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RIVER FRONT Retreat perfect for families, couples, getaways.

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Welcome to the River. View from one of 3 platform decks. Tube right to the house
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Welcome to the Cartecay River. Your private oasis. Multiple decks with views.
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Property grounds
Reviews
10

Exceptional

5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor spaceOutdoor space
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Hot tub
    Hot tubHot tub
  • Washer
    WasherWasher
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioningAir conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Ellijay, GA
  • Popular LocationEllijay Marketplace9 min drive
  • Popular LocationCartecay Vineyards9 min drive
  • Popular LocationGilmer County Fairgrounds11 min drive
  • AirportAtlanta, GA (FTY-Fulton County)86 min drive

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

2nd Master

1 King Bed

2nd Terrace Level

1 Queen Bed

Bunk Room/Game Room

2 Double Beds

Master

1 King Bed

Terrace Level

1 Queen Bed

4 bathrooms

3rd Full Main Floor Bath

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Terrace Level Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Dining Area

About this property

RIVER FRONT Retreat perfect for families, couples, getaways.

River Front on the Cartecay River.

Newly renovated and just listed on VRBO. New high-end, custom, dual master suites. 4BR/4 Bath jewel with one of the most unique river lots you will find. All paved roads. Tons of parking. Only 10 minutes to downtown Ellijay and 60 minutes from Atlanta.

Just an hour's drive from Atlanta, this Cartecay River House is made for water lovers. Situated on one of the best spots on the Cartecay River near Ellijay, enjoy 2200 sqft of private decks, with steps directly into the river (via your own flat granite rock). You'll see whitewater views and hemlock evergreen pine trees from every river-facing window and deck in this spacious home. The water is always flowing below you, and the sounds of the rushing river will sooth your heart and soul. A family of deer visit most days.

Here at River's Edge Lodge, you'll be surrounded by nature inside and out. With fully paved roads and a paved driveway right to the front door, you will enjoy easy access and privacy. River's Edge features dual master suites on the first floor (each with a King bed), along with a 3rd full bathroom. The terrace level has two more bedrooms, a full bathroom, second den, game room/bunk room. If you're bringing another family, you've got the perfect setting for entertaining, with four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a huge gourmet kitchen, and plenty of activities for the kids.

You and your guests will have all the entertainment you need here by the river. The backyard has a beach-like feeling, with huge river rocks near the river to sun bathe on, a calm swimming hole, even a sandy beach to play on. Go kayaking, or drop off (or walk to the end of the street) the kids a few minutes upstream so they can float down the river on their tubes back to the cabin. The tube takeout is 500 yards down the street.

You can spend your days fishing, tubing, making sandcastles, collecting river rocks, and simply enjoying a lazy afternoon lounging on the river decks.

There's plenty more to do away from the water as well. Go apple picking at one of the orchards just a few minutes' drive away. BJ Reese and Hillcrest Orchards are less than 10 minutes.

River's Edge is less than 15 minutes to multiple vineyards, including Cartecay Vineyards. Or, downtown Ellijay with many restaurants, a brewery, shops, and wine tasting is only 10 minutes. Downtown Blue Ridge is only 20 minutes.

When you're ready to unwind at night, dip into the hot tub or enjoy the fire pits to relax. If you're still feeling energized from the day, enjoy the game room. Kids will enjoy playing games or watching TV in the basement den and game room, while the adults can enjoy the decks, wood fireplace, or upstairs den.

There is lots of parking with the paved circular driveway. From the driveway, it is stepless to access the first floor, making River's Edge perfect for those who would prefer to avoid stairs (though there are stairs to access the River).

The two main floor bedrooms each boast ensuite, high-end bathrooms with double vanities, river rock, and custom showers.

1st Floor Bed: King (BR1), King (BR2) Terrace Level: Queen (BR3), Queen (BR4), Full, Full (Bunk Room)


Amenities WiFi; YouTubeTV; Roku on every TV

Sleeps 10 (2 king, 2 queens, 2 double beds) Game Room - billiards/pool table, poker table, outside deck, sofa, chair, coffee table, end tables, lamps, rug, gas stove, board games; YouTube TV for live TV, Every TV wifi equipped; Outdoor - screened-in porch, dining table seats 4, 4 extra chairs, end table, rug, ceiling fan; hot tub seats 5 on lower deck, fire pits - one by the house and one by the river; Interior - wood tongue and groove, warm drywall finishes, ceiling fans; Kitchen - fully equipped kitchen, custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, kitchen island seats 3, kitchen utensils, microwave, coffee maker, waffle maker, crockpot, toaster, blender; Dining Room - dining table seats 6; Driveway - paved road to cabin, paved driveway

