If you made a wish list of all the best things about the South and carefully arranged them into one stunning location, you would end up in a place like Barnsley Resort. Located about one hour from bustling Atlanta, Georgia, Barnsley Resort is the kind of place where rushing around is incongruous with its sprawling lawns and shady groves of trees. Where attention to detail and Southern traditions your Nana would enjoy are coupled with delicious dining and an atmosphere that makes catching lightning bugs or roasting marshmallows part of a good evening.
At Barnsley Resort playing lawn games, canoeing and forest bathing in flip-flops go hand-in-hand with the gentile formality of Southern tradition. Dressing for dinner is expected, but no one will turn their nose at a cold one while relaxing on their cottage porch or enjoying a wood-fired pizza and country music at the resort's Beer Garden.
Step Back in Time
What sets Barnsley apart from other resorts is its storied past. Covering nearly 3,000 acres, 40 of which are designated as its historic district, the tale of the resort began over two centuries ago when Godfrey Barnsley set out to build a European-inspired mansion for his wife. Although his bride didn't live long enough to see the completion of his work, what remains today is a culturally significant part of life in the mid-1850s. A popular spot for weddings and celebrations, guests can explore what is left of the stunning home and learn about the Barnsley family through the on-property museum that houses memorabilia from the family and former estate. Guests can also roam through the only Downing Gardens in the South, another gift from Godfrey to his wife. The formal gardens remain intact and include boxwoods dating back to the 1800s as well as a massive China fir tree imported from the Philippines in 1850.
Explore
Barnsley Resort'sResort's access to open land allows for numerous outdoor activities. Encouraging its guests to reconnect with nature is one of the resort's priorities, making it easy for everyone to find something to enjoy. Ax throwing, riflery, archery, hiking, biking and horseback riding are just a few outdoor adventures available on the sprawling resort, each taught or overseen by a knowledgeable instructor. Guests can take a stroll, hike, or bike ride on any of the trails that traverse the property.
No vacation is complete without a spa day, so for those who want to experience the ultimate in luxury relaxation, an appointment at the newly redesigned Spa at Barnsley Resort is in order. Guests can indulge in outdoor-inspired treatments, including scrubs, wraps, facials and massages.
Barnsley Resort is also known for its Fazio-designed golf course. Nestled in the foothills of North Georgia on 378 acres, the championship golf course has stunning lake, forest and garden views.
Relax
In keeping with the resort's English-inspired history, the Inn at Barnsley Resort features details from English country homes of the 20th century. Guests will find hand-scraped hardwood floors, a grand staircase, well-appointed traditional decor and inviting public spaces. The three-story Inn anchors the resort and offers the quiet comfort of an upscale but unpretentious estate.
A popular spot for couples, families and extended family reunions, Barnsley Resort also offers Estate Cottages. These cozy cottages have porches with swings or rocking chairs and pantry-style kitchens. The Estate Cottages range from comfortable one-bedroom suites to seven-bedroom cottages perfect for large families or gatherings. Sumptuous decor, wood-burning fireplaces and clawfoot bathtubs make a stay luxurious and welcoming. Don't worry about leaving your four-legged family members behind, many of the Estate Cottages are pet friendly.
Dine
Renowned executive chef Javier Cuesta oversees the culinary experiences at Barnsley Resort. Rice House, a renovated home from the 1850s, is the property's fine dining restaurant. Always tying back history to the resort's location, the restaurant features tables made from reclaimed wood and details from the turn of the century. Featuring a multi-course pre-fixe menu with wine pairings, guests should expect an elevated array of Southern favorites.
Woodlands Grill offers three meals per day and a weekend brunch with options ranging from Lowcountry classics like Shrimp and Grits, Fried Chicken and Deviled Eggs to elevated fare like Scallop Risotto and Pappardelle & Lamb Meatballs. The spacious restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating with views of the golf course. For those looking for customized culinary experiences, ask for a Country Breakfast in the Garden or try a tasting of the resort's pecan-infused bourbon. barnsleyresort.com
