My husband and I recently had the pleasure of spending 2 nights at the lovely Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee about an hour outside Atlanta. The resort is located on 30 acres by the lake within the confines of a pine forest but has all the luxuries you would expect from a Ritz Carlton.
We spent many hours lounging by the infinity pool but never quite made it to the lake level to enjoy all those activities including two swim platforms, non-motorized water toys including canoes, kayaks, and water bikes but we did go on a leisurely pontoon boat ride around the lake.
Our room was a lake view with access to the Club lounge which I highly recommend. The offerings included a full breakfast including hot dishes, lunch with sandwiches, soups, and salads, plus evening small bites and desserts. The lounge was open from 7am to 10pm each night and was fully stocked with their famous cookies (white chocolate blueberry were my favorite!), candies, and drinks including alcohol and soft drinks.
The main resort only has 5 floors and you have a choice of either resort view or lake view. If you want a little more privacy or room you can book one of their 2 or 3 bedroom cottages by the lake. Resort fee is included as well as an honor bar. When you visit at Christmas your cottage comes with a Christmas tree. The Lakehouse is a 4 bedroom cottage with a private pool and game room.
If you want to take a break from the water activities you should head over to the Sporting Grounds just a 10 minute drive from the resort. Located on 800 acres and currently expanding their offerings you can try your hand at archery, sporting clays, a 5-stand, and fishing (gear provided). In the coming year or so they expect to add canoes and kayaks plus an off-road driving school and falconry. Kids aged 8 and up are welcome at the sporting ground and may participate in certain activities.
For the golfers I highly recommend Taylor Kingdom of Golf experience where you can have a custom set of golf clubs professionally fitted by the best in the industry. It’s not uncommon to see pros getting fit the week prior to the Masters which is just down the road. By the way, the resort does offer packages and transportation to the Masters.
Ritz Kids is available daily for those aged 5-12 for either a full or half day program plus Ritz Kids Night Out of Fridays and Saturdays. Age appropriate activities will be provided to keep kids engaged and active.
Adults can also spend your time at the spa including treatments incorporating golf balls, red clay, sweet tea, and magnolia or take in a fitness class which will be necessary after all the wonderful food you will be enjoying.
Linger Longer is their American Steakhouse located near the golf course and Georgia’s is the main restaurant at the resort. I highly recommend their meatloaf. Enjoy Gabby’s by the Lake for nourishment while enjoying time at the pool and lake. They also have a drinks truck down by the lake that serves the yummiest Frose and ice cream. Each evening weather permitting you can partake in s’mores by the campfire.
Evenings are low-key and several evenings a week they have live entertainment down by the water or in the lobby lounge.
Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is a family-friendly destination as well as a wonderful destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.