Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant celebrates its centennial in 2022. 100 years of creating memories! It's the last surviving mountain lodge on a lake in Georgia. Because it has stayed true to the look and the feeling of another, perhaps more peaceful, time, it's been called both a regional and a national treasure. For decades generations have enjoyed the beauty of the lake and mountains. Carefully restored by preservationists in 2008 to maintain its ancestral charm, it features gardens of native plants, rock pillars and walkways, locust log decks, and balconies with views of old-growth oaks, pines, and hemlocks. Lake Rabun is one of the most beautiful lakes in the mountains of North Georgia.
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Nestled in a scenic setting, Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant has garnered compliments for its immaculate premises and cozy, rustic rooms, although some guests feel the rooms are on the smaller side. Despite the praise for the hotel's charming atmosphere and the attentive service provided by the staff, a number of visitors have expressed concerns regarding the value, citing the room size and certain service aspects not living up to the price point.
Nonetheless, the hotel's ambiance and amenities continue to be a draw for those seeking a comfortable retreat.
Atmosphere
Charming
Rooms
Cozy
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Pristine
Service
Inconsistent
Amenities
Relaxing
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We stayed at this cozy, small hotel for two nights during our visit to North Georgia. We stayed in two different rooms, one was a renovated room and I definitely advise paying the extra money to stay in one of these rooms.
The first room we stayed in was the Lake Rabun room located on the second floor on the front end of the hotel. It was very small with barely any extra space for anything like luggage. The description of the room states that it has a view of the manmade waterfall and koi pond, and that it has a balcony. The view is minimal to none and the balcony is a shared space outside of the room with no direct access from the inside of the room, so their description is a bit confusing and misleading. The second room we stayed in was the Firefox room located on the third floor. This is one of the renovated rooms, it has an individual thermostat in case you want to control the temperature in the room and it had a lot more space. The room wasn't large by any means but it definitely was larger than the Lake Rabun room. Also the bathroom was a separate area in the room, not just a continuation of it separated by a curtain as it was in the Lake Rabun room. There is also a small closet in the Firefox room which was not available in the Lake Rabun room. The beds were comfortable with lots of pillows and although there was no soundproofing in the rooms, we weren't disturbed by any noise and had a pretty restful sleep both nights. In both rooms you're welcomed with chocolate chip cookies which are delicious and worth indulging in.
The common areas include lots of balcony and porch space to relax and unwind, read a book or whatever. They also have lots of couches and chairs inside on both the ground and second floors if you prefer to stay inside. There are coffee machines on both guest room floors with single serve coffee, tea and hot chocolate pods as well as cereal bar snacks.
They have a restaurant on the property where they serve breakfast (included in the room rate) and dinner. The breakfast was pretty much a fix set of items for the day which included a mix of eggs and bacon along with either biscuits or grits, fruit, yogurt or muffin and very good coffee. We were asked to reserve a time for breakfast as they wanted to maintain social distancing during COVID times. We also had dinner at their restaurant and we were impressed with their food, wine options and service. We did not expect to find such an excellent restaurant in such a rural area, but we did and we loved it! Their cornbread croutons were to die for but honestly everything we had at dinner was wonderful.
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
There are many lovely places in North Georgia, but we have always enjoyed this area. If you don't have 1.5M for a place on the lake, check this place out. The unique buildings and history of the area add to the charm of Lake Rabun Hotel. We had a gift certificate from Christmas that we chose to use for our birthday weekend in January. Was a little hesitate to go to 'the lake" in January but we are happy we decided on the off season. It was warm and cozy. We were happy to have dinner one night at the inn, visited winery and Clayton on Saturday and stayed in during the rain storm on Saturday night. Breakfast and dinner were outstanding! The rain on the tin roof added to the experience. Talluah Gorge is very close and by Sunday the sun was shining so we hiked down the Gorge to the suspension bridge and back. 350 steps down and 350 steps back up took us about an hour total. Some things to know about an old inn. Rooms are small. There is no elevator. Sound carries in the wood lodge None of this is an issue if you have enjoyed Bed and Breakfast before . Use the white noise app on your phone. Bring quiet shoes and soft clothes to get comfy. Enjoy the fireplace and shared spaces. There is a Coffee machine and pods but I brought my own decaf pods. A small frig was outside our room Pack a healthy snack in case like us you did not want to leave the hotel for a light dinner. Ask the staff - they are super helpful and accommodating.
