In fall, the globetrotter within me comes alive. After all, it’s an off-season, which means lots of travel discounts, fewer crowds in my favorite spots, and… well let’s just admit I love the crunch of fall leaves under my boots and cooler and darker nights. And as I place the final coffee mug on my shelf, the one I got from North Carolina a few years back, I cannot help but reminisce about all the past journeys I made to the beautiful Southeast region every fall.
The resorts that I stayed in throughout my visits had peak Southern charm, with a touch of sophistication and lots of luxury. Here is a list of my favorite resorts in the Southeast US, each leaving its mark on my heart over the past few years of traveling.
1. Salamander Middleburg Resort & Spa
Address: 500 N Pendleton St, Middleburg, Virginia 20117, United States
Phone: +1 540-751-3160
Salamander Middleburg Resort & Spa makes time stand still with its equestrian lifestyle, with a 14,000 sq. ft. stable with nine handsome paddocks, 22 stalls and a beautiful outdoor riding arena.
Salamander Middleburg Resort & Spa first caught my attention with its graceful surroundings and warm hospitality. There are plenty of activities that help you enjoy this breathtaking scenery in the heart of the horse and wine country of Virginia.
It is one of the best resorts in the southeast to enjoy an equestrian center, indoor and outdoor pools, wineries or a romantic escape.
2. The Swag
Address: 2300 Swag Road, Waynesville, North Carolina 28785, United States
Phone: +1 828-926-0430
My second favorite resort in the Southeast US is The Swag. I always choose this scenic mountain sanctuary to celebrate my special moments in nature.
These resorts in the southeast are perched on the Great Smoky Mountains, and each room offers pleasing views of the gorgeous fields. Balsam is my favorite room in The Swag House, so different from typical resort rooms.
This room has a huge stone fireplace surrounded by windows letting you see nature outside. Staying at this luxury log cabin always makes me feel that I am living a Disney fairytale life.
3. Kingsmill Resort
Address: 1010 Kingsmill Rd, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185, United States
Phone: +1 800-832-5665
Kingsmill Resort is one of the best resorts in the south that caters to family-friendly activities, and just like my family did, yours will love the variety of pools, casual dining arrangements, and the full-service marina.
Kingsmill Resort is also a stunning golf destination in Virginia, and the spa services are also exceptional. There are plenty of vacation packages to choose from, offering luxury accommodations like cottages, extended stay accommodations, and pet-friendly rooms.
4. Plantation Resort on Crystal River
Address: 9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, Florida 34429, United States
Phone: +1 352-795-4211
Plantation Resort on Crystal River is an unforgettable Greek-style resort near Fort Island Gulf Beach. Many resorts in the south of the US offer you a gateway to explore nature at its core. But nothing managed to steal my breath away like this resort surrounded by natural landscapes.
We loved the warm and welcoming rooms and the lagoon-style pool, and when we weren’t enjoying the Aveda Spa or the golf course, we would go out fishing or boating.
Plantation Resort on Crystal River presents the prettiest accommodations for whenever I need an eco-friendly vacation to make lasting memories.
5. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa
Address: 2525 DreamMore Wy, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37863, United States
Phone: +1 800-365-5996
I came across Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa when I was looking for luxury but found a paradise in the Great Smoky Mountains instead. This is among the best theme southeast resorts in Tennessee to experience the world of Dollywood in an intimate way.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa proved to be a great accommodation for my theme park thrill-seeking nature, and the beautiful accommodation was spacious and offered stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. My family also loved the pools, full-service spa, and the Spa Pink Jeep Tours.
6. Jekyll Island Club Resort
Address: 371 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, Georgia 31527, United States
Phone: +1 912-319-4349
Jekyll Island Club Resort will forever have a special place in my heart. I hold fond memories of unwinding, chasing sunsets, and walking barefoot on the beach at this dream destination on Jekyll Island.
Jekyll Island Club has three best resorts in the southeast – each offering an experience of its own. The Jekyll Island Clubhouse has refurbished clubhouses, and pool and beach access. The Island cottages are impressive and sophisticated mansions, and the Jekyll Ocean Club is an AAA Four Diamond all-suite resort for beachfront amenities and stunning ocean views.
7. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Address: 1 Lake Oconee Trail, Greensboro, Georgia 30642, United States
Phone: +1 706-467-0600
Waking up in Ritz-Carlton has always been my dream – one that came true only last year. And this one overlooking Lake Oconee is among the most picturesque resorts in the southeast I have visited.
One stay at this rustic and elegant place has set the bar too high for my other vacation plans. The lodge-like charm of the accommodations, boating on Lake Oconee, and dining beside the calm waters under the stars will always be my favorite vacation memories.
The rooms are equipped with modern amenities like iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. We also rented some fishing and boating equipment to make our stay even more fun.
8. Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club
Address: 1700 S Ocean Ln, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316, United States
Phone: +1 954-523-6511
If I had to define happiness with accommodation, I would call it Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club. It is one of the best resorts in the south with the largest private beach, which made my stay and dining experience even more exciting.
