When people think of majestic mountains in the United States, Georgia may not be the first place to come to mind. But for a cold-weather getaway, the forested mountains of this state that form the beginning of the Appalachian Mountain system have some of the best locales to cozy up in.
A cabin getaway to enjoy the scenery or go for a hike is the perfect short break for this fall or winter season. There are a few different distinct ranges in the northern part of Georgia including the Appalachian Plateau, Piedmont and Blue Ridge. Along these ranges and their accompanying valleys, there are a few mountain towns tucked away each with its own character and dimensions making them all unique.
If you’re looking for a perfect place for a holiday or just a break from city life, Georgia has quaint mountain towns with beautiful vistas throughout its northern quarter. Whether it’s ideal hiking trails, wineries, bike paths or just the mountain views that you’re after, you aren’t short of choices. Check out this list to learn about some of the best mountain towns for a cabin getaway in Georgia.
Helen
Though it’s one of the smallest towns in the state with only about 500 residents, Helen is the third most visited town in Georgia. In 1969, the locality began to transform itself into a replica of a Bavarian alpine town, and this is one of the traits that makes Helen so special. It’s a taste of Europe in Northeast Georgia with more than 200 specialty and import shops. There is a lot to do around town as well with Habersham Winery and Unicoi State Park both nearby. This town goes all out for the holidays, so a Christmas visit is a must for your list. Grab some souvenir Christmas ornaments and some of their famous Helen fudge – and make plans to come back during the summer for some tubing on the Chattahoochee River.
Ellijay
On the edge of the Chattahoochee National Forest sits Ellijay, a mountain town with trails, a lake and a historic downtown to charm the whole family. Considered Georgia’s apple capital, it’s the best place to get away for some farm fresh apples before the season ends – but many of their apple products are available throughout the fall and winter. If you want to explore local fare during your stay, Elijay’s local restaurants are well-loved, and there are a few vineyards and a coffee shop in the area as well.
Blue Ridge
For an abundance of cabin rentals, Blue Ridge is a cozy choice just an hour and a half outside of Atlanta. It’s been a mountain destination since the 1800s, and now Downtown Blue Ridge is a destination for art galleries, restaurants and breweries. Visitors can even take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway that makes a 4-hour trip between Georgia and Tennessee, including a layover for lunch. If you’re looking for a local beverage, one of the area’s breweries or vineyards is sure to please your palate.
Dahlonega
It’s a golden town in Georgia’s crown, and there is so much to do in Dahlonega that we’ve already profiled the town in full. Dahlonega is known as the Heart of Georgia Wine Country with several vineyards nearby, and also as the site of the first United States gold rush – there is a ton of gold mining history to check out throughout the town. It’s a beautiful place to relax or participate in one of the seasonal festivals for a fun holiday away from the city.
Sautee
If you’re looking for a small mountain town that’s off the beaten path, then look no further than Sautee, or Sautee Nacoochee (as it is known). This town is known for the Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound built by the South Appalachian Mississippian Native American tribe more than 2000 years ago. Sautee also hosts a covered bridge, a folk pottery museum and a gourd museum in the town which draw in many visitors. You can truly take a trip through history in Sautee.
Clayton
Home of both Black Rock and Screamer Mountain, Clayton is a mountain town with a bustling restaurant scene and downtown. It has earned the title of “farm-to-table capital of Georgia” for some of its fresh offerings. Tallulah Gorge State Park is nearby, featuring a stunning waterfall, massive gorge and the classic suspension bridge that spans the space. Like other Georgia mountain towns, there are also a few vineyards in the area for the wine connoisseur in your group.
If you’re looking to get away from it all, Georgia has plenty of opportunities to head to the hills (or mountains) and relax. Whether you are hoping to find the best local spirits in the state or the best hiking trails and summits, these mountain towns have something for anyone’s itinerary. Keep Georgia’s mountains on your mind for your upcoming holiday – hopefully, this guide for the best mountain towns for a cabin getaway in Georgia will be handy for a head start in your planning.
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