ITEMS WE PROVIDE:
Initial supply of paper towels and toilet paper (we recommend that you bring an extra supply if you are staying longer than two days or have a large group.)
Trash bags
All liquid soaps and laundry detergent
Wifi
YouTube TV
Linens and towels (four bath, two hand towels and 4 wash cloths per bedroom; quantities are provided for each house based on sleeping arrangements)
Firewood for outdoor firepits
In the winter - 1 bag of kiln dried fire wood for wood burning fireplace. Only use kiln dried wood indoors, which you purchase at any local grocery store or gas station.
Tubes and life jackets (ALL RIVER ACTIVITIES ARE AT YOUR OWN RISK. CHILDREN SHOULD BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES)

ITEMS TO CONSIDER DEPENDING ON SEASON & LENGTH OF STAY:
Laundry detergent
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Matches or lighter for fire pits
Duraflame logs for cabins with wood-burning fireplaces
Hair dryers
Salt, pepper, spices and cooking sprays
Foil, baggies, cellophane wrap etc.
Beach towels

HOT TUB USAGE:
Please ensure that the hot tub cover is on and latched into place after using the hot tub. If this is not done, the large cover can be blown off causing damage, or debris can enter causing lower levels of sanitation.

Make sure to monitor children's activities in the hot tub as they are not familiar with the controls and can easily cause damage.

Please DO NOT allow sitting or standing on the hot tub covers. They are made of Styrofoam and break easily.

DECKS. There are multiple decks and stairs. The house may not be suitable for small children. You must supervise children on the decks.

Guest access
Keyless access code is sent within 1 week of stay provided all paperwork is completed

See our reviews for our other listing: VRB0 70506.

Property manager

MATTHEW M. WILKINS
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
You must supervise children on the decks and river

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

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 deadlock

About the area

Ellijay

Located in Ellijay, this holiday home is on a river. Chateau Meichtry and Rich Mountain Wilderness are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Amicalola Falls State Park and Chattahoochee National Forest. Ellijay Marketplace and Gilmer County Fairgrounds are also worth visiting.
Map
Ellijay, GA

What's nearby

  • Ellijay Marketplace - 9 min drive
  • Cartecay Vineyards - 9 min drive
  • Pig Hill of Fame - 9 min drive
  • Tabor House & Civil War Museum - 10 min drive
  • Gilmer County Fairgrounds - 11 min drive

Getting around

  • Atlanta, GA (PDK-DeKalb-Peachtree) - 91 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-Fil-A - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Krystal - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Waffle House - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is RIVER FRONT Retreat perfect for families, couples, getaways. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at RIVER FRONT Retreat perfect for families, couples, getaways. ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at RIVER FRONT Retreat perfect for families, couples, getaways. ?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is RIVER FRONT Retreat perfect for families, couples, getaways. located?

Situated on the riverfront, this holiday home is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Chattahoochee National Forest and within 6 miles (10 km) of Chateau Meichtry and Ellijay Marketplace. Pig Hill of Fame and Rich Mountain Wilderness are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 56 out of 61 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 61 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 61 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 61 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 61 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ryan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fun getaway with friends
This is the second time we’ve stayed here and we love it! Group of adults and we all had plenty of room. Love the river feature and all the outdoor space. Love the big island in the kitchen and the dining table. Love the big couch in the downstairs living room. Bathrooms are spacious and very nice. We love reading, playing games, and just hanging out on our spring break and this is perfect spot!!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Morgan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Property!!
My family and I️ loved our stay. Very clean, beautiful views, plenty of room, close proximity to Elijay and several vineyards! Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great experience
Really enjoyed our stay! The owners were very responsive. Also this was probably the best stocked kitchen I've ever seen in a rental
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Winter break
We really enjoyed our stay. The entire family did things together and explored in our own It was convenient to Ellijay but we felt the feeling of nature. We hope to come back again.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janet K., Morristown, Tennessee

