Blackberry Mountain

Finlay Knops-Mckim

2024-04

ReviewOn paper Blackberry Mountain already looks excellent, but after a three night stay we can honestly say it far exceeded already lofty expectations.Our room was one of the treehouses, which are cleverly located so you have level access to the door (with your own golf cart!), but a relatively private and beautiful view out of the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bed was huge and comfortable, and the bathroom was well stocked with Aesop products and a proper hairdryer (and a curler) - which often skimped on even in upmarket hotels. The AC was also modern, quiet, and easy to adjust.In terms of other activities, we did a couple of yoga classes which take place in the spacious “hub” building. There’s a couple of studios and a gym, all with beautiful views out over the valley. The classes were personal even for a group of us, and we genuinely felt better after them even if there were a few creaks and cracks initially. The site is also crisscrossed with trails of varying intensity and trailheads than can be accessed on foot (or via your golf cart to avoid climbing several hundred meters on foot). We were going to do the Lexus off-road experience, but unfortunately only US drivers licenses were accepted. I understand this is a contractual thing though, and obviously won’t be a problem for domestic visitors.Probably most deserving of a write up in a major news outlet however is the food. Breakfast and lunch each day was at the three sisters restaurant, as was dinner for two of our days - with one dinner at the fire tower which is worth a visit for the views alone. The menus partially rotate over three days, meaning a new set of pastries and dishes for breakfast, and new specials for lunch and dinner. The pastries are of note as they are gluten and lactose free but still some of the best baked goods we’ve ever had, as was the pre-dinner garlic flatbreads. The main courses were not excessive haute-cuisine - which can get a bit much for multiple nights - but were all executed flawlessly with some really clever and unexpected combinations. A rhubarb and jalepeno glazed pork loin was particularly effective.The most memorable dish however was not on the menu, but was put together on the fly by the AM chef Bonnie using a rather giant morel mushroom we found on the wildflower walk (a recommended activity as well). The morel was handed off to a very excited chef, and reappeared half an hour later transformed into four immaculate canapés with fresh bread, burratta, truffle, and asparagus. I can’t think of many places that would have all the necessary parts for an experience like that.Lastly then, the staff. Firstly, they universally do not expect or accept tips in person. Service is part of the cost of this place of course, but all the staff seemed genuinely personable and really added to the experience of our stay. There were some real characters in the restaurants whose descriptions of the various items on the menu both informed and entertained, and more generally everyone seemed very well coordinated - we very rarely needed to state our surnames or sign things as all the staff were on their brief perfectly and knew where to log or charge everything.The more upscale a resort or hotel, the more small things can sour the experience, so it’s a serious credit that I honestly can’t think of any comments worth mentioning. Do hope to return some day!

Chaz Shanton

2024-04

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Michael Fesler

2023-05

This place is beautiful. What a great retreat for couples or families. The service here has been impeccable. Every meal was one of the best meals ever. We did have an issue with our room one night and the team took wonderful care of us. Definitely a strong recommendation from us. Would love to bring some friends back.

Melinda S

2023-05

Just got back from an amazing 3 night stay. Employees were extremely kind, helpful and knowledgeable. Restaurant food and service was impeccable. The food, the views and the treehouses were an absolute delight and perfect. I enjoyed my first ever soundbath (book this!) and it was so relaxing. My massage therapist was amazing, on time and applied the perfect amount of pressure for my massage. I picked up a lovely parfum from the spa called 11:11. Everything about the trip was great. Can’t wait to go back!

Mary Beauregard

2023-05

I cannot over emphasize the beauty of the resort and its surrounding. The meals were delicious, the presentation expert, the activities so enjoyable. The accommodations are very comfortable and lovely. Everywhere there is great attention to detail, as well as impeccable customer service by the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

ARSurvivor Fan

2023-05

My family and I drove a 4 hour drive from the Atlanta suburbs. Just to be treated like an imposter after paying 2k per night. The food was unbelievable but once seeing that it was 350 dollars per person to do the ropes corse, I was disgusted. And to make it even worse seeing the staff make 11 dollars per hour after all we pay for. My stay costed more than I payed for my car.