The one-of-a-kind accommodations at Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club have luxurious offerings like complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, room service, laundry and dry cleaning, etc. The Executive Suite with a private balcony and spacious working area was the highlight of my stay.
9. Riverstone Resort & Spa
Address: 212 Dollywood Ln, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37868, United States
Phone: +1 866-908-0660
My motto in life is simple; work hard all year and then party even harder at the best resorts in the south – the perfect place to disconnect from my urban life. And what’s a better place to gather near a warm fireplace than Riverstone Resort & Spa?
The spacious and luxurious condos are perfect for couples and even large vacation groups. There is ample space in the bedroom, living space and closets, and a balcony overlooks the picturesque golf course and river. This place is immensely clean, well-maintained, and has top-notch services.
10. Half-Mile Farm
Address: 214 Half Mile Dr, Highlands, North Carolina 28741, United States
Phone: +1 855-271-7246
Half Mile Farm has Napa-style southeast resorts in Highlands, North Carolina. These mountain vistas have as many luxurious amenities as it has a touch of nature. Whenever I need the tranquility of forests, fields, and the glistening Apple Lake around me, I head over to this resort in the Southeast US.
What I love the most about this accommodation is that it is committed to the sustainability and beauty of nature around me. You can find hints of the natural resources and mountainous vibes through the services and practices, such as using electric car-charging stations, paper straws, edible landscapes and recycling thoroughly.
11. The Tides Inn
Address: 480 King Carter Dr, Irvington, Virginia 22480, United States
Phone: +1 804-438-5000
I head over to The Tides Inn whenever I need to collect beautiful memories while traveling to Virginia. It is one of the best resorts in the southeast lying on a stretch of water, having rooms with stunning views with king and queen beds.
There are the resort view rooms, overlooking the beautiful trees and gardens; the water view rooms, offering breathtaking views of the shoreline, beach and marina; and the suites that I opt for whenever I need spacious living space with private balconies.
12. Grandover Resort & Spa, A Wyndham Grand Hotel
Address: 1000 Club Rd, Greensboro, North Carolina 27407, United States
Phone: +1 336-294-1800
Finding peace on a sprawling golf course property is a bucket list item of many travelers, just like I had. Hence I made my way towards the Grandover Resort & Spa, A Wyndham Grand Hotel and booked a king room.
And I wasn’t disappointed. Foster mattresses, a wet bar, terry cloth robes and a marble-tiled bathroom spoke of comfort and luxury. And after I relaxed and had a short nap, I went outside to grab something to eat.
This is one of the resorts in the southeast with the most exciting dining experiences. The DiValletta Restaurant served the best Mediterranean cuisine dishes in a stunning dining room with garden views.
13. Palm Beach Shores Resort and Vacation Villas
Address: 181 S Ocean Ave, Palm Beach Shores, Florida 33404, United States
Phone: +1 561-863-4000
Life is too short for ordinary vacations. Palm Beach Shores Resort and Vacation Villas are one of the best resorts in the south with spacious accommodations and enjoyable activities. This is why I opted for this pretty destination to enjoy the Florida sun.
There are many limited-edition fun activities to enjoy year-round. But my favorites are Paddleboarding, boat rentals and sunset cruises.
14. Inn At Willow Grove
Address: 14079 Stones Throw Drive, Orange, Virginia 22960, United States
Phone: +1 540-317-1206
The Inn At Willow Grove resorts in the south is a rare destination – and I mean it in a good way. The lush scenery of the Virginia Wine Country greets me every time I give in to the elegance and charm of this resort.
The Inn At Willow Grove is even prettier than you will find in pictures. The resort is surrounded by old trees speaking of value and preservation, beautiful gardens breathe life to the whole place, and historical architecture explains how seriously the resort takes its maintenance and restoration.
Apart from the luxurious accommodations, you will find a variety of treatment rooms, relaxation spas, and even a heated saltwater pool to unwind after a long day of exploring the luxury oasis.
15. Old Edwards Inn and Spa
Address: 445 Main St, Highlands, North Carolina 28741, United States
Phone: +1 866-526-8008
Old Edwards Inn and Spa Southeast resorts let me enjoy European-style cottages, guestrooms and suites in the vibrant North Carolina setting.
And of course, vacation calories don’t count. That is why I headed over to the farm-fed restaurants whenever I could grab a delicious Neapolitan pizza, a coffee or cocktail, or other unforgettable flavors of North Carolina.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa truly reminds me why I fell in love with the culture, community and setting of North Carolina.
16. Blockade Runner Beach Resort
Address: 275 Waynick Blvd, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina 28480, United States
Phone: +1 866-884-5781
The best resorts in the southeast understand what drew you to the region in the first place – the beach! This is why I trust Blockade Runner Beach Resort to enjoy the beautiful coastal destination whenever I happen to visit North Carolina.
The Premier Atlantic Oceanfront suite has a king bedroom and a private soaking tub, but the most stunning is the décor inspired by beachside colors and patterns. The large windows let me experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from the comfort of my balcony.
