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The following article originally appeared in Atlanta Life Magazine

Eco-friendly escapes close to home - Enota Mountain Retreat

You want to escape from the gray pavement and shiny skyscrapers. You want to frolic in the hills, wade in free-flowing streams and breathe in cleaner air. In other words, you’re looking to commune with nature. But how cozy can you get when your sheets are washed with chemical-laden detergent, you’re eating pesticide-sprayed food, and you’re plowing through your vacation wasting water and other resources–all with the TV blaring in the background?

Luckily, you don’t have to choose between living in the city and getting back to nature–an eco-conscious getaway is closer than you might think. Enota Mountain Retreat, located in the North Georgia mountains, has made environmentally minded choices a priority at its retreat center. Recently, I traveled to the property to not only relax, but also to be a part of a getaway that endorse the tried-and-true concept of reducing, reusing and recycling. 

The following article originally appeared in Southern Travelers January/February Magazine

Enota Mountain Retreat

In the Cherokee language, the word enota means "the land that nourishes and nurtures." Long ago, when Native Americans planned a customary gathering, one of their designated meeting places was called enota. It is unlikely that any other name could accurately reflect the natural beauty and serenity of Enota Mountain Retreat, a gem imbedded in North Georgia's mountains. 

Tucked between Helen, Hiawassee, Blairsville and Young Harris at an elevation of 3,200 feet.  Enota is the highest privately held land in the state. The retreat, encircled by 750,000 acres of pristine Chattahoochee National Forest, is just 1.5 miles from the legendary Appalachian Trail. Georgia's tallest peak, at Brasstown Bald, is a nearby neighbor.

In previous times, the land's 60 wooded acres, four waterfalls, and have streams nourished the lives and ceremonial traditions of many people, including Cherokee Indians, early homesteaders, and YMCA campers.

Today, Enota is a nonprofit conservation facility and volunteer organization with a mission of land preservation for the benefit of present and future generations. 

According to Dr. Suan Freed, primary steward and trustee of Enota Mountain Retreat, all activities and policies at the facility are "based on the principle of not taking more from the earth than one gives back."

Eight years ago, Freed, a chiro­practic physician, met with local conservationists and visited the land at Enota. She committed herself to its preservation, and never lost her focus.  "I’ve always been an environmentalist, and I believe it's important to give back. We've made many improvements and it's been a huge challenge," recalls Freed, who accomplished most of the retreat's remodeling through her own and others' voluntary service.

Contemporary Comforts

Due to these group's efforts, Enota's present-day lodging options are varied and comfortable. Totally renovated and opened to the public four years ago, full-hookup RV campsites are equipped with concrete pads, wooden decks, fire pit grills and picnic tables. Most have 50-amp electrical service and are located on one of five streams, shaded by leafy trees.  Primitive and full-service tent and pop-up sites are also available.  Couples and families with children have privacy and solitude with separate camping areas.

Additional overnight options include 10 furnished one- and two-bedroom cabins  (some with Jacuzzis), private rooms on a stream and retreat facilities for up to 250 people.

Enota's remodeled, fully accessi­ble bathhouse, designed with visual appeal and quality construction in mind, is outfitted with handcrafted wooden counters and cabinetry plus plenty of attractive tiled hot-water showers and laundry facilities.

There's a camp store, a girt shop featuring fair trade selections and a restored vintage lodge complete with fireplace. Assorted indoor and open-air group meeting areas and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with grills make Enota the perfect destination for reunions, rallies and retreats.

Outdoors Adventure

Enota Mountain Retreat is great for outdoorsy fun. Try angling for trout in the stocked pond, where you catch and keep the fish for a nominal tee. No license is required. You can also test the waters in brisk mountain streams and rushing waterfalls, or take a hike to the Appalachian Trail or a bear's real den.

Are you camping with children? Help them explore the playground or watch them bounce contentedly on in-ground trampolines. You can also introduce them to 300 animals, including rabbits, ducks, chickens, goats, llamas, cows, and a miniature horse at Enota's working farm.