Shivani Abajian

2023-05

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Tracey Grant

2022-05

I loved everything about this amazing vacation experience. From the moment we arrived till our last farewell the staff was warm, courteous and went above and beyond to meet our every request. The meals (all included) were some of the most delicious meals I’ve ever eaten. The freshest ingredients, incredible textures combined with creative flavor profiles results in exceptional dining experiences time after time. Whether you are a meat eater, pescatarian, gluten free or any other dietary restrictions the dining staff is happy to accommodate!The room we stayed in was a stone cottage near the lodge. We appreciated the spacious accommodations with a convenient location to both the lodge and the hub (activities center). If you’re looking for something more unique you may want to consider the smaller Treehouses. These are built into a steep mountain side so your view is literally in the treetops!! Or another option is the more secluded log cabins at the mountain top by the Firetower. All are luxurious and perfectly appointed.Some of the extras we appreciated included- a dedicated golf cart to use for the duration of your stay so you can easily access all parts of the property.- yummy gourmet snacks in our room- the best trail mix ever available at the pool in the valley (perfect after a long hike).- eco friendly installation art at key points along the hiking trails.- the most accommodating and amazing staff I’ve ever encountered in any hospitality experienceThis vacation is expensive but it was beyond my expectations and I will absolutely be going back!!

Jessica Gordon

2021-05

I gave it 5 stars because of the service! Amazing treatment, prompt, generous, aimed to please. The views are lovely and there are lots of things to do. The adult pool is wonderful, as well as the spa. The cabin was gorgeous, modern, clean.

NC Travels, Food, Reviews

2021-05

What an incredible experience. Blackberry Mountain is definitely the peak (no pun intended) of “luxury adventure.” Every single detail is perfectly thought out. Highlights included hiking to the Firetower, enjoying dinner at both Firetower and Three Sisters, and the plethora of wellness classes (sound bathing, sunrise yoga, meditation, and more!). Only minor complaints are that the spa could be larger and have more amenities (particularly given the focus on wellness) and that some in our party prefer the free snacks at Blackberry Farm (the Mountain has more healthy options, not so much in the way of indulgence). The additional experiences are quite expensive, but if you are able to afford the resort, you likely won’t mind the added expenses. If you are able to visit, you won’t be disappointed. In many ways I prefer the Mountain to Blackberry Farm - the views, the mountain hikes, and the true sense of adventure are special and I’m not sure there are many comparable places anywhere in the US. 10/10 would absolutely recommend if you can afford it!

Ana Trejo

2021-05

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Jon Merryman

2019-05

We came, we saw, we ate amazing food, yoga’d, sound bathed, cardio drummed, threw pottery, hiked, painted, relaxed in the spa and learned how to cook from Chef Feathers — it could not have been a more perfect visit! The property is stunning and the staff is incredible. They were kind, genuine and went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. Every activity leader was highly skilled and patient as we were beginners in almost everything. We were planning our return before we even drove away. We’ll be back soon!

Corin Endter

2022-05

Vegan foodie luxury spa resort. Vegan offerings were amazing. Ate like a queen the 4 days I was there. Service was impeccable. No where will I’ve up to this place, this experience was one of a kind.

Nissy Daniel

2022-05

If I could add more stars I would. This place is Amazing. The best service, food was great. Views are stunning. The cabins just Amazing. The spa experience…just fabulous.

David Borden

2020-05

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Jonathan Berman

2021-05

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Chris Wakefield

2020-05

This is an amazing place! Food is first class and over the top! Archtecture and view are breath taking! It’s a must visit.

W A F F L E S

2021-05

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Scott Burger

2021-05

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Lisa Stevens

2021-05

Wonderful resort and awesome part of the country! Google does a terrible job at greeting one to the entrance; don’t trust Google.

Deanna Bossenbroek

2021-05

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Stephanie Potts

2021-05

luxurious and peaceful..Beautiful views and plenty of fun things to do.

Fitz

2020-05

A great gig I suppose if you're an upper 5%er

Jones D. Stampede

2020-05

Beautiful place amazing scenery and nice helpful staff

John K

2020-05

5 stars doesn't do it justice.

B L

2023-05

Absolutely stunning and beautiful.

Andrew Compton

2020-05

Best ever

Derek Van Mol

2020-05

Amazing!

Jesse James

2022-05

Absolutely Amazing!

Roy Barner

2019-05

Great views