For the first time in 40 years, Blackberry Farm announces a new property, Blackberry Mountain, opening in late 2018. With the creation of Blackberry Mountain, the Beall family is expanding their commitment to preserving the land surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and continuing the tradition of offering legendary hospitality. Uninhibited, dramatic views of beautifully diverse terrain paired with a mountain-inspired wellness program are the focal points of the unprecedented experience that invite guests outside to seek adventure and explore the property from base to peak.
“Breaking ground on Blackberry Mountain is the culmination of many dreams,” said Proprietor Mary Celeste Beall. “The ultimate goal has always been to protect the land for our community and future generations, but Sam and I also dreamed about taking all that we learned from Blackberry Farm and creating something from scratch.”
Blackberry Mountain is a 5,200 acre resort property inspired by the history and beauty of the Smoky Mountains and East Tennessee. To protect the natural landscape and habitat, 2,800 acres of the property have been committed to remain undisturbed in conservation, creating a private national park experience. A dedication to land preservation and a passion for sharing the wonders of life in the Smokies shape the Beall family vision.
“With Blackberry Mountain, we are excited to provide new jobs in the community, protect the viewscape in Blount County, and increase the positive economic impact we have on our community,” said Matt Alexander, Executive Vice President of Blackberry Farm. “This endeavor is the result of true team work and a shared dedication to protecting our natural environment and providing world-class service.”
Accommodations at Blackberry Mountain combine the peace and tradition of mountain life with the highest quality modern-day comforts. The property will open with six traditional style cabins, 13 cottages and multi-bedroom homes. Every accommodation features breathtaking mountain views and style layered with modern elements and collected antiques.
A full wellness program will focus on encouraging an active and adventurous lifestyle supported by a menu of outdoor adventures, fitness classes and a modern spa. There are on-site and off-site activity opportunities including hiking, tree climbing, mountain biking, foraging, camping, rock climbing, fly fishing, paddle sports, sporting clays and horseback riding. A yoga studio, spin studio, fitness room, gym and basketball court create spaces for a wide variety of physical activity. An eight treatment room spa will feature a holistic approach to skin and body care with treatments and products inspired by the land. An infinity edge pool outside overlooks the incredible scenery.
Blackberry Mountain will have two restaurants on property. The Firetower is constructed around the base of the historic Millstone Gap Lookout Tower at the peak of the Mountain. The Firetower provides a casual, inviting atmosphere with 360 degree views of the Smoky Mountains and East Tennessee. The restaurant in the Lodge, Three Sisters, will offer a refined take on the natural charm of the Mountain. Wild, foraged ingredients will create a fine-dining experience with a distinct, memorable taste of the season.
The culinary program will uphold the celebrated reputation of Blackberry Farm, reimagined to complement the style and setting of the Mountain. Innovative, seasonal menus will be inspired by ingredients foraged from the land. Wine lists will be curated with the same thoughtfulness and depth as Blackberry Farm. The succinct and exceptional beverage selection will showcase favorite small vintners, boutique spirits and Blackberry Farm Brewery beer.
“It is wonderful to see this vision come to life,” said Mary Celeste. “I am so excited to share the Mountain and a lifestyle that our family enjoys with our guests. We want guests to go outside, explore and connect with each other while they discover what this beautiful mountain has to offer.”
Rates include nightly accommodations as well as dinner and breakfast starting with dinner on the day of arrival and ending with breakfast on the day of departure within the restaurants during traditional meal hours, along with all pantry snacks, pantry non-alcoholic beverages, fitness classes from 7am – 11am and guided morning hike.
Blackberry Mountain is in Walland, located just 20 minutes away from the Blackberry Farm property and 30 minutes from Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport. As the property develops, news and updates will continue to be posted on blackberrymountain.com. Reservations can be booked now for stays beginning in late 2018.
Spanning 5,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, with 2,800 acres dedicated to land conservation, Blackberry Mountain continues a legacy of world renowned hospitality as well as unwavering dedication and appreciation for the land. Blackberry Mountain is the perfect adventurous retreat for family, friends or business, offering modern-day luxuries in an unencumbered natural environment. Seasonal menus pay homage to locally sourced, fresh ingredients and the bounty of the Great Smoky Mountain land. From relaxing spa treatments to outdoor adventures, activities are vast on the Mountain and include hiking, tree climbing, foraging, fly fishing, mountain biking and more. Transportation around Blackberry Mountain is provided exclusively by Lexus.