Blackberry Farm | Aurora

Blackberry Farm is a luxury resort nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Walland, Tennessee. Spanning 4,200 acres, this Relais & Châteaux property offers a harmonious blend of refined accommodations, exceptional cuisine, wellness experiences, and outdoor activities, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

History and Legacy

Established in 1940 by Florida and David Lasier, Blackberry Farm began as a family estate. In 1952, it was sold to the Jarvis family and later acquired by Sandy and Kreis Beall, founders of the Ruby Tuesday restaurant chain. The Bealls transformed the property into a six-room inn in 1990. Their son, Sam Beall, played a pivotal role in elevating Blackberry Farm into a premier destination until his untimely passing in 2016 .

Accommodations

The resort offers 68 guest accommodations, including estate rooms, suites, cottages, and multi-bedroom homes. Each lodging option is thoughtfully designed with a blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, featuring amenities such as fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private porches. Guests are provided with golf carts to navigate the expansive property .

Culinary Excellence

Blackberry Farm is renowned for its farm-to-table dining experiences. The Barn, the resort's flagship restaurant, serves elevated Southern cuisine crafted from ingredients sourced directly from the property's gardens, dairy, and larder. The wine cellar boasts an extensive collection of over 160,000 bottles, offering perfect pairings for every meal .

Wellness and The Wellhouse

The Wellhouse, Blackberry Farm's spa and wellness center, provides a range of treatments inspired by the surrounding natural environment. Facilities include eight treatment rooms, a fitness center, steam rooms, and tranquil lounges. Guests can participate in yoga classes, personal training sessions, and other wellness activities designed to rejuvenate the mind and body .

Outdoor Activities

Guests can engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits, such as:

Hiking: Explore over 12 miles of scenic trails.

Fly Fishing: Enjoy Orvis-endorsed fly fishing experiences.

Horseback Riding: Suitable for all skill levels.

Sporting Clays: Practice shooting in a controlled environment.

Cycling: Ride through picturesque landscapes.

Farmstead Tours: Visit the dairy barn, creamery, and other facilities.

Lagotto Romagnolo Kennel: Interact with the resort's truffle-hunting dogs .

Sustainability and Conservation

Blackberry Farm is committed to environmental stewardship. Half of its 4,200-acre estate is dedicated to conservation efforts, including sustainable agriculture practices, habitat preservation, and a robust composting program. The resort's initiatives aim to maintain the ecological integrity of the region while offering guests an immersive natural experience .

Sister Property: Blackberry Mountain

In 2019, the Beall family expanded their hospitality offerings with the opening of Blackberry Mountain, a 5,200-acre resort located nearby. This sister property emphasizes wellness, adventure, and conservation, featuring activities like hiking, mountain biking, and aerial yoga, along with luxurious accommodations and dining options .