Escape to the Mountain: Discover Orchards, Wineries, & Secluded Luxury Cabin
One Great Escape
Your Gateway to Mountain Views & Local Wineries in Ellijay, GA
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ellijay, Georgia offers the quintessential small-town mountain escape. Whether you are visiting for the peak fall harvest, exploring scenic hiking routes, or escaping for a relaxing weekend of wine tasting, this charming destination delivers outdoor adventure and quiet mountain relaxation in equal measure. Spend an afternoon exploring the historic town square. Browse unique antiques at Main Street Antiques, discover local crafts at mountain boutiques, and sample farm-to-table dining at locally owned downtown restaurants.
From historic apple orchards along Highway 52 to award-winning mountain vineyards and river trails, explore the best of North Georgia and lock in your direct-rate stay.
Tour Ellijay’s World-Famous Apple Orchards & Farm Markets
You cannot visit Ellijay without experiencing its historic agricultural roots along Highway 52, locally known as 'Apple Orchard Alley':
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B.J. Reece Orchards: Famous for u-pick apples, fresh fried pies, and hard cider flights at Reece's Cider Company.
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Red Apple Barn: Perfect for family outings featuring tractor wagon rides, pumpkin picking, and farm-fresh cider donuts.
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Hillcrest Orchards: A family favorite offering petting farms, pig races, and weekend u-pick events from September through November.
Sip & Savour at North Georgia Wineries
Ellijay has emerged as a premier destination in North Georgia’s wine country. Spend a sunny afternoon sipping award-winning varietals on open-air decks framed by mountain vistas:
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Engelheim Vineyards: Features a Bavarian-inspired tasting room and gold-medal estate wines.
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Cartecay Vineyards: Offers live music on weekends, tasting flights inside a renovated 1890s barn, and scenic vineyard views.
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Ott Farms and Vineyard: Known for expansive high-elevation views of the North Georgia mountains and a relaxed picnic atmosphere.
SEASONAL TIP:
Visiting in October? Don't miss the annual Georgia Apple Festival, featuring over 300 artisan vendors and food booths.
Outdoor Adventures: Rivers, Lakes & Hiking Trails
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to explore the North Georgia wilderness:
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Carters Lake: Enjoy pontoon boating, kayaking, and fishing along 60 miles of undeveloped shoreline on North Georgia's deepest lake.
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Tumbling Waters Trail: An accessible 25-minute hike leading across a 150-foot wooden suspension bridge to view scenic water cascades.
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Cartecay & Ellijay Rivers: Rent a tube or kayak from local outfitters for a lazy summer afternoon floating down the river.
Your Home Base for Ellijay Adventures
After a day spent picking apples, hiking trails, or tasting wine, unwind in comfort at our Great Escape Mountain Lodge. Located just minutes from downtown Ellijay and local wineries, our private cabin features a secluded hot tub, mountain views, a game room, and luxury amenities for your entire group.
