Self-care o’clock: 7 R&R getaways from Atlanta during Labor Day weekend

Let’s face it: Atlanta during Labor Day weekend can get pretty crazy with Dragon Con, the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Games and Atlanta Black Pride. If you need to take a break from the crowds, grab your GPS and map out the below locations that will allow you to get a little rest and relaxation time and bask in the last few days of summer sunlight.

Barnsley Resort

Just around an hour away from downtown Atlanta, Barnsley Resort offers a serene getaway on 3,000 lush acres inspired by villages in England. Choose from spacious rooms at The Inn, or opt for charming cottages and manors. Saddle up on a horse and explore the premises with a guided tour, or take axe throwing, archery or air rifle lessons. Play disc golf or go fishing on the nearby lake, or hike/bike on the surrounding nature trails. Explore the Manor House Ruins, which are the remains of the original Italian-style villa built by Godfrey Barnsley, the resort’s namesake.

Location: Adairsville - 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd NW; Website: barnsleyresort.com; Contact: 770-773-7480

Brasstown Valley Resort

Location near the North Carolina state line, Brasstown Valley Resort is nestled in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stay in a guest room at the lodge or a cottage in the woods to unwind and relax while taking in the fresh air and glorious vistas on the balconies. Partake in various activities without even leaving the resort, such as horseback riding, axe throwing, fishing, golf and just under 10 miles of hiking trails that stretch into the Chattahoochee Natural Forest.

Location: Young Harris - 6321 US-76; Website: brasstownvalley.com; Contact: 706-379-9900

Callaway Resort and Gardens

Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains 80 miles southwest of Atlanta, Callaway Resort and Gardens is a glorious 2,500-acre treasure that offers “solace, inspiration and discovery.” Lay down on the sand at Robin Lake Beach (before they close right after Labor Day) or relax at the resort spa. Ziplining is also offered for adventurous types. The location also boasts multiple activities for adults and children alike, including the Callaway Discovery Center, Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, Azalea Bowl and Azalea Garden, Thornhill Hydrangea Garden and more.

Location: Pine Mountain - 17617 US-27; Website: callawaygardens.com; Contact: 855-894-0420

Chateau Elan Winery and Resort

Sip back and relax at Chateau Elan, a mansion resort inspired by the French countryside and located 45 miles from downtown Atlanta in the north Georgia foothills. You’ll be on cloud wine with the range of activities offered, from wine tastings and cooking classes to charcuterie workshops and painting classes, as well as traditional resort offerings including spa, golf and fitness.

Location: Braselton - 100 Rue Charlemagne Dr; Website: chateauelan.com; Contact: 678-425-0900

The Rockwell House

Suited for those who are interested in history and architecture, The Rockwell House is a quaint refurbished mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located in the town of Milledgeville, Georgia’s former capital city. Visit some of Milledgeville’s attractions, including the Old Governor’s Mansion, Andalusia Farm (the home of author Flannery O’Connor), the Old Capitol Building, and Rose Hill at the Lockerly Arboretum. Downtown Milledgeville also has charming restaurants and shops, and nearby Lake Sinclair is perfect for a boat day. There are only four guest suites available at the Rockwell House, so book early.

Location: Milledgeville - 402 Allen Memorial Dr; Website: rockwellhousega.com; Contact: 706-816-3675

Valhalla Resort Hotel

Head to the “Alp”alachian Mountains! Valhalla Resort Hotel is a luxury resort located in the Bavarian Alpine-inspired village of Helen and offers spa and golf amenities, including a rooftop bar overlooking the gorgeous mountain scenery. There are plenty of activities to do in Helen, including tubing on the Chattahoochee River, hiking to Anna Ruby Falls, and ziplining at Unicoi State Park. Downtown Helen also offers quirky German shops and restaurants to explore.

Location: Helen - 688 Bahn Innsbruck; Website: valhallaresorthotel.com; Contact: 706-878-2200