Don’t call it glamping.
No, folks, this is a “groundbreaking” lodging option and “sanctuary of architectural brilliance” in the North Georgia Mountains, about 60 miles north of Buckhead.
That’s how a preview announcement for Vayhaus Ellijay describes the new boutique hotel venture at 167 Vauhaus Trail in the small town of Talking Rock, where “roughing it” basically means going without room service for the night.
The concept from husband-wife hospitality veterans Mike and Raquel Ayres is on pace to open later this spring, spread across 60 wooded, rolling acres marketed as being soothingly, charmingly unpredictable.
Courtesy of Vayhaus Ellijay
North of Atlanta's suburbs, the unique lodging concept's location at 167 Vauhaus Trail in Talking Rock. Google Maps
Expect 12 private, modern-style bungalows dotted across the property, each with mountain forest views and an emphasis on huge glass walls to help bring the outdoors inside. Other bungalow features will include hammocks, a dipping pool/hot tub, and what’s described as “celestial bathing.”
The goal is to lend a feeling of adventure and immersion without sacrificing comfort. (Note: high-speed internet, suspended fireplaces, full kitchens, and golf carts are included).
Other aspects of the property include The Disco Forest (description: “an intimate evergreen nook with ambient lighting and a way to play music, creating a simple yet special space for couples to share a dance”) and The Culvert Lounge (a “collection of structural pods nestled by the nearby creek that invite moments of reflection, conversation, and quiet inspiration.”) Other perks coming later in 2025 include on-site saunas and what’s called the Triple Waterfall Plunge Pools, per hotel leadership.
Nearby recreation options include hiking trails, mountain biking routes, fly-fishing, horseback riding, vineyard tours, and tubing, per the Vayhaus announcement.
Listed king-bed options start at $475 per night. Sorry, fido: no pets allowed.
Courtesy of Vayhaus Ellijay
Courtesy of Vayhaus Ellijay
“The idea for Vayhaus came from a frustration with existing options,” said Mike Ayers, who started the brand with vacation homes opened throughout Georgia and Tennessee in 2020. “Traditional hotels felt uninspired, and while there were adventure-focused stays, they often lacked thoughtful design or real comfort. We saw an opportunity to create something different.”
Vayhaus properties are “designed to create an emotional reaction and an uncompromising commitment to design,” added Raquel Ayers in the announcement, “where every detail contributes to an experience that sticks with you long after you leave.”
Find more context and Vayhaus Ellijay imagery in the gallery above.
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