Nestled among the beautiful North Georgia mountains, The Woodbridge Inn Restaurant and Lodge welcomes visitors to sit back and enjoy the view. Whether gazing out the dining room at impressive Sharptop Mountain or overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains from one of the guest rooms, they will not be disappointed. The peaceful serenity wraps around guests like a favorite old quilt, inviting them to relax in its comfort and warmth.

In the 1880s, James Lenning, having made his fortune during the California gold rush, purchased the land and built a hotel. While building a reputation for its meals – guests took their meals at one long table – the hotel also became a meeting place for traveling salesmen. Through the years, the hotel played host to several Georgia governors including Gene Talmadge, Ed Rivers and Richard Russell.

During the following decades, the hotel changed hands several times before Joe and Brenda Rueffert purchased it in 1976. At that time, the Ruefferts renamed the hotel after the one-lane wooden bridge leading to the property.

In 1982, the Ruefferts opened 12 guest rooms to the public in what they refer to as “the Lodge.” The rooms overlook the North Georgia mountains as well as the manicured grounds of the Woodbridge Inn. Today, the property contains 18 guest rooms plus three extended-stay rental houses.

Each room has either a balcony or patio on which to enjoy the view. The rooms on the top floor, the Eagle’s Nest, also feature an extra sitting loft. Amenities include ceiling fans, cable TV, wireless high-speed Internet, hairdryers and coffee makers. Every morning, the Ruefferts provide coffee and breakfast pastries in the rooms.

The restaurant has earned a reputation for one of the best in North Georgia. The cuisine contains American and European fare as well as some German dishes. Joe says he credits the restaurant’s success to a high level of personalized service and quality of food.

When not ensconced in their rooms or enjoying a meal, guests can laze by the swimming pool or stroll by one of the gold fish and koi ponds. For a little fun off the property, visitors can explore the streets of Jasper, just across the wooden bridge. Hiking, fishing and boating can be enjoyed nearby at Fort Mountain State Park and Carters Lake in Ellijay.

Twenty-five years later, the Woodbridge Inn Restaurant and Lodge has become a favorite destination among both locals and travelers. www.woodbridgeinn.net