Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly
Ideal Vacation Home Checklist: ✔ Brimming with unique character and charm ✔ Exceptionally clean and well-maintained ✔ Dogs welcome at no extra charge ✔ Repeatedly reviewed as “the best vacation home we’ve ever stayed in.” ✔ Wifi supplied by fiber connection ✔ Private location yet just a short drive to town square, restaurants, wineries, hiking, etc. ✔ Rooted in history and the local community ✔ Owned/managed by a local who genuinely cares about her guests and is NOT a multi-property investor
Nestled in the quiet hills just outside Dahlonega, the Schoolhouse Cottage is a lovingly restored 19th-century schoolhouse where history and hospitality come together in perfect harmony. With original floors, ceilings, and windows still intact, this one-of-a-kind retreat invites guests to step back in time — without sacrificing modern comfort. Filled with curated antiques, cozy touches, and thoughtful details (including dog-friendly stays with no added fee), it’s the kind of place that feels like home the moment you arrive. Whether you're sipping a cold Coke on the porch, snuggling into one of the famously comfy beds, or cooking in the fully stocked kitchen, every inch of the cottage is designed to help you relax and reconnect. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, small families, or four-legged friends, the Schoolhouse is a soulful escape you’ll want to return to again and again.
Please read the full description of the cottage, the amenities, and the house rules prior to booking. If you plan to bring your pup along for your stay please register him/her as part of your booking party and agree to the pet policy listed below.
-Dog Policy- We love dogs and are happy to welcome well-behaved canine companions free of charge, provided the following expectations are met:
•Dogs must be clean, fully house-trained, and current on flea and tick prevention. Please do not bring dogs with known issues such as separation anxiety, scratching or chewing doors or walls, excessive barking, incontinence, or marking behaviors. •Dogs may not be left unattended outdoors. Wildlife is present, and unattended dogs often lead to safety and yard issues. •All pet waste must be picked up immediately and properly disposed of. •Dogs are not permitted on furniture unless it is fully covered with blankets from home or the provided blanket located in the trunk beneath the living room sideboard. •Muddy paws and wet dogs must be wiped using pet towels found under the kitchen sink or in the laundry room cabinet. Bathroom linens may not be used. •Guests are required to thoroughly clean dog hair prior to checkout by: -Vacuuming floors and rugs (use the corded vacuum located in the guest room closet) -Lint rolling beds, bedding, and pillows where dogs may have been present (lint roller can be found in the canine cupboard of the sideboard) Excessive dog hair—defined as pet hair remaining on beds, bedding, upholstered furniture, or rugs that requires cleaning beyond our standard turnover or pet waste left in the yard may result in an additional cleaning fee of $125 charged after checkout.
Optional Expedited Checkout: Guests who prefer not to complete dog-related checkout cleaning may purchase a $95 expedited pet checkout prior to the last day of your stay. This does not cover pet waste in the yard or damage. Please contact Callie if you wish to select this option. Payment will be made via the booking platform.
We truly enjoy being a dog-friendly cottage and appreciate your help in keeping the Schoolhouse comfortable and welcoming for all guests.
Lumpkin County Short Term Rental License Number: 053
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
-Two vehicle maximum. Guests must obey a 15mph speed limit on the private road leading to the cottage.
-Tampering with the exterior security camera is grounds for nonrefundable termination of stay.
-NO loose items or small bags in exterior trash can.
-Only toilet paper in the toilets.
-The propane tank that fuels the fire bowl in the backyard MUST be turned off when not in use.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1598857vb
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Dahlonega
Located in Dahlonega, this cottage is in a rural area and in the mountains. Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site and The Historic Holly Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo and North Georgia Zoo. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's going on at Yahoola Creek Tennis Center, or consider a night out at Tumlin House & Vineyard. Kayaking and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain climbing and horse riding nearby.
Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo - 5 min drive - 4.4 km
Consolidated Gold Mine - 10 min drive - 10.2 km
Tumlin House & Vineyard - 10 min drive - 10.5 km
Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site - 10 min drive - 10.8 km
Crisson Gold Mine - 11 min drive - 12.5 km
Getting around
Gainesville Station - 29 min drive
Atlanta, GA (PDK-DeKalb-Peachtree) - 67 min drive
Restaurants
Chick-fil-A - 9 min drive
Dunkin' - 10 min drive
McDonald's - 11 min drive
Zaxby's Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings - 9 min drive
Tomato House Farms - 7 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly?
As of 28 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly on 29 Sept 2026 start from £414, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Unlock a Forgotten Past at The Schoolhouse Cottage · Dog-Friendly located?
Situated in the mountains, this cottage is 2.2 mi (3.6 km) from Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo and within 6 miles (10 km) of Yahoola Creek Tennis Center and Consolidated Gold Mine. Tumlin House & Vineyard and Chestatee River Diving Bell are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Host created an excellent experience and planned for guest needs. Cleanliness was exceptional. Beds were comfortable.I formerly worked in hospitality management and I highly recommend host and property.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
William L.
