Hidden away in the northeastern corner of the state, you’ll find Rabun Gap, a quaint little location filled with vineyards, greenery, history, art and, best of all, the relaxing beauty of the North Georgia mountains. When you feel like getting away from it all, whether for a honeymoon, romantic getaway, company retreat or outdoor vacation, Rabun Gap has you covered.
The town
Once you experience the beauty and majesty of the Rabun Gap-Wolffork Valley, you won’t want to go back home. The peaceful farmland surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains will melt all of your cares away when you visit Rabun Gap. Whether you love the outdoors, enjoy Southern history, get a thrill from finding and collecting special treasures or want to learn all about local farming, you can find it all in this quaint little destination.
Local attractions
For outdoor enthusiasts, you can experience an invigorating getaway hiking up to the top of Rabun Bald (Accessed off of Hale Ridge Road in Dillard. www.atlantatrails.com) which reaches 4,969 feet above sea level, or down to the bottom of Tallulah Gorge, where you can see stunning waterfalls and primeval forest canopies.
Known to attract artists and historians alike, Rabun Gap is home to many historic bed and breakfast inns, Barker's Creek Grist Mill (4507 Betty's Creek Road, Rabun Gap. 706-746-5718. www.explorerabun.com), 12 Spies Vineyards and Farm (550 Black Branch Road, Rabun Gap. 813-335-2886. www.12spiesvineyards.com), antique stores, galleries, as many roadside stands as you could dream of and the Hambidge Center (105 Hambidge Court, Rabun Gap. 706-746-5718. www.hambidge.org), an artist's and writer's retreat located in the middle of 600 forested acres.
If you love theater, the local Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School (339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap. 706-746-7467. www.rabungap.org) features year-round student productions like Cirque du Soleil. You'll also enjoy music and art festivals, zip lining, rafting along the Chattooga River and golfing at this one-of-a-kind mountain location.
Lodging
Sylvan Falls Mill Bed andBreakfast.156 Taylors Chapel Road, Rabun Gap. 706-746-7138. www.sylvanfallsmill.com.
This historic inn sits right next to the Wolf Valley and has accommodated guests for over 175 years. The adjoining waterwheel and 100-foot waterfall creates a surreal experience that will take all of your stress away. You’ll enjoy a homemade breakfast on the screened porch overlooking the beautiful falls.
York House Inn. 416 Yorkhouse Road, Rabun Gap. 706-746-2068. www.yorkhouseinn.com.
Known as Georgia’s oldest bed-and-breakfast, the York House has been running for over 13 decades and sits right at the base of the Appalachian Mountains. For an experience like no other, the York House offers unsurpassed history and heritage around Rabun Gap.
The Dillard House Inn. 768 Franklin St., Dillard. 800-541-0671. www.dillardhouse.com.
If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, this luxurious location offers Rock House rooms, private cottages and cabins, and rooms inside The Dillard House Inn. The spacious accommodations and gorgeous views will take your breath away, and so will the amenities — including swimming, horseback riding and tennis.
Dining
Moon Pie Pizzeria and Pasta.7110 Highway 441 North Suite B, Dillard. 706-746-0031. www.moonpiepizzeria.com.
When you’re in the mood for great pizza, look no further than Moon Pie Pizzeria and Pasta. Using locally sourced ingredients, Moon Pie serves up some of the best pizza, pasta, salads and desserts in the area. This family-friendly location will become a frequent stop during your getaway vacation.
The Farmhouse at Persimmon Creek. 3093 Blue Ridge Gap Road. 706-782-9834. www.thefarmhouseatpersimmoncreek.com.
This unique, farm-to-table restaurant offers guests the experience of seeing the origins of their meal within their beautiful surroundings. You’ll see bountiful raised beds and greenhouses, along with a colorful explosion of flowers and herbs throughout the property.
Universal Joint. 109 North Main St., Clayton. 706-782-7116. www.ujclayton.com.
A local favorite found in nearby Clayton, Universal Joint serves up a variety of beer along with an amazing array of delicious fare, including Firecracker Sliders, Blackened Flounder Tacos and Universal Fries, all in a pub-like atmosphere.
Rumor Hazit. 173 North Main St., Clayton. 706-782-1111. www.rumorhazit.us.
This island-themed restaurant will transport you to a tropical resort that will make you feel like you’re on a vacation within a vacation. With colorful murals, fresh seafood, beachy decorations and music, Rumor Hazit truly has it all. Make sure to try the signature Key Lime Pie after your meal.
With all of that relaxation, you might want to get a little exercise. When you're ready for a full day of invigorating hiking, make sure to check out the five most difficult hiking trails in Georgia.
