5 Private Georgia Estates from Athens Acres to Lake Hartwell Retreats

Surrounded by six private acres beneath a canopy of mature hardwoods, 151 Hickory Pointe Drive offers an estate setting on Athens’ Eastside with a sense of quiet authors’ retreat. Built in 1996 as the home and creative refuge of acclaimed Georgia author Terry Kay and his wife, the residence was designed to sit comfortably within its natural backdrop. A winding drive arrives at a home framed by large windows and four porches, each oriented to peaceful woodland views. Inside, the main level balances formal and relaxed living with a dining room, open great room with fireplace, and a kitchen and breakfast area. A spacious primary suite opens to a private deck overlooking the saltwater pool and expansive patio, while an office or guest bedroom, half bath, mudroom, and laundry complete the floor. Upstairs, two libraries with built-ins, a central loft, and two bedroom suites extend the story.

Along a quiet cul-de-sac in Alpharetta’s Windward community, this beautifully maintained residence balances light-filled scale with thoughtful updates. A renovated kitchen pairs white cabinetry with quartz countertops and ample storage, opening to a two-story family room and extending outdoors to a screened-in porch. From here, the view is all green—lush outdoor space, a private flat backyard, and a dedicated fire-pit area that naturally supports easy entertaining. Flexible living continues inside: a main-level bedroom with an adjoining full bath currently serves as a home office, while the terrace level adds another bedroom and full bath, plus a media room, a separate games/dining area, and walk-out backyard access. Upstairs, four bedrooms include the primary suite with a renovated bath, soaking tub, and spacious walk-in closet. Community amenities include a private lake, swim/tennis, playgrounds, and events, with Avalon, Halcyon, downtown Alpharetta, the Greenway, and GA 400 close by.

Surrounded by five private acres in Rincon, this custom barndominium balances refined finishes with hard-working design. Built on a 6-inch slab of 4000 PSI industrial concrete, its 100% engineered red iron structure is detailed with substantial I-beams throughout. A large covered front porch opens to a two-story entry with a powder room and storage closet, leading into a spacious living room anchored by a striking stone fireplace. The kitchen pairs quartz countertops with designer tile backsplash, custom wood accents, and a bold modern palette. Daily routines are streamlined by a mudroom and laundry with built-in cabinetry, utility sink, custom dog kennels, and a generous walk-in pantry. The split floor plan includes luxury vinyl plank flooring, a primary suite with coffered ceiling and spa-like ensuite, plus a loft and private office upstairs, and a covered back porch overlooking the property.

Set on 4.93 acres of level, fully fenced, beautifully maintained land in Blairsville, this private, gated Southern farmhouse retreat pairs timeless charm with modern comfort. A wide wrap-around porch sets the tone for interiors shaped by warm craftsmanship and thoughtful details. Outdoors, mature landscaping frames a firepit, fenced garden area, screened pavilion, potting shed, and a workshop with bonus room—ready for hobbies, gatherings, and slow afternoons. Inside, a gourmet kitchen with an oversized island anchors everyday life, while the great room opens seamlessly to the garden setting. Upstairs, the primary suite adds a cozy fireplace and spa-style bath with jetted garden tub, dual vanities, separate shower, and an oversized walk-in closet, plus sunrise views of Brasstown Bald. A mudroom, expansive laundry with custom built-ins, attached full apartment, oversized two-car garage, circular drive, and an old-time cabin complete the mini-farm experience.

Along the shores of Lake Hartwell in Lavonia, this beautifully updated retreat balances easygoing waterfront living with thoughtful improvements throughout. A landscaped front yard framed by palm trees sets a resort-style tone from the start. Inside, the updated kitchen centers on a custom island, while refreshed bathrooms keep the look clean and current. A versatile bonus room adapts effortlessly—welcoming overnight guests, supporting a work-from-home routine, or serving as a casual recreation space. Outdoors, the setting truly takes over: a gentle walk leads you down to the water and a private dock, inviting unhurried mornings and long afternoons on the lake. An oversized deck extends the living space, crowned by a covered tiki bar designed for relaxed gatherings that drift easily from daylight into evening.