Idyllic in setting, old-fashioned in ambiance, Blackberry Farm offers guests a delicious escape from not just their own norm, but today’s hyper pace, as well. Ensconced among 4,200 rolling acres, just miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the working farm does everything from re-introduce centuries-old seeds in its organic garden and raise pigs to offer Orvis-approved fly fishing and a wine cellar with over 170,000 bottles, many of them quite rare. Rooms are spread among four different lodging types, all with feather beds, working fireplaces and a cosseting decor more focused on textiles than bright colors. Food and beverage are a big component of the Blackerry experience, they make award-winning beer, their dishes are thoughtfully created with a strong emphasis on simple yet robust natural flavors, what owner, Sam Beall deemed “foothills cuisine” and the dining rooms, particularly, the Barn, are picture-perfect venues of bucolic pleasure. The experience is undeniably luxurious – just take a peek into the spa’s two relaxation rooms and you’re assured a tension release, but what really makes it special is the authenticity of it all. The staff are kind, warm and sincerely happy to be there, because, well, they should be. It’s a darn nice place to be.

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