We enjoyed a complimentary stay at Ellijay River House, a Georgia bed and breakfast. All opinions are my own.
There’s something about Ellijay, Georgia, that feels like a secret whispered by the North Georgia mountains. Known as the Apple Capital, this little town wraps you in its charm—think rolling hills, vineyards, apple orchards, and a downtown that feels like it stepped out of a storybook.
But the heart of our weekend escape was the Ellijay River House Bed and Breakfast, a historic home where innkeepers Tram and Seth Taylor craft an impeccable B&B experience. Paired with local dining, a vineyard picnic, and downtown strolls, this Georgia bed and breakfast mountain stay was one for the books. Here’s why the Ellijay River House should be your next getaway.
A Historic Haven by the Cartecay River
The B&B’s blue front door swings open to reveal a cozy older home, exquisitely renovated with elegant brass accents, soothing teal tones, and a timeless charm. This 1915 Craftsman, once owned by one of Ellijay’s early entrepreneurs, has been meticulously restored.
Original windows and beautiful brass globe chandeliers bathe the rooms in soft light, while Artful Ellijay décor adds a touch of modern elegance. Just steps from downtown, the inn sits along the Cartecay River, its trickling waters a backdrop to our stay.
Our room, the Retreat, was simply elegant. Located on the inn’s main floor, it welcomed us with a bright and airy atmosphere, complemented by a queen-sized bed, draped in soft linens. The private bathroom, featuring a clawfoot tub added a luxurious touch to our stay. Each of the inn’s four rooms boasts its own private bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort for every guest.
A Taste of Georgia: Breakfast and Dessert
If there’s one thing that elevates the Ellijay River House, it’s the food, crafted by Innkeeper and Chef Tram Taylor. Each morning, we gathered in the sunroom overlooking the Cartecary River for a mouthwatering breakfast. One morning, Tram served breakfast hash with local sausage and an over-easy egg, just the way we like it. On Sunday, we began our day with a delicious eggs benedict and fruit. Tram outdid herself and made my breakfasts gluten-free—she’s the best! And the locally roasted coffee was the perfect touch.
Every evening, the magic continued with a homemade dessert. One night, we indulged in Tram’s mango and coconut pudding, a refreshing summer treat. On Saturday, we got our chocolate fix with a decadent chocolate mousse.
Exploring Ellijay’s Food Scene
The first night of our stay, we took a short walk from the River House to The Roof, a rooftop restaurant and bar with Blue Ridge Mountain views. The menu features ingredients from local farms, like Ellijay Mushrooms. We indulged in the meatloaf and flat iron steak before taking an after-dinner stroll through the town.
For a more relaxed vibe, we strolled to Ellijay Tapz, a pizza and tapas bar, for dinner on the second night of our stay. We shared a wood-fired cauliflower pizza (which this gluten-free girl loved) and beef asado and listened to the live music. We highly recommend this spot—but arrive early for dinner as the seating is limited.
A few other restaurants recommended by locals include River Street Tavern, Cartecay Pizza Company, A Little Baked Bakery, Butcher and Bottle, and Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza.
A Picnic in Wine Country
Tram’s influence extends beyond the River House—she also owns Mountain View Artisanal, a shop that’s a cheese-lover’s dream. After meandering through downtown, we visited to grab a curated charcuterie board for four. Yes, for four—we love charcuterie, okay? The spread included artisanal cheeses, cured meats, olives, fig preserves, and more.
We took our haul to Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard in Talking Rock, Georgia, a 20-minute drive from the inn. Nestled among stunning mountains and beautiful land, the vineyard features a black lab that wanders the property, two fuzzy highland cows, and Asher’s dream—a thriving garden and greenhouse. Live music filled the air as we sipped their dry and Muscadine wines and indulged in our charcuterie box on the patio. This might just be the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the Georgia mountains.
North Georgia is home to many vineyards, wineries, and cider companies. Among the top picks highly favored by locals, alongside Chateau Meichtry, are Buckley Vineyards, Roo Mountain Vineyards, Cartecay Vineyards, Ott Farms and Vineyards, and Reece’s Cider Co.
Strolling Downtown Ellijay
Fueled by Tram’s breakfast, we ventured out to explore Ellijay’s quaint downtown, steps from the Ellijay River House. On Saturday, Ellijay was buzzing with visitors. The streets came alive as locals visited the farmers market, and tourists wandered in and out of stores and lingered at the local coffee shops. We roamed through shops, antique stores, and boutiques. A few of my favorites are Rustic Roots Boutique, Artful Ellijay, Misty Hollow Antiques, Mountain Treasures, and Blue Ridge Olive Oil Co.
If we had more time during our stay, we would have loved to explore the outdoors with a hike, trails like Bear Creek Trail, Old Fort Trail, or the Base of the Falls Trail. And of course, if you find yourself in Ellijay during apple season, you must visit one of the local orchards, like Red Apple Barn or Mac Aaron’s Apple House.
Why Ellijay River House Is a Must-Stay
The Ellijay River House surpasses the typical bed and breakfast, offering an exquisite North Georgia mountain escape. From the charm of its thoughtfully updated older home and the delicious breakfasts to its serene riverside location and easy walk to downtown, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect stay in Ellijay. We also thoroughly enjoyed our conversations with Tram and Seth, who made us feel at home and went above and beyond to ensure our stay was exceptional.
If you’re dreaming of a mountain getaway, book a stay at the Ellijay River House and don’t forget to let them know we sent you.
Looking for a Georgia bed and breakfast on the coast? Check out our stay at Bellwether House.