You can join in the creative, conserving efforts and partake in the productive activities at Enota Mountain Retreat - feeding the farm animals, gathering eggs, or tending the organic vegetable garden.

Freed invites RV campers to Enota Mountain Retreat, which is her favorite four-season paradise. Summertime temperatures seldom exceed 82 degrees, a cool bonus that she attributes to the air-conditioning effects of the retreat's five sparkling streams.  But there's so much more to an Enota visit than agreeable weather. "You'll get the total nature experience," says Freed.

By Paula Loehr

Recent Reviews from Tripadvisor

"Great Place, Beautiful Views and Waterfalls!"
nannie108
Alachua, Florida

Just got back from a getaway trip to the GA Mountains. We stayed at Enota Mountain Resort. The place was just fantastic. Beautiful, and well cared for with breathtaking vistas of the mountains and waterfalls. The cabin that we stayed in was tastefully equipped. Nice amenities in the kitchenette, great bath and shower. The staff were friendly and very helpful, and even Spirit the dog, was great company. I'm already planning my return trip.

"Land of Enchantment"

lovinlife010
Hopeland, California

My stay at Enota was quite possibly the most magical experience I have ever had. the staff was kind and extremely helpful and went out of their way to make sure I was happy, taken care of, and comfortable. the owner made a point to keep me and my love happy and satisfied...even at her own cost. Enota mountain retreat is truly a heartwarming, down home, honestly sincere place to relax and unwind. The entire facility was clean, fresh, and very home like. the lodge has everything you could need. (even their own brand of canned garden veggies!) - and that's just the business part of it.

The land is magnificent. my camping site was by the most amazing waterfall, totally secluded and silent (except of course for one of the 5 pristine streams.). It is a place that enables you to let go of the outer world busyness and let yourself just be. One dunk in the ice cold, clean, gorgeous water and I swear you feel like a new person. The location could not be better, being surrounded by nothing but mother nature herself. there are many waterfalls, one of which is a little bit of a hike, but completely worth it. You will also be accompanied by the farm dog, Spirit, and she will make sure you are safe on all the many trails and that you return safely. (other pets are allowed as well). There is a huge waterfall emptying into a pond that you can swim in.

Although I have no kids myself (I sure did feel like one ), but I noticed many family friendly activities that would give any child a great story to brag to their friends about. They have an enormous, functioning, farm with ponies, goats, cows, chickens....and all of the animals were friendly. We went on the daily farm tour every day of our stay there and each time was just as exciting as the last. it was very interesting to see a working farm and despite my gardening background I actually learned quite a bit on the farm tour! So much food is growing on that already plentiful land! There are also trampolines ( I spent a good hour or two on them....), a playground, a covered awning for sunny days, and a large structure where they were holding a conference.

I really don't know why Enota is not a more widely known place, but I suppose it is a good thing. such a pristine place should be held sacred and taken care of and the staff is doing a lovely job at it. Bottom line, my stay at Enota left me renewed, relaxed, and wishing I had more time there. I would, and have, suggested it to all of my friends, family and even random strangers in need of a nice place to take a day off.

Thank you Enota for everything! may you stay successful, clean, and continue bringing joy into lives.

"What a wonderful place to get in touch with the North Georgia Mountains”

Karennaselli
Decatur, Georgia

We just came back from a wonderful three day stay at Enota. I don't know what I enjoyed more; the many hiking trails around Enota which includes two waterfalls, or the truly wonderful people who work there. Oh wait a minute, maybe it wasn't the people or the trails.....Maybe it was our most perfect host; SPIRIT, she is the camp host/dog. Spirit will accompany you on any trail and make sure that you get back safe and sound. She is your own personal trail guide while you are there and the only thing she wants in return is a pat on her head and for you to say her five favorite words...Show Me The Way, Spirit!

"Wonderful Stay for Large Families"

outsidenazi
McDonough, Georgia

We came to Enota with a large extended family group, including a family member with cancer. We had originally booked the house at the front of the property, but when we explained that we had a wheelchair (that he had not had when we booked the trip), they switched gears and put us in two cabins - one with a wheel chair ramp. The owner and staff were very flexible and committed to making our vacation one that was filled with happy memories. Our cabin with all of the kids was perfect, with bunk beds, queen beds, and a fantastic fireplace.

