Monthly Archives: December 2015

Discover The History and Beauty of Sautee Nacoochee, GA

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Many of our guests ask us about the unusual name and background of the place where we are located, Sautee Nacoochee. So this blog is for all of you! The beautiful area around our Inn is comprised of two valleys, the Sautee and the Nacoochee. Sautee is an Americanized version of the name for the Creek Indians, Sawate, which means “Racoon People.” Nacoochee is from the Cherokee pronunciation of the Creek word Nakose, which means “bear.” According to legend, the valleys were named for fated lovers, the Romeo and Juliet of two warring Native American tribes. Nacoochee was a beautiful … Continue reading →

Old World and New Mix at North Georgia Winery

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Driving up to Serenity Cellars, located a little over five miles south of Helen, you might forget you’re not in the Tuscan countryside. Set in the rolling hills of North Georgia Wine Country, with a stone structure that evokes a charming Italian stone villa, Serenity Cellars looks every bit the part of an old country winery. In reality, it is a thoroughly modern-day venture. Owners Joe and Tina Smith started Serenity Cellars to create artisan wines utilizing the latest techniques. The results have been impressive, with more than a dozen pours that range from light and smooth to bold and … Continue reading →

Holiday Gift Ideas From a Favorite North Georgia Inn

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If you’re still busily shopping for those on your holiday list, we’re here to help with suggestions for those special people in your life. You might just want to add these to your own wish list! Plush and uber-cozy, our monogrammed Sedona tan robe is a wrap of warmth on a chilly morn. $69. Photo: Natalie Cranor Coffee or tea tastes even better in a really great mug. Ours are not only super sturdy stoneware, but pretty too. Designed with an image of our beautiful mountain view, they come in shades of red, blue or black with a cinnamon glaze. … Continue reading →

Hofers of Helen GA Carries On German Baking Tradition

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If you love wonderful old-world breads and pastries, a trip to Hofer’s of Helen is a must. Photo courtesy of Hofer’s of Helen The renowned bakery, which began in Atlanta in 1973, opened its shop here on Main Street in 1993, and it’s been a favorite stop for locals and visitors ever since. The bakery, which is run by the original owner’s son Ralph, is outfitted with a stone hearth oven that is crucial for producing the quality Old World breads they’re known for. Bavarian rye bread, Swiss Raisin Nut Bread and a hearty round Wendelsteiner Landbrot are just a … Continue reading →

North Georgia Spa Specials: A Gift of Relaxation

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Jam-packed schedules and no time to relax? We have the perfect gift for you or that special someone who is feeling the stress of everyday life: a gift card for The Spa at Lucille’s—now available in any amount over $20. We’ve just updated our Spa menu to offer even more soothing options for guests. Gift certificates can be used for any of these, including a variety of massages, hydrating wraps, and hand and feet treatments. Spa packages for singles and couples, featuring combinations of massage and body treatments, are also available. A full listing is available at The Spa at Lucille’s … Continue reading →