By: Mary Beth Skylis
Being labelled as a “resort” yields images of Caribbean all inclusives with pina coladas at the ready. But Georgia-based Barnsley Resort takes an entirely different approach to the vacation experience. Located in the northwestern region of the state, Barnsley is best known for its golfing and clay shooting experiences, culinary delights and unforgettable ambiance. Now, the resort is in the midst of many multi-million dollar renovations to make the property even more memorable.
As Dave Friederich, President of Barnsley, said during my stay, “We don’t want to be just another resort. We have to be different.”
This trip was hosted.
Overall Impressions
Barnsley Resort is an iconic southern destination for reasons varying from its stunning grounds to its lengthy history and updated cottages. What’s more is that it provides allure year-round, catering to visitors during every season. I visited the resort late last December where I had the chance to experience Christmas lights, campfire s’mores and clay shooting. After a few days on the property, I left feeling refreshed, relaxed and ready for the holiday season.
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What types of accommodations are available at Barnsley Resort for girlfriend getaways?
I stayed in the property’s biggest cottage, the Godfrey, after it had been updated in 2024. The building features seven rooms and holds up to 14 people. It also comes with a full kitchen, several porches and a spacious common area. The property has 39 cottages, which entail 85 suites, and 55 rooms and suites at the Inn. Prices run about $350 for a one night stay at the inn while cottages come with a slightly higher price point.
Updated Amenities at Barnsley Resort
- Cottages: The resort’s hallmark guest houses underwent a $6.2 million remodel that came to a finish near the end of 2024.
- Biergarten: Located in the heart of the village, the resort adopted a Biergarten that serves a mixture of European and German brews.
- Pickleball courts: Joining the latest craze, six new pickleball courts are available for use on the property.
- Sporting experience: A new five-stand station enhances the sporting clay experience on the Beretta Shooting Grounds in addition to two new 15-station clay course and a new field for Helice.
- Pool: In summer of this year, the resort unveiled updates to the saltwater pool including an expanded deck, eight new cabanas, televisions and custom chair covers by Atlanta-based Weezie Towels.
What amenities and activities are offered for groups of friends at Barnsley Resort?
Barnsley Resort provides a variety of activities and amenities for groups of friends. These are some of my favorites:
Brand New Pickleball Courts
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. In 2024, almost 20 million people partook in the sport, which marked a 45.8 percent increase in participation. Recognizing the demand for courts, Barnsley built six of them.
Sporting Experience
While on the premises of the resort, I had the chance to take a look at some of the new courses on Beretta Shooting Grounds, which cater to a wide range of abilities. While I was completely new to the sport of clay shooting upon my arrival, I shot a few clays out of the sky with the guidance of a local expert.
Places to Eat
The Biergarten
After a beautiful morning shooting clays in the mountains, my group took a trip to the freshly opened Biergarten for lunch. The new addition to the property includes a new kitchen, a massive smoker and an expanded menu with more traditional German elements. This is one of the property’s current dining highlights, and is easy to love due to its casual flare and delicious food.
Woodlands
Woodland is the go-to spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The dining room overlooks the golf course, which glows in the morning light. Menu items take a slightly elevated take on classic American dishes for every meal.
Jules Restaurant
The new Jules Restaurant is inspired by the travels of Chef Shaun Doty, and offers a menu that pays homage to the ingredients of the region, sourced from local purveyors, gardens and the resort’s farm. While I didn’t have the chance to experience it for myself, rumor has it that it’s as unforgettable as the rest of Barnsley’s new additions.
What are the best things to do at Barnsley Resort for a girls’ weekend getaway?
The beauty of Barnsley Resort is reason enough to visit the grounds, but there’s a wide range of activities available to keep the whole group entertained, as well. Some of my personal favorite past times included:
- Bourbon tasting: The resort creates its own pecan bourbon infusion for a carefully crafted drink. It’s also partnered with Woodford Reserve to elevate its cocktails.
- Spa Tea-LC treatment: The spa tea treatment launched in 2024, and utilizes a proprietary tea blend to firm and re-invigorate the body’s skin.
- Archery, Axe throwing, and Air rifle shooting: Partake in a bit of fun and head to the archery, axe throwing and air rifle shooting fields. The resort’s expert instructors guide participants through a three-course competition.
- Wander the grounds: Barnsley Resort is a popular wedding destination because of the sheer beauty of the grounds. But it also holds historical significance. Check out the museum and wander the ruins to acquire additional insight into the property’s unique story.
Other activities on the premises include golfing, forest bathing, horseback trail riding, and UTV trail riding.
Can you visit Barnsley’s gardens and use the spa or restaurants without staying overnight?
Some of the property’s amenities are open to the general public. For example, visitors can purchase day passes to access the pool and fitness center. You can also book the golf course, dining reservations and spa treatments without staying on the premises.
Is Barnsley Resort pet friendly?
Another quality that makes Barnsley Resort unique is its pet policy. Furry friends are welcome in most places on the property. Exceptions to this include the spa, the fitness center, indoor restaurants and the pool. Visitors to the property are permitted to bring up to two pets in Manor Rooms and Cottages, Cottage Suites, Arbor Cottages, Red House rooms, in the Wheaton Cottage and the Fugger Cabin. Dog treats and a signature Crew LaLa Barnsley Resort-branded bandana are included with the pet fee.
What’s nearby Barnsley Resort?
Barnsley Resort is located in a pretty remote region of Georgia. But those who are looking to explore the region outside of the resort might make a pit stop at the Adairsville Museum, the Savoy Museum or the region’s local hiking trails.
Up Next for Barnsley Resort:
- An 18-hole Himalayas putting green course
- A second pool with a zero-entry layout and lazy river
Dress Code, What to Pack
For the most part, visitors to Barnsley Resort wear casual attire and chic clothing for meals. Just make sure to pack a few layers since the region’s mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Getting There
The easiest way to get to Barnsley Resort is via car. Atlanta is about an hour and twenty minutes away from the resort, while Chattanooga is about an hour and ten minutes via car. Book a car rental or schedule a rideshare to make your way to and from the property.
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