Living in the state of Florida my whole life, I’ve experienced the four seasons of Florida: Summer, Slightly Cooler Summer, 3 days of “Wow, This is Cold!” and Pre-Summer. That’s about as varied as it gets down here in the peninsula. Anxious for a change of scenery, I looked to nearby Georgia and after some research, realized there really is a lot to see and experience in this very underrated Southern state. We stayed in a stunning cabin in Ellijay, which is known as the apple capital of Georgia and is nestled just outside the Blue Ridge Mountain range. Throughout the four day trip, we stayed within the Blue Ridge Region, which, at this time in early November, engulfed North Georgia with a blanket of crisp golden leaves everywhere you turned. It was the absolute perfect time to visit. Continue reading for details on apple orchards, wineries with the most breathtaking views, and the cutest and unique historic towns, one of which you might recognize from your favorite Hallmark films!
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Ellijay, Georgia (The Apple Capital of Georgia)
Ellijay is a quaint historic town nestled in the mountains of North Georgia within Gilmer County. First incorporated in 1834 and known as the Apple Capital of Georgia, Ellijay is a picture perfect fall destination with a quaint town center with restaurants and shops, and families friendly events, wineries and apple orchards within Gilmer County. Ellijay is the perfect place to visit if you’re craving the chance to slow down, visit with friends and family, take in the stunning views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains on a porch rocking chair near a smoldering fire and a cozy cup of hot chocolate or apple cider in hand.
Stay: Mountain Therapy, Ellijay, Georgia
We found a perfect Air BNB in the mountains of Ellijay called Mountain Therapy. Renting a cabin in the mountains elevates the north Georgia experience. Our stay at called Mountain Therapy was highlighted with a soft golden blanket of orange leaves in all directions, friendly deer that wandered on and off the the property, picture perfect views of the Blueridge Mountains and the peacefulness of a nestling in a cozy cottage. I highly recommend this rental, it was clean, it was a great location and the renters were extremely communicative and it had everything you could imagine.
Apple Picking in Ellijay, Georgia
You can’t come to Ellijay in the fall without stopping at one of the many Apple Houses in the vicinity. Be sure to check the websites for availability, picking schedule and events. We visited near the end of apple season, so we didn’t get a chance to pick apples ourselves, however we still stopped by BJ Reece and got a bag of apples, apple cider and enjoyed pursuing the jams, desserts, seasonings and all the tasty treats available. Below are three of the nearby apple houses in Ellijay that you should check out, all offer U-Pick Apples, farm events activities and bakery items:
- BJ Reece, 9131 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536
- Hillcrest Orchards, 9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay, Georgia 30536
- Red Apple Barn, 3379 Tailscreek Road, Ellijay, Georgia 30540
Dahlongea, Georgia
While you’re visiting North Georgia, you should absolutely visit Dahlongea. Dahlongea is a quaint town that you may recognize in some of your favorite Hallmark movies, it is a popular filming location for the Hallmark Channel. And for good reason, Dahlongea is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers expansive vista views, waterfalls and wineries not to mention a charming historic town lined with welcoming store fronts and local musicians.
Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Dahlongea, Georgia
The most beautiful winery I’ve ever visited is Wolf Mountain Vineyards. Overlooking an expansive vista and surrounded by vineyards, I could easily order wine, enjoy the view and order from their delicious menu all day long. I recommend an initial wine tasting upon first arrival, you get your first wine, can walk around, enjoy the view and the grounds, and then return for the next one and so forth at your own pace. Once we found our favorites, we went upstairs to sit in the dining room and order from the restaurant. Everything on the menu is delicious, but we ordered a pizza, a charcuterie board and the, but I firmly believe there is nothing you will regret ordering on this menu.
Helen, Georgia
You can’t have a trip to Northern Georgia without stopping in Helen, Georgia. Helen is a vibrant alpine village nestled within the stunning landscape of mountains, forests and river banks. Taking in the details of the German influences throughout town’s buildings and shops, along with the quaint storefronts and scenic backdrop of mountains and riverbanks surrounding you, you’ll feel as if you’re truly on the streets of Germany. Enjoy Bavarian fare when you visit, we went to The Heidelberg and it was a great spot.
Russell–Brasstown Scenic Byway
On the way to Helen from our cabin in Ellijay, we took the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway to really experience the fall colors. Its a beautiful drive through the mountains and you’ll be greeted with gorgeous mountain vistas and tree-lined winding paths. There are pull-offs throughout the drive if you would like to stop and take photos or pack a lunch and enjoy the view.
Anna Ruby Falls, Georgia
The Anna Ruby Falls Trail is designated a National Recreation Trail and is a beautiful 1 mile out and back hike to see one of the many waterfalls in this part of North Georgia. It is an up hill walk but was a relatively easy hike, I saw people of all ages on this hike, and there are benches along the way. It can take about 30 minutes to an hour to complete depending on your pace.
I hope you found this post helpful. Photos and videos of this trip are already posted on my personal Instagram @amandacorrao so please follow, as well as @amanda_meets_world_ for more! If you liked this post, please comment below!