Our stay was perfect for our family! The kids got to hike to new and exciting places everyday, played on the trampolines, fished in the pond, and visited the farm animals. My husband and I are very committed to going back with our three children in the spring, so they can play in the streams and at the bottom of the 200 foot waterfall. (What a spectacular waterfall!) Part of the appeal of Enota is that we can go back several times and not have seen or done everything, because seasonal changes will bring new aspects to the vacation.

We had 6 children on the trip, ranging in ages from 17 to 3. There were things to do for everybody! It is hard to find a place that can be enjoyed by that broad of an age range, but Enota has just enough to do together outdoors that the whole family can be together. My husband is not an animal lover, but the dog there, Spirit, stole the whole family's heart. She was protecting the little ones from the ducks who will follow your kids everywhere if they think you will feed them. Such cute memories!

If you are looking for luxury, there are other places to go. If you are looking for a great outdoor experience with kids and are open to getting dirty and playing hard, you will fall in love with this place!

"An amazing haven in the forest."

HikerMan69
Atlanta

I visited Enota in the summer and wanted to share my experience. This is a great place to come and get away from it all. I spent a very relaxing week in the summer, where, even though it was rather busy, it was so much fun. Everyone around seemed to be having a blast, from the kids running around exploring and playing at the playground, to some guys playing horseshoes. There is a big organic garden back off to the side that looked like it had some serious food growing! Of course I did have to go check it out and I got to pick some tomatoes and peppers, which were delicious, especially since I knew where my food was actually coming from. I did the "farm tour" that they offer every day. They have some typical farm animals further back behind the garden area. There were two cows, and several goats, three small horses and lots of chickens, but no pigs! Ha Ha. I could tell the kids that were there seemed to be in awe over the animals. No doubt that was probably the first time some of them have seen a farm animal up close! Almost makes me want to start my own farm! I spent a lot of time walking around soaking up the sun and clean, cool air, and did a couple of hikes on some of the trails that are on the grounds. I liked that! Overall, coming here was worth the trip, especially if you are looking to get away from it all and want the connect nature, and maybe even make a new friend. I definitely will come back again, probably in the spring.

"Fantastic vacation-beautiful facility"

mountaingrlz
Gainesville, Florida

This is our second year to visit, and we make an 8-hour drive from Florida! It's a different world up here in the mountains. Our RV site (as all RV sites here) is beside a creek that resounds a peaceful rushing water sound 24 hours a day. In October the leaves are turning beautiful shades of red, orange and yellow. The RV sites here have generous wood decks and railings with picnic tables, a fire pit and Hibachi grills. You're near the Appalachian Trail for hiking, as well as hiking the beautiful grounds and waterfalls right here. We'll be back year after year, for sure! We love being close to Helen and Hiawassee too. The staff here is so friendly and helpful and the lodge is warm and inviting. Our family is in a cozy cabin across the drive, but they'll need to review that one for you :)

"Step into Enota and immerse yourself in an enchanted forest."

btanddt78
Florida

I have a few special places I will visit repeatedly...to refresh my psyche and to share them with special people...Enota is at the top of my list. I have traveled to Enota from Florida three times in four months. From the time I arrive I am surrounded by green trees and rushing water and peace... The best part is I can share this beautiful natural retreat with my doggies...they are welcome here as well. I have had a hard time leaving each time...but I know I will return.

We hike to the majestic 200 ft. waterfall ...and the next day to the cascading 200 ft. waterfall and maybe continue on to the Appalachian Trail juncture. Then there are the other hikes. If one feels like checking out a farm and gathering eggs from a hen or viewing horses, cows, goats...take another walk. Beauty surrounds you...all the time.

The ambiance is provided by nature and a wonderful staff. I can't wait to go again.

