Y’all probably saw on my Instagram or Snapchat, or heard me talk about how I needed a break in this post, but I recently spent some downtime in Georgia with my family. My parents live in Atlanta now, so we drove out to the The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Lake Oconee which was about an hour and a half away – super easy drive.

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

This place is beyond peaceful and relaxing – just what I was craving. The hotel itself is surrounded by a stunner, Lake Oconee, so everywhere you walk/look you see calm waters and trees. Ahhhh, pure bliss right there!

It’s very kid-friendly and there were lots of activities to enjoy as a family.  And if you’re thinking about going, I just want to note that (at least while I was there), there were kids everywhere. I think it would for sure be a fun “get away” spot or romantic getaway but at least while you’re on the hotel property, there’s lots of families running around. This would be the perfect spot for a large group to meet up – maybe a reunion, golf weekend, or something like that. There’s a lot of space to have fun and tons to do!

What to do

Golf – I noticed sooo many golfers, then I found out there were FIVE golf courses that are part of the hotel. The hotel sits right outside Augusta (where the major Master’s Golf Tournament takes place), so apparently it’s pretty well known for golf. You have to make a reservation at the courses, so definitely be aware of that. But if golf is your thing, this spot is a must.

Lake activities – The lake is big, so you can do everything from rent a pontoon boat or jet ski, to fish, paddle board, or canoe. It’s especially quiet and flat in the morning, so that seems like prime time for fishing or paddle boarding. There’s a little private beach too if you’re more of a sun-bather – hey, no judgements! Oh, and you could rent a boat too if you’d like! Assuming your above age 25 and know how to drive one, you could drive it yourself or you could rent one and have one of their guys else drive it. We rented a pontoon boat one evening for a little sunset cruise with wine and cheese and it was a total blast!

Spa – The hotel has a spa that’s just fantastic. I think it’s almost 30,000 sq. ft. or something ridiculous. I got a massage – again, NEEDED – and just lounged around all afternoon in the spa area (in my robe, obviously). This is the place to get pampered while the guys (or other gals!) in your group golf.

Hanging by the Pool (or hot tub!) – Can we say freaking gorgeous infinity pool over looking the lake?! The whole pool area was amazing. There was a special kids pool + deck too, so the main area was still chill.

Hiking or biking – There are a bunch of trails (but nothin with major mountains or hills or anything fyi – just flat-ish terrains) surrounding the hotel’s property – plus more outside of it – and a lot of outdoor areas to get your workout on. You can rent bicycles, and I saw a lot of people on mountain bikes heading out.

Where to eat

Gaby’s by the Lake – We spent so much time here! But really – I think we NO JOKE had like 3 meals here (or maybe even 4?!)  This is the resort’s casual eating area by the pool and overlooking the lake, and you can come in your bathing suit – loved it. We had lunch here and sat in the shade to cool off. Really cute spot.

Linger Longer Steakhouse – This was on hotel grounds and a classic – and yummy – steakhouse. It looks out onto the lake, so I’d suggest booking a reservation during sunset. There’s an open kitchen too, which is always a cool thing if you want to watch the chef do his/her thing.

Chiminea dining – OK this was AWESOME. You sit in these extra large wooden chairs down by the lake and have your own personal “chiminea” bonfire (have y’all heard of these?). Then, you get a three-course meal brought down to you PLUS champagne PLUS a bottle of wine PLUS DESSERT. I mean, is this heaven?! Obviously, a must do while at Reynolds.

Anyone else been here before? I want to come back and explore more places outside the hotel…if I can get myself to leave it. Let me know if y’all have other tips for this area!