3 Tips to Select the Best Hotel for Your Next Smoky Mountain Getaway

Vacations can make us feel lighter on our feet, rejuvenated, and it’s nice to get out of work mode. If you’re looking to getaway for a long weekend, the Smoky Mountains offer serenity, and beautiful views in a luxury setting. Here are some tips on finding that perfect luxury Smoky Mountain accommodation:

1. Select Your Destination

The Smoky Mountains covers Tennessee and North Carolina so there are many cities and towns to choose from. Tennessee is ranked the 36th largest state by area and is known for its country music, high-quality whisky, and above all, the Great National Smoky Park. The Smokies attract over 14 million tourists annually as it has the most extensive collection of wildlife, plants, trees, and historical monuments. It also has nearby towns like Gatlinburg, which has some of the most luxurious accommodations waiting to receive tourists and is a monument to southern history and culture. 

You should have no trouble finding a hotel in Gatlinburg since this quirky town can get up to 12 million visitors yearly who come to see the Smokies and visit this quintessential destination. Their hotel staff is prepared to accommodate each and every guest, from spotless rooms and a variety of concierge services. Most accommodations like The Appalachian Lodge are close to some of the most delicious steakhouses and pancake places, making your stay worthwhile. You can book local tours to the Sugarland distillery, grab a ride to hike in the Smokies, or explore Tennessee’s only ski resort, the Ober Gatlinburg. There is also no other region that knows its way around briskets and BBQ than those in the south, and Gatlinburg will ensure you relish in all of these delicacies. 

2. Amenities 

Part of getting away should include getting pampered! Your hotel should not just be a place to sleep and eat. It should have activities that add to the pleasure of your trip. Find out if the hotel you’re staying at offers massages and has a game room, indoor gym, pool, or spa. Look for spa treatments that cater to your needs like a hot stone massage or aromatherapy. If you have children, they also need outlets to spend their energy and may not always be interested in sightseeing. 

Some hotels also offer babysitting services which allow you to responsibly have a caretaker watch your infant if you want to enjoy a romantic getaway with your partner. If the amenities make your trip more accessible and comfortable, consider taking them up. 

3. Check Out the Reviews

If you’re booking outside of your regular hotel chain to try something new, be sure to check out the reviews. Websites can be misleading at times. While on the surface, the rooms may look appealing, but reliability may show otherwise. Listen to what consumers say and pick up a pattern if you see inconsistency in the ratings. Generic and automated comments look unnatural and made up. 

You should look at the dates and frequency of comments. Social media pages can also help you make your choice.

There are so many things to see and do when visiting the Smoky Mountains, be sure to enjoy them all!

Featured Photo by Mauro Bueso on Unsplash