Glamping

 We knew fall break was coming and we knew we needed it.  Yes, there is so much to be done at home but sometimes you just have to let the laundry pile up a bit more and the grass grow taller.  Those projects that need some attention can wait a few more days.  We wanted to get away.  But . . . not our typical get away.  Most of our trips are high paced, action packed, don’t want to miss a thing.  But this was different, a needed different.

When we pulled up to The Martyn House (aka Glamping) I knew we weren’t staying long enough.  Driving down the driveway it felt as if the trees were drawing me in and immediately made me feel as cozy as if I was wrapped in my favorite blanket.  A retreat.

We were promptly greeted by the owners, JoAnn, Rick, Essie the cat,

Grace the black lab, Mya the yellow lab. 

Right away they made us feel welcome.  JoAnn, while walking us to our bungalow, gave us the run down/history of the property we were staying on.  (You can watch a tour below.  Don't forget to scroll to the bottom and push pause on the music before watching the video.).

When we walked up to the purple and white striped tent (aka Bohemian Bungalow) that would be our home for the next few days, I could hardly contain myself.  Glamorous Camping. 

The bungalow was something out of a movie.  It felt as if we had transported to another place besides the Appalachia Mountains.  The bungalow was surrounded on all sides by forest making it feel as if we were the only ones within miles. 

On the property there are only three other similar structures.  We were in our own little hideaway.  JoAnn and Rick had obviously thought of all the little details to make this an “experience” not to be forgotten.  The bedroom was stocked with a hot water kettle, coffee, tea, handmade coffee mugs, oversized pillows, fresh flowers, propane heater, and extra quilts. 

The bathroom was equipped with a well thought out shower set up, handmade soaps, decomposing toilet, and individual waffle robes.  I was on cloud nine.

Typically when we arrive at a new location I have already done my research, have a plan, and am ready to explore.  But this was different.  I didn’t want to leave.  We did venture out however but not for long.

Each morning started with a mouth water breakfast made by Rick and JoAnn. 



The first morning we took off about 20 minutes away to Amicalola Falls State Park for an 11 mile hike.  This is the location for the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.  The weather was perfect for a hike and nature surrounding us was refreshing. 

On our way we discovered that this part of North Georgia is known for apple orchards.  After our hike we couldn’t resist stopping for a fresh apple fritter and apple cider.  Delicious!

The second morning we rode the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway to McCaysville, Tennessee where we stood in Georgia and Tennessee at one time. 

The train depot is housed in the quaint, little town of Blue Ridge, Georgia.  The streets were lined with local shops and restaurants.  We had lunch at Harvest on Main.  The restaurant boasts of local products and sustainability.  Many of their ingredients come from a garden they maintain just a few blocks away.  The fresh herbs which flavor most dishes can be found in the planters flanking the front of the restaurant.  The mac and cheese was to die for and the creamy vinaigrette salad dressing was definitely worth purchasing.

But I have to say that during both our adventures, while I enjoyed them immensely, I found myself anxious to get back and savor the time at The Martyn House.  My spot of choice was curled up on the oversize pillows in front of the heater wrapped in a quilt with a cup of coffee and my book. 

B would drape the door open so the fresh, cool air floated in.  Once night had fallen we ventured up to the bonfire for our nightly S’mores and conversation with JoAnn, Rick, and the other guests.  Upon JoAnn’s prompting B even entertained the group with his rendition of “Hey Girl”.

As you can probably tell I could go on and on about this experience.  And as most trips we go on we leave saying, “We have to come back!”  I know as adults we have responsibility.  However, never forsake the opportunity to get away with your spouse.  It's an investment of greater worth than the laundry pile.  And for what it's worth we think The Martyn House is the just the place.   

With B and I both loving agriculture we were intrigued by the tremendous amount of agritourism ventures such as Harvest on Main; the abundance of apple orchards; a local vineyard; and a local farmer who sells fresh meat, eggs, and milk.  We even picked up a gallon of fresh, non pasteurized milk on the way home.  I’m going to attempt fresh yogurt and butter.  It definitely planted a small seed for what we could do in our area with agritourism.  If this is your cup of tea this is a great place to visit.