8 Jun 2026
Liked: Location
This was a perfect place to stay. Close to everything but tucked away for complete privacy. Nice weekend getaway for our daughter’s wedding.
Definitely one of the best VRBO properties we have stayed at. The host has thought of every possible thing you could need and more. The house was clean and beautifully decorated. Although we didn't cook at the property during our stay the kitchen was so well appointed that it felt like home. There are two porches and were so many hummingbirds to see and enjoy. The property is close to Dahlonega and we enjoyed hiking Blood Mountain and Amicalola Falls. Would highly recommend and will surely plan another trip there.
My wife and I really enioyed out time at this cabin. The cabin was extremly clean and well organized. Callie left great instructions in the cabin for check in and check out procedures and labeled many items in the cabin for ease of use during out stay. We really injoyed the piece and quiet at the cabin and also enjoyed how close it was to Dahlonega. Callie was very nice to check on us and make sure eveything was going well during out stay. My wife and I can definitely recommend this cabin as a great getaway. We will be coming back here on our next vacation to this area.
Amazing stay in an amazing place, we had such a great time and were able to unwind for a bit. We will be back and will stay longer next time, it was that good!Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Dec 2025
Thank you so much for the lovely review and the great picture!
Callie
We have found our new favorite place to stay in Dahlonega. The home is extremely charming as described and in the perfect location. Our host was very friendly and accommodating. We are already planning another stay.
Absolutely one of the most gorgeous homes we have stayed in. Pictures do not do it justice. Perfect for our family of 3 and convenient to everything we were doing in Dahlonega. Absolutely stunning decor and host really thought of all the smallest details. Super comfortable beds with luxury linens. Highly recommend to anyone and certainly would love to stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Apr 2026
Thank you so much! Your kind words mean the world to me. Please come again any time.
The house was exactly as listed. It was a delightful and charming place. The owner communicated thoroughly with me and went above and beyond for certain. I would highly recommend this property. Privacy but a short drive to everything Dahlonega has to offer.
The Schoolhouse far exceeded our expectations - we fell in love with the place! It's nestled into the woods with nice porches to enjoy the peace and quiet. I liked that the decor was not your typical "mountain cabin" but they have used antiques and other items that go along with the former use of the building - a schoolhouse. It's cozy and comfortable, just as charming as can be. Not too far from Dahlonega or the wineries. Perfect for 2 couples or a small family. Definitely 5 stars!
Very nice location with lots of privacy. Nicely decorated with interesting and relatable antiques relevant to the old school house. Kitchen had great cookware and dishes. Porches were beautiful. Our pets enjoyed the time there, too.
Probably one of the best VRBO rentals we've stayed at in a while. The location was perfect for everything. Close to Dahlonega, wineries, great restaurants, kayaking and more. The rental itself was very clean, especially for a pet friendly place. I was very impressed. Callie provided everything you need and then some. She was also very quick to answer questions and super nice. Overall I can't say anything bad about our experience. We really enjoyed it there.
You need to rent this place. It's the cutest, cleanest, quaint little place. We've been here a couple times because we just love it. The host is amazing too.
A perfect stay in a perfect home! The “old schoolhouse” is my favorite VRBO rental and this was my second stay. It has everything you’d ever need, is super clean and charming, and feels so welcoming!
This place is a so cozy!! It had everything you could need and more. It was cold so we didn’t get to use the fire pit, but we are planning on coming back when it’s warmer! The host was very responsive and had everything organized so you felt at home.
Lovely house, well maintained. It was quiet and relaxing. Would highly recommend it.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
About the host
Hosted by Callie Wheat
My name is Callie and I grew up in Chattanooga, TN. I've lived in the Atlanta area since 2002. My husband and I have two children and three dogs. I have loved the mountains all my life and fell in love with Dahlonega and the surrounding area about 10 years ago when I made my first trip there. When I was trying to bring friends and family to visit I had a hard time finding available accommodations and it was then that I got the wild idea to become a vacation rental host myself. Since then the vacation rental market has exploded and I find myself to be one of the few hosts with a solitary property who tends to it myself between every booking. With that said, I fully enjoy making my little cottage the best possible experience for each of my guests.
Why they chose this property
My husband and I looked at many, many houses in the Dahlonega area yet I knew from the moment I first stepped foot in the Schoolhouse that this was the place. There was something about it's history and simplicity that reached into my heart and spoke to me. Not only would it be a beautiful and unique vacation cottage for guests but it would also be a perfect sanctuary for my own quiet escapes from the demands of daily life. The previous owners had done the remodeling which made it all the better. I loved perusing antique stores and estate sales as I let the house tell me how to furnish it. There are little changes here and there that I am sure I'll be making over the years but for now I am pleased to share with guests this little cottage in the woods and it brings me immense joy to provide each of them with a wonderful, memory making experience.
I am available via text message and can be at the cottage within an hour upon request.
What makes this property unique
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests