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Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!

Riverside cabin with fitness centre and indoor pool

Photo gallery for Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!

Shady River Retreat
Exterior
Legion gate--important that all guest names are added for entry.
You will need to look for these somewhat hard to see signs for turning.
Private road, great for daily walks

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6193.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Gym
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View map
Ellijay, GA
  • Place, Gilmer County Fairgrounds
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Piedmont Hospital
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Ellijay Marketplace
    ‪12 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bunkroom

+1
5 Single Beds

Main Level Master Bedroom--Opens to Porch

1 Queen Bed

Master Bedroom in Loft

2 Queen Beds

3 bathrooms

Basement Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Main Level

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bathroom

Bathtub · Toilet · Jetted bathtub

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!


Sleeping arrangements--3 queen beds (2 queens in loft, 1 queen on main level), 2 sets twin bunks sleep 4, + 1 addn. twin lower level)

Our cabin is ideal for 1 or 2 families, and comfortable for up to 4 adults with kids, teens, and tweens. This is our personal property and is a labor of love. We do our best to build relationships with repeat guests who become friends for life. This cabin caters to families seeking time to unplug. We take pride in keeping our property maintained and enjoy recommending activities to help you make special memories. We are often asked about the following--stairs, proximity to the river, and traffic on the road in front of cabin. We do have stairs leading up to the main level. If stairs are a problem for anyone in your party, our cabin may not be the best for your relaxation and enjoyment. We are also not set up for large parties. The best fit is for 1 or two families, or a smaller group of adults looking for a weekend getaway. Our cabin is riverfront, and the river is just a few steps away from the cabin. The road directly in front of our cabin is a private gravel road with very little traffic. The location of our cabin is private, not secluded.

We would be delighted to help you plan your trip. Ask us for suggestions!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
NO cats, small dogs flea and tick up to date
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ellijay

Located in Ellijay, this cabin is on the waterfront. Cohutta Wildlife Management Area and Cartecay River reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Gilmer County Fairgrounds and Ellijay Marketplace. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Ellijay, GA

What's nearby

  • Gilmer County Fairgrounds - 9 min drive - 6.0 km
  • Piedmont Hospital - 9 min drive - 6.4 km
  • Talona Lake - 9 min drive - 7.5 km
  • Pig Hill of Fame - 11 min drive - 9.1 km
  • Ellijay Marketplace - 12 min drive - 9.4 km

Getting around

  • Atlanta, GA (PDK-DeKalb-Peachtree) - 96 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Buffalo Luke’s - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Zaxby's Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Shady River Retreat -- Your Riverside Paradise! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 2.7 mi (4.3 km) from Riverside Park and within 9 miles (15 km) of Gilmer County Fairgrounds and Cartecay River. Gilmer County Library and Tabor House & Civil War Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 165 out of 191 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 191 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 191 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 191 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 191 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ashley J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
FANTASTIC! Will stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Blen D.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was wonderful. It was decorated with bears and fish. Three good sized bedrooms. The kitchen was well equipped with silverware, big coffee cups, 2 coffee makers, frying pans, study cooking pots, and great spatulas. There was dish soap, hand soap, and paper towels. The bathrooms are well stocked with soap, shampoo, and toilet paper. The tv had great streaming channels. We loved eating on the porch overlooking the Coosawattee River.
Coosawattee River
River Road
River Road
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A beautiful, quiet, and clean home next to the river. Enjoyed sitting next to the river, the screened in porch, and hot tub. Highly recommend that you bring water shoes if you want to get in the river.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lizsa A M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful escape

We enjoyed ourselves so much with the peacefulness of the river from our front porch and listening to nature. A wonderful place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Great Cabin!

This is a really great cabin! It is nicely decorated, extremely clean and well maintained. Beautiful view of the river with a great spot for tubing. Can't wait to go back!

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Much needed rest

Original booking was for Spring Break with grandkids. Grandkids decided not to go. First let me say: DO NOT USE GPS TO FIND THIS CABIN! GPS takes you to a completely different location. There is a great need to update the directions given. But after hours of searching and racing an incoming severe storm… we made it!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

River Rekaxation

The river sounds were so relaxing. Great weather. Perfect secluded getaway
Stayed 4 nights in May 2020

10/10 Excellent

Katie S., Fort Myers, FL USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

While the winding mountain road getting to the house is an experience, 😊 the location is beautiful right on the river. Everything was as described, and Jennifer was very responsive and helpful answering our questions. Thank you for sharing your house with us for the week!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

6/10 Okay

Debbie M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness

Apparently the dishwasher is not working properly , every dish had to be washed before use .

Great location .
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer E.

4/2007 We had a beautifu...

4/2007 We had a beautiful, relaxing weekend at the Shady River Retreat--The men loved fishing, the women loved relaxing, and the grandkids/dogs loved it all. --Guest comments posted by homeowners

10/10 Excellent

robert v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent property!

