Castle-Life Arrives in Helen, Georgia
Owners Bob and Janine Marthai dreamed of a castle in North Georgia, and after 18 years of lovingly transforming the mountain landscape in Helen, they are opening the castle doors. From foundation to tower, a multitude of workers and volunteers have made this dream a reality.
Considered a philosophical place, Uhuburg grew as place for the study of nature and sources of knowledge, belief and truth. Inside the lower level is a 1,300 foot wall depicting historical philosophies and religions. The gardens continue the narrative of understanding. Throughout the castle and its landscape, Uhuburg champions the Renaissance virtues of reason, knowledge, beauty and truth. And taking into consideration its location, the structure features European design incorporating elements characteristic of Appalachia and its customs.
Along with their daughter Naomi, Bob and Janine have found the good life at Uhuburg. It is a “philosophical, food producing, naturalistic and celebratory place” located outside the city of Helen. A fully immersive experience, there are towers to climb, landscaping to enjoy, philosophical murals to consider.
The castle offers day visits with guided tours, unique guest chambers for overnight, and halls for grand events. Enjoy the day wandering the castle grounds. Visit the website for daily schedules.
571 Ridge Road.
Helen, Ga.
Unuburg, Eagle Owl Castle in Helen, Georgia | Our four-fold mission is realized in the mural walk, gardens and row crops, trails and mountain setting, and through the special events in the Great Hall and grounds. ~ Mission of the Uhuburg Institue Ltd.
It’s CastleFaire at Uhuburg
January 12-14 | The first Winter Renaissance Festival is happening in January, 2024. Transport yourself back to the medieval times with combat demos, lively music, traveling entertainers, and an artisan market. Come dressed in the most inspired fantasy attire and walk away with the most aptly dressed at the festival. Activities include belly dancing in the Great Hall and Appalachian sword demonstrations. Cloaks, capes, and coats are encouraged for it gets cold in the North Georgia mountains. Rain or shine. Purchase tickets online.
Ticketing | Ages 12 - 112, $15; apprentices, 4-11, $10; 0-3, free. Purchase online or in-person. Day-off tickets are available as space is available.
Parking | Offsite lots include 112 Popular Stump Road (Cool River Tubing Outpost), Helen (free); 115 Escowee Drive, Helen ($10). Shuttle service provided in ticket pricing. Walking from downtown Helen is about 1.2 miles. From the Ridge Road entrance, the castle is a 10-15 minute walk uphill.
Schedule | Friday, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Visit the website for the activity schedule.
Accessibility | Pathways are wheelchair accessible; some grounds are uneven and hard to traverse if mobility is an issue. The Great Hall has an ADA bathroom; the Lookout Tower is only accessed by stairs. Drop-off is available at the castle entrance.
Firearms and Costume Weapons | Visit the website for rules concerning costume weapons.
Sleep Like a King at Uhuburg
Slumber fit for a king.
The castle features four private chambers (king, queen, prince, princess) that will redefine your mountain getaway. Wood-carved queen-sized beds, picturesque windows with en suite bathrooms create a luxury experience for travelers. Each chamber is unique with furnishings that has been curated over many years. The chambers are located on the second floor within the walls of Uhuburg. Daily breakfast is included. Two-night minimum stay required.
Love at Unuburg | Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a magical weekend at the castle. For bookings Fridays and Saturdays, January 26 - February 18, 2024, use LOVE rate. Enjoy a discount for three nights. Military discount available.
