Things 2 Do

Northwest Georgia resort offers perfect weekend getaway

For years, it was known as Barnsley Gardens, a 3,000-acre escape about an hour north of Atlanta in Adairsville.

But this getaway, now known as Barnsley Resort, has always offered much more than just gardens.

“If you’re here for a relaxing getaway, the spa might be a great opportunity in our world-class spa,” Barnsley Resorts President David Friederich told WSB-TV’s Nelson Hicks. “Whether our walking gardens through the Manor House ruins and historical site, or sitting in the evening by a firepit roasting marshmallows for your s’mores, all of those are great options for relaxing, taking long strolls on our hiking trails.”

Godfrey Barnsley purchased the property that is now home to Barnsley Resort in the 1840s. His vision was to build his wife Julia a grand estate. Sadly, while the mansion was under construction, Julia passed away. Eventually, Barnsley decided to finish the construction for his family and future generations.

Ruins of the mansion still adorn the property. A tornado ripped the roof off in 1906. Today, guests tour the ruins, which provide a backdrop for dinners, weddings and corporate events.

The surrounding area and resort provide a peaceful, relaxing getaway for those who are so inclined; but it provides an active getaway for others.

“From our hunting grounds with our partners at High Adventure, the Beretta shooting school, (we) have quail hunting that takes place from October until March,” Friederich said. “When we’re not doing that on that space, which is about 1,800 acres, we’re doing UTV rides.”

“When you’re over here at the resort, we have horseback riding, which takes you on many of our trails and gets you the chance to explore the resort from a different perspective and different vantage point,” Friederich added.

The resort recently added axe-throwing, archery and air-rifle outings to its offerings of outdoor activities.

Golf lovers will find a Jim Fazio-designed course that wraps around a lake, forests and the Barnsley Resort gardens. Those looking to improve their golf game can spend some time at the golf performance center on site.

Those looking to improve their food game have some options, too. Executive Chef Nicolas Lebas spearheads the resort’s restaurants and cooking experiences.

“I want (guests) to enjoy different ways to enjoy food,” Lebas said. “We can enjoy barbecue, you can enjoy Southern (food), you can have the chance to enjoy a little bit of European techniques (and) fire cooking as well. I want them to take a good, relaxing time and enjoy good food.”

Lebas offers a Fire Kettle Cooking School on a Sea Island Forge Fire Kettle. Immerse yourself in the charm of a true fireside cooking experience and learn how to cook all kinds of foods over an open flame during the experience.

Once finished with the class, enjoy one of the chef’s dishes at the resort’s signature restaurant, the Rice House.

With its proximity to Atlanta, Barnsley Resort offers a great overnight, weekend or longer getaway. Whatever you decide to do on a visit, enjoy some time together with family or friends.

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