There’s something special about taking a trip with friends — the laughter, the stories and the shared moments that linger long after you’re home. This fall, the Lees, the Hamers, and the Gurleys packed up for a long weekend getaway and headed north to the charming town of Ellijay, Georgia, tucked away in the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. It's just under a four-hour drive from Cullman, and the route winds through peaceful country roads and scenic overlooks, the kind of drive that makes you slow down and take in the beauty around you.
We stayed with Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals, and our home for the weekend, Rushing River, couldn’t have been more perfectly named. The sound of the river flowing just outside the cabin was the kind of background music you never knew you needed. Mornings were spent sipping coffee on the back deck, wrapped in blankets, watching for deer crossing in the river while the sunlight hit the water. The cabin itself was beautifully furnished — spacious yet cozy, with a stone fireplace and plenty of room for everyone to gather.
While the men set off for a guided fishing trip with Chris Bradley with Reel ‘Em In Guide Service, the women explored all the charm downtown Ellijay had to offer. Our first stop was Southern Flare Antiques & Interiors, a treasure trove of vintage finds and Southern charm. We met the delightful owner, Sue, and her shop dog, Molly — who, as Sue laughingly told us, “is not for sale.” It’s the kind of shop that feels like home, full of character, warmth and stories waiting to be told. We shopped for antiques and other local finds.
Just down the road, we visited downtown Ellijay, where we shopped at The Cow Pelt, a boutique known for its leather goods, jewelry, hats and mountain-inspired style. We found ourselves drawn to the smell of real leather and the craftsmanship of the pieces — it’s a can’t-miss stop for anyone visiting the area. We found Linda’s Outback Antiques and More where we happened on some great finds! Artful Ellijay was a must, as well, with beautiful home decor and furniture for everyone.
We made sure to visit Oink & Moo Butcher Shop, a local favorite that quickly became one of ours. The owners were incredibly kind and eager to share their best recommendations. We stocked up on steaks and their “Smoke & Fire Burger Starter,” which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. After a day of fishing, we decided dinner by the river, a warm fire and good friend were the recipe for a perfect evening. We had a fun game night that included a little bit of fun competition.
We spotted deer almost daily, grazing along the water’s edge or darting through the woods near the cabin. Though we didn’t get the chance to dine at The Falls at Blue Ridge, it came highly recommended by several locals, and we’ve already added it to our list for next time.
Ellijay is the kind of place that wraps you up in its charm. Between the friendly people, peaceful setting, and abundance of things to do, it’s the perfect destination for families, couples or a group of friends looking to unwind. We left with full hearts, great memories and plans to return soon.
Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals – 2218 Highway 52 E, Ellijay, GA | 706-276-4343 | mountainoasiscabinrentals.com
Oink & Moo Butcher Shop – 500 Highland Crossing, Suite 102, Ellijay, GA | 706-636-6465 | theoinkandmooellijay.com
Southern Flare Antiques & Interiors – 1362 Highway 52 E, Ellijay, GA | 706-635-6330
The Cow Pelt – 24 N. Main St, Ellijay, GA | 706-972-9238
The Falls at Blue Ridge – 255 River Road, Blue Ridge, GA | 706-946-1030 | thefallsblueridge.com
Mornings were spent sipping coffee, wrapped in blankets, watching for deer crossing in the river.