Georgia

Richly endowed by nature, the Deep South state of Georgia works hard to make its hospitality standards worthy of its fabulous forests, coastal lagoons, islands, mountains, and wealth of historical attractions. The effort has paid off magnificently; this largely rural corner of Dixieland is a visitors' delight, offering almost unlimited variety. The best places to stay in Georgia put you in easy reach of something for everyone when it comes to family holiday fun..

With its pleasant, though sometimes sultry, subtropical climate, Georgia is one of the USA’s agricultural breadbaskets, hence the use of the peach as the state symbol. Fruit , cereals and greens all grow in profusion, and this landscape perfectly sets off the elegance and beauty of the stately antebellum (pre-Civil War) architecture, which has a flavour all its own.

Northerners – including President Franklin Delano Roosevelt who for years enjoyed R&R at Warm Springs GA – have discovered the delights of Georgia as a place to warm the bones. Today’s visitors are not content to stay static in one place, and why should they? Not when the opportunities – rafting, hiking, biking, live music and golfing among many others – are available to such a magnificent standard.

A visit to Georgia can take many forms. Atlanta is one of America’s most progressive cities, while the coastal centres like Savannah are a byword for old world elegance and golfers can rave about St Simon's Island, whiere every property has its own course. But it’s the landscape, with its profusion of magnolia and a host of other flowers that will inspire you to go out and explore for yourself.

Got some time to spend in the Peach State? How about checking out the following highlights:

• World of Coca-Cola: It helps if you like the stuff, but even so, this is a fascinating family trip looking into the rise of the world’s most popular soft drink, and the business branding phenomenon surrounding it.

• Stone Mountain: Georgia had a starring role in the US Civil War (1861-865) and Confederate monuments are everywhere. None more spectacular than Stone Mountain, the somewhat controversial giant relief carving of the South’s great military heroes.

• Georgia Aquarium: One of America’s finest. Great way to keep everyone amused in Atlanta. Leaders in conservation as well as presenting sea life in the most entertaining way.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Georgia has something to suit all tastes from luxurious city pads to beach side resorts and charming B&Bs.

For urban animals

• In the heart of Atlanta’s city centre, W Atlanta Downtown, is ideal for the nightlife, and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia World Congress Center and the Georgia Dome. It comes with a seriously trendy aesthetic, great spa and fitness centre
• By contrast, you could try the Stonehurst Place, a delightful old world B&B in the heart of the Atlanta, full of reminders of the city’s 19th Century heritage, A unique combination of impeccable preservation and modern amenities
• The Mandarin Oriental Atlanta offers all the top grade quality and luxury you would expect from this upmarket brand, but with an overlay of Southern charm and smooth sophistication.

For beach boys and girls

• For the perfect setting, great golf, ocean views and friendly southern hospitality, try the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St Simon’s Island. This upmarket resort comes with great restaurants, boutique shopping and offers eco-adventures for all the family.
• The Lodge At Sea Island regularly wins top hotel trophies, as a premier hideaway resort for seekers of luxury and privacy. With distinctive architecture designed to recreate an English country manor, it also has that unmistakable feel of the heyday of the old South, not to mention two 18-hole championship courses. Also, interestingly, bagpipe lessons!

For Southern comfort-seekers

• The Azalea Inn & Gardens in Savannah is a classic southern town house hotel, with pillars and porches, located in the Garden District, easily walkable from downtown. Its owners have a marvellous hospitality ethic, and everything about it - from the shrimp-and-grits breakfast to the pool and fountain - is enticing.
• The Smith House is a traditional hostelry located in the Appalachian town of Dahlonega, and has been open for business since 1899 dispensing Southern hospitality. It Prides itself on its home-cooked country cooking; fried chicken, sweet baked ham fresh, steamed vegetables; homemade yeast rolls and corn muffins that melt in your mouth. What’s not to like?

Nothing here that fits the bill? Browse through our pick of all the best places to stay in Georgia, or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.