This Personal Retreat Awaits Your Stamp

This Personal Retreat Awaits Your Stamp By John Shivers

If the walls of the Bison View Lodge, more affectionately known as the “party barn,” at Bison View Ranch in White County, Georgia could talk, oh, the memories they would share. From expansive barbecue spreads prepared in the on-site commercial smoker, to activities around the Margaritaville-inspired bar, as many as one hundred people at a time have enjoyed the festivities. From strictly family-centered events to celebrations with friends and business associates, the stories abound.

Now comes the opportunity for someone new to make more memories. And what a phenomenal place to do so. Located only fifteen minutes from downtown Helen, it’s many miles removed from the rat race and the mundane. This sanctuary with a distant view of Mt. Yonah, and a close-up view of luxury living, offers a lifestyle that’s so comforting, so laidback, leaving will be difficult at best.

When you approach 3051 Rice Cabin Overlook on Tray Mountain, you’re approaching an opportunity that comes along once in a lifetime. That’s how the current owner visualized it ten years ago when he first glimpsed the property. He saw the potential and ten years later, the compound with three buildings and comfortable sleeping capacity for 32±, has fulfilled and surpassed that potential. The only thing he hasn’t done is convert several ideally-suited acres into a grape vineyard, the first step toward creating a winery. Food for thought, wouldn’t you say?

The 14.86± acre tract that borders U.S. Forest Service lands has been a favorite, almost sacred destination for the current owner. However, time and life wait for no one, and things change. It’s time for new owners and new experiences. And if you happen to live in another state, don’t let distance prevent you and yours from enjoying everything this former bison ranch has to offer. Thanks to a conveniently-located airport in the next county, you can fly there and take a chopper to your own private helipad. It’s also a quick drive by car, and regardless of whether you approach the property by air or by land, first glimpse is guaranteed to give you a sense of overwhelming awe.

Two other buildings, in addition to the party barn, populate this fenced compound, affording the owners room to spread out with a secure sense of

privacy and protection. A six bedroom, four-bath log cabin “guest house” tucked away in the woods, offers entertaining and sleeping comfort for many guests, along with a spacious, top-of-the-line kitchen. The party barn itself, in addition to the entertainment space, has three bedrooms and three baths.

The main lodge, operations central of this exquisite mountain retreat, contains 7,400± square feet, including a daylight terrace level as nicely appointed as the main level. Six spacious bedrooms and six and one-half luxuriously-appointed baths form the basis for hospitality and accommodation. A large kitchen conveniently located to the oversize outdoor covered porch and entertainment deck, enhance the entertaining and dining potential. Seven massive, wood-burning fireplaces are in the three buildings, along with many comfortable spaces to relax and rejuvenate.

Though this property has been used exclusively as a private residence, the ability to flow large crowds without sacrificing the privacy of guests, makes this truly a multi-functional opportunity. Save for a few personal items the owner will remove, it’s being offered with all the furnishings, decorative accessories and equipment in a turn-key deal.

Contact Agent Julie Barnett at Harry Norman, REALTORS® Luxury Lake and Mountain at 404-6973860 or at the office, 706-212-0228, for an opportunity to tour MLS #8924129. This listing holds the promise of an escape to the safety and security of your own private outpost.

Party Barn

Guest House