Top 3 Weekend Getaways From Atlanta for Nature Lovers

Weekend trips away from the city are just what the doctor ordered. Atlanta is known for its world-class dining, upbeat nightlife, and professional sports teams. But sometimes, we need a retreat from the noise and constant flow of traffic. If you’re ready for a serene escape into nature, where the sound of jeering crowds and honking horns can’t reach you, we have just what you need. These three nature retreats are less than four hours away from Atlanta, tucked among beautiful mountain landscapes where you’ll find both adventure and restful relaxation. Learn more about these weekend getaways from Atlanta below.

Weekend Getaway From Atlanta 1: Dunya Camp — Summerville, Georgia

This first retreat is just one and a half hours from Atlanta in quaint Summerville, Georgia. The enchanting Dunya Camp is the perfect getaway for couples seeking a bit of romantic seclusion. It’s nestled on a rolling hillside overlooking 42 acres of dense pine forest. With expansive views and curated experiences, like private chef dinners, healing massages, and decadent picnics, you’re in for a treat.

This one-of-a-kind vacation features two glamorous tents, taking luxury glamping to a new level. Both the Sunset Tent and Grand Sunset Tent boast a two-level spa deck. Enjoy outdoor showers, cedar barrel hot tubs, fire pits, and plenty of room for sunbathing, stargazing, or yoga. What’s more, the Grand Sunset Tent even features a wood barrel sauna for an elevated spa experience.

Inside each cabin is a grand four-poster king bed, a sitting area, a lavish bath with a separate soaking tub and shower, and a kitchen. Moreover, each tent is decorated in mesmerizing jewel tones, with antique furnishings and intricate textiles for a European feel. Head out to explore the miles of hiking trails on the property. Later, cozy up next to the wood-burning stove with a book, or lounge the day away in the Georgia sunshine.

Activities Near North Georgia Mountains

Though your accommodation features sweet seclusion, that doesn’t mean the rest of your trip has to! The surrounding area comes alive with small-town charm, southern hospitality, and plenty of rugged natural beauty to soak in. In fact, the Georgia Mountains is known for its wealth of outdoor activities. Explore tumbling waterfalls, sprawling national forests, unique state parks, apple orchards, and other things to do in North Georgia. See how to fill your weekend getaways from Atlanta below.

• Visit North Georgia Wineries: All great days end with wine. Relax with a glass at Crane Creek Vineyards, Tiger Mountain Vineyards, or Yonah Mountain Vineyards.
• Go Kayaking or River Tubing: Cool off from the heat at Helen’s Chattahoochee or Dahlonega’s Chestatee. Whitewater rafting in Georgia is also a popular activity.
• Hike to Waterfalls: Admire year-round falls, such as Toccoa Falls and Amicalola Falls, which is the highest waterfall in the southeast at 729 feet.
• Historic Lookout Mountain: This mountain is the home of the underground Ruby Falls and Rock City. Plus, go for scenic train rides on the Incline Railway.

Affordable Family Vacations on the East Coast

Vacationing on a budget? Here’s some family getaways on the East Coast that won’t break the bank.

Weekend Getaway From Atlanta 2: Tapoco Lodge — Robbinsville, North Carolina

This next option among weekend getaways from Atlanta offers plenty of southern charm in a beautiful lodge package. The Historic Tapoco Lodge is nestled on the banks of the rushing Cheoah River in the lovely town of Robbinsville, North Carolina. Moreover, Tapoco Lodge is the ideal spot for a nature-focused retreat, as it’s just a short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

A community pillar since the 1930s, Tapoco Lodge welcomes lovers of the outdoors to its stunning campus for rest, relaxation, and exploration. Guests of Tapoco find plenty of amenities to fill their day with, including eleven hiking trails, tennis courts, fire pits, and a hammock cove for enjoying a good book while listening to the sounds of the river. Moreover, there are two on-site restaurants at Tapoco: the Tapoco Tavern and the Cheoah Dining Room. Here, you can indulge in a fresh breakfast, hearty dinner, and plenty of cocktails from the dining room, patio, or elevated terrace.

Accommodations at Tapoco Lodge range from lodge suites and lodge rooms inside the historic main building to cabins located in a more secluded portion of the property. These rooms and suites sleep two to four with plush king beds, seating areas, and stunning views. Moreover, cabins sleep two to six and feature porches, living and dining areas, and a bit more room for activity.

Weekend Getaway From Atlanta 3: Huffman Creek Retreat — Robbinsville, North Carolina

Last on the list of weekend getaways from Atlanta is Huffman Creek Retreat, also in Robbinsville, North Carolina. This hidden Smoky Mountain escape boasts seven cabins, each tucked away in its private portion of breathtaking woods. What’s more, these cozy cabins are family-friendly and certainly worth visiting for groups looking to enjoy the splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains together.

Soak in the scenery with mountain hikes along 525 acres of private trails on-site. Later, roast s’mores around your cabin’s fire pit, and admire the clear skies filled with stars. Each Huffman cabin is pet-friendly and offers unique floor plans and amenities, accommodating as few as three and as many as fourteen guests. Rock the evening away on your porch, take an afternoon siesta in creekside hammocks, or gather around the dining room table for game night.

Not to mention, many of these cabins feature views of Huffman Creek, with its many tiny waterfalls and soothing hum. So, if you’re looking for a vacation that allows you to step outside your front door into the bliss of the great outdoors, Huffman Creek Retreat is for you.

Activities Near the Great Smoky Mountains

Part of the greater Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia, the Great Smoky Mountains are the best part of visiting the charming town of Robbinsville. As the most visited national park in the country, the Smokies draw outdoor enthusiasts from all over for stunning hikes, scenic drives, horseback riding, and more. Not to mention, both of these weekend getaways from Atlanta put you minutes from top area attractions, which you can explore below.

• Scenic Drives: Take the time to cruise down some of the most beautiful rides in the country, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cherohala Skyway, and Tail of the Dragon. Soak in breathtaking views and thrilling stretches of winding turns through mountains and forest.
• Whitewater Rafting: Get ready for a thrilling raft ride down the rapids of the Cheoah River or the Nantahala River. This is a can’t-miss activity during your weekend getaways from Atlanta.
• Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Spend time exploring the miles of trails in the most-visited national park in America. Hike to waterfalls like Abram Falls, or adventure on horseback.
• Go Fishing: The national park also features 2,900 miles of streams filled with trout and bass in large populations. So, you’re sure to score a good catch.

Book Weekend Getaways from Atlanta with Nook Outdoors

Did any of these weekend getaways from Atlanta catch your eye? Then start planning your next retreat with Nook Outdoors! Our curated collection of boutique hotels, glamping resorts, and cabin rentals take you to America’s top outdoor destinations. Discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming cities, with downtown areas full of rich history, live music, fine dining, art galleries, and more. So, book your next adventure today, and get exploring!