I love the Peach State's large cities, but honestly, nothing beats the charm and beauty of the countless small towns in Georgia. These sleepy places feel like a step back in time, and they're great for exploring locally-owned restaurants and shops that you just can't find anywhere else. If you love the state's small towns as much as we do, we think you'll love this small town road trip in Georgia that runs from Ellijay to Washington. Each of the stops offers up natural beauty and historical significance, and there's really something for everyone in each of these places, whether your interest lies in museums, parks, or restaurants. Check this adventure out:

In all, the road trip will require a little over four hours of driving. You'll definitely want to account for extra time to spend in each city, and in all honesty, this would make a great four or five-day trip, with nearly a full day spent in each spot.

Of course, you can always add or remove stops if you like. Check out the fully-customizable itinerary on Google Maps.

1. Ellijay

We'll start off our journey in Ellijay, a city of about 2,000 people. It's nicknamed the Apple Capital of Georgia thanks to the huge volume of apples grown here each year. If you want to check out all the apple-themed fun, visiting in the fall is a good option, but this is a place that can be enjoyed at any time of year. This is an area of the state with plenty of outdoor attractions, and Ellijay isn't far from several state parks and hiking trails. There's also an adorable little downtown area with some great shops and cafes.

2. Dahlonega

No list of best small towns in Georgia is complete without mentioning Dahlonega. Many people aren't aware that this city of 7,500 was home to the nation's first major gold rush. If you're interested in learning more about the city's history in the gold industry, you can take a tour of Consolidated Gold Mine. There's plenty more to enjoy here, though, no matter the season. Dahlonega is home to some of the best fall foliage in Georgia, and it's also a wonderful place for celebrating Christmas. The downtown area is filled with historic architecture and there are lots of shops to check out, and just outside the city, you'll find tons of great wineries.

3. Helen

Helen, GA is one of my favorite small towns in Georgia. With a population of around 600 people, a location in the mountains, and Bavarian-themed architecture, it's like a little slice of Germany. If you want a European vacation with no passport required, a stop here is a must - there are loads of adorable German shops and restaurants all throughout the downtown area. However, I will admit that over the last few years, the crowds have really descended upon this little mountain village, particularly in the fall. If you're looking for more of a relaxing vibe, the good news is that there are some really fantastic under-the-radar destinations just outside of Helen that are just as worthy of exploration. Sautee Nachoochee is a nearby community with some great shops and cafes, and there are also a number of great state parks and natural destinations nearby, like Anna Ruby Falls and Unicoi State Park.

4. Madison

Our next stop is Madison, GA, a town of about 5,000 people. The historic district here is one of the largest in the state, and if you love architecture and history, you'll find plenty to enjoy, including historic homes available for touring. This is a little town with quite a few restaurants - don't miss a stop at the R+B Cafe or Town 220 Restaurant.

5. Washington

Lovers of history will also adore the last town in this road trip: Washington, GA. It's home to fewer than 5,000 residents and is one of the oldest towns in Georgia. It was actually the state capital during the Revolutionary War. It's got plenty of historical attractions, plus a great variety of mom-and-pop shops and restaurants in the downtown area.

What a great trip! Before you hit the highway, make sure you check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List to ensure you have the safest and most fun vacation possible.