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Date of stay: January 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â The top floor in newer and has larger rooms and should be quieter due to less hall traffic
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Annie Branum, General Manager at Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
Responded Oct 16, 2020
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience in this fantastic (and informative) review! Off-season is the perfect time for a quiet escape and I'm thrilled to hear that the rain and our restaurant all made for a cozy evening in. We'd love to see you again!
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I have had this place saved to my trip advisor “wish list” and it did not disappoint. The hotel was exactly as I had hoped, quaint, quiet, cozy, friendly. We stayed in the Moonshine Room (which is the smallest in the hotel). The bed was comfy, a little squeaky but, after a day on the lake or on the trails you never wake til morning. We used the Sound Screen provided by the room to block out the noises of people walking outside the room. We had dinner twice while staying and both nights were delicious. My husband went for the fillet mignon both nights and loved it each time. I had pimento cheese fritters (my husband even liked them) and raspberry chocolate cheesecake (which even though delicious, had the consistency of a moose); second night I went for the pork tenderloin with an apple ginger chutney over curry risotto, and we had a slice of carrot cake to celebrate a birthday…it was all very good. Breakfast each morning was perfect combination of savory, sweet and substance to get you through your morning hikes! This morning is was an Cajun omelet, grits (from a local grist mill), sausage, beignet, and yogurt fruit medley. All the staff are very friendly and helpful. Jordan and Jill, our servers at dinner, and one particular lady who I wish I had remembered her name, always helped at the front desk and at breakfast and remember I don’t like eggs :). The only complaint I have is I do not live closer to visit more often. I will certainly share this gem with family and friends so they can visit.
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Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Â Make reservations for dinner (and breakfast if staying).
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from McKayla Buchanan, Guest Services / Front Office at Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
Responded Sep 5, 2022
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us this marvelous and detailed review! I am thrilled you found your stay as wonderful as you imagined, were able to fill your days with activities in the mountains and on the lake and experienced two delicious meals in our restaurant! I will pass your compliments along to my staff, and the restaurant manager, so this raving review can spread throughout the whole hotel! The front desk associate you are referring to is Amanda, and she is very accommodating! I hope Lake Rabun Hotel will be your choice of destination when you visit the North Georgia Mountains again as we look forward to accommodating you again!
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We stayed in the Garden Room for one night on 17th June and we chose the room because we thought it would offer a view of the garden. It didn't. It had a view through trees of the car park and the tranquility we hoped for was spoiled by either an exhaust fan from the kitchen or an a/c unit nearby... not sure which.
The grounds of the hotel are pleasant and you have the opportunity to sit on a couple of balconies to take it the atmosphere and charm of the location. The hotel isn't directly on the lake and tree foliage makes it difficult to see.
The biggest issue we faced was the noise as people moved about and guests talked to each other. The room itself was small but even after closing the door, you could still hear people moving around. Our next door neighbors may as well have stayed in our room such was the row coming from them and it wasn't particularly pleasant being woken during the night to listen to the strains of someone on the toilet next door.
Of course, this is an older hotel and the construction methods used back in 1922 are entirely different to modern trends and this is part of the reason you should choose to stay at this property.
The best part of the stay was dinner in the restaurant. Although the hotel was using best Covid-19 practices, they still delivered some excellent food in the evening. Breakfast, however, was disappointing as we were told quite forcibly it was "Chef's Choice." Sorry, but I can't agree with being a guest and being dictated to in this fashion.
