By Ralph Cooper. Photo: Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation.
I recently had the privilege of staying at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Plantation, a 35-acre property set on Lake Oconee in Georgia. This is a beautiful property located halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, Georgia. The transfer from Atlanta takes approximately 90 minutes.
There are many great activities on the property, with five 18-hole golf courses within easy driving distance, a 26,000 square foot spa, skeet shooting, and many water activities in Lake Oconee. The hotel has beach access to the lake and Jet skis are one of the activities available.
The hotel has many hiking trails and Segway rides for the less walking inclined. It’s especially nice this time of year with the crisp autumn air and the bright fall foliage. The kids’ program is great as at all Ritz-Carltons, with an outdoorsy bent that focuses on the local flora and fauna with nature hikes, scavenger hunts, fishing, and arts and crafts.
There are a variety of dining options with three excellent restaurants; my personal favorite was Gaby’s by the Lake whose motto is “No Shirt, No Shoes, Our Pleasure!” The menu included great BBQ, with a surprise ingredient of Coca Cola in the sauce, and a variety of chefs’ special touches including grilled watermelon!
Overall a wonderful spot for a meeting or a long weekend.