a North Georgia mountain family vacation but haven’t found a rental large enough for your big family, group of friends, or church retreats. Serenity Cove is the perfect cabin for you. With ample room for 16 guests, Serenity Cove is a magnificent private retreat that offers you all the amenities of a high-end resort, and so much more.

Situated high on a mountaintop and nestled in Necowa Cove on a cul-de-sac next to the National Forest, this spectacular cabin boasts breathtaking views of Lake Blue Ridge and extended mountain vistas that stretch into North Carolina and Tennessee. Opportunities for adventure abound: you can hike the nearby Aska trails, go boating on Lake Blue Ridge, fish and go tubing on the Toccoa, or go horseback riding, zip lining, whitewater rafting or visit nearby waterfalls. The shops and restaurants of downtown Blue Ridge are just ten minutes away.

Daddy-O: A Blue Ridge Father’s Day Guide



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:

Carroll’s Barbeque

Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am – 8pm
39 Lance St., Blue Ridge, | GA 706-946-1126

Photo Courtesy of Carroll’s BBQ

This is some of the most tender and tasty of briskets you’ll find in these parts. The ribs are “fall off the bone” good! They have pulled pork, pulled chicken, and smoked wings. But the one meat that they are legendary for is their smoked turkey, available on a plate, stuffed in a large sandwich or covering up a fresh salad for those who eat just a little lighter. They also have a few unique items on the menu that, when dining with a group, are great sharing treats. The BBQ Burrito (baked beans & shredded cheese in a flour tortilla, topped with Brunswick stew) is stuffed with your choice of pulled pork or pulled chicken. Then there’s “Tater Hill”. Carroll’s takes a large, classic baked potato, covers it in their white sauce, pile it mountain high with pulled pork, mac & cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw and then drizzles it with mild & sweet sauce.

All servings are generous, as is the hospitality at Carroll’s. Only open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday for lunch and dinner, you want to plan a trip here with plenty of time to chow down your main plate, and then rest up a little before you indulge in a couple of their famous desserts, including homemade banana pudding served warm with a meringue topping or their show stopper, the Skillet Brownie Sundae

Fightingtown Tavern

Megadeath at Fightingtown Tavern

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!

Boat Dock Bar & Grill

The Bar at the Boat Dock Bar & Grill

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.

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:

Grumpy Old Men Brewery

Pick your flavor at Grumpy Old Men Brewery

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.

Copperhill Brewery

Photo Courtesy of Copperhill Brewery

Visit this brewery and you won’t know if you are in Tennesee or Georgia. Located in Copperhill, just outside their tasting room door, you can have one foot in Tennessee and the other foot in Georgia. It’s very cool to straddle the state line! Sample their brews and you’ll wonder if you haven’t traveled to Scotland or Germany. This brewery takes craft beer way, way serious. It’s not a passion for them. It’s an art form. Some of the friendliest and most knowledgeable staff this side of the Mason Dixon line.

Fannin Brewing Company

Fresh Craft Beer at Fannin Brewing Company

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!

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!

8 North Georgia Wineries



With so many amazing wineries and vineyards to explore in and around the Blue Ridge area, it’s hard to choose just one. They all provide a relaxing environment, beautiful mountain views, live music and of course great wine! North Georgia is the next upcoming wine region, so while you are on your Escape to Blue Ridge plan to visit one or all of our eight favorite North Georgia wineries!

Bear Claw Vineyards 

Photo Courtesy of Cana Wine Tours

Bear Claw Vineyards is the perfect place to relax with a group of gal pals or family. With its gorgeous mountain views and calming atmosphere, you won’t want to leave! The wine is also superb because the grapes are grown in such an ideal location. What makes the location so ideal you ask? Being high above sea level greatly helps the grapes, as well as the cool mountain breezes and rich soil. The land was made for growing grapes that would turn into high-quality wine. With so many delicious flavors of wine to choose from it’s hard to pick just one. Luckily, they have a variety of tasting options. Whatever wine you choose, make sure to pair it with their wine truffles; milk chocolate ganache and vanilla cake truffles made with Bear Claw wine!

