These days everyone is looking for a unique, Instagram-worthy getaway. If you’re looking off the beaten path for your next overnight destination, you may be surprised to find options not far from home. Thanks to Airbnb and VRBO it’s not as far-fetched as you may think. Here are a few of our location favorites….
Sleep thirty feet above the forest floor and fall asleep to the trickle of a small stream below your window at the Owl in the Oak Treehouse. Located in Duluth, and completely renovated in early 2022, this charming, secluded getaway offers a treehouse with a small footprint, but plenty of charm. The main floor has a sitting area, kitchenette and bathroom, plus a small writing desk. As you ascend upstairs, to the 50-sq. foot sleeping loft, you will be greeted with beautiful forest and stream views. There is even a suspension bridge leading you into the living room. Check them out at @OwlintheOakTreehouse on IG.
If you are a fan of the rural experience, we highly recommend the Alpaca Bag N Stay Cottage at New London Farm in Snellville. New London Farm (www.newlondonfarm) is a magical urban oasis just minutes from the hustle and bustle of metro Atlanta. They are also an Airbnb “Superhost”, so expect them to go above and beyond, and set a shining example as an Airbnb host!
You could also stay overnight in a cozy cottage featuring full kitchens, two sleeping lofts and a beautiful, covered cottage porch with a private hot tub (adults only). Guests can gaze at (or feed) a bevy of farm animals including horses, Sweet Nigerian dwarf goats and a rescued herd of llamas and alpacas.
Relaxation is what this next destination is all about – relax at the outdoor fire pit, soak in the private hot tub, roast marshmallows and wake up to roosters crowing in this beautiful farm setting. Kids will love the (shared) saltwater pool available, as well as a 300-foot zipline (add-on).
The farm has also curated several “add-on experiences”. Guests can enjoy a number of curated packages including: the Firewood and S’mores package, Horse/Goat/Llama/Alpaca Experience, Ziplining Experience, Hands on Morning Feeding Experience and the Tour and Trail Package (additional cost for each).
Head eastward in Gwinnett, and you will still be able to escape the city and enjoy a simpler way of life at Big Sky Farm in Dacula. If you cannot imagine traveling without your family pet, we highly recommend this 30-acre working farm with wide open spaces, horses at play, fresh country air and a Superhost rating!
Farm life at Big Sky means horses, dogs, free range chickens and delicious farm fresh eggs. The accommodations are unique as well; housed on the second story of a modern brick horse barn, with an open, inviting, and bright space. Visit Big Sky’s equestrian retreat on Airbnb.
If you really would prefer to commune with nature, check out the Tents at Ramsden Lake, located right at the Gwinnett/DeKalb border in the heart of Stone Mountain. Camping or glamping? This is your place. It is private and waterfront. It features breathtaking sunset views, walking trails, 46 private acres, a private 8-acre lake, wildlife, an outdoor fire pit, a vintage boat and paddles. Check them out on IG @TentsAtRamsdenLake.