Georgia On My Mind (at the Lake!)

Just a little over an hour outside of Atlanta, GA, the Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is an easy driveable destination, or a one-connection flight for many, during the age of Point A to B, Covid travel.  Set amongst lush foliage and perfectly manicured golf courses, this property breathed serenity from the moment I drove onto the grounds. 

With my family’s international travel plans foiled by travel restrictions due to the pandemic, my children and I hit the road in search of a retreat that would lend us activity and plenty of opportunity to relax. 

The property is set in a horse-shoe shape, with ground floor rooms opening up to a huge, grassy lawn leading right to the sparkling lake and oh-so inviting infinity pool.  In many ways, the grassy yard was reminiscent of summer camp (that so many kids have missed this summer) with room for pick up games of tag, rope swings, basketball courts and a firepit for s’mores each evening.  The lakefront offers multiple options for activity like off the dock fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and a fleet of boats to rent for water-skiing, tubing, jet-skiing or a booze cruise on a tiki party boat!

Each morning we enjoyed breakfast at Georgia’s with servers at the ready to serve from the buffet and well-positioned tables indoors.  There were plenty of tables outside, as well, for guests to dine with massive fans there to keep everyone cool.  Casual dinners at the poolside restaurant, Gaby’s by the Lake, was perfect for families to easily transition from play to evening without adhering to a dresscode.  And yet, another great outside dining option to enjoy the beautiful lakeside view and sunset.  For a dressier change of pace, guests may also enjoy the Linger Longer Steakhouse.

The entry of the Ritz Carlton gave a southern nod to old-school lodges while the updated room accommodations were cool and refreshing in updated grays with light textures and décor. 

ALL ladies and gentlemen (as staff is affectionately called, and rightfully so) at the Ritz Carlton were masked (even our boat captains on the water!), but their smiling eyes and their attention to EVERY SINGLE DETAIL soon made each personality come to life.  Since my stay, all North American Marriott properties have instituted a mask policy for guests in indoor spaces and outside where physical distancing isn’t possible.  Single serve amenities were abundant– from pre-packaged sunscreen, condiments and toiletry options.  Guests also have choices for when and how, if at all, they would like housekeeping to service their rooms.

The Ritz Carlton also provides multiple on-property villas in different sizes for guests to stay.  Perfect for multiple families or extended families traveling together or for families to enjoy a change of pace during remote work and schooling. 

I’m not sure my “normal” life would have found me taking such a roadtrip to Georgia this summer, but in the “new normal” the Ritz Carlton Lake Oconee gave my family a place to breathe, play and vacation for a bit which was a gift.  As a result, we’ve found a new spot we will look forward to visiting again and again.

Book with me for the following Ritz Carlton STARS amenities: Daily breakfast for two, upgrade upon arrival based on availability, early check-in or late check-out based on availability, $100 hotel credit

Contact me for more information or book at your own convenience through my Virtuoso online booking hotel tool.