Serenberry Vineyards

Photo Courtesy of Serenberry Vineyards

On the outskirts of Morganton is another winery you must put on your list, Serenberry Vineyards. Their beautiful tasting area was a barn from the 1920’s that they transformed into what you see today. Relax on the back deck of the Tasting Barn and find yourself surrounded by the beauty of the Chattahoochee National Forest. And not only are their wines delicious but they’re special too! Each wine is named after something meaningful to the owners within the county or nearby area. For example, you might want to try the Apple-lachian named after the nearby Appalachian Trail and made with local apples. Stop on by, relax in the wooded area, and sip on some delicious wine.  

Cartecay Vineyards 

Photo Courtesy of Cartecay Vineyards

Just outside of Ellijay lies the beautiful, Cartecay Vineyards. Known for its stunning mountain views and delicious wines, you’ll be sure to want to escape the stress of everyday life and relax here. Cartecay Vineyards was established back in 2007 when they purchased an old farm dating all the way back to 1890. They turned the farm into the vineyard you see today, which is perfect for growing grapes because of its elevation, sun exposure, climate, and soil. All of these aspects come together to make a bottle of near-perfect wine. And not only is Cartecay’s wine delicious but they have a large variety of wine as well, most of which you can taste fruit-forward flavors in. Visit on the weekend and enjoy live music on their patio. Soak in the mountain views surrounding you, have a glass of wine, and enjoy listening to local Georgia artists. Cartecay Vineyards is one you won’t want to miss!

Engelheim Vineyards

Photo Courtesy of Engleheim Vineyards

Also located in Ellijay, Engelheim Vineyards focuses on growing outstanding grapes to create award-winning wines. And with 20+ award-winning wines, you can’t go wrong! Try their Cabernet Sauvignon, a smooth wine with flavors of black cherry, currant, and spice; or their Engel Weiss, a full bodied wine with fruit, floral, and nutty undertones. No matter what you choose, we promise you’ll love it! The Engel family who established the vineyard in 2011, tie in their German heritage along with their Appalachian home in the North Georgia Mountains to help create their unique and special wines. If you’re looking for the right dish to pair with the wine look no further; Engelheim has wine pairing classes for their customers and even offers wine-paired dinners. That way your wine and meal can complement one another in the most delicious way possible. Here you can also enjoy art events, music events, and wine festivals throughout the year. And enjoy live music every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. You can even bring your dog along to enjoy a relaxing day at the winery. Voted “2018 Georgia Winery of the Year” by Georgia Trustees Wine Challenge, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time here!

Georgia Wine Depot

Photo Courtesy of Paradise Hills

Immerse yourself in all things Blue Ridge Mountains. Sample wines from the first American Viticulture Area in the state of Georgia. Featuring award winning, Paradise Hills wines.  The Georgia Wine Depot is a great way to unwind after a long day of shopping downtown or hiking on the trails. Sample your favorites and take a bottle or two back to the cabin with you.

Crane Creek Vineyards

Photo Courtesy of Crane Creek Vineyards

Located in Young Harris, close to Brasstown Bald, is Crane Creek Vineyards. The owner and winemaker, Eric Seifarth, began to love wine while he was stationed in Italy as a young army officer. His goal at Crane Creek is that their wines be enjoyed with food, family, and friends to make for an enjoyable experience. With a huge variety of wines to try from reds, to whites, to roses, to sweet wines you’re sure to find something that makes your taste buds dance. And what better way to enjoy wine than with food!? Every Friday night from May-October you can enjoy homemade seasonal appetizers, as well as live music on the vineyard deck. Like the Italians, Crane Creek calls this Aperitivo, which means “to open”, such as a drink being opened or an open/stimulating appetite. And Friday night Aperitivo’s aren’t all they have to offer! Crane Creek always has some sort of event going on whether it’s a tour of the vineyard, Wine Highway Month, and so much more! You can be sure there will always be something going on. So stop on by one Friday night to experience Aperitivo and feel like you’re being transported to Italy! 

