all about ceese

1. Explore the Alpine Village of Helen

Wander around the cobblestone streets of this enchanting Alpine village admiring the Bavarian architecture, allowing yourself to feel like you’ve been transported into an enchanting European village. Start on one end to see the Heidi Windmill (located at the Heidi Motel + Windmill Suites) and let the kids run around the Alana Falls Walking Trail (it’s a little waterfall + Unicoi Hill Park) to the rest of downtown and explore the charming boutiques such as ‘It’s Just Peachy Boutique’ and The Mason Jar Shoppe. and of course, The Christmas Shoppe!

In need of a break? Grab a cup of coffee from Yonah Coffee and see, smell, and taste something delicious from Hansel + Gretel Candy Kitchen.

2. Check out Habersham Winery

This family-owned winery has been locally owned since 1983, located in the Nacoochee Village on the outskirts of Helen. This is a great way for adults-only visit to unwind by stopping in for a glass or a tasting.

3. Nora Mill Granary

Nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Nora Mill Granary has a rich history dating back to 1876, while still utilizing traditional milling techniques, which is powered by the Chattahoochee River, to produce stone-ground grits, cornmeal, and other products. Not only can you view part of this process in store, you can also shop its General Store for its products.

4. Hike Anna Ruby Falls

Located near Unicoi State Park, these beautiful double waterfalls are formed from Curtis Creek and York Creek. Once you’re there, you’ll hike up about a 1/2-mile paved trail to the Anna Ruby Falls, which does have a bit of an incline. There is a small fee to enter the Visitor Center and falls, so make sure you have cash on you.

5. Unicoi State Park

Unicoi State Park is a beautiful place to check out during Autumn, which is a perfect time to be able to hike and see the foliage as it’s changing. This state park also offers a Lodge and other activities, such as ziplining, archery, and paddleboarding (see their website for details). Definitely a great place to spend a day while you’re in the area, and also offers different lodging options.

6. Enjoy Helen’s German fare.

There are a number of great places to eat in Helen, especially if you’re looking for more authentic German food. Bodensee Restaurant is a great popular, restaurant and music hall located more on the east central side of Helen, and not only is the food fantastic, but it’s usually packed! They’re open for lunch and dinner, and didn’t take reservations when we were there, so it was a bit of a wait. Another great lunch + dinner option is the iconic Hofbrauhaus Restaurant, located on the west side of town with riverfront dining (weather permitting). Located centrally to everything is The Heidelberg, which is the first German restaurant + pub in town, this felt like I was transported to Europe once I was inside. I think their spätzle was the best I had while we were here. Looking for something for more of a breakfast option? Check out Hofer’s of Helen, serving German breads, and pastries.

7. King Ludwig’s Biergarten

If you’re ever in need of an afternoon break, look no further than King Ludwig’s Biergarten! Located in central Helen, sit and enjoy live music, giant mugs of beer along with a pretzel bigger than your head.

8. Chattahoochee Cheese Market

This was a fantastic spot to stop in on the way to a hike. We were originally hoping to get one of their picnic baskets, but alas its more of a seasonal item (mostly a summer option). While they still offered boxed lunches when we were there, we opted for a charcuterie board that they made for us on the spot, plus we got to keep the cute wooden board! This place is particularly great if you rent a cabin/condo when you’re in the area.

1. Outdoor Activities

We visited Helen in November, so weather affected some things, such as Tubing the Chattahoochee River, or visiting the Helen Water Park, which were closed for the season. Was also bummed that we didn’t have time for the Georgia Mountain Coaster, as our time was packed with hiking, wineries, and enjoying the great food Helen has to offer.

2. Hardman Farm State Historic Site

This was literally something we stumbled across while we were out exploring the town. I loved that they offered tours of the site, and the site has such a rich history to Helen and the entire area.