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Autumn Retreat
Such a lovely property that was everything we would ask for in a family retreat..saw a lot of deer and a few bears on the property and surrounding properties..the weather was great..close to everything we wanted to explore..would never hesitate to rent this property..this is our second stay
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing cabin
We all enjoyed the cabin. Kids loved having their on space downstairs away from the adults. Listening to the river was amazing too. Especially falling asleep to the sound of the river.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Lynn W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication
023 Fall Family Retreat
This is a beautiful property and for the most part well maintained. This was our 2nd visit and would recommend it to others. There were a few issues this year that are reflected in the ratings in the survey. 1. There was no info book or contact info available. 2. There was a very heavy layer of leaves in all outdoor spaces (I brought my own leaf blower this year). 3. Downstairs shower drain is very slow.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sara B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing getaway with a beautiful view!
The home was wonderful and welcoming. We went to get away and relax as a family and could not have asked for more. The stairs are no joke but well worth it to relax in the water. The kitchen is very well stocked and spacious enough for everyone to gather. We look forward to going back next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Whitney S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful stay
This location is so gorgeous it makes you wonder why you live anywhere else. Cabin is so comfortable and our children adored the river. Great hiking nearby. Make sure you stop and get some boiled peanuts just up the road. Best stocked kitchen we have ever been in.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amber E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ready to return
We lucked out finding this beautiful home. The location was a perfect place for our group of ten (parents with three sons and their girlfriends plus two infant twins). Downstairs was spacious and the perfect hangout spot for the older teens. Large master bedrooms on the main level with updated bathrooms. The living room/dining room/kitchen area is open concept while still offering private space. Kids enjoyed the hot tub, and we had a nice time making s’mores by the fire pit. Our family is scattered around the southeast and unable to all get together often. We are all so grateful to have had the opportunity to spend time together in such a beautiful setting. There’s something so soothing and calming about the river, and it was a treat to fall asleep with the windows open listening to the water. Thank you to the owner/s for offering your space. Can’t wait to visit again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joyce W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing by the Riverbend
The transaction was super easy from start to finish. There was an AC issue that was addressed ASAP by the property manager with excellent communication. Matthew was on top of any issue we had. The family enjoyed everything from the river, tubing, pool table (a little off, but still fun), air hockey table, Cornhole, fire pit for a great time roasting marshmallows, site seeing, etc. Would recommend to any party wanting to get away, but yet be close to most things. Just bring your food and sit back and listen to the river and visiting animals (deer, birds, geese, Copper the dog).
Stayed 8 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spring tranquility
We enjoyed an early spring visit to this comfortable and well-appointed home. The river sounds provided a tranquil backdrop, and the outdoor areas were well organized. The location is within good distance to restaurants, wineries, and other sites; or just stay on the property and enjoy the environment. We would love to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian P., Atlanta, Georgia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cabin with beautiful views!
Five buddies and I had a great time here for three nights hanging out, cooking and playing games. The entire cabin feels spacious and cozy, very comfortable. The kitchen was amazing and we had everything we needed to make all of our meals. All of the beds were comfortable and the bathrooms were really nice; they looked recently remodeled. The view of the river is AMAZING. Only drawback was the hot tub was not ready for use when we arrived; it was pretty green. I messaged the host about it and he sent over his cleaning professional who tended to it right away. I appreciated the promptness of his response. Would definitely stay here again! We all had a blast!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lou R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A fun Family Getaway
This is a great property in Ellijay, GA. Close to downtown and all the nearby attractions you might be interested in. You can't beat the location right on the the river! The house is great with plenty of room for families to spread out. The game room with pool table and air hockey was fun, and the fire place and fire pit are a great to enjoy. A fun family getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spectacular location
We went for winter break. The cabin size was great--we had a group of 5 but it could easily fit more than that. The updated kitchen and bathroom were really nice to have a good mix of modern and cabin. We loved the indoor fireplace and that the hot tub was at a great temperature when we arrived. The upstairs living room was very comfortable and we spent most of our evenings there. Internet service worked great but of course the star of the show is the river. It is just so cool to head out back down the stairs to the river. We brought rain and farm boots and had fun in the water (would have to be even more fun in warmer seasons). Also really enjoyed being close to Ellijay and enjoyed visiting downtown. Loved it and will probably bring family or friends next visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terrie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and relaxing
Celebrated Thanksgiving with family. Plenty of room. Nice updated bathrooms and kitchen. There are 102 steps to go down to the water. It was worth it. Even saw some deer crossing the water.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Patricia G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house and view
The property was beautiful and house very big. We really enjoyed walking down to the river and the view to the river. I have stayed at a different house every year and we will go back to this house again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet K., Morristown, Tennessee

