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Photos courtesy The Cabin Connoisseur
Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains of Northern Georgia, Antler’s Ridge Lodge boasts a vantage point where the state’s capital is visible nearly 60 miles away. So while the views tend to take center stage, recent renovations by owners Tessie Fernandez and Guillermo Rojas deserve a moment in the spotlight as well.
When Tessie and Guillermo were searching for a location where their entire family could spend time together, they decided Dawsonville, Georgia, was the perfect town. They are an outdoorsy bunch, so purchasing the lodge and the nine acres of densely wooded land it’s situated on was a no-brainer. Bordering the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, it is not uncommon to spot a wide range of wildlife, including bears. The owners welcome guests to inquire about hunting and fishing trips, which are guided by locally licensed experts. If you’re experienced enough to venture off on your own, Outside World Outfitters provides kayaking, climbing and hiking pack rentals for any adventure in mind.
While Dawsonville is the gateway to the Appalachian Trail, there is plenty to do besides enjoy the outdoors. Vineyards and wineries dot the Georgian town and surrounding Dawson County. Burt’s Farm sells seasonal produce and freshly baked goods, as well as hosts a two-mile long hayride. Visiting in the fall is an excellent time to enjoy homemade pumpkin pies and the sea of colorful foliage spanning the landscape. For track racers, the Atlanta Motorsports Park will be a blast, and the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame is nearby, too. Acclaimed eateries, cafes, and even a distillery offer a variety of food and beverage options to enjoy.
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Upon arrival to the lodge, guests find a home built into a steep slope, with a spacious, raised deck surrounding the perimeter. Swinging cushioned chairs hang from the deck floor above, making for a fun hangout spot. Once up the stairs and through the front entrance into the family room, the soothing, blue-and-cream-colored boho-chic decor welcomes guests inside, creating a pleasant contrast to the hardwood floors and ceilings. The old-fashioned wood stove is ready to fire up for loved ones to gather around, with a large kitchen in the background, fully stocked with all the cookware necessary for lodge feast. If al fresco cooking is what you’re looking for, there are two Big Green Egg smokers for outdoor use. After exploring the rest of the main floor, a spiral staircase leading down to the basement which hosts an arcade and bunk rooms.
Guests can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee on the deck, gazing at the emerging canopies when the sun comes up and navigate constellations through a telescope when the sun disappears behind the ridge. An outdoor hot tub under the stars offers a place to post up at the end of the day. The next morning, wake up to the peaceful murmurs of the forest in the Lotus Belle tent’s king-size bed and start the adventure all over again.
Learn more, and rent the Antler’s Ridge Lodge through the Cabin Connoisseur here!