Chateau Meichtry

Photo Courtesy of Chateau Meichtry

Located in Talking Rock, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is the beautiful Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery. If it sounds French that’s because in a way it is! In 1921, Stephen Meichtry traveled to America from Switzerland. While he was living in New York his love for wine grew and it’s rumored that he even brought his own rootstock from Switzerland. He then grew the vines so that he could make his own wine. It is believed that stock from Meichtry’s vines is now planted at the vineyard, hence the name Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery. Whether from Meichtry’s vine or not, one thing is for sure, the rolling hills provide the perfect environment for growing high-quality grapes. From light whites to dark reds, there’s a wine for every palette. Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery is a member of the GA Wine Producers, North Georgia Wine Producers, and Ellijay Wine Country; so you can rest assured that their wines are delicious! On weekends enjoy live music while you sip on wine and enjoy the views of the Appalachian Mountains. And with special events happening almost every weekend you’re sure to have a blast soaking it all up with friends and family! 

Odom Springs Vineyards

Photo Courtesy of Odom Springs Vineyards

Located in the small town of Blairsville, you’ll love Odom Springs Vineyards. For over a century the Odom Family have owned land in the Young Cane valley, and the vineyard takes up 16 acres of that land. The family has been farming the rolling hills of the Appalachian mountains for years so the owners of the vineyard pay tribute to them by doing the same. The uniquely fertile soil of the Appalachian Mountains helps to create unique wines. They plant the same kind of grapes, French-American hybrids, in different soil conditions to get the different flavors of wines. For a dry-red try the Silver 2016 Award Winner,  ‘Earl’s Reserve’, which is a smooth, classic wine honoring Earl Odom, who is the father of the current owners’ Steve and Shari Odom. Or for something sweeter try ‘Sweet Sam’, which blends different types of the French-American grape, grapefruit, and pear for a perfectly sweet wine. It was also a 2016 Silver Award Winner and named after sweet Samantha Blair-Odom. And there’s even more delicious reds and whites to try as well! Enjoy a glass of their award-winning wine from the deck, while you take in the mountain views at this family-owned vineyard. 

Hiking out the Back Door



When you come to the mountains, you come to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get out in nature. So it’s important that you’re close to all the trails and outdoor adventures that Blue Ridge has to offer; www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/seven-blue-ridge-hikes.

But what if these trails were right outside your cabin doors? Step outside and start on the trails, no driving necessary! Immerse yourself in the great outdoors and get moving with access to miles worth of trails, right in your backyard.  These 6 cabins are the perfect retreat for all the outdoor lovers and hikers out there! 

Aska Adventure Lodge

This beautiful cabin is right in the heart of the Aska Adventure Area and less than 5 minutes from Toccoa River, Lake Blue Ridge, and town. Just off of the vast, wraparound porch, you’ll find yourself just steps from The Benton MacKaye Trail. Along the trail, you might run into Fall Branch Falls, Long Creek Falls, Toccoa River Swinging Bridge, and even Springer Mountain. You’re also close to many great tubing and canoeing opportunities.

After a long day on the trails, lay back and soak in the hot tub or play a game of pool in the game room. Even inside you won’t feel far from the outdoors, with themed rooms like “Trout Camp”, a bear room, and an all-around rustic, natural look throughout. Aska Adventure Lodge sleeps up to 10 people, so grab a group of your favorite hikers and get ready to adventure! 

TreeTops

Perched high on the mountain overlooking the Aska Adventure Area, this classic mountain cabin is close by to a variety of great outdoor activities! Tube down the Toccoa River, catch fish in Lake Blue Ridge, or walk down the driveway to Long Mountain Trail which connects to both the Benton MacKaye Trail and the Aska Adventure Trail, where all kinds of beautiful hikes await you!

Even enjoy a long, scenic ride on the winding Aska Road to Highway 60 and take in all the mountain views. TreeTops also has a hot tub and game room; perfect for unwinding after a busy day. You can even bring your furry friend along to join in all the fun! 

An Owl’s Perch

Perched on a mountaintop more than 3,000 feet above the trees with dramatic, sweeping long-range mountain vistas in the distance, An Owl’s Perch is like a magnificent picture postcard come to life. Located northeast of Lake Blue Ridge on a large lot in Morganton that borders unspoiled U.S. Forest Service land, it’s a calm oasis far removed from stressful city life, but just a short drive away from the shops and dining of downtown Blue Ridge.

