Fresh Finds & Mountain Flavors: A Local Foodie Stroll from Hairy Coo Hideaway
By Jennifer and David
Morning: Mushrooms & Mountain Magic
Start your day with a short drive to Ellijay Mushrooms, a family‑owned, sustainable mushroom farm nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians. They cultivate shiitake, oyster, lion’s mane, and more on roughly 171 acres, and welcome visitors to explore their farm store, enjoy self‑guided tours, and even pick flowers when in season (ellijaymushrooms.com). It’s a hands‑on, down‑to‑earth way to connect with mountain‑grown produce—and a great spot to pick up gourmet mushrooms for a cozy dinner at the cabin.
Midday: Build‑Your‑Own Charcuterie in Downtown Ellijay
Next, head into downtown Ellijay and swing by Mountain View Artisanal. This charming shop specializes in local and farm‑fresh goods, offering ready‑made charcuterie boards or the ingredients to build your own—with exotic cheeses, honeys, jams, and more (mountainviewgourmet.com). Grab a board (or assemble your own haul) and bring it back to Hairy Coo Hideaway to enjoy on the deck with a mountain view.
Afternoon: Scenic Strolls & Orchard Browsing
After lunch, take your time wandering through the quiet streets of Ellijay or drive a bit farther toward Blue Ridge for a peaceful walk. Though not tied to food, the mountain air and forested surroundings are part of the flavor of this region—especially when paired with your farm‑fresh finds.
Evening: Elegant Dining with a Waterfall Backdrop
For dinner, treat yourself to The Falls at Blue Ridge, a refined restaurant just a few minutes’ drive away. This elegant venue serves chef‑curated dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and delivers a dramatic mountain ambiance—complete with views of a cascading waterfall (restaurant.thefallsatblueridge.com). It’s perfect for a special night out after a day of gathering local treats.
Why This Day Works for Hairy Coo Guests
- Proximity and pace: Each stop is minutes from your cabin, letting you savor the day without rushing.
- Local flavor, local stories: From mushrooms grown in mountain water to handcrafted charcuterie, every bite tells a local story.
- Perfect pairing: The farm‑fresh ingredients from Ellijay Mushrooms and Mountain View Artisanal make your evening at the cabin feel both indulgent and authentic.
Pack a cooler, bring your sense of curiosity, and let Ellijay’s tastes unfold at your own pace—right from your hideaway in the woods.