5 Reasons Why You Should Travel to The Blackberry Mountain in Tennessee

In 1939, the original property, Blackberry Farm, was established by Mrs. Florida Lasier of Chicago. Today, the Baell family operates two lodges that are the proverbial sense of rural luxury. Offering sublime views, exquisite food, and an intimate experience with nature, this is the much-needed modern-day escape in the Smoky Mountains from the hustle and bustle.

Blackberry Farm is a mere 30-minute drive from Knoxville airport but transports you to stunning vistas, greenery, and the wellness you have been craving. Blackberry Mountain, the new and revered sister lodge and Relais & Châteaux property is located seven miles from Blackberry Farm. Blackberry Mountain offers an artisanal menu, thoughtful service, and knowledgeable staff. So what is everyone raving about on Instagram? Here are five reasons why you need to visit:

5. Protected Land:
The Blackberry estate spans 5200 acres in total. In collaboration with the North America Land Trust, 2800 acres will forever go untouched and protected. To maintain the authenticity of the land is a primary objective of the Baell family. In a world where nature is limited but fundamental, reserves like this are rare but celebrated as they often come with an unbearable price tag.

4. Activities:
When was the last time you did something for the first time? Blackberry Mountain Lodge offers a variety of activities sure to inspire and delight, from wakeboarding for the adventurous to culinary food school for the hungry and horseback riding for the young at heart. You will undoubtedly find something that piques your interest. And if you don’t want to partake, the spa will be waiting for you.

3. The Food:
Sam Baell, the son of original Farm owners Kreis and Sandy, received the property in 2002 and, with his wife, developed it into the beauty it is today. Sam was a culinary ace; he trained at Thomas Keller’s French Laundry restaurant in Napa Valley and returned home to create what is known as Foothills Cuisine—a down-to-earth yet discerning menu featuring regional and farm-based produce. Here you can learn from the best with daily cooking instructions.

2. Blackberry Mountain House Parties:
If you are looking for that exclusive, VIP, bragging rights event, you know, the one that people talk about at cocktail parties that you were blissfully unaware of, Blackberry Mountain has your connections. Twice a year, they partner with innovative and sophisticated experts, for example, Christina Tosi of Milk Bar, to curate a weekend event. The events include food, wine, music, activities, and more. Get ready to be enlightened.

1. R&R:
Because life gets hectic and it is important to push the reset button, breathe fresh air, listen to silence, and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.