The western-facing view from the cabin offers you magical sunrises, revealing the mountains as the fog lifts across the lake, and spectacular sunsets that will take your breath away. The cabin can easily accommodate big families and groups, sleeping 10 guests in four bedrooms. And An Owl’s Perch is pet friendly as well, so be sure to bring your pup along with you to adventure on the trails! Hike, relax, and escape at this wonderful cabin!

A Cub’s Retreat

https://youtu.be/GKjUGJRQpxI

A Cub’s Retreat is the best place to spend your vacation with family and friends and provides you a serene, relaxed, and rejuvenated environment! As you pull up to the cabin, you’ll immediately notice the true log cabin construction and the incredible mountain views visible from every angle. Step inside and immediately feel at ease as you walk into the great room and gaze through a wall of windows and doors that overlook unobstructed mountain views. So bright and welcoming, you’ll feel lighter the second you walk in.

This stunning retreat is located right near the Benton Mackaye Trail, which is excellent for hiking and taking in all of the beautiful local nature and scenery. The cabin is close to various trails, creeks, and streams in the Cashes Valley area, too. You’re also not too far from Blue Ridge and Ellijay, with just a 10-minute drive to either location and all of the fun. Pack your bags and get ready for a retreat you will never forget. A Cub’s Retreat is perfect for your escape to Blue Ridge!

As its name implies Take a Hike is perfect for all the hikers out there! Located in the Cohutta Wilderness and on Mt. Pisgah, you’ll experience stunning mountain views from any of the cabin’s 3 decks and be fully immersed in nature. Right from your cabin, step on the trails and enjoy an easy hike to a waterfall, cave, and even Colonel Magnum’s memorial. Or take a quick drive to get to any of the major trails in the Cohutta Wilderness like Daily Gap, Jacks River, Benton MacKaye, and Hemptop.

Also enjoy fantastic mountain biking trails around the mountain base. And within just 20 minutes from the cabin, you’ll find fishing, boating, and rafting adventures at the Ocoee River, Lake Blue Ridge, and Fighting Town Creek. You’ll have a full day of fun and adventure in store with so many great outdoor opportunities so close by.

When your day of hiking, biking, fishing, and boating is done enjoy dinner with a view at the picnic table and rocking chairs on the back deck. You’ll get cozy by the outdoor fireplace and watch the sunset. Then after dinner is done and the sun has set, step on down to the yard for s’mores by the fire or a dip in the hot tub. This cabin was truly made for outdoor lovers and adventurers! 

The Overlook 

Last but not least on our list is the beautiful and secluded cabin, The Overlook. It gets it’s name because it overlooks the Aska Adventure Area, Lake Blue Ridge, and has panoramic mountain views. And lucky for you outdoor lovers, it’s in short walking distance to the Benton McKaye trail, which takes you to past numerous falls, rivers, and mountain hikes. Its prime location and easy access to the trails makes this cabin the ideal escape for hikers.

Even while at the cabin you can take full advantage of the great outdoors by sitting out on the deck in a rocking chair and taking in the views. Or soak in the hot tub to warm up and relax after a long day on the trails. You’ll absolutely love having your own private and secluded oasis, far away from the rest of the world! 

7 Luxurious Mountain Lodges



When living large is what you want out of your vacation, Escape to Blue Ridge has the perfect properties to satisfy your every desire. Enjoy getting away to relax and enjoy the beautiful North Georgia mountain views and the outdoor adventures in the area. With amenities galore and plenty of room to roam, everyone in your group can indulge in their own fun and their own space. Complete with extraordinarily comfortable bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and entertaining game rooms, book your stay and let the relaxation begin in one of these seven luxurious mountain lodges!

Endless View Lodge

Endless View Lodge is perfectly situated for mountainous seclusion and picturesque views that surround you for miles. This five-bedroom home, all of which are master suites, is an upscale luxury mountain experience.  The lodge is beautifully crafted and immediately inviting with its dormer windows, huge front porch and an amazing 1,300 square-foot wraparound deck, anchored on one end by a covered gathering room and an outdoor rock fireplace. Professionally decorated, this home’s refined interior is matched only by the beauty of each room’s magnificent long and short range mountain views.  The entire space offers luxurious comfort so you can relax and reconnect with your family and friends in style.

