Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!

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Cabin

Legion gate--important that all guest names are added for entry.

You will need to look for these somewhat hard to see signs for turning.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6193.7 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Pool
Pet-friendly
Gym
Dryer

Explore the area

Ellijay, GA

Gilmer County Fairgrounds
‪15 min drive‬
Ellijay Marketplace
‪19 min drive‬
Talona Lake
‪20 min drive‬
Dalton, GA (DNN-Dalton Municipal)
‪66 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bunkroom

5 Single Beds

Main Level Master Bedroom--Opens to Porch

1 Queen Bed

Master Bedroom in Loft

2 Queen Beds

3 bathrooms

Basement Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Main Level

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bathroom

Bathtub · Toilet · Jetted bathtub

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Sleeping arrangements--3 queen beds (2 queens in loft, 1 queen on main level), 2 sets twin bunks sleep 4, + 1 addn. twin lower level)

Our cabin is ideal for 1 or 2 families, and comfortable for up to 4 adults with kids, teens, and tweens. This is our personal property and is a labor of love. We do our best to build relationships with repeat guests who become friends for life. This cabin caters to families seeking time to unplug. We take pride in keeping our property maintained and enjoy recommending activities to help you make special memories. We are often asked about the following--stairs, proximity to the river, and traffic on the road in front of cabin. We do have stairs leading up to the main level. If stairs are a problem for anyone in your party, our cabin may not be the best for your relaxation and enjoyment. We are also not set up for large parties. The best fit is for 1 or two families, or a smaller group of adults looking for a weekend getaway. Our cabin is riverfront, and the river is just a few steps away from the cabin. The road directly in front of our cabin is a private gravel road with very little traffic. The location of our cabin is private, not secluded.

We would be delighted to help you plan your trip. Ask us for suggestions!

Property manager

Jennifer Elwood

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

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Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)

NO cats, small dogs flea and tick up to date

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ellijay

Located in Ellijay, this cabin is on the waterfront. Tabor House & Civil War Museum and Fort Mountain are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Engelheim Vineyards and Ellijay River Vineyards. Gilmer County Fairgrounds and Ellijay Marketplace are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Ellijay, GA

What's nearby

Gilmer County Fairgrounds - 15 min drive - 7.9 km
Tabor House & Civil War Museum - 18 min drive - 10.4 km
Ellijay Marketplace - 19 min drive - 11.3 km
Talona Lake - 20 min drive - 10.5 km
Carters Lake - 30 min drive - 19.4 km

Getting around

Atlanta, GA (PDK-DeKalb-Peachtree) - 96 min drive

Restaurants

‪Chick-fil-A - ‬17 min drive
‪McDonald's - ‬18 min drive
‪Dairy Queen - ‬16 min drive
‪Wendy's - ‬19 min drive
‪Happy Family II - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 2.7 mi (4.3 km) from Riverside Park and within 9 miles (15 km) of Gilmer County Fairgrounds and Cartecay River. Gilmer County Library and Tabor House & Civil War Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

23 March 2025

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

Much needed rest

Original booking was for Spring Break with grandkids. Grandkids decided not to go. First let me say: DO NOT USE GPS TO FIND THIS CABIN! GPS takes you to a completely different location. There is a great need to update the directions given. But after hours of searching and racing an incoming severe storm… we made it!

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janice W.

25 December 2024

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

Holiday getaway

Rented a mountain cabin for our Christmas celebration. Wonderful river front location. Able to hike right out the door. Downtown Ellijay and golfing not too far away. Hostess was wonderful and great communication during our stay. Comfortable beds. Would definitely stay again!

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan K.

29 October 2024

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

Great property!

This was a great rental. Everything was as described, house was very clean and the beds were very comfortable. Loved the location to the river and lots to do on property. Will plan to come again!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sunshine S.

