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The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains

Holiday home in Clayton with kitchen and heated floor (bathroom)

Photo gallery for The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains

Exterior
Exterior detail
Property grounds
Interior
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 477.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Clayton, GA
  • Place, Rabun County Golf Club
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Kingwood Resort Golf
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Black Rock Mountain State Park
    ‪5 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest

1 Double Bed

Master

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains

Step back in time while enjoying modern comforts in this beautifully restored 1950s cottage, just a short stroll from charming downtown Clayton.
Nestled within stunningly landscaped gardens, The Garden Cottage offers a luxurious yet cozy retreat, decorated with antiques, collectibles, and unique finds from local artists. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the inviting screened-in porch, soaking in one of two clawfoot tubs, or curling up with a book under a handmade quilt, you’ll feel transported to a simpler, more elegant era.
Why You’ll Love It Here:
✔ Two private bedrooms – Each with designated bathroom for a comfortable and private stay.
✔ Gorgeous master bath – Complete with heated floors for a touch of luxury.
✔ Fully stocked vintage-style kitchen – Enjoy cooking with modern conveniences while soaking in the old-world ambiance. The kitchen comes complete with the original 1955 GE refrigerator fully restored, a nostalgic gem that perfectly complements the home’s vintage charm.
✔ Fast Wi-Fi & a designated workspace – Perfect for those who need to stay connected while relaxing in the mountains.
✔ Enchanting outdoor spaces – Lush garden, charming outdoor décor, and serene seating areas invite you to unwind.
Perfectly Located for Adventure & Relaxation
Less than half a mile from downtown Clayton, known for its award-winning farm-to-table restaurants, boutique shopping, and upscale antique stores. Unlike many overcrowded tourist spots, Rabun County remains pristine, with 60% of its land protected as National Forest.
✔ Explore Tallulah Gorge, one of Georgia’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
✔ Dine at the famous Dillard House for a taste of true Southern hospitality.
✔ Sip local wines at nearby vineyards while enjoying scenic mountain views.
✔ Adventure awaits with hiking, rafting, fishing, and waterfall excursions just minutes away.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or an outdoor adventure, The Garden Cottage is the perfect home base for your North Georgia escape.
Book your stay today and experience the magic of this charming time-capsule cottage!

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Please put any used towels in one of the bathtubs.
Checkout time is 11:00 a.m. Please give us a courtesy message when you depart.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Clayton

Located in Clayton, this holiday home is in the mountains. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Tallulah Gorge State Park and Black Rock Mountain State Park, while Main Street Gallery and Foxfire Museum are cultural highlights. Andy's Trout Farm and Highlands Aerial Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Clayton, GA

What's nearby

  • Main Street Gallery - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Rabun County Golf Club - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Tiger Mountain Vineyards - 4 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Kingwood Resort Golf - 5 min drive - 5.1 km
  • Black Rock Mountain State Park - 5 min drive - 3.5 km

Getting around

  • Atlanta, GA (PDK-DeKalb-Peachtree) - 102 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Waffle House - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Universal Joint - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪The Vandiver - ‬10 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Chattahoochee National Forest, Main Street Gallery and Rabun County Golf Club. Mountain Lakes Medical Center and Black Rock Mountain State Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 227 out of 237 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 237 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 237 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 237 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 237 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Naomi K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We went to Clayton to be close to some great hiking. Very cute cottage, 3 minute drive from Clayton proper. Close enough to walk but the main road lacked sidewalks near the cottage. It’s on a quiet side street. The cottage is as shown, lots of kitsch. The screened porch is secluded enough that it was lovely place to read a book.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If you like charm and nostalgia, this 1940's cottage is for you. On-street parking leads up several stone steps through a beautifully landscaped yard, giving a secluded feel despite being a convenient, one-minute drive to Clayton restaurants and shops (it's very close but not walkable). The home is very clean and comfortable with nice touches like a vintage fridge and farmhouse sink, screened-in porch, and huge main bathroom with a claw-foot soaking tub, barnwood walls, and chandelier. We didn't do much cooking being so close to Clayton, but the kitchen was well-stocked. We had a very nice three-night stay.
Eat-in kitchen
Primary bedroom
2nd bedroom
Primary en-suite bathroom
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pamela R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint and cozy cottage

Everything you would want. Close to delightful downtown with restaurants and shops. Not far from Tallulah Gorge trails.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Diane F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming Cottage

Enjoyed a girls weekend at this quaint cottage retreat. Clean, cozy and the beds were very comfortable. Location was good, we were able to walk downtown and enjoy restaurants and shopping in Clayton.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming cottage.

