A Couples Retreat

by Elizabeth Cole, Founder of Salveo Lifestyle

What’s most important when choosing a destination for a couples retreat?

Finding a resort that has both female and male energy. That may sound a little new age, but it’s true! Blackberry Mountain (BBM) is rustic and chic at the same time, which is a difficult combination to pull off, and they do it beautifully.

What makes BBM different from acclaimed sister property, Blackberry Farm (BBF)?

At BBM, you are up in the mountains; BBF is nestled down in the valley. This drastically different topography and setting really set the tone. At BBF, you want to curl up by the fire, spend the afternoon in a rocking chair with a good book, take a cooking class, and linger for hours over dinner in the barn. At BBM, however, you genuinely feel called to get out in nature and take a hike, go mountain biking on the many trails, or attend one of the fantastic exercise classes. Finally, the food at BBM is terrific but not the central focus as it is at the Farm. It is more of an amazing fuel for you to enjoy all the activities. Believe me, they have nailed the delicious and nutritious cuisine!

What was your favorite element of this weekend getaway?

I love so many things about the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, starting with how easy it is to get there from Chicago! An hour-and-half flight followed by a 20-minute drive, and you are on the hiking trails before lunch! The accommodations are fabulous and so chic. But for me, it is the staff and the incredible service that set Blackberry Farm & Mountain apart. They are here to ensure that you enjoy the most memorable getaway and the word “no” isn’t part of their vocabulary. And as I can attest, that’s what makes you come back time and time again. It feels a little like home