From a Geodesic dome to a tricked out camper, lodging options make for an unforgettable North Georgia escape
You may already know spectacular hikes laced with waterfalls, rapid river sports, opportunities to pick apples, mountain biking trails and some of the Peach State’s best trout fishing lie 80 miles north of Atlanta and 65 miles from Chattanooga, Tennessee, in Ellijay, Georgia. But do you know where to stay once you’ve packed for your Ellijay adventure? Read on for our top picks when it comes to rejuvenating between memory-making.
Cabins abound in Ellijay and offer a private escape within a breathtaking setting. Check out the Whitewater Lodge, a beautiful and spacious dog-friendly cabin with custom made wooden décor that sits in direct view of the Cartecay River.
This conveniently located two bedroom, two bathroom cabin accommodates up to six guests making it ideal for families, girlfriend getaways and bachelor parties, too. To book a stay, visit http://www.blueskycabinrentals.com/vacation-rental-home.asp?PageDataID=53613.
Choose between vintage Airstreams and a Geodesic dome with a glamping trip at Elatse’yi, a unique lodging adventure 20 minutes outside of downtown Ellijay. Sleeping arrangements dotting the 17-acre Elatse’yi can accommodate between two and 12 guests with one to six bedrooms spanning two cabins (four private bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms), full kitchens, gas and log fireplaces, king size beds and internet. Beyond the typical mountain getaway, the property also has an Argentine grill, fire pit, year-round porches, hiking trails, bird watching and Alpacas. This experience is best for children aged 12 and up. Additional guest services available upon request include transportation to canoe, kayak, and tube rentals, horseback riding, river float fishing, archery and massages. To book a stay, call (404) 510-3684 or visit http://EllijayHideaway.com.
Heart Chan is a retreat center offering private and public retreats focused on meditation practice and related mind, body and spiritual wellness–the ideal lodging choice for learning about and achieving inner peace. Heart Chan is the first regional retreat center established in the United States and provides the opportunity for people to experience Chan to deepen their practices in a safe, fun, non-stressful environment through multi-day retreats, teachers’ training, classes, and workshops that include activities such as flower arranging, calligraphy, traditional ink painting, contemplative walking, reading and research, guided sitting mediation and other activities. To book a stay, call (706) 669-7174 or visit http://HeartChan.org.
Take it to two wheels at Mulberry Gap, a mountain biker’s rustic haven with International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) trails outside the gate. This is the outdoor adventurers’ ultimate getaway. Unlike hotel options, this lodging option keeps the mountain bike community together all under one roof for meals and fellowship. A comfy, couch-laden barn serves as the gathering space for stick-to-your-ribs meals (think thick, Belgian waffles, sausages, cheddar grits, scrambled eggs, bottomless cups of coffee) sure to sustain even the most adventurous bikers. Swap stories over a shared campfire and a few beers with people that, in a short time, become close trail buds. Stretch together in post-ride yoga sessions. Hop in a hot tub and talk about the wildlife you saw on the trail. It’s hard to find elsewhere what Mulberry Gap offers all on-site. There are options for cabin stays and campsites as well as guided tours and shuttle rides to trailheads. To book a stay, call (706) 698-2865 or visit www.MulberryGap.com.
Located in Coosawattee River Resort, DJ Camper Vacation Rentals are fully furnished fifth wheel campers offering a plethora of accessible amenities, a unique and affordable option for a mountain getaway. Guests also have access to all amenities in Coosawattee including indoor and outdoor swimming, putt putt golf, tennis and more. Camping is also available. To book a stay, call (321) 848-4247.