Experience Southern Hospitality like Never Before

All cottage facades are painted in natural hues—including Dried Thyme, Sage, and Shell White.

Roughly 60 miles outside of Atlanta, Barnsley Resort features 140 guest rooms, a world-class Jim Fazio-designed golf course, boutique spa, pool, and six newly added pickleball courts, among many more resort upgrades.

Picturesque views abound at the historic ruins and garden.

Designed by Charlotte Lucas Design, a mix of vintage-inspired pieces and artwork mingle inside cottages.

Sophisticated wooden vanities and a checkered tile floor are complemented by whimsical wallcoverings and gold accents.

Lively sporting dog scenes dot the drapes while flora- and fauna-inspired artwork hold court inside the cottage bedroom.

Guests in the mood for fireside chats or s’mores can cozy up at one of the resort’s many firepits.

A quick hour-and-a-half drive from Atlanta means vacation mode can set in earlier than usual. Which is exactly what is needed when I pull into Barnsley Resort, greeted by rolling golf greens, a tree-lined path, and friendly gate attendant.

Situated on the site of a historic 1840s estate, Barnsley Resort is one of the South’s most desired destinations—especially for nearby Atlantans. The 3,000-acre property brims with gorgeous gathering spots, farm-to-table dining options, an array of activities, and 39 recently renovated free-standing cottages, inclusive of 85 guest rooms and suites. The only challenge you’ll encounter is choosing what to fill your day with.

At Barnsley, everything is in close proximity. A quick jaunt from the inn after checking in, the Outpost is the go-to destination for snacks, shopping, and picking up supplies for planned activities. The property is dotted with firepits, and s’mores ingredients are set out every evening at six. I make sure to make a mental note of this because, like many, my vacations revolve around culinary delights—which, fortunately, there is no shortage of at Barnsley.

Executed by Charlotte Lucas Design, the property’s recent $6.2 million remodel is immediately evident. Like stepping into a storybook, my little white cottage features whimsical English detail and thoughtful millwork. Inside, clear character shines through with bold patterns and mixed materials inspired by the surrounding natural environment. The plaid headboard and bedskirt are my personal favorites, and perhaps aid in my good night’s sleep.

Breakfast at Woodlands is a must. Endless coffee and garden-fresh avocado toast fuel me for my action-packed day that kicks off at the updated Beretta Shooting Grounds. After choosing the lake trail, I’m whisked away by golf cart with my instructor whose spot-on advice ensures I hit at least one clay per station—not too bad for a novice. Afterwards, lunch at the recently debuted and open-air Biergarten does not disappoint; I indulge in all the German classics: pretzels, beer, and bratwurst.

A leisurely game of pickleball and a walk to the historic ruins follows. What remains of the original manor built by Godfrey Barnsley for his wife, Julia, overlooks the planned garden and is a can’t-miss. By day, catch sight of the beautiful blooms, and at night, see how the ruins glow with hundreds of twinkling lights. Just beyond, The Farm is home to horses, ponies, and goats, and the best way to experience Barnsley is on the trails by horseback.

As is not unusual at the end of a vacation, my weekend goes by too fast and reinforces the reasons why so many Atlantans call Barnsley Resort their home away from home. barnsleyresort.com