My buddy, Rodger, is getting married this winter and the groomsmen are sponsoring a Bachelors’ Weekend at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. Ok. We’re not spa-type dudes. But we do love horses, drinking beer, playing golf, hitting the town’s fun places, and hiking in the forests of the Blue Ridge mountains – especially in fall.

Rodger knows where we are going, but we are keeping everything a surprise until we all get here at the end of October. Some of us are into the fall leaves and I check out Georgia State Parks Leaf Watch to get updates on best colorful hikes.

In a way, this fall weekend is all about transitions. Rodger is marrying soon. Our friendships and relationships grow, and are in constant change as we each reach different milestones in our own lives.

I reserved a 2-hour guided trail ride on horseback for the five of us. Some of us grew up with horses here in Georgia, so this is familiar territory. But one of the groomsmen is from the Big City so this will be his first time on a horse.

I love riding in the valleys and over streams. The smell of fresh hay in the stables is refreshing and the horses seem eager to go. Check out the Brasstown Stables. It’s for everyone – resort guest or not – and you can book a custom excursion, hayride, or catered picnic ride for one person or a group.

Our next full moon is October 28. You can bet that night we’ll be at Brassie’s Grill, the resort’s pub with fireplace and pool tables and afterward, the fire pit.

Rooms with Views

Cottages: If being closer to the woods appeals to you, stay in a cottage room. Brasstown Valley’s mountain motif cottages are available in a variety of layouts and rooms are rented individually.

The Lodge Suites: Perhaps you want to be close to the action at the Lodge in an amazing room. Of the 102 guest rooms at The Lodge, 5 are suites with fireplaces and amenities. *We booked two suites with fireplaces.

• We’re going to play a round of golf at the Denis Griffiths-designed 18-hole championship golf course. It’s a Scottish links-style layout with rolling hills and bent grass greens and the views are simply beautiful. Despite the friendly competition, this is one of the most peaceful golf courses in the South.
• We’re also heading into Young Harris and Hiawassee to get in on a winery tour and some live music. Can’t decide yet, but we’re looking at Crane Creek Vineyards and Hightower Creek Vineyards.

I think that Rodger’s Bachelors’ Weekend will be awesome. Here’s how you can book your stay. It’s always a good time to be here: fall leaves, transitions, and life celebrations!

By Todd W.