Looking for a charming mountain escape just a short drive from Atlanta? Helen, Georgia is the perfect spot for a cozy weekend away. With its Bavarian-inspired village, outdoor adventures, and incredible food scene, Helen offers an eclectic mix of relaxation and fun that’s hard to beat. Whether your vibe is scenic/outdoorsy, foodie, pet-friendly, or romantic getaway, Helen has what you’re looking for. We spent the weekend here and stayed at the beautiful Valhalla Resort Hotel—and it was everything we hoped for.

Where to Stay: Valhalla Resort Hotel:

📍 688 Bahn Innsbruck, Helen, GA 30545

👉 valhallaresorthotel.com

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Valhalla Resort Hotel was the highlight of our trip. Quiet yet conveniently located, it’s pet-friendly (perfect for bringing the pups along), approximately 2 hours from Atlanta, and feels like a true mountain retreat.

We loved the on-site hiking trail for morning walks with the dogs and the spa for pure relaxation. The Valhalla Spa was a must-do—our couples massage on Sunday morning was the perfect way to wrap up the weekend.

Things to Do in Helen, GA:

• Anna Ruby Falls Hike – A scenic, dog-friendly hike that rewards you with stunning waterfalls. 💧
• Valhalla Hiking Trail – Conveniently right at the resort, this trail is great for a relaxed stroll. Stay alert for possible bear sightings! 🐻
• Spa at Valhalla – Book a couples massage or individual treatment for a luxurious experience. 🧖🏻‍♀️
• Alpine Mini Golf – A lighthearted, fun activity right in town. ⛳️
• Golf at Valhalla Resort – For golf lovers, Valhalla also offers a challenging and scenic course. 🏌🏻‍♀️
• Bavarian Vibes – Check out downtown for a variety of fun shops and restaurants. 🇩🇪

Where to Eat in Helen:

Helen’s Bavarian charm comes alive through its restaurants, but you’ll also find global flavors mixed in. Here’s where we dined (and highly recommend!):

• Hofer’s Bakery and Café – A cozy German bakery and restaurant. We grabbed a few pastries from the bakery and also enjoyed a sit-down breakfast here. 🥐
• The Troll Tavern – A fun stop right by the river, perfect for beer and pretzels. This is one of very few places I with a Marzen beer on the menu and it was delicious. Plus, beer pairs beautifully with their giant soft pretzel. 🍺 🥨
• Bodensee German Restaurant – A standout for authentic German food. Their sauerbraten and schnitzel are must-tries. 🇩🇪
• Caledonia at Valhalla – Convenient and delicious, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the resort. 
• Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant – Classic German eats in a traditional Bavarian setting. 🇩🇪
• Bangkok Haus – If you’re craving sushi, this spot is a fun change of pace from the German fare. 🍣

Why Visit Helen, GA?

Helen is the kind of place where you can spend the morning hiking to waterfalls, the afternoon sipping a Marzen beer with a pretzel, and the evening indulging in spa treatments. The Bavarian-style village adds a storybook charm, while the surrounding mountains provide endless outdoor activities.

For couples, families, or even a pet-friendly getaway, Helen makes for a perfect weekend trip from Atlanta.

👉 Learn more about planning your visit at helenga.org.