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Barnsley Resort, nestled in the picturesque northwest region of Georgia, redefines the traditional resort experience by offering a distinctive blend of outdoor activities, refined dining, and a captivating atmosphere. Unlike typical all-inclusive destinations, this unique retreat emphasizes active pursuits such as golf and clay shooting, complemented by gourmet culinary offerings. The property is currently undergoing significant multi-million dollar enhancements, demonstrating its commitment to continually elevating the guest experience. This commitment to being different, as articulated by the resort's president, ensures that Barnsley stands out as a truly unforgettable destination, providing a refreshing and memorable escape for all who visit.

Barnsley Resort captivates visitors throughout the year, with its stunning grounds and rich history providing a constant allure. A recent visit in late December showcased the resort's ability to create a festive and relaxing environment, complete with enchanting Christmas lights, cozy campfire s'mores, and invigorating clay shooting sessions. The stay left a lasting impression of rejuvenation, perfectly preparing for the upcoming holiday season.

Accommodation options at Barnsley are diverse, ranging from the spacious Godfrey cottage, recently updated in 2024 to comfortably house up to 14 guests across seven rooms, to numerous suites within 39 cottages and 55 rooms at the Inn. The Godfrey cottage notably includes a full kitchen, multiple porches, and an expansive common area, catering to larger groups. While Inn rooms typically start around $350 per night, cottages are priced slightly higher, reflecting their enhanced amenities and capacity.

The resort has invested significantly in new and upgraded amenities. A $6.2 million renovation completed in late 2024 modernized the guest cottages. The introduction of a Biergarten in the village center, serving European and German beverages, adds a unique culinary dimension. For sports enthusiasts, six new pickleball courts have been installed, tapping into the growing popularity of the sport. Additionally, the Beretta Shooting Grounds have been enhanced with a new five-stand station and two new 15-station clay courses, alongside a new Helice field, enriching the sporting experience.

Barnsley Resort offers an array of activities perfect for groups and individual guests alike. Beyond the recently added pickleball courts, which cater to the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with its nearly 20 million participants in 2024, the resort excels in its sporting experiences. Even newcomers to clay shooting, like myself, can enjoy success under expert guidance on the new Beretta Shooting Grounds. Culinary highlights include the newly opened Biergarten, featuring a state-of-the-art kitchen, a large smoker, and an expanded menu of traditional German dishes. Woodlands Grill provides an elevated take on classic American cuisine for all meals, with views overlooking the golf course, while the new Jules Restaurant, inspired by Chef Shaun Doty's travels, promises a memorable dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.

For those seeking a memorable girls' weekend, Barnsley Resort offers a plethora of engaging activities. Guests can indulge in unique experiences such as bourbon tasting, featuring the resort's pecan bourbon infusion and Woodford Reserve partnerships. The spa offers a rejuvenating Tea-LC treatment, launched in 2024, utilizing a special tea blend for skin revitalization. For competitive fun, the archery, axe throwing, and air rifle shooting fields provide expertly guided three-course competitions. Simply wandering the beautiful and historically significant grounds, exploring the museum, and visiting the ruins also offers a profound appreciation for the property’s unique narrative. Additional activities include golfing, forest bathing, and various trail rides.

The resort also extends its hospitality beyond overnight stays, allowing day visitors to access certain amenities. Day passes are available for the pool and fitness center, and it's possible to book golf rounds, dining reservations, and spa treatments without being an overnight guest. Notably, Barnsley Resort is remarkably pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions in most areas of the property, excluding the spa, fitness center, indoor dining areas, and pool. Specific cottages and rooms accommodate up to two pets, and a pet fee includes special treats and a branded bandana, highlighting the resort's inclusive approach.

Looking ahead, Barnsley Resort has plans for further expansion, including an 18-hole Himalayas putting green course and a second pool area featuring a zero-entry design and a lazy river. While the resort is situated in a somewhat secluded part of Georgia, guests looking to venture off-site can explore local attractions such as the Adairsville Museum, the Savoy Museum, or nearby hiking trails. The dress code is generally casual, with slightly more chic attire suitable for evening meals, and packing layers is recommended due to the region's variable mountain weather. Access to the resort is most convenient by car, with Atlanta and Chattanooga both approximately an hour's drive away, making rental cars or rideshares viable transportation options.