3 September 2024

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

Peaceful Getaway

The property was perfect for a weekend getaway. We all enjoyed the river being so close and accessible. The back porch has a perfect river view and it is comfortable for sitting, eating, playing games, and listening to the river. There was a perfect spot entering the river to sit and play in very shallow water. It was too cold for us to float but plenty of floaters going by. The beds are super soft and comfy (if you like soft beds). The main level shower has great pressure and the hot tub is a the best place for a nice soak. Will definitely book again and bring the grandkids with us. We did enjoy Ellijay, Helen, and Amicalola Falls as well.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christine L.

19 August 2024

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

Perfect Getaway

The location right in front of the Coosawattee River was absolutely perfect. The rental was clean, comfortable, and provided everything we needed for a relaxing stay. When we noticed the living room lights were out, Jennifer was incredibly helpful and kind, and quick to respond, resolving the issue promptly. We enjoyed our stay tremendously and will definitely be coming back

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gina D.

14 June 2024

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

A little piece of heaven

This was a perfect spot for the week. We spent lot of time down by the river enjoying the view and watching the deer. The house had more than enough room and had everything we needed. The beds were very comfortable! There are great amenities available for the stay. We enjoyed the hot tub after floating around in the river and spent one afternoon at the community pool. We visited the downtown area several times which was super cute. This has definitely been one of my favorite VRBO stays and will definitely be back.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lizsa A M.

16 May 2024

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

Peaceful escape

We enjoyed ourselves so much with the peacefulness of the river from our front porch and listening to nature. A wonderful place to stay.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ana A.

19 February 2024

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

One of the best cabins for a family

We loved to be there because it was so peaceful and enjoyable. The view was amazing and my pets loved it. Very clean and spacious.

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kiera W.

6 January 2024

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

Christmas stay

The most PERFECT get away! Beautiful house with plenty of room for everyone. Enjoyed reading every morning on the screened in porch while listening to the river. Great firepit set up near the water and having a hot tub was definitely an added treat! Our pup enjoyed going on daily walks, beautiful community.

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maria M., Orlando, Florida. USA

1 January 2024

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

Amazing!

We had an amazing stay at this sweet little cabin! It held our family of five with ease and provided the perfect amount of coziness. We relaxed, played board games, watched movies, enjoyed a fire, and snuggled a lot. Thank you for sharing your home!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wendy K.

23 October 2023

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

Amazing location!!!

Such a special place!

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Will H.

23 October 2023

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

We enjoyed our stay

We highly recommend this cabin and the location for everyone who loves nature and fresh air. The cabin is very clean and everything you need is there. Just bring enough food(the fridge is big enough).

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

6/10 Okay

Debbie M.

4 September 2023

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Disliked: Cleanliness

Apparently the dishwasher is not working properly , every dish had to be washed before use .

Great location .

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

robert v.

7 August 2023

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

A really nice place to stay.

This was our second time staying and it was just as good as we remember it. The place is spotless and check in/out etc was well documented and easy to follow. If its possible there were even more deer and geese than the last time. Hot tub was beautiful. Too hot for the fire in the fire pit but we sat around it right next to the river every eve. We will definitely be back!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie S., Fort Myers, FL USA

13 July 2023

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

Beautiful location

While the winding mountain road getting to the house is an experience, 😊 the location is beautiful right on the river. Everything was as described, and Jennifer was very responsive and helpful answering our questions. Thank you for sharing your house with us for the week!

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jaime S.

7 July 2023

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

Another amazing visit

This is our second year in a row visiting here. The cabin is fantastically located right on the river for endless fun. The owner is very friendly and helpful. If any problem or situation arise, she is there to assist. We look forward to staying again next year!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne R.

1 July 2023

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

River retreat

Fantastic trip. My favorite family vacation we have had. Accommodations were perfect and owners thoughtful and kind.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bethany D.

