Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom
Wake up to the sound of the river rushing just outside your window. That's the Riverside Retreat — a cozy cabin nestled directly on the Cartecay River where every moment feels like the vacation you've been dreaming about. Step outside to a private hot tub overlooking the water, a crackling fire pit, and views that will make you forget your phone exists. This is the place where you finally disconnect.
ABOUT THIS SPACE
You'll find everything you need across this thoughtfully designed cabin. The main living area features soaring ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the river view. The full kitchen is outfitted with everything from luxury granite to a dual coffee pot/Kcup maker and dishwasher.
Head upstairs to the loft and you'll discover the game room — the heart of indoor fun. A vintage-style arcade with multiple classic games and loaded with over 10,000 additional games, a TV, boar games, books, and cozy bunk beds make this the perfect retreat within a retreat.
The master bedroom features a king bed with quality linens. The second bedroom is equally inviting with fresh linens. Both bathrooms come stocked with a starter set of essentials, plus full towels and linens are provided. You'll find a washer and dryer in-unit so you can travel lighter.
Outside, the 7-person hot tub is your personal retreat — there's nothing quite like soaking under the stars while the Cartecay River flows beside you. The fire pit area is where the best conversations happen: hanging over the water with marshmallows on sticks, the crackling of wood, and starlit evenings. The outdoor deck stretches across the property with comfortable furniture and a cornhole set for friendly competition.
Fish directly off the back deck or float in an inner tube down the river — the outdoor space is genuinely special. Most properties have a hot tub OR a fire pit. This one has both, plus direct river access and panoramic views.
Strong WiFi runs throughout the property.
LOCATION & WHAT'S NEARBY
You're 6 miles from downtown Ellijay, Georgia, in the heart of North Georgia's mountain region — close enough to get anywhere quickly, far enough away that the river sounds and solitude feel like you've truly escaped.
Blue Ridge is 25 minutes away with local shops, restaurants, and charming mountain-town vibes. Ellijay is known for apple orchards and the fall festival season.
The outdoors are world-class. Hiking trails are within 5–20 minutes, ranging from easy riverside walks to challenging mountain ascents. The Cartecay River is renowned for tubing and kayaking, with outfitters just 5–10 minutes away.
Wine enthusiasts will find many wineries and orchards within 5–30 minutes (over 40 to be exact). The area is also known for antiques, local art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Amicalola Falls State Park is just 25 minutes away. Fantastic Golf is available at several nearby courses.
WHO THIS HOME IS BEST FOR
Couples seeking a romantic getaway will love the hot tub overlooking the water, the fire pit for intimate evenings, and the private, riverside setting.
Remote workers and digital nomads appreciate the reliable WiFi, the natural light, and the outdoor deck as a perfect work-with-a-view backdrop.
Adventure seekers — hikers, tubers, and fishermen — will find this property perfectly positioned for outdoor exploration. The river access and proximity to trails mean you're living your adventure, not just driving to it.
Or just the perfect family getaway, something for everyone. You just will not want to leave!
GUEST ACCESS
Self check-in is fast and simple using a keypad code on the front door — no fussing with keys or timing your arrival. Upon arrival, the cabin is fully yours to explore and enjoy. Parking is straightforward with ample space on the property.
The entire cabin is private and secluded, yet accessible — you're not hiking a long trail to get here.
PARKING
There's plenty of free parking on the premises with easy access.
HOUSE RULES
This is your home away from home, and we want you to love it as much as we do. A few simple guidelines:
- Please respect the property and leave it in the condition you found it. - Quiet hours are 10 PM–8 AM out of respect for the peaceful riverside setting. - The hot tub is for registered guests only. - Parties are not permitted. - Keep fires in the fire pit only. - 1 Dog under 65 lbs. is welcomed - anything more please contact before booking. $150 per pet fee. - Reservation is not complete until the rental agreement has been signed. - Check-in is 4 PM; check-out is 10 AM.
We've built this cabin as a sanctuary. Come to unwind, connect, and make memories. Treat it as you would your own home.
Beautiful, completely renovated, small rustic cabin is situated DIRECTLY on the Cartecay River and located only 6 miles from downtown Ellijay, you cannot get any closer than the Riverside Retreat cabin!
