Welcome to the Mountain.
Even though we're surrounded by forest, Red Bear Retreat is just a few miles from Helen and Unicoi State Park, close to dozens of wineries, and less than 2 hours from Atlanta. It's the perfect hidden spot for a romantic weekend escape or a weeklong family adventure, and the views...well, come see for yourself.
Explore what's nearby.
Chattahoochee National Forest
Unicoi State Park / Ana Ruby Falls
Sautee Nacoochee Arts & Culture
Discover over 430 miles of hiking trails (including the Appalachian Trailhead), the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brasstown Bald, and a whole host of other natural wonders.
Sautee Nacoochee Arts & Culture
Unicoi State Park / Ana Ruby Falls
Sautee Nacoochee Arts & Culture
Grab an ice cream at the Old Sautee Store, explore the Folk Pottery Museum, or stroll through Hardman Farm on your way to the Hardman-to-Helen trail.
Unicoi State Park / Ana Ruby Falls
Unicoi State Park / Ana Ruby Falls
Unicoi State Park / Ana Ruby Falls
Get out in the wild and go hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, canoeing or picnicing alongside natural trails and beautiful waterfalls.
Smithgall Woods
Smithgall Woods
Unicoi State Park / Ana Ruby Falls
Home to some of N. Georgia's most beautiful hikes (with kid-friendly ones, too), Smithgall Woods also offers biking, birdwatching, archery, and everything you'd expect in the mountains.
Town of Helen
Smithgall Woods
Town of Helen
This EPCOT-style Bavarian-style town is famous for its annual Octoberfest extravaganza, but is also worth a visit for mini golf, ice cream, jerky, or fried cheese any time of year.
Lake Burton
Smithgall Woods
Town of Helen
Just north of Red Bear Retreat in Rabun County, the Lake Burton area offers all kinds of water and land adventures, including the beautiful Hemlock Falls and Tallulah Falls areas.
North Georgia Wineries
Ziplines & Adventure Courses
Ziplines & Adventure Courses
It's easy to spend a whole day wandering from winery to winery, where the mountain views are just as spectacular as the tastings. There are often Groupons available, and most places don't require reservations.
Ziplines & Adventure Courses
Ziplines & Adventure Courses
Ziplines & Adventure Courses
Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you zip through the trees on one of the many adventure courses nearby. Advanced reservations are recommended, especially May-October.
Tubing
Ziplines & Adventure Courses
Tubing
Take your pick between a lazy float (beer is allowed!) or a more challenging ride (maybe wait 'til later for drinking) down the Chattahoochee River. You might even spot some wildlife along the way.