The Appalachian Mountain Foothills are Calling
Robyn provides our readers with a travelogue of her recent trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Robyn Spizman Gerson is a New York Times best-selling author of many books, including “When Words Matter Most.” She is also a communications professional and well-known media personality, having appeared often locally on “Atlanta and Company” and nationally on NBC’s “Today” show. For more information go to www.robynspizman.com.
If a mountain town nestled in North Georgia is calling your name, the reason is Blue Ridge, Ga. This charming town is filled with a colorful store-lined Main Street and downtown area, plus a throwback to simpler times. It’s home to a variety of restaurants, festivals, antique haunts, and regional attractions to be enjoyed by all.
A stroll down Blue Ridge’s downtown area and surrounding areas offers an inviting day trip visit and is an easy drive, approximately an hour-and-a-half from Atlanta. Cabins, rentals, homes and an appealing vibe has positioned Blue Ridge as a lively yet laid back cozy mountain town. The kid-friendly railroad train sounds its horn and circles the area for a fun trip into another place in time. The mix of home-grown delicacies, plus creative fare, adds a delicious dive into the good ole days.
Meet Mercier Orchards
When you arrive in Blue Ridge, head to Mercier Orchards, a beloved and well-known popular destination. Mercier is a one-stop, can’t miss resource for mouth-watering apples of every taste and description, plus fruits galore. According to Mercier family member and CEO, Joe Foster, “We are so proud of Mercier Orchards, with generations of loving attention is given to everything we grow. We pride ourselves on sustainable farming, 300 acres in fruit and 125 employees who are part of the Mercier family, making our farm a can’t miss destination, minutes from downtown Blue Ridge.”
This fourth-generation family and veteran owned and operated apple orchard founded back in 1943 by Bill and Adele Mercier has assembled a huge orchard store filled with an A-to-Z list of fresh fruit, baked goods, ciders, and shelves of specialty items throughout the sprawling bustling market. Hundreds of acres line the rolling hills with breathtaking views and are home to carefully lined trees and plants. With 80 years of farming experience, Mercier grows strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and more than 40 varieties of apples.
Year-round, Mercier Orchards has U-Pick events and even U-Plant events, which for decades have been a special tradition for families and kids who want a true learning farm-to-table experience. A love of farming and family supports this impeccably maintained orchard and visitors can sample the apples, apple butters — from ‘Ever Crisp Apple Butter to Apple Pecan butters — and don’t miss the pastries, including apple fritters, doughnuts, delicious apple pies, and ciders which are irresistible and tasty treats to bring home. One thing about your orchard visit to Blue Ridge is certain, when it comes to Mercier Orchards, you’ll be back. (www.mercierorchards.com)
Don’t Miss Black Bear Antique and Interiors
Next, while in Blue Ridge, check out Black Bear Antiques and Interiors. Brand new to their antique and collectible scene, Black Bear relocated from nearby Ellijay, which was a popular home to it for 15 successful years. The Ahlers Group, the Atlanta-based firm well-known for world-class auctions and estate sales, owns Black Bear and is excited to join the Blue Ridge community. They have assembled 80 dealers who are displaying a wide assortment of goods. Shoppers and treasure seekers will love strolling the aisles of this treasure trove of antiques, art, handmade items and vintage items of which Black Bear has become well known for and sought after for years.
Owner Robert Ahlers said, “We are thrilled to relocate to the Blue Ridge community celebrating the diversity of over 70 vendors and collectibles. There’s treasure in the hills of Blue Ridge and it is a remarkable community. While we just relocated, the interest and support has been outstanding. We’re located a block off downtown Blue Ridge and look forward to supporting community and welcoming guests to visit Black Bear.”
Ahlers added, “Just look for the 500-pound bronze bear standing outside our building. Black Bear offers locally sourced made goods, accessories, cabin décor, woodworking and crafts, antiques, memorabilia and there’s something for everyone.”
Black Bear Antiques and Interiors can be seen right off GA-515, a two-minute drive from downtown Blue Ridge and is easily accessible. The 21,000-square-foot antique mall is located at 4177 East 1st Street, with ample parking and minutes from Lake Blue Ridge. Black Bear Antiques is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday; and from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. www.blackbearantiques.com
Dining and Eating Out in Blue Ridge
With restaurants popping up, Blue Ridge has also become a source of delicious dining from casual to fine dining. The restaurants in Blue Ridge are yet another reason to stay for breakfast, lunch or dinner or even all three! Check the times and hours as some restaurants are open for dinner and not lunch.
For lunch, if you are longing for some Southern food, try Southern Charm located at 224 W. Main Street, which welcomes guests in a cheerful and true to its name, charming atmosphere. Located near the train depot, Southern Charm presents a warm and inviting home where you can enjoy some delectable Southern cuisine. The menu is designed to offer diners a taste of the deep south, with wonderful service and the essence of Southern hospitality. From fried chicken to fried chicken livers, okra to peach cobbler and bread pudding, if you are a Southern food lover, Southern Charm awaits you. Enjoy a variety of options and they also have a gluten-free menu.
Next, a highly popular restaurant is Twisted Tomato Blue Ridge on 11 Mountain Street. Imagine a high-end dining experience plus assorted gourmet pizzas that’s ready for guests. The restaurant includes around 8,000 square feet, seating up to 400 and the largest outdoor deck in Blue Ridge. Owner Michael Galinski shared, “As a brand-new restaurant, we’re open Thursday through Sunday and expansions and lunches will begin soon. We’re located in the heart of downtown Blue Ridge with ample customer private parking attached. The reception has been incredible, and it took three years to build out from start to finish and we have three full-service bars and ready for customers.” From intimate settings to large groups, it’s already a winner attracting special events who need larger spaces. Guests will discover the magic as every dish at Twisted Tomato is created fresh daily and you will be enticed to come back. www.twistedtomatoblueridge.com
Without question, Blue Ridge is a jewel and will continue to be a favorite place to visit. Whether you head there when the trees are turning in the fall for apple or berry picking time at Mercier Orchards or a chance to go treasure hunting at Black Bear Antiques and Interiors, Blue Ridge is filled with memorable experiences you’re certain to enjoy with family or friends.
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