Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Georgia (Currently Open)
Georgia isn’t just known for its peaches and Southern charm — it’s also home to some of the most iconic and unforgettable hotels, resorts, and getaways in the South. From historic mansions in Savannah to mountain lodges in Blue Ridge and luxurious island escapes along the coast, the Peach State offers a diverse collection of retreats that cater to every type of traveler.
Whether you’re craving romance, adventure, or pure relaxation, this guide to the Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Georgia (Currently Open) will help you find your perfect stay. Each destination blends the state’s signature hospitality with world-class comfort, offering travelers a true taste of Georgia’s warmth and wonder.
Where Southern Comfort Meets Timeless Style
There’s something magical about staying in a place that captures both Georgia’s heritage and its heart. Some hotels have hosted presidents and poets, while others immerse guests in nature’s beauty with breathtaking views and cozy cabins. From Atlanta’s upscale city stays to rustic mountain lodges and historic inns by the sea, Georgia’s most iconic hotels promise one thing above all — an experience you’ll never forget.
The Cloister at Sea Island – Coastal Luxury Redefined
When it comes to luxury, The Cloister at Sea Island reigns supreme. Located on Georgia’s Golden Isles, this five-star resort combines Mediterranean-inspired architecture with Southern hospitality and world-class amenities.
What makes it iconic:
Elegant rooms and suites with ocean views
Access to five miles of private beach
Championship golf courses and a Forbes Five-Star spa
Fine dining at Colt & Alison or seaside cocktails at River Bar
The Cloister is the epitome of coastal sophistication, attracting celebrities, couples, and families who want the very best. Whether you’re kayaking through salt marshes or lounging beneath palm trees, this Sea Island treasure defines what luxury getaways in Georgia should feel like.
Chateau Élan Winery & Resort – European Elegance in Braselton
Just north of Atlanta lies Chateau Élan Winery & Resort, a lush escape that blends old-world French charm with modern Southern comfort. Set amid rolling vineyards, this resort feels like stepping into the countryside of Bordeaux — without ever leaving Georgia.
Highlights include:
Award-winning winery and tasting room
Elegant spa and golf courses
Fine dining restaurants like Versailles and Paddy’s Irish Pub
Picturesque walking paths and wine-country views
Perfect for romantic weekends or girls’ getaways, Chateau Élan offers a taste of France in the heart of Georgia. It’s both luxurious and approachable, making it one of the state’s most beloved destinations.
The Jekyll Island Club Resort – A Step Into History
The Jekyll Island Club Resort is a living piece of American history. Once an exclusive retreat for Gilded Age elites like Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, and Morgan, this elegant resort now welcomes visitors who crave grandeur, grace, and nostalgia.
What to expect:
Restored Victorian architecture and manicured grounds
Luxurious rooms that transport guests back to the 19th century
Nearby beaches, biking trails, and nature preserves
Fine dining at The Wharf, with river views and Southern seafood
Jekyll Island Club Resort offers a blend of historic charm and coastal serenity, making it ideal for travelers who love old-world elegance with modern comforts.
Barnsley Resort – A Fairytale in the Foothills
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Barnsley Resort in Adairsville feels like a storybook village brought to life. Built around the romantic ruins of a 19th-century estate, this luxury retreat combines history, adventure, and Southern refinement.
Signature experiences:
Stay in cozy cottages or upscale manor rooms
Explore horseback riding, hiking trails, and clay shooting
Enjoy farm-to-table dining at Woodlands Grill
Relax by the fire pit or indulge at the European-style spa
Barnsley’s magical blend of rustic charm and refined hospitality makes it a top choice for couples, outdoor enthusiasts, and history lovers alike.
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee – Waterfront Serenity
For those seeking a lakefront escape with five-star service, the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is the definition of luxury in nature. Just 90 minutes from Atlanta, this resort sits on one of Georgia’s most beautiful lakes and offers a peaceful blend of outdoor adventure and elegant relaxation.
What makes it iconic:
Private cottages and rooms with stunning lake views
A full-service spa and infinity pool
Boating, fishing, and championship golf courses
Fine dining at Linger Longer Steakhouse
Whether you’re watching the sunset from a lakeside fire pit or enjoying a candlelit dinner by the water, Lake Oconee’s Ritz-Carlton is Georgia hospitality at its finest.
Callaway Resort & Gardens – Nature and Comfort in Harmony
For generations, Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain has been a beloved destination for families and nature lovers. With 2,500 acres of gardens, trails, and lakes, this resort blends eco-friendly adventure with classic Southern hospitality.
Top experiences:
Stroll through the Callaway Gardens Butterfly Center
Stay at the lakeside Lodge & Spa at Callaway
Enjoy outdoor recreation like zip-lining, cycling, and fishing
Visit during Fantasy In Lights, one of the South’s most spectacular holiday displays
Callaway Resort & Gardens captures the simple joy of reconnecting with nature while offering all the modern comforts travelers expect.
The Georgian Terrace – Atlanta’s Historic Gem
In the heart of Midtown Atlanta stands the Georgian Terrace, a landmark hotel that has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and movie premieres for over a century. Opened in 1911, this Beaux-Arts masterpiece remains one of the most iconic stays in the city.
