Memorial Day is around the corner and the holiday weekend has always represented a symbolic gateway to summertime. Three months ago we were in the throes of what we in the travel industry call wave season and now we’ve halted to the next normal of phased openings.
But according to the world wide web, you are still daydreaming…
The Top U.S. travel-related searches on Google’s platform between April 1 and May 11, 2020, included phrases like: “will we be able to travel this summer”, “when will it be safe to travel again”, and the slightly less optimistic “can you travel during shutdown” and “where to travel during COVID”
So if you are one of those people hammering on your keyboard and of the mindset that you will in fact be in need of that summer vacation and emotional outlet this year, I’m advising you to set your heart on the high mountain tops and low marshlands.
Since my home field is North Carolina, I thought I would keep it within a days drive…
1. Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tennessee
The 4,200-acre Blackberry Farm is a working farm and romantic hideaway in the heart of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains. The Smokies provide a gorgeous setting for adventure. Go mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and hiking on pristine acres, more than half of which have been dedicated to conservation. Explore the property on horseback, via old-fashioned carriage, by canoe and mountain bike or on intimate walking trails. Nurture your wellness with a massage at The Wellhouse or nurture your soul, relaxing and reading in a hammock. For the epicurious, food and wine take center stage at The Barn, where menus feature the mouthwatering bounty of the farm’s bakery, butchery, creamery and extensive wine cellar of 160,000 bottles.
2. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort, South Carolina
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is located on the picturesque coast of South Carolina, only 5 hours from my beloved, Walt Disney World Resort. This elegant, relaxing home-away-from-home is fashioned after a 1940s hunting and fishing lodge. It combines local charm and simple pleasures with outdoor fun for the entire family and a seasonal low country boil to make your mouth water.The resort features multi-roomed villas and many recreational activities, including 12 miles of heavenly beaches. Zip down the wraparound Water Tower Slide at the Big Dipper 72,000-gallon heated pool with the kids. The resort boasts family friendly entertainment and dining on property. And just across from the resort is Shelter Cove Harbour, featuring a marina, fine restaurants and charming boutiques. A few hundred yards away is The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, home to a 350-seat pavilion, art galleries and workshops. Also nearby are the Coastal Discovery Museum and Harbour Town, which hosts an annual PGA Tour event and has one of the world’s most photographed lighthouses. Hilton Head island is internationally known for its world-class golf courses and coastal beauty. All that combined with Disney’s First Class Service makes this a top family spot.
3. Primland, Meadows of Dan, Virginia
Primland is the ultimate luxurious mountain getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a southern oasis for the outdoor fanatic. If you have dreamed of taking in the summer in deluxe accommodations and taking in the great outdoors, look no further. Here, it is all about the simple pleasures in a stunning mountain landscape, The experience includes golf, spa,trout fishing, sport shooting and gourmet dining. If you have ever dreamed of staying in a treehouse but want the 400 thread count sheets, Primland fits the bill. With its commitment the land and to luxury, it’s rustically elegant suites, cottages, and appointed tree houses are perfect for your family getaway and reconnect.
4. The Sanctuary at Kiawah island Golf Resort, South Carolina
Less than a half hour drive from the heart of Charleston, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a multi generational family haven on ten miles of sprawling private beach. Guests can escape daily life in a pristine setting and wide open spaces setting perfect for social distancing when you want and when you don’t. It is reminiscent of a seaside mansion and world renowned for its spa, golf, tennis, family, and nature program offerings, the resort offers an array of luxurious accommodations from individual rooms and privately owned villas. Best part is the multiple swimming pools with bike riding paths that meander through low-country.
If you are interested in learning more about family adventures and social distancing getaways this summer, please contact us at How Far Adventures.