"Nature at its best"

cimili
Orlando, FL

My wife and I spent the last week of August in the Enota situated in the mountains of northern Georgia. Our stay there turned into a wonderful vacation. Enota is actually a 60 acres property hidden in the hills and forest. It is very well maintained, clean, and staffed with people ready to help and make your stay even more enjoyable. There are four streams running through the property and two waterfalls!!! If you are escaping from the noise of big city you will enjoy the quiet interrupted only by quacking of ducks and murmur of flowing streams. When we were there leaves were still green and they looked beautiful. We cannot imagine how nice the trees will be in October when the leaves start changing colors. Important to mention is that NATURE is the operative word. If you want close encounter with nature you will get it. Cell phones do not work, TVs in the cabins/rooms have no antennas so you can relax completely and absorb the beauty of surrounding nature. We came from Florida where there is a lot of sunshine, heat, and no shade (palms do not really give a good shade). Being in Enota under all those 30-40 ft tall trees that give heavy shade and keep temperature lower for 5-10 F than in the city was amazing. Worth mentioning is also a small organic garden where you can pick veggies yourself and eat them fresh-they taste DELICIOUS. All together a great place to be!!! Thanks to Swan and everybody on her staff for keeping the place as it is. Spirit was great, too!

"Enota is truly magical. I have finally found the place we will return to year after year. Don't miss it."

Shantee99
Decatur GA

Enota is Five Star Rustic. The Ritz for the camper/naturalist. The owners and staff are warm and gracious and the camping facilities are exceptional. All surrounded by the abundance of nature - winding creek beds to play in, hiking trails, the organic farm, the ponds and waterfalls - all a stone's throw from our campsite (not to mention tiled bathrooms, washer/dryer etc). You can feel that this place has been tended and loved for many many generations.

"Great place to bring a 3rd or 4th grade class for a camping trip!"

TeacherGrrl
Georgia

The good folks at Enota were wonderful to my class. They provided wonderful service. The farmers were so lovely with the children - to the point that my students fell in love with them. I can not imagine a better place to take a class or a camping trip. The camp sites were wonderfully situated with the beautiful creek near by. The shower house was clean and well appointed. The trails were wonderful and challenging. Make sure to hike up to the 200 foot waterfall and then back climb into the swimming hole.

"Almost perfect"

stewspoon
Smoke Rise, GA

We camped in an RV site and it was one of the best RV camp locations we have visited. Our site (# 31) was next to a bridge, a shallow creek and an awesome LARGE rock. for young kids they can play and we can see them at all times while enjoying the beautiful forest surrounding. Kids played for hours. Strangely no mosquitoes. This is a great place for kids. Nice playground and 3 trampolines near the tent areas. Such a beautiful area. Creeks for kids to play safely, rope swing, playground, trampolines, organic farm where they can pet the goats, chickens, and Shetland ponies. Super for families in campers.

"Special Place"

henw
Orlando, Florida

We have stayed at Enota four times now. We will be back each coming year if possible. The value you receive for your investment, is the privilege of staying in some of the most awesome natural beauty on God's earth. What a bargain!!
The camp store is stocked with all the basics. Those campers who limit their days to their RV pad, waddling around the man-made facilities, and visiting local tourist attractions, might do better at a Yogi Bear or KOA. But, if you find solace in soaking up raw nature, this is your destination. Many thanks to those who struggle so hard at keeping Enota special.

"Jewel of nature to treasure!"

Dragontailmaster
Clearwater, FL

I was reminded of the delightful natural sanctuary that is Enota Mountain Retreat having just returned from two months traveling in a motor home from Florida through New Brunswick and back through various eastern mountains and staying in 22 campgrounds, none of them more special than Enota. In writing a review for one of them, I realized I had failed to keep my promise to my fiancé to write one about Enota after our stay there in August 2008. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and hated to leave. In the past several years we have camped in our motor home in most of our great country with many years of tent camping before that. We returned with our kids and grandchildren in November 2008 and stayed in a cabin, rustic, but the kids didn’t want to leave. We have stayed in many nice campgrounds, but Enota is truly unique in our experience. It is a natural jewel that we treasure. We wish the trust that owns Enota every success in keeping it out of the hands of mercenary destructive developers. We know of no other place quite like it and plan on returning many more times.

