Blackberry Mountain

This is a splurge for couples, anniversaries, small-group getaways and anyone who wants the mountains without the Parkway. The lodging list includes stone cottages with grand views, treehouses, homes, and Watchman cabins. The resort says it is a leisure property with cozy dining rooms, and that its restaurants can seat a maximum party of 10, so large reunions and meeting groups are not the audience.

The activities pages cover hiking, biking, climbing, fly fishing, paddle sports, horseback riding, trail running, an art studio and a sports club. Dining includes breakfast, midday and dinner restaurants, Three Sisters and a firetower experience. The wellness side includes the Nest spa, body therapies, yoga, forest bathing and a contrast therapy suite.

Walland is on the Foothills Parkway side of the park, well away from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge traffic. Check the drive time to downtown Gatlinburg before you plan park days around it. Walland makes a better base for the Townsend, Cades Cove and Foothills Parkway end of the park.

• Rates and what they include. Resort pricing varies by room type and season, and activities, dining and spa treatments are often extra. Ask what the rate covers.
• Reservation policies. The site has a dedicated reservation policies page. Read the cancellation and deposit terms.
• Group size and children. The resort describes itself as a leisure property. Confirm how it handles children, pets and larger parties before you commit.
• Winter weather. Mountain roads can ice over. Ask about arrival guidance.

Reservations: [800-993-7824](tel:+18009937824). Front desk: [865-518-0900](tel:+18655180900). Website: blackberrymountain.com. Use the map below to see nightly rates in the surrounding area.