Weekend tours of an architectural marvel starting May 20
ALPINE HELEN-WHITE COUNTY, GEORGIA–MAY 2023–Capture the feeling of being in a castle inspired by European design, high on a mountaintop just two miles from downtown Alpine Helen, with unbroken, forested views that are as stunning as the architecture. More than 14 years under construction, Uhuburg,* the Eagle Owl Castle, is now open for weekend tours May 20-21 and May 26-29 (Memorial Day weekend) from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tours will continue Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. General admission tours at the castle, 571 Ridge Road, can be reserved online at www.Uhuburg.com; walkups are also accepted. *Uhuburg is pronounced much like the call of an owl: Ooo-Hoo-burg and is German for Eagle Owl Castle.
Architecture, lifestyle and philosophy come together in a stunning juxtaposition, from the castle gates and walls to the castellation at the top of the towers, to the beautifully landscaped gardens, grounds and walking trails. Available for special events are the enchanting indoor tropical atrium, ballroom and banquet areas. The soon-available guest rooms are charming. In the open air, lower level of the rampart walls is a series of larger-than-life murals by local artists that depict the spirit and philosophical tenets of the world’s great religions and schools of thought. For a sweeping view of the surrounding mountain terrain, guests may climb the Lookout Tower’s eight flights of stairs to the top, where the highest peak in Georgia can be spotted as well as the occasional hawk.
General admission entry is for touring Uhuburg in a museum-style format with a suggested route and to enjoy the grounds at a personal pace and time of your arrival/departure time of your choice within open hours (last entry is one hour prior to close). Docents (guides) can be found around the grounds to answer questions and share information. A brochure with a map will be provided to guests upon entry. For a “what to know before you go,” please review details at www.Uhuburg.com/visit
Owner, architect and builder Bob Marthai dreamed of a castle in the mountains of North Georgia to share what he has found to be important for the good life. Bob is a former psychologist, naval architect and retired tall ship captain. He is supported by his wife Janine, a bookkeeper and avid gardener. Daughter Naomi, a former eighth-grade teacher, is event manager, muralist, web designer, gardener and assistant administrator.
Tours can now be booked online to learn about this philosophical, food producing, naturalistic and celebratory place. Special events and photography sessions for couples, brides and for various occasions can be reserved as well; check the website for details and send a message through the Contact Us page at www.Uhuburg.com.
Bob Marthai commented, “We are grateful for the more than 70 workers, volunteers, trade folks, donors and inspectors who helped build Uhuburg from foundation to tower. Several construction staff members have been with us from the beginning, including Miguel, Russell, Alonso, Pedro and Tigre, who have contributed greatly to the success of the project.”
Overnight chamber guest rooms will be available soon; check the website for updates.
Driving Directions: From Downtown Helen: Head west on N Main St/Unicoi Turnpike. Drive past Betty’s Country Store and take the next Left onto Hambly Street. Cross the river and take the first right onto Escowee Drive. After 0.6 miles, take the uphill left fork onto Ridge Road. After about a half mile, look for the green metal gates on the left.