My wife and I booked this property for a weekend. Right on the river with very few neighbors. Tons of deer and geese. We even had a fox visit us. Firepit right next to the river was so nice. The hot tub was very clean and a nice way to end our days. Ellijay is a 20 minute drive away through beautiful twisting, rolling roads. Loved every minute of it.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

2/10 Terrible

Holly L.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect retreat by the river

Our family of 4 and fur baby just returned from a “exactly what we all needed” 5 night stay for Spring Break! Everything for us was just perfect and exactly as described in all the reviews. My boys and hubby didn’t let the cold river water stop them from adventuring (ages 10 and 13) & brought along their wetsuits & enjoyed wading in the river, rock throwing and kayaking (we brought our own). Even our dog Oakley got in on the action allowing me some much needed “Mom” alone time in the Adirondack chair by the fire pit with a book in hand listening to the sounds of river. The hot tub was a wonderful treat after a full day of hiking, mountain biking or playing in the river. We enjoyed family dinners together outside on the screened porch (with amazing river views) and card games inside by the fireplace. My boys loved having all the extra space in the cabin to hang out and enjoyed playing foosball in the cabin or football outside on the grassy front yard. The 3 levels suited our family perfectly and everyone had their own space to relax at the end of the day. Downtown Ellijay looks like it could be in a Hallmark movie. Our kids loved getting yogurt treats with all the toppings from Abby’s and we all had St. Patrick’s Day fun at the Rooftop restaurant (pet friendly 🐾) with great views. The Wood-fire Pizza was also a great spot to eat and also pet friendly. Go early because the when they run out of dough, they close for night. We got lucky and were the last party of 4 seated before they closed for the night (it was 4:30 pm). We are from the East Coast of Florida so this was a perfect change of scenery with cooler temperatures. We can’t wait to return…hopefully in the summer when we can go tubing down the river or in the fall to enjoy the apple orchards and fall festivals.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

tina h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay!’
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jaime C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin is beautiful, the beds are comfy. The road getting there is a little scary, but once you are there, the sound of the water is so worth it! We had a great time! Would love to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sherry B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This cabin was so peaceful! It is inside a subdivision but is out in the country at the same time. We saw almost 200 deer on our way out of the subdivision one morning going into town, which was incredible. We enjoyed the firepit by the river, too. The house was very pet-friendly and comfortable for all of us. We’d definitely stay again! The only downside was our GPS didn’t recognize the address so we had to identify the property by the photo.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Connie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If you’re looking to unplug, unwind, and share your morning coffee with deer that act more like curious neighbors than wild animals—this is your spot. This cabin on the Coosawatee River is a peaceful little pocket of heaven, nestled deep enough into the woods that your stress will have to work really hard to find you.The setting? Absolutely stunning. The river view is serene, and the sound of the water is like nature’s white noise machine—only better and without the monthly subscription. The deck is perfect for early mornings or lazy evenings, and the parade of wildlife is straight out of a Hallmark movie and the river is the main player Now, full disclosure: getting to this slice of paradise is…let’s call it an adventure. The last couple of miles could be straight out of a mountain rally course—tight switchbacks, narrow one-lane roads, and drop-offs that will make you question your life choices (and your tires). But if you take it slow and trust the process (and your brakes), the destination is 100% worth it.This cabin isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and maybe even remember what it’s like to just be. Whether you’re reading by the river, watching the deer, or just doing absolutely nothing, this place delivers peace in spades.Would I go back? In a heartbeat.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janice W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Holiday getaway

Rented a mountain cabin for our Christmas celebration. Wonderful river front location. Able to hike right out the door. Downtown Ellijay and golfing not too far away. Hostess was wonderful and great communication during our stay. Comfortable beds. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property!

This was a great rental. Everything was as described, house was very clean and the beds were very comfortable. Loved the location to the river and lots to do on property. Will plan to come again!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sunshine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Getaway

The property was perfect for a weekend getaway. We all enjoyed the river being so close and accessible. The back porch has a perfect river view and it is comfortable for sitting, eating, playing games, and listening to the river. There was a perfect spot entering the river to sit and play in very shallow water. It was too cold for us to float but plenty of floaters going by. The beds are super soft and comfy (if you like soft beds). The main level shower has great pressure and the hot tub is a the best place for a nice soak. Will definitely book again and bring the grandkids with us. We did enjoy Ellijay, Helen, and Amicalola Falls as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christine L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway

The location right in front of the Coosawattee River was absolutely perfect. The rental was clean, comfortable, and provided everything we needed for a relaxing stay. When we noticed the living room lights were out, Jennifer was incredibly helpful and kind, and quick to respond, resolving the issue promptly. We enjoyed our stay tremendously and will definitely be coming back
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gina D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little piece of heaven

This was a perfect spot for the week. We spent lot of time down by the river enjoying the view and watching the deer. The house had more than enough room and had everything we needed. The beds were very comfortable! There are great amenities available for the stay. We enjoyed the hot tub after floating around in the river and spent one afternoon at the community pool. We visited the downtown area several times which was super cute. This has definitely been one of my favorite VRBO stays and will definitely be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ana A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of the best cabins for a family

We loved to be there because it was so peaceful and enjoyable. The view was amazing and my pets loved it. Very clean and spacious.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kiera W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas stay

The most PERFECT get away! Beautiful house with plenty of room for everyone. Enjoyed reading every morning on the screened in porch while listening to the river. Great firepit set up near the water and having a hot tub was definitely an added treat! Our pup enjoyed going on daily walks, beautiful community.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maria M., Orlando, Florida. USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

We had an amazing stay at this sweet little cabin! It held our family of five with ease and provided the perfect amount of coziness. We relaxed, played board games, watched movies, enjoyed a fire, and snuggled a lot. Thank you for sharing your home!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

About the host

Hosted by Jennifer Elwood

Host profile image
Our family consists of two Atlanta area professionals with three children who keep us busy. One of our favorite things to do is plan family vacations. One thing we know to be true in raising children is that the days are long, and the years are short. We are doing our best to fully enjoy this season!

Why they chose this property

The North Georgia mountains offers our family the respite we need to recharge. Our riverfront property is ideally suited for both relaxation and recreation. We enjoy spending time at Shady River Retreat and venturing out to Blue Ridge for shopping and entertainment.

What makes this property unique

You will love the swing on the oversized screened porch and the wide river frontage. The fire pit is a wonderful place for delicious s'mores and evening chats!

Languages:

English

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