As winter casts its spell across the Southeastern U.S., it’s the perfect time to indulge in a retreat to some of the region’s most luxurious and captivating resorts. Whether you’re seeking a cozy mountain retreat or a sophisticated vineyard escape, these enchanting destinations promise a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Join me at I explore the charm and allure of five top winter getaways in the Southeast!
Barnsley Resort – Adairsville, Georgia
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of North Georgia, Barnsley Resort is a picture-perfect escape reminiscent of a fairy tale (in fact, their slogan is “far, far away has never been so close”). Located about an hour from both Chattanooga and Atlanta, this resort is spread across 3,000 breathtaking acres surrounded by woodlands and meadows. They offer an extensive range of outdoor activities, such as golf, horseback riding, clay shooting, axe throwing, archery, hiking, biking, and canoeing.
After you enjoy all the outdoor recreation options, indulge in a moment of serenity at the spa where tranquility takes center stage. Treat yourself to a soothing massage, revitalizing facial, or a pampering beauty treatment.
Be sure to set aside some time to explore the Manor House ruins, the remnants of the original 19th-century Italian-style villa built by Godfrey Barnsley for his wife Julia. There’s even an interesting museum that contains information, artifacts, and photos about the Barnsley family history. Bonus: on winter evenings, the Manor House ruins will be set aglow with the illumination of thousands of holiday lights.
The winter season transforms the resort into a magical wonderland with its crackling fireplaces and charming cottages, creating an idyllic setting for a romantic weekend retreat. You’ll find numerous fire pits located around the property where you can cozy up with a blanket; also, they provide all the makings for S’mores in the evenings!
Chateau Elan – Braselton, Georgia
Experience the epitome of elegance at Chateau Elan, a French-inspired winery and resort located 40 minutes north of Atlanta. With its world-class amenities and serene ambiance, the resort offers a sophisticated winter escape for those seeking a touch of European charm.
Chateau Elan’s winery is touted as one of the largest and most awarded wineries on the East Coast, offering more than 30 different wines. Choose from a variety of tour and tasting experiences offered daily, where you can sample some of the wines and get a behind-the-scenes look at their wine-making process.
Chateau Elan stands as one of North Georgia’s top-tier dining destinations, featuring a range of culinary experiences from a French-inspired showpiece to an old-world speakeasy to a Southern-influenced chophouse. Their eight (yes, eight!) onsite restaurants and bars serve as a culinary voyage around the world, led by a team of chefs and sommeliers who share an unwavering passion for culinary excellence.
The spa’s focus lies in delivering multi-sensory treatments designed to revitalize and renew the body, mind, and soul, all while staying connected to the natural elements surrounding you.
The resort has endless activities for every taste, so be sure to check their seasonal program offerings. Some examples are culinary classes, mixology demonstrations, painting classes, charcuterie workshops, and wine education.
Old Edwards Inn & Spa – Highlands, North Carolina
Tucked away in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains just 90 minutes from Asheville, the Old Edwards Inn & Spa exudes timeless rustic elegance. This world-class mountain resort situated in the heart of downtown Highlands is a European-style Relais & Chateaux property boasting luxury accommodations, premium amenities, farm-fed restaurants, and an award-winning spa.
Winter at this charming inn brings a sense of intimacy, with crackling fireplaces, spa retreats, and picturesque mountain views. Upon your arrival, the staff at Old Edwards Inn & Spa, renowned for their warmth of Southern hospitality, will greet you with a glass of champagne.
While you may never have reason to leave the warmth and coziness of the inn, be sure to take a stroll through the quaint village of Highlands, full of charm and adorned with holiday lights, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes.
Blackberry Farm – Walland, Tennessee
Known for its exquisite farm-to-table dining and luxurious accommodations, Blackberry Farm is a haven for those seeking a refined all-inclusive winter experience. Winter has a charm all its own at Blackberry Farm; frost hugs the mountaintops and tree branches, the creek water turns ice cold, and snowflakes fall from the sky, coating Blackberry Farm in a still and open beauty different from any other season.
Picture a gourmet meal by a roaring fire, followed by a moonlit stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds. Set on 4,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, the resort is located about 45 minutes from Knoxville. A stay here is a splurge, but there’s a reason it consistently ranks as one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. year after year.
Indulge in a complete experience during your stay, where your choice of accommodation—be it a room, a cottage, or a house—is complemented by a selection of included pantry snacks and three delectable meals daily. Guests rave about the delightful cuisine, the hospitality of the staff, the ambiance, and the tranquil surroundings.
Blackberry Farm offers a plethora of activities to choose from. Adventure seekers can embark in horseback riding, hiking, archery, or fly-fishing, while those yearning for relaxation can opt for yoga or meditation classes, followed by a rejuvenating spa experience. Enrich your stay further with cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and whiskey tastings. Additionally, their onsite brewery offers a delightful range of brews, from crisp Pilsners to flavorful pale ales.
The farm’s dedication to hospitality and attention to detail ensures an unforgettable winter weekend filled with culinary delights and relaxation.
Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville, North Carolina
Perched atop the hills of Asheville, Omni Grove Park Inn offers a grand winter escape with its historic charm and modern luxury. As the temperature drops, the resort transforms into a festive retreat adorned with holiday decorations and twinkling lights.
Step back in time as you enter this historic gem, built in 1913, where the essence of its storied past has been preserved. The allure of a place frequented by iconic figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt and F. Scott Fitzgerald is impossible to resist.
Condé Nast Traveler voted Omni Grove Park Inn’s spa as one of the top resort spas in the U.S. It boasts numerous water features, eucalyptus steam rooms, therapeutic waterfalls, a mountain view hot tub—all set in a subterranean environment made up of cavernous rock walls, arches, and tunnels. There’s even a lap pool with 6,500 fiber-optic stars and underwater music!
During the holiday season, you’ll be immersed in one of the most renowned celebrations—the National Gingerbread House Competition. From late November through New Year’s, the enchanting entries will be on display, turning the resort into a captivating showcase of sweet, imaginative wonders.
Your Unforgettable Escape Awaits
This winter, escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with a getaway to one of these resorts. Whether you prefer the charm of a historic inn, the sophistication of a winery retreat, or the seclusion of a mountain cabin, these destinations promise a winter experience like no other.
Contact me to book your perfect winter escape at one of these fabulous resorts!
Enjoy this article? Then, go to my website and sign up for the Life List Travel newsletter at the bottom of the home page for more travel inspiration and tips!
Leave a Reply