"The Honeymoon!!!!!!"

sallyangeleyes
Goodlettsville

It was the most greatest place we have been. We loved the log cabin, Bear Den. We were there for a week and loved every minute of it. We loved it so much that we didn't want to leave. The staff there were just great too. It was a place that we will go back again. There are many places around that you can go see that is just breath taking and is not far to drive too. You will just love it as much as we did. You will also fall in love with the little Spirit. The best little hostess that you will ever come across!!!!!! We will let everyone of our friends know about this little hide away.

"Peaceful and Beautiful"

tadelores
Marietta GA

Enota is beautiful and peaceful. The streams give a soothing sound and the waterfalls are beautiful. The staff is also warm, friendly and giving. Overall I was glad I went and would recommend Enota to anyone wanting a peaceful getaway.

"Loved Enota!"

louisatlanta
Atlanta

This is the place if you love nature. it has it all. Streams, waterfalls, hiking trails. It is so beautiful. You don't usually get this all in one place. I was surprised at the many types of accommodations. they have cabins, RV sites, tent sites and rooms. We stayed in a cabin. Its not the Ritz - the cabins are rustic, but are clean. There were several groups there all having meetings and good times. This place is one of those green places where they pay a lot of attention to the environment. If you have a family or just want a place to get away take a look at this one. I talked to several people who have come multiple times and love it there. Enota has a farm where you can visit the animals and they grow their own vegetables and food. We had a delicious breakfast there.

"Thanks for giving, Enota"

mountainmaverick
Florida

This is where you'll find "the good old days"!
After touring the west by RV all summer my fiancée and I stumbled across this delightful place on our way home. We were so enthralled by Enota that we decided to have a family reunion there for Thanksgiving. Nineteen members of our families (ages 6 to 70) arrived occupying guest rooms, log cabins and RV sites. This will be a memory etched forever in all of our minds. The children played in the playgrounds, the teens hiked trails, the youngsters and elders sat by the fire in the lodge, the family gathered around campfires in the evenings, the "photographers" delighted at the many photo opportunities of brooks, streams, waterfalls and ducks. The entire staff was pleasant, friendly and accommodating. The best part was the quality time our family had. No cell phones or cable TV! Everyone actually talked to each other the whole time, even the kids are looking forward to our return. At the risk of losing "our secret shangri-la" I have to rave about this place. Enota Mountain Retreat is for those who still love the land, treasure our earth, enjoy good people and would like to find a bit of their roots in this modern, fast paced, hectic world. For those who lean toward glass, chrome and luxury I would have to say keep shopping, this is a place is for those of us who still have a bit of pioneer spirit and need to reacquaint ourselves with the wholesome "real" world. Our special "Thanks for the Memories" to everyone at Enota!

"perfectly beautiful"

hikerspirit
Fort Lauderdale, FL

The people were wonderful, the grounds were immaculate and the hiking was sublime. I was able to get a massage on property, and every morning the lodge had coffee, tea and camaraderie. It's a magical place, especially if you're a nature lover or just looking for a place to unwind.

"A bit like heaven, God's country!"

tessd
Lemont, IL

It is with the highest recommendation that I would encourage Trip Advisor to list ''Enota Mountain Retreat" as the number one place to visit in northern Georgia.

Enota is charming, beautiful, clean, has all the amenities of home and has a staff that caters to its' guests. From the home cooked meals to a massage if one should so choose, Enota has it all! It's a must "See & Experience" and it truly is a retreat-like getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Enota offers cozy log cabins to the rustic charm of camping in the woods. It features unbelievable waterfalls and offers several hiking paths that take you directly into natures beauty. If one is seeking quiet and serenity, this is definitely the place to visit.

I share this testament with your viewers as a gift and I encourage anyone looking to visit a beautiful place in the northern mountains of Georgia, this truly is it. Enota Mountain Resort is heaven-like.

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Enota Mountain Retreat
1000 Highway 180
Hiawassee, GA  30546
706-896-9966   800-990-8869