The minute you exit your car, you will enjoy the rushing sounds of the river right in your backyard. Make s'mores by the firepit, fish right off your back deck, play in the water, go tubing down the river, play an arcade game in the recreation room or lounge in the private 7-person hot tub overlooking the river. After a day of fun, throw some burgers on the grill and eat on the outdoor dining table while soaking up the amazing views of the river from the back porch overlooking the river and the 2000 acres of wildlife management area across the river - nothing but nature!
This luxury cabin has many unique upgrades including kitchen with quartz countertops/ stainless appliances and exquisite stonework. It boasts 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and a loft (with 2 twin beds) with all the bells and whistles. Perfect for a couple's retreat or for a small family of 6 get-away.
So many things to do close by, fish from the deck, swimming/rafting/kayaking/tubing down the river, enjoy local wineries, pick apples from the nearby orchards, hike or bike the many area trails, shop and dine in the adorable downtown Ellijay and Blue Ridge.
Enjoy apple harvest time with the Georgia Apple Festival (October) and family activities including petting zoos, tours, corn mazes, u-pick orchards at local apple houses, local farm markets and the charming small towns of Ellijay and Blue Ridge with shopping and some of the best restaurants around!
* Short distance to many Vineyards. * Short distance to downtown Ellijay. * Shopping, restaurants and grocery stores all within a couple miles.
Other Things to Note: - No smoking is allowed. Violators will be fined for in-room smoke damages. - 1 house trained pet (under 45lbs.) and up to date vaccinations are allowed at our cabin ($150 pet fee, per stay and is nonrefundable). More than 1, please contact owner for permission. - Please bring crate/bedding for your pet - Please do not use our towels on your pet - Guests are responsible for any damages that result from their pet. No pets on furniture or in hot tub. Any delays in housekeeping because of pet hair on furniture, Guests agree to pay an additional housekeeping fee of a minimum of $25 with a maximum of $250.00. Any pet hair found in hot tub or filter will result in a minimum charge of $100. This fee is non-refundable. - Outdoor security cameras, for security purposes.
Keywords: Cabin, waterfront, trout stream, swim, fish, private, romantic, fireplace, relaxing, secluded, hot tub, view of water, WIFI INTERNET, game room, Cartecay River, kayaking, tubing, fire pit, Riverside Retreat, pet friendly
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2 dogs max, up to 65 lbs, and up to date vaccinati
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
NO Smoking of any kind, including vaping.
Guests are required to sign the Rental Agreement when booking.
A security deposit of $500 is required.
No smoking allowed.
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Ellijay
Located in Ellijay, this cabin is in the city centre and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Amicalola Falls State Park and Cohutta Wildlife Management Area, while Tabor House & Civil War Museum and Tater Patch Community Theater are cultural highlights. Travelling with kids? Consider Ellijay Marketplace and Gilmer County Fairgrounds. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and waterskiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and hiking.
Amicalola Falls State Park - 33 min drive - 42.1 km
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway - 37 min drive - 46.3 km
Blue Ridge Lake - 43 min drive - 54.1 km
Getting around
Atlanta, GA (PDK-DeKalb-Peachtree) - 92 min drive
Restaurants
Chick-fil-A - 12 min drive
McDonald's - 12 min drive
Buffalo Luke’s - 12 min drive
Zaxby's Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings - 13 min drive
Starbucks - 12 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom?
As of 7 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom on 7 August 2026 start from NZ$631, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Riverside Retreat Cartecay, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Gameroom located?
This family-friendly Ellijay cabin is located on the waterfront, steps from Cartecay River and within 6 mi (10 km) of Pig Hill of Fame and Chateau Meichtry. Ellijay Marketplace and Gilmer County Fairgrounds are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Can’t say enough amazing things about this cabin. By far the nicest in this vicinity, inside and out very clean. Very dog friendly patio, what a stress reliever for pet owners. Sounds of the river takes you away to a distant place in your mind from the everyday worries.
We had a wonder time staying at this property. The house was spotless, and the owners went over and beyond to make sure our stay was amazing we will definitely be back .
douglas r.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 April 2023
What a great guest to host! So easy to communicate with and left the place clean and tidy. Would recommend to any other host and would welcome back at the property any time.
The outdoor space was amazing!! We had a lovely stay but felt that there were a few things that could have been addressed to make the appearance a little better.
Kristen was always available and extremely accommodating! The place is wonderful and the neighborhood is so friendly and sweet. Great location and the River is majestic.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Riverside Retreat. The cabin is well maintained and decorated, and it felt private while being close to town. We fished, roasted smores around the fire pit and ventured out for food and drink in downtown Ellijay. Owners were very responsive regarding any questions we had. Would definitely recommend!
