For my 50th birthday, my husband and I decided to getaway and drive to one of our bucket list resorts. When researching Blackberry Farm we soon realized they opened a second location, Blackberry Mountain a few years ago.

After reading Trip Advisor and a few other blog posts about Blackberry Mountain, we decided to book on the mountain. It is best described as a wellness retreat and more active than the Farm.

Even when we travel as a couple, you will not find us lounging by the beach or pool reading books all day. Sure, there is some of that but only after a busy day of activity.

 

From the moment you drive up to the gated entrance to check out you feel like the resort is only open for you. We did not run into one employee we felt hated their job, or annoyed to be there. Of course we are pretty easy going and not very demanding when we travel.

LODGING AT BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN

We booked one of the Stone Cottages and it was even more perfect than we expected.  Roomy yet romantic at the same time.

With an indoor and outdoor fireplace, you have the flexibility to choose where to enjoy a fire.  We typically enjoyed cocktails before dinner outside then after dinner came home to a lit fire.  Yes you can request a lit fire with your server and it will be ready when you arrive.

With heated floors in the bathroom, to a stocked mini fridge and snack area, we were able to store a few snacks for after our hikes.

Each property comes with a golf cart to explore the massive acreage of the property.  You will not need a car.

FITNESS CENTER OR THE HUB

Unlike Blackberry Farm, only 2 meals a day are included in your rate.  Instead, a fitness class is included instead.  We took advantage of this and did both a yoga and a stretch class each am before breakfast, before we started our day. 

The fitness center has two Peloton bikes if that is your jam.  We knew we were going on long hikes each day so we warmed up in the fitness center, took a class then had a late breakfast. 

HIKES

There are about 8 miles of private trails on the property and that might seem small, but each one is very different.  Be sure to bring your hiking boots, a small backpack and your water bottle which can be refilled along the trails. 

 

POOLS

We did not even think about bringing suits in April, but there are 2 pools that are heated and offer a great rest after a hike. 

TENNIS / PICKLEBALL

No need to pack these supplies, except shoes.  They have several brand new courts near the family pool area and the equipment is waiting on the court.

DINING at BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN

There are two main restaurants on the property.  Because of Covid you are not able to eat at the Farm one night which I believe was the policy before.  

We enjoyed Three Sisters two nights during our stay, but were so happy we went up to Fire Tower for one night right at sunset. 

Be sure to check sunset during your stay as the view was amazing and the food, while less casual was not any less amazing. 

Breakfast was at Three Sisters and it was very filling and amazing, just check out how they took avocado toast to a whole new level.

 

THE SPA

I booked a facial for my birthday.  The spa is small but the service was impeccable.  When small I mean the dressing area.  When I booked with my travel agent, I also received a $100 voucher to use there. I am happy to share her contact if you send me a note. 

WHAT TO PACK WHEN VISITING BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN

• Hiking boots
• Bathing Suit
• Casual Clothes
• Layers (the am was brisk, then warmed up, then cooled down in the evening)
• Wine or favorite beverage to enjoy before going to dinner
• Snacks like cheese and crackers for a little picnic or snack after your activity. (You can get lunch on property but we never felt that hungry)
• Leave your stress at home, although it won’t take long to feel it melt away when you arrive.
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DO I NEED A CAR

We drove from Richmond, VA (about 7 hrs) you do not need a car. Knoxville airport is about 30 minutes away and I believe you can arrange pick up service.  The property has a partnership with Lexus, and if you ever need a ride and don’t want to use your golf cart they will come pick you up

In fact when we went up to Fire Tower, about a 10 minute drive, we called for a ride and when we finished dinner it was waiting for us. 

SHOULD I BRING MY KIDS?

There were several families there over Easter weekend, and they do have cottages to fit a family.  The family area looks amazing for the summer.  I personally found the property to be romantic and a great place to unwind and date my husband.