By Isadora Pennington

If you live in Atlanta and are looking for a mountain getaway, chances are you’re thinking about the North Georgia mountains, right? Well, that’s not the only place you can find mountain vibes. Just a little over an hour south sits Pine Mountain, GA. A quaint town with a modest downtown strip, the area boasts a robust variety of recreational activities at nearby Callaway Gardens. Visitors can walk the colorful grounds, watch the birds of prey show, visit the artist gallery, get up close and personal with butterflies and rent bikes or a boat for an afternoon of fun.

Recently I took a trip to the area and stayed at the Lodge & Spa at Callaway Gardens. The hotel is nestled into the woods, a getaway of its own accord. The property pairs the aesthetics of a cabin with the amenities of a modern hotel. Beautifully sculpted grounds mimic the natural elements of their surroundings and blend into the environment. In addition to standard hotel accommodations, the full-fledged spa and various event spaces make this spot popular for families, corporate get-togethers, weddings and more. Callaway also makes for a popular holiday getaway with the annual Fantasy in Lights, which runs Nov. 13 to Jan. 2.

Check out these photos from my trip and see for yourself the beauty that Callaway has to offer. For more information, visit callawaygardens.com.

Lily Koch, 9, comes up for air.
Steven Mayo
Patrons talk and enjoy a refreshing dip.
Carolyn Koch gently guides little sister Molly, 2, through the pool.
Chip Koch, 9, takes a break along with his sisters, Carolyn, 11, and right, Lily.
Craftsman Bob Horn had a table set up in the main hall where he sold his goods.

Photos by Isadora Pennington

Isadora Pennington is a freelance writer and photographer based in Atlanta. She is the editor of Sketchbook by Rough Draft, a weekly Arts newsletter.