Overall, our stay was just OK. Not sure we'd return to be perfectly honest but if you are aware of some of the quirks of the place, then there is no reason why you won't enjoy a stay at the hotel.
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Date of stay: June 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We spent two nights at the Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant. From the beginning of our stay and throughout the time we spent there it was evident the staff was caring, kind and genuinely devoted to making our experience pleasant. Both hotel and restaurant staff could not have been more helpful.
The hotel itself is almost one hundred years old and displays a certain peculiarity of character that could be interpreted as charming or irritating. The hotel is the most rustic structure where I have ever stayed. Most rooms have a queen bed and are extremely small. The walls are very thin and rooms have a white noise machine provided to drown out ambient noise from the rest of the hotel. Light sleepers will not fare well.
The included breakfast was fairly good but nothing creative or outstanding. The night we had dinner there the food was outstanding.
It is very difficult to rate this hotel. Those who appreciate something very rustic and unique will love it. Those guests who expect something more traditional and comfortable may have a different view.
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Date of stay: July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The hotel is a little old (100 yrs) and tired, needing some help. It is in a beautiful setting, in the woods surrounding Lake Rabun. We had a Sunday/Monday night reservation. We spent the Sunday afternoon in the hotel lobby with a bottle of wine, which was comfortable. Our room, the Minnehaha room was rather small, only one chair and the heat pump ran all night.
That evening we had dinner in the hotel restaurant. The menu was extensive, with the usual steak and seafood. We had the rainbow trout and shrimp and grits. Both were excellent, prepared just right. My wife said it was the best trout she had as were my shrimp and grits. Breakfast on Monday morning (included in room rate) was excellent as well, a vegetable omelet and bagel. The restaurant is the best thing about the hotel and I would give it my best rating.
As I said, the room was small but that was OK. The bath was really small, you could be on the toilet and wash your hands in the basin and shower at the same time. Not much area for bath product accessories. I was up first and had an OK shower. Not the same for my wife. There was barely a trickle of water and it was nearly cold.
As I said earlier, we had a 2 night reservation but gave up and checked out Monday morning, forfeiting the cost for the second night. The check-in person said we would be refunded the second night if they had another check-in for that room.
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Date of stay: April 2022
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â avoid Minnehaha room as it is to small
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from McKayla Buchanan, General Manager at Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
Responded Apr 18, 2022
I'm terribly sorry to hear that your stay was "disappointing." After reading your review, it sounds like your stay was enjoyable for the most part and that your room was the main issue. The second floor, where you booked your reservation, is home to our 1922 historic rooms. In an effort to preserve the hotel, these rooms have stayed very close to original; hence, the tight quarters. We realize that this is not for everyone; therefore, our third floor was recently added and holds two of our largest rooms, Appalachia and Witham Point. In addition, we have six two-bedroom cottages that can be viewed here: https://www.lakerabunhotel.com/lodging/fish-camp-cottages/ and https://www.lakerabunhotel.com/lodging/innkeepers-cottage/ . For your inconvenience, I'd like to offer you a 20% discount on your next two-night (or more) stay with us. We will note your account and it and it can be redeemed by calling the hotel to book directly at 706.782.4946. I hope that you will accept this offer and have a brand new experience at our historic hotel! This is our centennial year and we have lots of exciting events coming up that we'd love for you to be a part of!
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They provide excellent service and amenities. The owners and employees deliver a complete experience. They have thought of everything.
Pros Sleep - Very quiet and comfortable beds with complete control of HVAC Gas Grill Gas Fireplace to heat up the cabin quickly Good Wifi and Internet Fully stocked kitchen. The grounds are well maintained. The parking is more than adequate. The decor is perfect. Deck overlooking the woods. Very Clean Front desk quick to answer the phone with clear and concise answers to all your questions. Contactless checkin and check out. Very Well Done
Cons No blinds on the upstairs bedroom can create some privacy concerns when changing clothes. Breakfast in the restaurant is not an option for the cabins. It is clearly stated in the cabin description.
