GEORGIA PEACH Life is sweet at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, hot on the heels of a multimillion-dollar renovation. Written By Tracy Cottrell
What is it about a lake? The word conjures images of pleasurable ease. I imagine the rustling hush of tall pine trees swaying with the breeze and the water lapping on the shores. It is more of a murmur than the crash of ocean waves. I imagine walking lakeside, the wet sand pushing between my toes. People are relaxing in beach chairs and on the towels scattered about the shore. Children squeal with glee as they rush to the water's edge, scooping up another pail of wet sand to bury the next willing victim. I relax into end-of-day bonfires under the deep indigo sky, stars scattered across the heavens like a splash of glitter. There is an intimacy within the circle of a lake that soothes and refreshes hearts and souls. Clearly, I am a fan of lakes. As my friends and I contemplated a getaway weekend, the RitzCarlton Reynolds on Lake Oconee in Georgia seemed like a perfect fit for all of us. It checked all our boxes for travel requirements: an abundance of activities and opportunities for relaxation, all underscored with luxury, comfort, and fun. We were all ready to reconnect and enjoy ourselves. The resort arranged for a driver to pick us in a comfortable Mercedes van stocked with water and snacks for the 100-mile drive from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta to Lake
Oconee. There was a rush of catch-up conversation, followed by the obligatory technology check-in until everyone seemed to slide into a peaceful quiet, content to enjoy the ride to relaxation. After about an hour on the road, we turned onto Linger Longer Road. How can you not love anyplace that is located off a place with such an endearing name? As we approached our destination, luxuriant longleaf pines rose to greet us, punctuated by well-tended grounds, and smooth greens of golf courses visible through the trees. We pulled up to the hotel and were greeted by what seemed like a family of staff members, all intent on welcoming us and heading us towards the lobby and front desk. Check-in was friendly, informative, and expeditious. With dinner plans already made, we agreed to head to our rooms for a quick change before meeting downstairs. We gathered in the lobby, a vibrant space that reflects the beauty of the outdoors with elegant lodge-style dĂŠcor imbued with the luxurious elements you would expect from a Ritz-Carlton. The central area is filled with generous and comfortable seating, but the focus is Lake Oconee, visible through the wall of windows. The lake measures just under twenty miles in length, and about thirty square miles total is surrounded by abundant woods, dotted with lovely homes, and edged with private boat docks. Soaking in the beauty of the lake spread out before us felt like a quick visit to a mini spa.
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