Planning a mountain escape to North Georgia? You’ve likely heard of Blue Ridge, GA—the charming mountain town that’s become synonymous with scenic railway rides, downtown shopping, proximity to great outdoor activities and autumn apple picking. But just minutes away lies a hidden gem that offers something even more special: Cherry Log, Georgia.
At The Lazy Laurel, we’re perfectly positioned to give you the best of both worlds. Located in peaceful Cherry Log, we’re just 10-15 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, meaning you can enjoy all the attractions and amenities Blue Ridge offers while returning each evening to the tranquility of a private mountain retreat.
Why Cherry Log is the Perfect Base for Your Blue Ridge Vacation
Cherry Log offers what many visitors to the Blue Ridge area are truly seeking: a peaceful and secluded mountain escape. While Blue Ridge has grown into a bustling tourist destination, Cherry Log has retained its peaceful, rural character. Here you’ll find winding mountain roads, towering hardwoods, and the kind of quiet that lets you actually hear the creek flowing and birds singing.
The drive from Cherry Log to Blue Ridge is less than 20 minutes and takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in North Georgia. You’re close enough to enjoy everything Blue Ridge has to offer, but far enough away to escape the crowds and experience true mountain solitude. Many of our guests tell us they appreciate having Blue Ridge’s restaurants and attractions nearby while enjoying Cherry Log’s seclusion at the cabin.
Must-Visit Blue Ridge Attractions Near Cherry Log
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Just 15 minutes from our Cherry Log cabin, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a 26-mile round-trip journey through the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest. The vintage train follows the Toccoa River, providing stunning views especially during fall foliage season. The railway operates year-round with special themed rides including the popular Santa Express during the holidays.
Downtown Blue Ridge
Downtown Blue Ridge features dozens of unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants housed in historic buildings. You can easily spend an afternoon browsing antique stores, sampling local wines at tasting rooms, and enjoying farm-to-table dining. The downtown area comes alive on weekends with live music and seasonal festivals. For easy parking, search for the parking garage in your GPS. The town is walkable from there.
Mercier Orchards
Located between Blue Ridge and Cherry Log, Mercier Orchards is one of the largest apple-growing operations in the Southeast. During harvest season, you can pick your own apples, sample their famous fried pies, and stock up on preserves and apple cider. The orchard also features a farm market, bakery, and seasonal activities that make it a perfect stop for families. If the parking lot is full (as it is in most busy weekends), don’t be deterred. I’m always amazed at how quickly their many cashier lines move!
Blue Ridge Wineries and Breweries
The Blue Ridge area has become known for its growing wine and craft beer scene. Several wineries offer tastings and tours, including Bear Claw Vineyards and Serenity Cellars. For craft beer enthusiasts, Blue Ridge has multiple breweries with mountain views and outdoor seating perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Toccoa River and Lake Blue Ridge
Water activities abound near Blue Ridge. The Toccoa River is renowned for trout fishing and offers excellent opportunities for watersports like kayaking and tubing. Lake Blue Ridge provides additional recreation including boating, fishing, and swimming. Several outfitters in the area can set you up with equipment and guided trips.
Cherry Log’s Hidden Treasures
While Blue Ridge gets most of the attention, Cherry Log has its own attractions worth discovering. The area is known for exceptional hiking trails, including access points to the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye trails. The community maintains its rural charm with local farms, mountain streams, and genuine Appalachian character. The peaceful mountain roads are perfect for scenic drives, especially during fall when the hardwood forests transform into brilliant displays of red, orange, and gold. Looking for a little offroad adventure? Check out the Cashes Valley trail with your 4WD Jeep, truck or side-by-side.
Planning Your Blue Ridge Area Itinerary from Cherry Log
A typical day might start with coffee on your private cabin patio, surrounded by mountain views and sounds from nearby streams. Mid-morning, head to downtown Blue Ridge for shopping and lunch at one of the many restaurants. Spend the afternoon at Mercier Orchards or on the Scenic Railway. Evening brings you back to Cherry Log for dinner at the cabin, followed by a fire in the outdoor fire pit under the stars—something you won’t find at a hotel in downtown Blue Ridge.
The beauty of staying in Cherry Log is flexibility. Want to spend a full day exploring Blue Ridge attractions? The short drive makes it easy. Had enough of the Downtown crowds and prefer a quiet day at the cabin? You can enjoy your mountain retreat without feeling like you’re missing out. You’re central to everything if you want to visit or perfectly secluded if you just want to chill in the North Georgia mountains.
Best Times to Visit Blue Ridge and Cherry Log
Fall is undeniably the most popular season, with peak leaf color typically occurring in mid to late October. The cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and harvest activities at places like Mercier Orchards make autumn magical in the North Georgia mountains. Keep in mind this is also the busiest season, so booking accommodations early is essential.
Spring brings wildflowers, rushing waterfalls from winter snowmelt, and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking. Summer offers warm days ideal for water activities on the Toccoa River and Lake Blue Ridge, while evenings cool down nicely in the mountains. Winter brings its own charm with occasional snow, cozy cabin evenings by the fire, and smaller crowds at Blue Ridge attractions.
Why Choose a Cherry Log Cabin Over a Blue Ridge Hotel
While Blue Ridge has hotels and rental properties, staying in Cherry Log offers distinct advantages. You’ll experience authentic mountain living rather than a tourist-area atmosphere. The privacy and space of a cabin rental beats a hotel room, especially for families or groups. You’ll have a full kitchen, games, hot tub and fire pit to enhance the mountain experience.
The value proposition is compelling too. Cherry Log cabin rentals often provide more space and better amenities at comparable or even lower prices than Blue Ridge accommodations. You’re paying for the location and experience, not just proximity to downtown shops.
At The Lazy Laurel, we’ve designed our cabin specifically for guests who want the full North Georgia mountain experience. Modern comforts meet rustic charm, with thoughtful touches that make your stay special. You’re surrounded by nature but have everything you need for a comfortable, memorable vacation.
Getting to Cherry Log and Blue Ridge
Cherry Log and Blue Ridge are easily accessible from major cities throughout the Southeast. The area is approximately 90 minutes north of Atlanta via I-75 and scenic highway 515. Chattanooga is about 90 minutes to the west, and Asheville is roughly two hours to the northeast. The drive itself is part of the experience, as you leave the interstate behind and wind through increasingly mountainous terrain.
Once you arrive, having a vehicle is essential for exploring the area. The roads are mostly well-maintained, though at times are narrow and possibly unpaved, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. 4WD is not necessary in Cherry Log or Blue Ridge all but the most extreme snow and ice conditions. Most Blue Ridge attractions are within a 15-20 minute drive from Cherry Log, making day trips easy and convenient.
Start Planning Your Blue Ridge Area Escape
Whether you’re drawn to Blue Ridge for its attractions or seeking the tranquility of Cherry Log, you don’t have to choose between them. A stay at The Lazy Laurel gives you access to everything the Blue Ridge area offers while providing the peaceful mountain retreat you’re craving.
From the moment you turn onto Cashes Valley and the winding road to our cabin, you’ll feel the stresses of daily life melting away. You’ll have time to explore Blue Ridge’s shops and restaurants, ride the scenic railway, visit wineries, and enjoy outdoor adventures. But you’ll also have quiet mornings with mountain views, evenings by the fire, and the kind of rest that only comes from being surrounded by nature.
Ready to experience the best of both Blue Ridge and Cherry Log? Check our availability and start planning your North Georgia mountain getaway today.
