As a high school student at Rabun Gap Nacoochee School, builder and architect Bob Marthai fell in love with the North Georgia Mountains. Years later, he returned to Helen, Georiga, with a medieval vision that included gardens, orchards, and yes, a castle. The only thing that seems to be missing is the moat.
“Alpine Helen is naturally a great fit for European-inspired castle architecture,” explains his daughter and property manager Naomi Marthai. “It is surrounded by mountains of lush forests full of waterfalls and impressive biodiversity that is hard to rival.”
His objective took 18 years to manifest, but the result feels like a European destination. Castle Uhuburg (pronounced OO-hoo-berg and German for Eagle Owl Castle) welcomes visitors and overnight guests to explore its serene mountain grounds and enjoy a peaceful getaway. Here are the best ways to spend your time while visiting this new North Georgia treasure.
Take a Tour or Learn Swordsmanship
The property is open Saturday and Sunday during mid-day. Walk the property at your own pace or opt for a guided tour that explains the architectural, philosophical, and garden elements. The highlight 60-minute guided tour departs from the red gate on the hour. A 15-minute tour of the Great Hall and atrium takes place twice per hour; gather at the back entrance of the Great Hall.
Upon arrival, a shuttle will transport you from the parking area up the mountain to the castle. Feel free to bring your own food and beverage, and don’t forget to check the weather forecast. Plan your visit to coincide with Swordsmanship workshops—included in admission—presented by the Appalachian Sword Club. It’s a hands-own chance to try this ancient artform.
Other events include Contra at the Castle, an English Country Ball, and the signature event CastleFaire, held each January. Special events require reservations.
Admire the Murals
Eight murals line the lower 1,300-foot castle wall surrounding the perimeter of the courtyard. They illustrate humanity’s quest to understand life through the ages, depicting stories and ideologies from various religions and philosophies. The property plans on a total of 30 murals in the coming years.
Walk the Gardens
Two acres of manicured grounds greet you as you enter the property. Color explodes in the spring, showcasing roses, azaleas, rhododendron, mountain laurel, plus flowering fruits, while fall ushers in varying hues of the changing season as well as the garden harvest. Find peace in the Zen Garden, a traditional Japanese space for meditation, or gander at the Carnivorous Bog Garden, with Venus flytraps with jaws wide open.
Take in the Castle
A true Renaissance castle, the structure has 12 towers, one turret, and three gatehouses. The Great Hall, its central masterpiece clothed with lavender walls and ceiling and beams of white pine hewn from trees that once stood on the property, is for “celebrating the good life we have,” explains Bob. The indoor atrium provides the ‘greenhouse effect’ and is home to a variety of plants. Admire the classical statues throughout the grounds, and embrace the tranquil setting. The attention to historical detail is showcased in every room.
Stay the Night
Wake up in one of the 10 chambers tucked within the castle walls, all elegantly decorated with unique furniture, art, and décor Marthai has collected over time. Overnight stays allow guests to experience their own one-of-a-kind fairytale. Chambers host two guests while the Duchess Chamber accommodates three.
“Guests are treated to the exceptional ambiance of a Renaissance castle,” describes Naomi. “Our suites are beautifully appointed, each with its own distinct character and style, featuring ornate furnishings. A gourmet breakfast awaits each morning, which often features produce grown on-site. During their stay, guests have access to many more interior spaces not open to the public, as well as the castle towers, grounds, and gardens at any time.”
Regardless of what brings you to the castle, the Marthai family hopes the time spent at Castle Uhuburg will be reflective, rejuvenating, and inspirational.