One could spend a lifetime exploring the South's mountainous regions and barely scratch the surface. Fortunately, there are hundreds of handy lodging options with carefully chosen locations that guarantee a relaxing experience with nature. Whether you're a stressed-out city dweller in need of a calming getaway or a native Southerner looking to rediscover your home region's highest peaks, consider a stay at one of these ideal destinations for mountain lodging.
Blackberry Farm – Walland, Tenn.
Nestled into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Eastern Tennessee, Blackberry Farm's 4,200-acre property enjoys access to an additional 5,000 acres of private wilderness. The luxury resort's 62 rooms are elegant and furnished with guests' comfort in mind. Foodies from across the country make pilgrimages to feast on truly farm-to-table cuisine while sampling from a 160,000-bottle wine cellar. Cooking classes and culinary events are also offered. Those needing pampering decamp to the Farmhouse Spa, while sporty types take to Hesse Creek to try their hand at Orvis-endorsed fly fishing. Other popular activities include nature hikes, horseback riding, sporting clays, and yoga.
Chanticleer Inn – Lookout Mountain, Ga.
Located just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, on the Georgia side of the Tennessee border, this luxury bed and breakfast provides easy access to key popular attractions such as Rock City, the Incline Railway, Ruby Falls, the Cravens House, and Cumberland Caverns. At nearly 2,000 feet above sea level, the Chanticleer sits atop Lookout Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding Chattanooga Valley. Located across the street, Rock City Gardens offers views of seven states. Guests enjoy a full homemade breakfast daily; most of the 18 rooms include a private patio and exterior entrance, while some feature whirlpool tubs and fireplaces.
Chilhowee Mountain Retreat – Maryville, Tenn.
Nature lovers looking to relax in style fit right in at this luxury log cabin B&B in the Great Smoky Mountains of Eastern Tennessee. The quiet property is situated atop Chilhowee Mountain, at an elevation of 2,200 feet. From their covered decks and screened in porches, guests enjoy amazing mountain views. Each of the three log cabin rooms includes an air-jet tub and steam shower. Each day starts with a nourishing homemade breakfast, ideal for those looking to take on the numerous outdoor activities nearby.
The Inn on Biltmore Estate – Asheville, N.C.
Cultured travelers relish the opportunity to experience an overnight stay at one of the South's most famous addresses. The only hotel on the Biltmore Estate's 8,000 acres, the inn aims to offer the same gracious hospitality enjoyed by George and Edith Vanderbilt's guests at their famous estate. The guest rooms and suites are filled with fine furnishings and offer breathtaking views of downtown Asheville as well as the surrounding woods and Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests choose from numerous dining options including an opulent afternoon tea service.
The Inn at Little Washington – Washington, Va.
The most lauded destination in the Virginia foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is best known for housing its namesake restaurant. Since opening in 1978, tens of thousands of culinary travelers have come to the inn to experience the work of Chef/Proprietor Patrick O'Connell – one of the most influential American chefs of the past quarter century. O'Connell's romantic restaurant features a 14,000 bottle wine cellar, and numerous big-name chefs have passed through its kitchen. A favorite wedding venue for the Washington, D.C. power set, The Inn offers an exceptionally picturesque setting for a celebration. The 24 tastefully-appointed bedrooms and suites feature fine English furnishings; some guests enjoy balconies and garden views. The Inn enjoys close proximity to Luray Caverns as well as several wineries.
Lakeview at Fontana – Bryson City, N.C.
This independent property exudes a laid-back charm reflective of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains. Located near Fontana Lake, guests take advantage of easy access to hiking trails – the on-property nature trail winds through 50 wooded acres – plus whitewater rafting, lake kayaking, and zip-lining opportunities. Each day starts with organic French press coffee and pastries, and afternoon brings a complimentary wine hour including local farmstead cheese. Throw in a boutique spa, daily yoga, and a forest-enveloped, spring-filled pool, and it's easy to understand why so many make the drive from Atlanta, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Charlotte, all of which are roughly three hours away.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa – Highlands, N.C.
From its perch atop the scenic southwest plateau of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains – an area dotted with scenic lakes and waterfalls – this inn, spa, and golf club provides its guests with a plethora of outdoor activity options. Smartly decorated guestrooms, suites and cottages feature antiques, rainfall showers, and heated-tile floors; some include private patios or terraces. Those needing to relax spend time at the spa, which incorporates herbs and botanicals from the inn's garden into its treatments. The property benefits from its proximity to Highlands' pedestrian-friendly downtown, home to acclaimed restaurants and numerous performing arts venues.
Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville, N.C.
An ideal destination for Asheville visitors looking to make the most of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, this historic property celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013. In addition to luxurious accommodations and award-winning dining, guests enjoy outdoor activities such as mountain biking, zip-lining (from ridge to ridge), river-rafting, and hiking. The 43,000 square-foot spa offers warm mineral pools and "mountain view" massages in an outdoor pagoda.
Primland Resort – Meadows of Dan, Va.
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Primland's property extends beyond 12,000 acres, ensuring that repeat guests always have something new to experience with each visit. In addition to the main lodge's 26 guestrooms and suites, the resort offers three Fairway cottages and a large mountain home. Many come for the top-notch on-site activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, golf, star-gazing, fly-fishing, and hiking on a restored six-mile section of the Old Appalachian Trail. Guests can also participate in a dynamic clay target practice course spread across a half-mile walking circuit. Indoors, the lodge offers a huge spa, swimming pool, fitness center, movie theater, and more.
The Swag – Waynesville, N.C.
This secluded Smoky Mountain getaway near Asheville delivers incredible mountain views and award-winning service at an elevation of 5,000 feet. Each of the 14 rooms is individually decorated with original artwork, rustic antiques, and handmade quilts and rugs; some rooms feature wood-burning fireplaces, private balconies, and outdoor soaking tubs. Guests enjoy use of personalized hiking sticks and an outdoor hot tub with amazing views. Activities include croquet, horseshoes, cornhole, badminton, indoor racquetball, and wallyball.