Bring all your food and you wont have to dine anywhere for any meal.
It was a perfect stay. The finest cabin that I have ever rented.
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Date of stay: April 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Quaint is the only word to describe the hotel. Although the rooms are small, several sitting areas inside and outside provide opportunities for reading, reflection, or just enjoying the sights and sounds. It’s an intimate space, allowing you to get acquainted with fellow travelers.
Breakfast comes with the room. We had advised the hotel beforehand that we were vegan and that we avoid processed sugar. They said they could accommodate us and, indeed, they did. Breakfast each morning included sauteed potatoes and vegetables. Breakfast also included fresh fruit: raspberries, blueberries, bananas, and huge strawberries. The restaurant bills itself as “farm to table” and their offerings prove it.
We ate supper at the restaurant the night we arrived. We were told to ask for the farmer's plate (not on the menu). It included a roasted portobello mushroom along with roasted potatoes, green pepper, and other vegetables. The meals were delicious and far exceeded our expectations - undoubtedly one of the best vegan meals we have ever had at a restaurant.
The staff were extremely helpful. The breakfast chef actually talked with us about our diet restrictions before preparing the meal. She then instructed the hostess how to prepare it the next two days since she was off work. Tiva, the hostess, subsequently prepared our breakfast while waiting on the other guests.
Overall, it was a wonderful stay. We look forward to our next visit.
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Date of stay: June 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Â Let them know any diet restrictions when you make your reservation. The area has excellent...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from McKayla Buchanan, Guest Services / Front Office at Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
Responded Jun 30, 2023
WOW! Thank you so much for leaving us this amazing review! We love to read our guest's feedback and wonderful experiences! I am so happy to read you enjoyed your stay, found our accommodations comfortable, and meals in our restaurant to be "delicious". Thank you for shining a light on our wonderful staff, their hard work and hospitable manners seem to never go unnoticed! We can't wait to welcome you back, so you can create more long-lasting memories at our enchanting historic hotel and award-winning restaurant!
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We both had the trout topped with toasted pecans, served with quinoa and fresh pea pods. It was delicious, though a modest portion. Fresh bread was wonderful too. Peach cobbler was the best I've ever had. One tip: the outdoor dining was on an attached screened in porch under a roof, so bugs and rain showers are not a problem.
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Date of stay: July 2020Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Four of us stayed in the Innkeepers Cottage and although the lodge was special, it did not live up to the expectations. The furnishings in the cottage were uncomfortable and dusty. The television was tiny and connectivity was poor. The hotel nearly sits on Lake Rabun but the closest public access is four miles away. No water views. Breakfast was included but disappointing. There was an added $75 cleaning fee for use of the cottage that I wasnt aware of when I made the reservation. The hotel's location gave us easy access to Angel Falls trailhead and a quick drive to Tallulah Falls State Park. There were several pretty balconies and porches to visit with friends and enjoy the natural setting but very little to do otherwise.
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from McKayla Buchanan, Guest Services / Front Office at Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
Responded Sep 8, 2023
We hate to read that our beloved Innkeeper’s Cottage did not live up to your expectations. It is very rare that we receive negative feedback about this cottage and its amenities. Most of our guests who have stayed in this cottage are delighted with the authentic antique furnishings and comforters of a full kitchen and a charming front deck for enjoying the natural beauty around us. Our histroic hotel in the North Georgia Mountains allows our guests to do as much or as little as they like. We offer many adventures you can book online, or over the phone, and can refer you to many sightseeing hikes! We appreciate your feedback!
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There are more places to choose from in the Lakemont area.
PRICE RANGE
$137 - $168 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
lake rabun hotel and restaurant, lake rabun lakemont
LOCATION
United StatesGeorgiaRabun CountyLakemont
NUMBER OF ROOMS
21
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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