I love cherries! They’re my favorite fruit. Maybe it’s because they’re not available all the time, like bananas. Imagine my delight when I discovered that on special weekends Mercier’s Orchard in Blue Ridge, GA, invites people to take a ride out into their orchards and pick your own cherries. What fun for the whole family.
Mercier’s also offers “You Pick ‘Em” opportunities for apples in the fall, strawberries in May, cherries in early June, and blueberries and blackberries in mid-late June. While peaches are for sale in their store in early summer, they are not available for self-picking. Your family can visit Mercier’s Store on Old Hwy 5, just down the road from the McDonald’s, and take a ride in a covered wagon that’s pulled by a tractor out into the orchards and fields. Children love it. The staff is so kind and helpful. Be sure to call ahead to find out what fruit is in season, ready to be picked. Their number is (706) 632-3411.
Mercier’s is known as Southern Living Magazine’s “Favorite Roadside Apple Market.” But, it is so much more than that. The Mercier family has been in business for over 50 years. They have the largest orchard in the southeast. They are open seven days a week, and don’t be surprised to find busloads of tourists there in the fall. Mercier’s is especially known for the fried fruit pies, fritters and cider. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable—willing to hand out free samples and advice on which fruit to buy. If you don’t want to pick your own, their store has everything you need. You can also get hot sauces, smoked trout, jams, jellies, sandwiches, baked goods and ice cream from the deli. Be sure to browse through all the other shops inside the Market, which specialize in mountain décor, handmade soaps, and stationery. The next time you are in the North Georgia Mountains, be sure to stop by for a unique mountain experience.
Tags: mountain vacation, north georgia apple picking, things to do in North Georgia, vacationing in north georgia