While everyone is turning back the clock 10 years on social media for some odd reason, we at Travel Off Path are still focused on where to go in the here and now.
Plus, nobody wants to see my man bun…
With a little help from fellow experts at Travel + Leisure, we honed in on the perfect lakeside escape to treat yourself.
But hey, if you need to look in the rear-view mirror a decade ago to remind yourself you deserve it, you do you, boo.
Most travelers visit Atlanta, Savannah, or the charming cluster of islands a stone’s throw from the Florida state line, but what goes overlooked is one lake town boasting a ritzy resort, upscale golf community, and ample vacation rentals if you prefer more space than a traditional hotel room.
Not only is the lake beautiful, surrounded by lush greenery and aquatic thrills post-winter, but the town that calls this glistening body of water home is a delight to explore too.
Welcome To Greensboro: Georgia’s Secret Hideaway
Looking to escape the noise? Greensboro, Georgia is just the place!
Boasting a delightful town center brimming with historic storefronts and locally owned shops, you don’t have to worry about Savannah’s crowds and can simply kick back and unwind without cheesy tour buses or uppity Karens (yeah, Savannah can be like that).
There’s arguably no town in Georgia more easygoing. We’re talking locals waving from their front porch with a pitcher of sweet tea at the ready in this unhurried town.
Dating back to 1786, the history is almost tangible as it’s been through quite a tumultuous timeline, touching on the Civil War, the Great Depression, and other hardships.
Nowadays, it’s simply an enjoyable escape from the city grind, especially since it’s only roughly 80 miles southeast of Atlanta.
And if your savings account looks about like mine, then splurging on a 5-star lakeside resort may not be in the cards.
Don’t let that stop you from visiting — Greensboro has a handful of name-brand chains that won’t break the bank, nor will the Goodwin Manor (when it reopens).
Lake Oconee Is Your Next Waterfront Getaway
It’s a common consensus that downtown is the heart of any place.
Not that downtown should be skipped, but we’re lockstep with Travel + Leisure on this one with the belief that Lake Oconee is the heart of Greensboro.
A true four-season getaway, though swimming is off the table right now, Lake Oconee is a blast to visit no matter what the weather report reads.
Right now, it’s a great spot to make friends with a boat owner and go on a fishing trip or simply enjoy a lakeside stroll, but come spring, it takes on a whole new identity with floral blooms and sunny days ahead.
You’ll see more kayaks and paddle-boarders out and about, and swimmers too, as waters become warmer until the end of September, when the lake becomes more of a photo op for leaf-peepers the following months.
There are multiple outlets to rent whichever equipment tickles your fancy, but if there’s one activity not to be missed, it’s a sunset cruise.
Ritz Carlton: Lake Oconee’s Premiere Centerpiece
If you thought Ritz Carlton stuck to the household names to build their posh properties, think again!
It’s true, Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is one of their most low-key luxury resorts given the location.
Here are 5 things we love about this Ritz and believe you will too:
- Exclusive lakeside beach for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat rentals without leaving the property
- Multiple pools including an adults-only pool (seasonally) and a large family pool complex
- A world-class spa with private treatment rooms, a co-ed relaxation lounge, sauna and steam rooms
- A standout lineup of on-site restaurants from the resort’s signature steakhouse to relaxed lakeside patios
- Access to Reynolds Lake Oconee’s golf courses, with transit and tee times coordinated through the concierge
The only thing to scoff at is the price. Yes, there’s often a comma in nightly rates.
That said, don’t forget what we said about vacation rentals. Check out Airbnb for much more wallet-friendly pricing.
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