Barnsley Resort

Filled with luxurious amenities and plenty of opportunity for relaxation or adventure, this idyllic north Georgia escape calls to mind storybook wonders.

Text by CATHY STILL MCGOWIN

ike a ne bourbon, Barnsley Resort in the north Georgia mountains just gets better with age. Established on the ruins and restored gardens of an opulent Italianate estate built in the 19th century, the 3,000-acre resort in Adairsville, just two hours from Birmingham, has continued to build on its sublime location, honoring its history and century-old gardens infused with

RIGHT: Barnsley Resort uses house-smoked pecans to create a rich, flavorful, signature bourbon. After the infusion process, the resort chefs use the bourbonsoaked pecans in desserts and other menu items.

plenty of Southern gentility. A visit to this countryside retreat is both relaxing and invigorating, thanks to the blissful accommodations and glorious natural surroundings. Within the pedestrian village, guests can enjoy historicallyappropriate, English-style guest cottages; a perfectly-scaled 55-room inn; and three dining venues.

Privately owned, the resort is managed by former ve-star hoteliers who are personally invested in creating unparalled service for their guests. From customized itineraries for corporate groups to family getaways to memorable weddings, experiences are tailored to suit any whim, whether it’s an activity, signature cocktail tasting, or private dinner in the gardens or at the historic Rice House restaurant.

For adventurers and hunters, instructors are at the ready to help both experienced and novice guests who want to ride horses, explore trails on UTVs, shoot skeet at the Beretta Shooting Grounds, or practice axe throwing or archery. Seasonal quail hunts are available at the neighboring 1,800-acre hunting preserve. Golf enthusiasts return for the Golf Performance Center that o ers private instruction, as well as the 18-hole Jim Fazio-designed golf course that winds around placid lakes and mountain vistas.

A new introduction, the seasonal Fire Kettle Cooking School launched in 2021. is open-air dining experience is hosted by Chef Javier Cuesta who prepares his favorite recipes over the open ame of a Sea Island Forge re kettle. Dishes often include ingredients freshly picked from the resort’s vegetable garden,

At Barnsley Resort, there’s much to experience, explore, and do—and thanks to the saltwater pool, serene full-service spa, plentiful re pits with complimentary s’mores, and hammocks dotting the property, there are plenty of ways to unwind as well. BarnsleyResort.com / @BarnsleyResort