Craving a mountain escape with Appalachian charm? Visit Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia! Tucked in the North Georgia mountains near Helen, this artsy, historic village is rich with culture, scenic beauty, and Southern hospitality. From waterfalls to wineries to folk art galleries, Sautee Nacoochee offers a peaceful retreat with plenty to explore.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sautee Nacoochee is in spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Enjoy blooming dogwoods in spring and brilliant leaf color in fall. Summer is great for tubing and hiking, while winter offers quiet mountain serenity.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Sautee Nacoochee is located along GA-17/GA-255, about 90 minutes northeast of Atlanta and just minutes from Helen, GA.
  • By Air: The nearest major airport is Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about a 2-hour drive away.
  • By Bus: There is no major bus service directly to Sautee Nacoochee; a car is recommended for access and exploration.

Where to Stay

  • Lucille’s Mountain Top Inn & Spa – Romantic B&B with stunning views, luxurious rooms, and a full-service spa.
  • Stovall House Inn – Historic Southern inn with charming accommodations and a peaceful countryside setting.
  • Cabins & Vacation Rentals – Rent a cozy mountain cabin or creekside cottage for a quiet getaway in nature.

Top Attractions

  • Hardman Farm Historic Site – Tour a 19th-century estate and view the famous Nacoochee Indian Mound.
  • Yonah Mountain Vineyards – Enjoy wine tasting with mountain views and elegant surroundings.
  • Chattahoochee National Forest – Hike scenic trails, discover waterfalls, and connect with nature just minutes away.
  • The Old Sautee Store – Iconic general store with gifts, snacks, and a charming 19th-century atmosphere.

⮕ Experience Arts, Heritage, and Community at The Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center

Experience Arts, Heritage, and Community at The Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center

© skumer/stock.adobe.com

Your visit to the Georgia Arts and Heritage District, of which Sautee Nacoochee forms a part, would be incomplete without taking a tour of the Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center. The center was established to safeguard and showcase the land, heritage and the community of this unique part of Georgia. At the heart of the property visitors can see a fully-restored old slave cottage which was built around 1850. The interior of the cabin features exhibits and displays which tell the story of the slave era in this part of Georgia. You can also visit the impressive Folk Pottery Museum and the Sautee Nacoochee History Museum.

Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center, 283 Highway 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571, Phone: 706-878-3300

⮕ If You’re Searching for Charm and Relaxation, Visit The Lavender Cottage and Garden

If You’re Searching for Charm and Relaxation, Visit The Lavender Cottage and Garden

© The Lavender Cottage and Garden

The Lavender Cottage and Garden is sure to be one of your most rewarding and memorable stops in the Sautee Nacoochee valley. Before you even enter the door of this quaint little gift shop you will be surrounded by the wonderful aroma of lavender. The store stocks a wide range of bath and beauty products which are made from their wonderful organic lavender. There are essential oils for aromatherapy treatments, fragrant linen sprays and much more. Then there are the delectable edibles – these include delicious lavender cookies, lavender honey and lavender-infused jams. You can pick up some recipes and buy special gifts for all your friends and family.

The Lavender Cottage and Garden, 53 GA-255 N, Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571, Phone: 706-878-0100

Where to Eat

  • Bernie’s Restaurant – Cozy eatery offering elevated Southern cuisine in a restored farmhouse setting.
  • Old Sautee Market – Grab sandwiches, baked goods, and coffee at this beloved local spot with picnic tables.
  • Sweetwater Coffeehouse – Laid-back café serving breakfast, lunch, and locally roasted coffee with vegetarian options.

Local Events

  • Fall Festival at Sautee Nacoochee Center (October) – Celebrates Appalachian culture with crafts, music, and local food.
  • Annual Folk Pottery Show & Sale (September) – Showcases traditional Southern pottery by regional artists.
  • Concert Series at SNCA (Year-round) – Enjoy live folk, bluegrass, and world music performances in an intimate venue.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia

  • Helen (10–15 min) – Explore this Bavarian-style alpine village with tubing, shops, and German-inspired cuisine.
  • Unicoi State Park & Lodge (10–15 min) – Hike, swim, fish, or zipline in this scenic mountain park surrounding Unicoi Lake.
  • Anna Ruby Falls (15–20 min) – Take a short hike to view this stunning twin waterfall deep in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
  • Yonah Mountain Trail (10–15 min) – Hike to sweeping summit views on one of North Georgia’s most popular mountain trails.
  • Smithgall Woods State Park (20–25 min) – Enjoy peaceful hiking trails, fly fishing, and guided nature programs in this serene park.
  • Dukes Creek Falls Trail (20–25 min) – Take a scenic woodland hike to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall near Helen.
  • Cleveland, GA (20–25 min) – Visit Babyland General Hospital (home of the Cabbage Patch Kids), local wineries, and shops.
  • Hardman Farm Historic Site (5 min) – Tour the grand 19th-century mansion and see the iconic Nacoochee Indian Mound at the gateway to Helen.
  • Chattahoochee River Tubing (Helen) (10–15 min) – Float down the cool river through the heart of Helen on a summer day.
  • The Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia (0–5 min) – Discover regional heritage and craftsmanship at this cultural gem in Sautee Nacoochee.

FAQ

  • Q: Where is Sautee Nacoochee located?
  • A: Sautee Nacoochee is a small mountain village in the Georgia Arts and Heritage District.
  • Q: What historical significance does Sautee Nacoochee hold?
  • A: It was established around the area where Native American Indians built the Sautee Nacoochee Burial Mound back in 1350 – 1600 CE.
  • Q: What can visitors do in Sautee Nacoochee today?
  • A: Today, the village attracts visitors who come to explore the culture, museums, galleries, historic sites, and a 150-year-old grocery store.
  • Q: What makes the landscape of Sautee Nacoochee special?
  • A: The surrounding landscape is especially scenic and dotted with vineyards and wineries that welcome visitors for tours and tastings.

Plan Your Trip