High Five Lodge

Upon arrival, you’ll immediately be taken by High Five Lodge’s eye-catching architecture and enormous rooms. This cabin is spacious in size with a rustic yet elegant décor making this cabin warm and homey. High Five Lodge has a spacious downstairs where you can play a game of pool or cheer on your favorite team while watching the game in front of a roaring fire. Relax in the hot tub under the stars while overlooking the picturesque expanse of mountain vistas. You can see three states worth of mountain ranges (GA, TN & NC). You will be comfortable in one of five huge bedrooms, most of which open up to a deck and romantic views. Spend some time here and you’re sure to have an unforgettable time of your own!

Lazy Dayz Getaway

https://youtu.be/op-J-eQO-zM

Cozy, relaxed, and serene – these are the perfect words to describe what Lazy Dayz Getaway is all about. It’s a wonderful cabin located in the Black Gum Ridge subdivision just two miles from downtown Blue Ridge. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and escape from the everyday hustle. Step inside and admire the lovely family room! Including vegan leather couches and a gas fireplace, it’s a great spot to unwind. The kitchen is fully equipped, complete with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and everything you could need to make a delicious meal. The outdoor areas are lovely! Enjoy the private hot tub, multiple areas for sitting, a fireplace outside, and a gas grill perfect for making delectable bites outdoors. Sink into an Adirondack chair or into one of the rocking chairs and take it all in.

Laurel Valley Lodge

Laurel Valley Lodge is named for the mountain laurel covering the valley it overlooks. Here, you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain views, and your location in the popular Aska Adventure Area puts you close to everything. One of the few five-bedroom cabins in the North Georgia Mountains, this spacious lodge is ideal for large groups, family gatherings, holidays and business retreats. Good times are sure to ‘blossom’ here among the laurels! The main level’s huge wraparound deck is perfect for outdoor entertaining. Grill the Georgia trout caught earlier from the Toccoa, and share stories around the fireplace. On the lower deck, relax under the stars in the sunken hot tub or enjoy a nightcap on the Adirondack chairs. Whether you’re seeking rest or play, this spacious retreat will provide a wonderful vacation experience for you, your family and friends.

Serenity Lodge and Stable

If you dream of a peaceful, relaxing escape for your next vacation, look no further than the Blue Ridge, Georgia cabin rental called Serenity Lodge and Stable. True to its name, this magnificent property located five miles west of Ellijay, GA offers the ultimate in serene tranquility, bringing you closer to nature while you enjoy all the modern amenities it has to offer, both indoors and out. Serenity’s rooms are elegantly rustic, with exposed beams, wood burning fireplace, sumptuous leather sofas, ceiling fans in every room, and unusual touches like handmade antler chandeliers. Serenity Lodge and Stable’s vibe is restful, soothing and calm, offering you the opportunity to commune with nature in a spiritual way while you connect and celebrate with those you love.

Star Mountain

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but to truly appreciate the magnificence of Star Mountain you have to see it in person. High on a hilltop and nestled in the trees on three wooded acres, it makes a great first impression, with stunning long-range mountain vistas that will take your breath away. Spacious enough to accommodate large families or a group of friends yet cozy and intimate, Star Mountain will make you feel relaxed, at peace, and at home as you disconnect from life’s stresses and reconnect with nature.

The Haven On Toccoa

There are a lot of Georgia mountain rental properties to choose from, but few are as spectacular as The Haven on Toccoa. Situated on more than two wooded acres in a beautiful valley on 230 ft. of riverfront surrounded by breathtaking 360° long-range Blue Ridge mountain views, this picture postcard showplace of a home is more modern mountain lodge than quaint and cozy cabin. You won’t find animal figurines and homey slogans, but you will see real wildlife like deer and turkey on the property, and you can fish for trout in the river, right outside the back door. The expansive lawn is ideal for playing frisbee or tossing a football, and the perfect setting for celebrations. With accommodations for 14 guests, it’s the rare rental that’s large enough for a large family or group of friends.

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