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
We love the cabin..it met all our wishes..perfect location and beautiful landscape..we love the sound of the river and the deer came out every morning and evening..the cabin was beautifully furnished and the floor plan was perfect for our family.. Coming back next year.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

ROBERT O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Serene
The house is amazing. The view to the river was very nice and peaceful. Matt was very communicative and helpful. My siblings were downstairs and they did complain of it being too cold down there. We couldn’t find the thermostat for the downstairs area. They also complained that the mattresses were too soft and should be replaced. As a result , they had some back ache. The upstairs beds were Fine and comfortable. Overall, it was very enjoyable and I would definitely stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jinnie C., Tupelo, United States

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our favorite place
This was my family's 5th vacation at this location. We stayed 4 times when it was listed under a local rental company and absolutely fell in love with this house the first visit there. We've always returned, because THIS is the perfect location. The Cartecay River is beautiful and this house has the perfect place on the river to swim, tube or just sit and enjoy listening to the river flow by. Our last visit in 2020 will always be special as it was the last time we had a family vacation before my husband of 29 1/2 years passed away unexpectedly. And THIS visit (Oct 2022)? Was also wonderful, even though it was bittersweet. We LOVED the renovations that were done! The new bathrooms are gorgeous. And I love that the view down the hill from the house was cleared so you have a perfect view of the river from the upstairs living room windows! We've stayed at this house every even year since 2014, so we can't wait to return in 2024! My son turned 20 at this house (we usually visit Ellijay in July around his birthday) and he said he'll have to be back to turn 30 there as well! Lol. This is a special place. I appreciate so much that Matthew and Kelly share it through VRBO, because staying here is a tradition that my now-grown children and I hope to continue so my grandchildren can also grow up enjoying it!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Greg C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary Weekend Getaway
Very clean,quiet, and able to get some much needed rest from mine and my wife's job.Great getaway may be looking at the property for maybe a Thanksgiving getaway for us ,our 3 kids,and two newborn grandchildren to go to for a Thanksgiving trip.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

lynn w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fall Retreat
Very nice!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tina G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderfully peaceful river retreat
This was a perfect place to stay for our family! With 3 married children and a teenage daughter it was perfect. Even with 10 adults had we had any children with us we could have easily had room for them in the game room! Everything you need is here, just grab your groceries and you never have to leave the cabin except to float the river of course! The stairs down to the river are no joke but the way the stairs are divided with a place to sit half way down, even someone who can’t make the 100 plus steps down or back up can take a break and enjoy the beautiful cartecay river! The cabin is absolutely gorgeous with plenty of room to spread out! Our crew played cornhole and pool for hours on in! We definitely hope to be back one day it was a wonderful trip!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Beth C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect place for family fellowship
Beautiful home with plenty of space to spread out inside and out! Perfect spot to play in the river.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B., Atlanta

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cabin with great access to the Cartecay
Our group had a lovely visit to this cabin. We had no issues with the check-in process, wifi or anything all. The cabin was clean, offered ample space for the 10 of us and lots of supplies in the kitchen. The tubes were awesome to use and we enjoyed the hot tub to unwind. The view is beautiful and while there are a lot of steps to the river, it sure is a gorgeous walk. The cabin is close to groceries, R&A Orchard and Mountain Valley Farms as well as many vineyards. We were very happy with our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by MATTHEW M. WILKINS

Host profile image
This is our family retreat. We hope you will love it as much as we do. Turn off the phones and enjoy the Cartecay River. This home and property are a treasure to us.

Premier Partner with our other property: VRBO 70506.

Why they chose this property

One of the most unique and beautiful lots in North Georgia. We are not aware of any other property like it.

What makes this property unique

Swim, fish, enjoy the decks, your own private 1000 sqft granite rock with direct river access. The river flows towards the property before it wraps around the property. This provides some rapids, sandy area, and a swimming hole. Also, it's just down the river from the tubing take-out. You can walk to end of the street and tube the 20 minutes back to the house. Only 10 minutes to Ellijay; 20 minutes to Blue Ridge; and 1:10 from Atlanta. We are within 5 miles of the apple orchards and wineries. All paved roads. Paved circular driveway. Two king-bedrooms and three full bathrooms on the main level.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

Premier Host
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