23 May 2023

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

Perfect Get Away with pups

We were wanting to take our lab and golden to GA to get out of the Florida heat and enjoy the outdoors. I was appreciative when the host approved our boys for the stay! The home is at the back of a huge gated river resort community but the property is super peaceful. Walked the pups on the private road daily. Rarely saw another person. As others mentioned, the drive would be difficult after dark. Follow the hosts directions exactly and turn right when you hit the river. We kept turning left not realizing the narrow gravel road to the right was part of the street the property is located on. The lights and music were on and everything was clean and fresh. The house covers 3 levels. The living area is a little small but the fully screened patio overlooking river was the perfect extension to the living room. We intended to let the pups swim but the river out front was still running pretty swift when we were there in early May. I put their harnesses on and used the extended leash to keep them from getting carried downstream. They loved it! Groceries and charming downtown Ellijay are only a few minutes once you get out of community. Best meal was at Butcher and Bottle, fun drinks at The Roof and wine tasting at Ott Vineyard which had live music. Skip Cartecay-rude and horrible wine. We did the trail hike (not steps) to top of Amicalola Falls and Cowgirl Up stables for horseback. They were amazing for all level riders. awesome trip, plenty to do, beautiful area and great hosts!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

30 April 2023

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

Beautiful cabin in the mountains

This was our second stay in this cabin and we loved it. We will probably stay with them again. We had a horrible car accident in Ellijay and the owner was so understanding and willing to work with us! Thank you for a wonderful vacation!

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

robert v.

24 April 2023

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

Excellent property!

My wife and I booked this property for a weekend. Right on the river with very few neighbors. Tons of deer and geese. We even had a fox visit us. Firepit right next to the river was so nice. The hot tub was very clean and a nice way to end our days. Ellijay is a 20 minute drive away through beautiful twisting, rolling roads. Loved every minute of it.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elliott R.

3 January 2023

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

Scenic New Yeart

Property is well maintained, and equipped. Beautiful view of the river in our backyard. Problem with TV hook up quickly resolved.

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

8/10 Good

judith a.

9 December 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Almost perfect…

The cabin was impressive and we were welcomed with a lovely scent throughout, lights on and music playing. The view at the river was so peaceful. There were personal touches that were thoughtful. Hot tub was fantastic. The place was lovely. Our big complaint is that we feel we didn’t receive enough information about the difficulty of the drive to the cabin. We knew it was in a resort and were not expecting the drive from gate to cabin to be precarious. We arrived just as it became dark. There were deer jumping out in front of us, big drop offs, gravel, switchbacks and a closed road. We were exhausted by the time we arrived. We would have prepared if we had known. But we did love the place and adjusted our expectations. I would highly recommend this place! Just be ready for the drive and come in the daytime. Also loved the area. We would love to visit again.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kaitlin S.

24 November 2022

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

Beautiful

It was exactly what me and my friends needed! Plenty of beds for everyone that were extremely comfortable. Loved using the hot tub, fire pit and fire place. It was cozy and so relaxing listening to the river

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deb S.

6 November 2022

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

Fun Fall Weekend

The location of the cabin is gorgeous. The front porches directly overlook the river. The fire pit is on the riverbank and is a lovely and relaxing setting for an evening fire. The interior has plenty of space for multiple people of varying ages. We will definitely consider a return visit during warmer months when we can enjoy river activities.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

28 September 2022

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

We had a great time!

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by Jennifer Elwood

Our family consists of two Atlanta area professionals with three children who keep us busy. One of our favorite things to do is plan family vacations. One thing we know to be true in raising children is that the days are long, and the years are short. We are doing our best to fully enjoy this season!

Why they chose this property

The North Georgia mountains offers our family the respite we need to recharge. Our riverfront property is ideally suited for both relaxation and recreation. We enjoy spending time at Shady River Retreat and venturing out to Blue Ridge for shopping and entertainment.

What makes this property unique

You will love the swing on the oversized screened porch and the wide river frontage. The fire pit is a wonderful place for delicious s'mores and evening chats!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!

Photo gallery for Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bunkroom

Main Level Master Bedroom--Opens to Porch

Master Bedroom in Loft

3 bathrooms

Basement Bathroom

Main Level

Master Bathroom

Spaces

About this property