We had a great time.b
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelli K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

My mom and I loved staying at this house. It's beautiful. We loved all the decor and the antiques etc. We didn't get brownies like other guests have mentioned in their review but still love it.but we still loved this house.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Garden Cottage Getaway

The cozy cottage was a perfect retreat in the mountains.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Diego C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great

Nice and central
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Disliked: Location
Be careful walking to town from this cottage! While the location is a walkable *distance* from Clayton shops and restaurants, the .3 miles closest to the house do NOT have a sidewalk, are on a bend where cars often speed through, is not very well lit at night, and have you walking on very small shoulders and through people's front yards. We did not feel very safe walking that portion of the otherwise very do-able trek. The inside of this cabin is exactly as pictured (adorable!) and the owners provide all the necessities for a nice stay. Do be sure to note that there is no dishwasher, and that only 1 of the 2 bathrooms has a shower (the other is tub only). But everything was clean, well-stocked, and comfy. The location was a great jumping off point to area hikes, and we certainly enjoyed a quick getaway in this rental!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

GLENN B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas Time

Wonderful place to stay. Cozy and comfortable
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mea F., Jacksonville

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cottage in a beautiful area

I truly enjoyed staying in the cottage. It was so warm, welcoming, and inviting, with everything we needed. I wish I could have stayed longer. I would love to come back in warmer weather and enjoy some local hikes around areas I spent in my youth.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

J. Sue T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Escape the heat of Texas

The location was perfect for us to enjoy the forest, mountains, and picturesque small towns of north GA. Our owners prepared a wonderful guide and local information to make our stay welcoming and an easy daily itinerary to make the most of our month long stay. A fully equipequipped kitchen and excessive linedne
Stayed 30 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charlene C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute fairytale cottage

The cottage is cute! cute! cute! Comfortable beds, lovely screened porch. We have already booked another stay. Very convenient to downtown Clayton.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

AMAZING!

I can’t say enough positive things about this precious cottage! The owners were very communicative, and instructions were very clear. The cottage itself was absolutely stunning! We will certainly be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Braxton F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Weekend Getaway!

Such a charming little house! Super cozy and homey feel. We were gifted brownies upon arrival-how awesome is that?! The place was clean and smelled fresh. We were within 5 minutes from downtown Clayton which was really convenient. Besides the absolutely beautiful garden out front, my favorite spot was the cozy front porch. Definitely would recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Patricia D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect retreat

Thank you to our hosts for their southern hospitality. Our stay at this charming cottage was wonderful. An absolutely adorable cottage, perfect for the 2 of us. Nestled in the foothills of the smokies but just outside of town. Clayton had everything we needed for our visit and the location was so central to an abudance of scenic adventures. Beautiful waterfalls, magnificent views of the mountains and rivers. We enjoyed many great day trips. Jim & Patti
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janette D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely, positively wonderful!

If it is charm you are looking for, look no further. This cottage, its hosts and the town of Clayton are the definition of charming. My husband and I were on a work vacation since we are both remote workers, the dedicated work space and strong uninterrupted WiFi at the cottage meant there were no hiccups in our work schedule. Clayton and the surrounding areas are everything you would want from a small, quaint mountain town. The cottage hosts have thought of everything you could possibly need in this home away from home. The icing on the cake is beauty of the cottage itself. Pictures do not do it justice. Will definitely stay again.
Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heather P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a Gem

When I saw this cottage online I knew it was the ideal place for a girl’s getaway. I didn’t care what town it was in, it just had to be. It is situated one street above town on a quiet street about 5 minutes from the downtown core of Clayton and 10 minutes from Tallulah Gorge. You enter through an inviting screened in porch that I debated immediately sitting in to take in all the fascinating decor, but really wanted to get inside and discover what this cottage was all about. Inside an equally delightful and uniquely decorated world awaited. I’d love to have the decorator come and create that look in my home. Touches of Christmas were even added everywhere! The bedrooms were a good size, the furniture antique and the beds comfortable and to my delight the master bathroom (LARGE) had heated flooring. The living room was a comfortable size and the kitchen perfectly adorable and well equipped. The only thing I’d like to have had was more silverware, but we just washed as we used it so that was fine. The hosts were VERY responsive and helpful and had even left a pan of freshly baked brownies! It’s a definite I will stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Randy T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very helpful with things to do and places to eat. Could not have asked for a better host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Savannah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Cottage was very cozy and adorable. My only complaint was that it was close to a busy street and not as quiet as I would have preferred.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage. Love the screened front porch. Great shops and restaurants in town.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location was very convenient to the dining and shopping. The kitchen was well stocked. It was great to relax in the glider rocker on the screen porch after sunset.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
True to Garden Cottage theme …. Instructions for using items in the house were spot on
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Like a trip back in time. The vintage appliances and decor just added to the homey feel. Beautiful house, tranquil garden, lovely porch for relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Irine K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thank you, we enjoyed our stay. The location was very convenient and we felt very comfortable. I really appreciated the owner of the property shipping my laptop back to me since I left it behind. It was a very kind gesture! The whole process from booking to the end of our trip was seemless!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Hosted by Ronnie Owings

Host profile image
Rabun County was our family vacation spot. In 2014 my wife and I bought this cottage, just to see how much we would use a second home. It didn't take long to realize that we needed to devise a plan to live here permanently. I've been a professional photographer for 35 years and love exploring what the world has to offer. No matter where we travel, I'm always counting the days 'til I can get back to Clayton. I am currently a Real Estate Agent in Rabun County. Let me know if you would like to Explore a home perfect for you.

Why they chose this property

We absolutely love everything about this property. We restored every room, without destroying its 1950 charm. We used it for 4 years as a weekend house, and 1 year as our permanent residence. We could live in 800 square feet just fine, but just had too many furnishings and collectibles to just keep in storage. When we gave up this house, we decided to offer it on VBRO to share it with others.

What makes this property unique

Location, Location, Location......is what we like about Toole Street. Walking into town for dinner was one of our favorite things to do. We certainly take advantage of all the tourist type of activities that draw people to this area........but we absolutely love the conveniences of Wal-Mart, Home Depot and even the hospital being one mile away.

Languages:

English

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