We loved our stay for the weekend at this beautiful home. It had everything we needed. Enjoyed the fire pit on the deck at night, throwing a fishing rod in the river right off the deck during the day, traveling to Ellijay just 5 mins away. Communication from the owner was wonderful from checkin to checkout. We would definitely stay again.
My husband and I have been coming to the Blue Ridge mountains for over 20 years, we usually have our kids and now Gand kids in tow… this time it was Just us and our pups. The cabin is beautiful and location is amazing! I am very particular when I rent cabins…. And this cabin delivered on every level.
Thank you so much - we had a wonderful time.
The location of this property right on the water is the appeal. The sounds of the river combined with the fireplace were a Thanksgiving relaxation win.
The property is within six miles of grocery, Walgreens, fast food, etc. Very convenient.
The home itself has obviously been updated to it's benefit, and makes for a comfortable stay.
We spent the week here for Spring Break and it didn’t disappoint! The cabin is updated and beautiful, the location on the river is perfection!! The prompt response to questions with the homeowner was a plus. Close to everything. Would love to visit during summer to float in the river and catch fish.
We will be back:)
Elisabeth C.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 April 2023
We had such a great time hosting this guest! Everything went smooth, and they left the place in great shape. Come back again any time!
This cabin was perfect for a relaxing weekend with my partner and our 2 dogs. The location is gorgeous with the deck overhanging the river, We enjoyed the outdoor fire pit, hot tub, and wood-burning fireplace inside especially. The deck has gates and is fully enclosed, which was perfect for keeping our dogs contained. This was the perfect spot for a last-minute escape without having to arrange pet sitting. The owner was very accommodating and quick to respond to our messages. Wholeheartly recommend.
The cabin was just as advertised. Ellijay has a great small town feel. Our vacation was very relaxing and we were able to unwind. The only issue I had was the cabin could've been a little cleaner. However, the owner was incredibly prompt with a resolution and she was very communicative. I'd definitely recommend this cabin to anyone!
Loved the location! Easy drive from Ellijay & the house was right on the river!! Absolutely loved being able to walk a few feet & be in the river. Gorgeous views of the river from the back & the trees from the front. Extremely peaceful. House was very well done & had everything we needed. Enjoyed the grill, propane fire pit & hot tub on the back deck. Owner was very responsive. We’re already looking forward to our next visit!
Looking to celebrate my mom's birthday, my sister and I were tasked with finding the perfect river cabin to spend the weekend.
There were so many rental options to choose from, but I can honestly say I think we made the best choice by choosing this property!
You're literally on the river and can enjoy the outdoors from the multiple deck options or even from the living area indoors with the huge sliding glass door!
The host was more than accommodating, and we had everything we needed to have the perfect birthday weekend.
Hoping to return soon, I'd highly recommend this property if you're looking to spend some time relaxing on the river!
My wife always wants to stay near the water. You cant get closer than this cabin without being in the river. As soon as you pull up you can hear the water rolling. The cabin was spotless and the owners communicated continuously to ensure an easy check-in/arrival. The back porch was the highlight of our visit. The property is easy to find and convenient to Ellijay. I would fully recommended this property.
Our stay at this riverfront house was truly unforgettable! The location couldn't be more ideal — nestled right on the riverbank, the house offered both adventure and relaxation for our whole family. One of the highlights was tubing down the gentle current with our kids; we spent hours floating, laughing, and enjoying the beauty of the water and surrounding nature.After our river adventures, we loved unwinding on the spacious porch that sits directly over the water. Whether it was sipping coffee in the morning or enjoying a glass of wine at sunset, the peaceful sound of the river flowing by made it the perfect backdrop for relaxation. The view is simply breathtaking.The house itself was clean, well-equipped, and full of charm. We felt right at home the moment we arrived. This was exactly the kind of escape we needed, and we’re already dreaming about our next visit. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful riverside retreat with a splash of family fun!
Brad F.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
About the host
Hosted by RiversideRetreatGA
Why they chose this property
Riverside Retreat located Directly on the Cartecay River! Cannot get any closer!
What makes this property unique
Located DIRECTLY on the Cartecay River, WIFI, Hot Tub, Game Room, Fire Pit, Pet Friendly
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests