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The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains

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Exterior
Exterior detail
Property grounds
Interior
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4830 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Clayton, GA
  • Place, Main Street Gallery
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Rabun County Golf Club
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake Keowee
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest

1 Double Bed

Master

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains

Step back in time while enjoying modern comforts in this beautifully restored 1950s cottage, just a short stroll from charming downtown Clayton.
Nestled within stunningly landscaped gardens, The Garden Cottage offers a luxurious yet cozy retreat, decorated with antiques, collectibles, and unique finds from local artists. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the inviting screened-in porch, soaking in one of two clawfoot tubs, or curling up with a book under a handmade quilt, you’ll feel transported to a simpler, more elegant era.
Why You’ll Love It Here:
✔ Two private bedrooms – Each with designated bathroom for a comfortable and private stay.
✔ Gorgeous master bath – Complete with heated floors for a touch of luxury.
✔ Fully stocked vintage-style kitchen – Enjoy cooking with modern conveniences while soaking in the old-world ambiance. The kitchen comes complete with the original 1955 GE refrigerator fully restored, a nostalgic gem that perfectly complements the home’s vintage charm.
✔ Fast Wi-Fi & a designated workspace – Perfect for those who need to stay connected while relaxing in the mountains.
✔ Enchanting outdoor spaces – Lush garden, charming outdoor décor, and serene seating areas invite you to unwind.
Perfectly Located for Adventure & Relaxation
Less than half a mile from downtown Clayton, known for its award-winning farm-to-table restaurants, boutique shopping, and upscale antique stores. Unlike many overcrowded tourist spots, Rabun County remains pristine, with 60% of its land protected as National Forest.
✔ Explore Tallulah Gorge, one of Georgia’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
✔ Dine at the famous Dillard House for a taste of true Southern hospitality.
✔ Sip local wines at nearby vineyards while enjoying scenic mountain views.
✔ Adventure awaits with hiking, rafting, fishing, and waterfall excursions just minutes away.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or an outdoor adventure, The Garden Cottage is the perfect home base for your North Georgia escape.
Book your stay today and experience the magic of this charming time-capsule cottage!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Please put any used towels in one of the bathtubs.
Checkout time is 11:00 a.m. Please give us a courtesy message when you depart.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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 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 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

Frequently asked questions

Is The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains?

As of 8 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains on 12 May, 2026 start from S$140, 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 The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Garden Cottage – A Storybook Retreat in the North Georgia Mountains located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Main Street Gallery and Rabun County Golf Club. Chattahoochee National Forest and Tiger Mountain Vineyards are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 239 out of 251 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 251 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 251 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 251 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 251 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

thomas h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the cottage, location was great . Found our new happy place when we go to Clayton.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was so relaxing and homey! We loved the antique and vintage decorations and furnishings. We would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Jane I am so glad y'all had a good time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ivy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was adorable and a step back in time. I loved every minute of my stay. I didnt want to leave.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cozy cottage
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brad R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute, comfortable, clean!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elaine W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the perfect cozy cottage for our girls' trip!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Nov, 2025
I am so glad y'all had a good time. Hope you will come back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Becky C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Garden Cottage is a wonderful step back in time and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay! We will definitely be visiting again! Our hosts responded quickly to our questions and were extremely helpful and friendly!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Dec, 2025
Becky, thank you so much for your positive review. I'm so glad you enjoyed the garden Cottage.
Verified

8/10 Good

Johnny F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a nice place. The only negative was that the bathrooms were small.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jan, 2026
I agree that the original bathroom is small. That why we added on the Master Bathroom we made sure it was l120 square feet.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice cottage
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Benita B.

Host was extremely understanding, helpful, and kind.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage. Love the screened front porch. Great shops and restaurants in town.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Randy T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very helpful with things to do and places to eat. Could not have asked for a better host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Nov, 2025
Thank you Randy!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MARYANA O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house we rented was very cozy. I liked that there were a lot of unique paintings on the walls, a lot of signs, and I also liked that it was in the center, very close to downtown.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov, 2025
Thanks so much for visiting us! So glad you enjoyed the Cottage.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

lana

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
I enjoyed my stay. The kitchen was fully stocked with anything you would need and a grill out back. Property was close to stores and places to eat. Perfect place to stay in the beautiful mountains.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location was very convenient to the dining and shopping. The kitchen was well stocked. It was great to relax in the glider rocker on the screen porch after sunset.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept, 2025
Thank you Dan, so glad you had a good time. We appreciate you choosing The Garden Cottage.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

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

Cottage stay

Very nice, relaxing time
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 May, 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star rating.
Verified

8/10 Good

Savannah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Cottage was very cozy and adorable. My only complaint was that it was close to a busy street and not as quiet as I would have preferred.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie H.

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

Awesome storybook cottage

The cottage was so adorable and peaceful. I highly recommend the cottage for those who are seeking something special.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May, 2025
Debbie, we appreciate your kind words. So glad y'all had a good time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anna S.

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

Beautiful Cottage

We really enjoyed our stay at the Garden Cottage! It is super cute and unique with lots of character. It is very close to town for shopping and dinner! A short drive to many state parks, lakes, and adventures!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Like a trip back in time. The vintage appliances and decor just added to the homey feel. Beautiful house, tranquil garden, lovely porch for relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug, 2025
Jeremy, so glad you enjoyed your visit. Thank you for such a wonder review.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rusty H.

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

Cozy Cottage

My wife and i spent the weekend in this quiet, cozy cottage for our 25th anniversary. The cottage was just like the pictures, and the host was easy to communicate with. We had a great trip. Will definitely stay here again if in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May, 2025
Thank you so much Rusty!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sSarah H.

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

Wonderful stay!

We loved the decor, the thoughtful details that made our stay enjoyable and the location—close to restaurants and downtown shops. I would absolutely love to book again, and will on any future trips to the area!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Naomi K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We went to Clayton to be close to some great hiking. Very cute cottage, 3 minute drive from Clayton proper. Close enough to walk but the main road lacked sidewalks near the cottage. It’s on a quiet side street. The cottage is as shown, lots of kitsch. The screened porch is secluded enough that it was lovely place to read a book.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct, 2025
I am so glad you enjoyed the Garden Cottage. You sure picked a good time for weather. Hope you will come back again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela R.

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

Quaint and cozy cottage

Everything you would want. Close to delightful downtown with restaurants and shops. Not far from Tallulah Gorge trails.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jun, 2025
Thank you Pamela!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chad M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was perfect, everyday my wife and I found some new antique that we didnt see the day before. Every room felt nice and cozy. Coffee on the front porch is a must. Thank you for a great week.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jul, 2025
That front porch is so peaceful! Glad you made that a morning ritual. Do come again!

About the host

Hosted by Ronnie Owings

Host profile image
Rabun County was our family vacation spot. In 2014 my wife and I bought this cottage, just to see how much we would use a second home. It didn't take long to realize that we needed to devise a plan to live here permanently. I've been a professional photographer for 35 years and love exploring what the world has to offer. No matter where we travel, I'm always counting the days 'til I can get back to Clayton. I am currently a Real Estate Agent in Rabun County. Let me know if you would like to Explore a home perfect for you.

Why they chose this property

We absolutely love everything about this property. We restored every room, without destroying its 1950 charm. We used it for 4 years as a weekend house, and 1 year as our permanent residence. We could live in 800 square feet just fine, but just had too many furnishings and collectibles to just keep in storage. When we gave up this house, we decided to offer it on VBRO to share it with others.

What makes this property unique

Location, Location, Location......is what we like about Toole Street. Walking into town for dinner was one of our favorite things to do. We certainly take advantage of all the tourist type of activities that draw people to this area........but we absolutely love the conveniences of Wal-Mart, Home Depot and even the hospital being one mile away.

Languages:

English

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