Why it’s legendary:
Historic architecture with modern luxury suites
Rooftop pool with skyline views
Steps away from the Fox Theatre
Home to Livingston Restaurant + Bar, serving elevated Southern cuisine
The Georgian Terrace perfectly balances classic glamour and contemporary comfort, making it a must for travelers who want a taste of Atlanta’s timeless charm.
King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort – St. Simons Island Bliss
For beach lovers, few destinations rival the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island. This historic oceanfront property, first opened in 1935, offers a perfect blend of Southern tradition and coastal luxury.
What guests love:
Oceanfront pools and private cabanas
Championship golf course overlooking the salt marsh
Fresh seafood dining at ECHO, with unbeatable ocean views
Family-friendly atmosphere and laid-back elegance
The King and Prince delivers everything a Georgia coastal getaway should — sunshine, surf, and sophistication.
The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island – A Private Island Escape
If you’ve ever dreamed of having an island to yourself, The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island comes close. Accessible only by boat, this exclusive eco-lodge offers a secluded retreat amid 11,000 acres of untouched wilderness.
Highlights include:
Intimate accommodations for just 32 guests
All-inclusive meals prepared with local ingredients
Guided nature excursions and birdwatching tours
Miles of private beaches and salt marsh
This is a nature lover’s paradise, combining sustainable luxury with the unspoiled beauty of Georgia’s coast.
The Hamilton-Turner Inn – Savannah’s Haunted Elegance
For a stay rich in mystery and charm, the Hamilton-Turner Inn in Savannah is pure magic. Set in the city’s historic district, this 19th-century mansion is known for its luxurious décor, ghostly legends, and timeless grace.
Why visitors adore it:
Elegant rooms filled with antiques and chandeliers
Gourmet Southern breakfasts
Central location near Forsyth Park and River Street
Rumored hauntings that add to the intrigue
The Hamilton-Turner Inn embodies Savannah’s romantic and mysterious spirit, making it one of the most unforgettable boutique hotels in the South.
Valhalla Resort Hotel – Mountain Luxury in Helen
Perched in the North Georgia mountains, Valhalla Resort Hotel in Helen offers a boutique experience where mountain air meets upscale comfort. Designed for adults, it’s ideal for romantic getaways and special occasions.
Signature experiences:
Elegant suites with panoramic mountain views
Fine dining at Caledonia Room Restaurant
Golf and spa services for a refined retreat
Access to Helen’s Bavarian-style charm nearby
Valhalla’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings make it one of the top mountain getaways in Georgia.
Hotel Clermont – Retro Cool in Atlanta
Once a historic 1920s landmark, Hotel Clermont in Atlanta has been reborn as one of the city’s trendiest boutique hotels. With vintage flair, modern comfort, and unbeatable nightlife, it’s become an icon for urban explorers.
What makes it stand out:
Funky, retro-inspired design and rooms
Rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline
Easy access to Ponce City Market and the BeltLine
Locally loved dining at Tiny Lou’s, a chic French brasserie
Hotel Clermont is where Atlanta’s past and present collide — bold, stylish, and full of personality.
Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant – Historic Lakeside Charm
Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, Lake Rabun Hotel is a century-old lodge that perfectly combines rustic charm and modern comfort. Its intimate atmosphere and lakeside location make it a hidden gem for romantic escapes.
Why guests love it:
Cozy lodge rooms with handcrafted woodwork
Farm-to-table dining at Lake Rabun Restaurant
Kayaking, fishing, and hiking nearby
Peaceful setting surrounded by forests and waterfalls
This boutique hotel is an authentic mountain retreat — cozy, scenic, and wonderfully relaxing.
The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa – Luxury on the River
Located along the Savannah River, The Westin Savannah Harbor combines city convenience with resort-style amenities. Guests can take the ferry directly to historic downtown while enjoying all the perks of a luxury escape.
Highlights:
Spacious riverfront rooms and suites
18-hole championship golf course
Heavenly Spa by Westin and outdoor pool
Fine dining with waterfront views
This resort is perfect for travelers who want both urban access and serene relaxation in one unforgettable stay.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa – A Mountain Getaway for All Seasons
Tucked away in Young Harris, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa offers a stunning blend of mountain scenery and resort-style amenities. It’s a year-round favorite for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Top experiences:
Golf, horseback riding, and scenic hiking trails
Luxury spa and heated indoor/outdoor pool
Fireside dining at The Dining Room Restaurant
Cozy lodge rooms and private cottages
With panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brasstown Valley is the kind of place that turns a weekend trip into a lifelong memory.
The Spirit of Georgia Hospitality
What makes Georgia’s hotels and getaways truly iconic isn’t just their design or location — it’s the authentic Southern warmth that greets every guest. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea on a wraparound porch or relaxing in a five-star spa, you’ll feel the same down-home welcome that defines the state’s culture.
Each of these destinations offers a unique way to experience Georgia’s diversity — from historic Savannah to the mountain peaks of Helen and the tranquil shores of Sea Island.
Conclusion: Your Georgia Getaway Awaits
From elegant seaside resorts to cozy mountain lodges and grand historic inns, Georgia’s most iconic hotels invite travelers to experience the state’s soul through its hospitality. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family vacation, or a solo escape, these 15 currently open destinations promise unforgettable memories wrapped in comfort, charm, and style.
So pack your bags, follow the Southern breeze, and discover why Georgia’s hotels and getaways are some of the most iconic in America — where every sunrise feels like home and every stay feels legendary.