Unexpected All-Inclusives: These Properties Take Amenities to the Next Level

Everybody loves an all-inclusive (or amenity-driven) resort. What’s better than having all the things that make vacations special — elevated dining, wellness, and plenty of activities — right at your (hotel room) doorstep? No matter your preferred style of vacation, we’ve rounded up a list of stellar properties that might not come to mind when thinking of an all-inclusive resort, but truly swing for the fences when it comes to amenities and perks. From ranches and mountains, to the Caribbean and coasts, these are accommodations you’ll never want to leave!


The Mountains

The Swag- North Carolina 

Set on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this rustic North Carolina resort sits on 250 sprawling acres. The rooms here have a noticeably cozy atmosphere, with beamed ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies all contributing to the country-chic decor. However, your room, whether you’re in the main house or your very own cabin, might be the last place you’ll find yourself with the plethora of activities this property has to offer. From guided hikes to farm fresh meals, The Swag promises to provide you with a completely immersive experience. Horseback riding, croquet, a picnic lunch on Gooseberry Knob and cocktails around the fire pit are all on the roster. There’re also special chances to meet with Experts in Residence. From musicians and naturalists, to historians and photographers, you can learn a thing or two. You’ll also enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board on arrival by booking with us!

The Swag in Waynesville, North Carolina

Blackberry Farm & Blackberry Mountain- Tennessee

These Relais & Chateaux properties, also in the Great Smoky Mountains, take farm-to-table dining and wellness to the next level. At Blackberry Farm, you can rediscover the simple pleasures that characterize farm life. Cooking classes, gardening, and cheesemaking are all on the table (no pun intended). However, it’s no surprise that cuisine is the star of the show here. Headed by talented Chef Cassidy Dabney, The Barn showcases seasonal flavors with ingredients grown right on the property. Meanwhile, Chef Sarah Stefan heads The Dogwood in the Main House. Small bites and a robust beverage program are on the menu there. 

Blackberry Farm in Tennessee

If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, Blackberry Mountain has the views, seclusion, and adventure you need. Aptly named Nest features a range of treatments from skincare and massages inspired by the surrounding mountains, to aerial forest yoga and meditative art classes. There are also plenty of activities if you desire to be more active. The Arbor adventure might be the best way to see the surrounding forest from a new perspective. This guided ropes adventure lets you soak in birds-eye views from three custom-built tree houses. 

The Coast 

Fogo Island Inn- Canada

Located on an island off the coast of Newfoundland, this luxury property is an oasis of modern design on an otherwise rugged landscape. Individually designed suites feature custom furniture, heated wood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows with Northern Atlantic views. Ocean lovers, this one is for you! Boasting seven distinct seasons —summer, winter, pack ice season, spring, trap berth season, berry season, and late fall — there’s a time of year to suit whatever style of island adventure you’re looking for. While availability is limited by season, activities can include morning yoga, bushcraft, boat tours, wildlife spotting, and stargazing. If you’re looking to add to your toolbox of skills, there are also classes — ranging from pottery or boat-building — to stretch your mind in new directions. Dining at Fogo Island Inn is also an experience of the land. They aim for 80% of their ingredients to come from the island itself. While the menu changes seasonally, given the resort’s remote location, time is also a favorite ingredient, often seen in pickling, fermenting, and bottling techniques. Get a sneak peek into the process by visiting one of the hotel’s grass-topped root cellars. 

Fogo Island Inn in Joe Batt's Arm, Canada

Wellness

Lake Austin Spa- Texas

Situated on Lake Austin on the Colorado River, this wellness-oriented resort is just over 20 miles from downtown Austin — perfectly balancing accessibility with privacy. The resort urges you to think of it as your favorite aunt’s lake house, except in addition to that homey feeling, you’re treated to world-class cuisine and an award-winning spa. Treatments run the gamut from facials and massages, to body treatments and foot therapies. However, the healing power of water is at the center of it all. Whether you check out one of the specialized aquatic therapies, take a dip in one of the pools, or grab a kayak for an afternoon on the lake. Water-based fitness classes are also a big draw here. Don’t forget that nourishment also comes from within. Led by Chef Stéphane Beauchamp, Lake Austin Spa’s cuisine is built on a foundation of fruits and vegetables plucked right from the resort’s own garden. 

Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas

Miraval Austin Resort & Spa- Texas

Located aptly on Farm to Market Road, this all-inclusive property is an oasis of wellness in the Texas hills. Rooms here are easy on the eyes with modern finishes and monochromatic decor. Upgraded rooms feature extra living space and outdoor showers. However, you probably won’t be spending much time there with this resort’s extensive daily offerings. Nature walks, trail runs, archery, barre classes, and even high-intensity full-body workouts mean you can cater your day to your liking, whether you want to relax, stroll through the property’s more than 200 acres of protected forest, or get your sweat on. The crowning jewel may just be the Life in Balance Spa. Amenities include steam rooms, saunas, pools, and hot tubs for unlimited use. Spa treatments are best booked in advance. Consider adding the “Austin Apothecary Massage” to your vacation. This treatment utilizes leaves, flowers, and herbs native to Texas Hill Country.

Miraval Austin Resort & Spa Arrival Center

Ranches

Triple Creek Ranch- Montana

Nestled within the serene expanse of Bitterroot National Forest, Triple Creek Ranch offers an exclusive getaway sprawled across 50 acres. Accommodations range from airy woodsy suites to 1- to 3-bedroom log cabins and houses adorned with western décor. Private or shared hot tubs accompany these retreats. All-inclusive indulgence awaits, with meals, drinks, and an array of activities such as skiing and fly-fishing included. Dine at the on-site restaurant or explore the wine cellar, unwind in the seasonal heated outdoor pool, or engage in a friendly match at the tennis court. Awaiting you are warm greetings from the dedicated staff, ensuring a stress-free mountain retreat where decisions revolve around the day's pace and dinner choices. The ranch offers a gamut of experiences, from horseback riding to sapphire panning, ensuring each day is tailored to your individual preferences. If you’re seeking tranquility, opportunities abound for leisurely pursuits such as reading, hot tub indulgence, or simply basking in the idyllic surroundings. Additionally, you can opt for guided adventures, like whitewater rafting, for an additional fee, adding a touch of excitement to your retreat.

Triple Creek Ranch - Amenities Riverside Cabin Patio

Ranch at Rock Creek- Montana

Situated in the serene Rock Creek Valley on a 19th-century homestead, The Ranch at Rock Creek offers a luxurious all-inclusive experience, a scenic 62-mile drive from Butte. Accommodations range from rustic-chic rooms in the main lodge to private cabins and upscale tents, each featuring various amenities, some boasting valley views. You can indulge in an array of included activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, mountain biking, and stagecoach rides, alongside offerings like a kids' club, ropes course, archery range, and rifle shooting. The resort's facilities include a market-driven restaurant, a saloon with a game room, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub, while a day spa offers treatments for an additional fee. Rooted in its all-inclusive ethos, The Ranch at Rock Creek ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and legendary hospitality of the West. Whether exploring the vast landscape on horseback or savoring gourmet dining experiences, each moment at this property promises an authentic "true West" adventure.

The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana

The Caribbean

Half Moon- Jamaica

This exquisite Jamaican beach resort offers a blend of ultra-chic accommodations, you can choose from rooms with patios or balconies, while suites boast ocean or pool views and additional sitting areas. For the ultimate luxury, villas feature private pools, personal chefs, butler service, and up to six bedrooms. Indulge in culinary delights at three restaurants, a cafe, and five bars, including a swim-up option, before exploring the vast array of amenities, including over 50 outdoor pools, a sprawling spa, and a playground. Adventure awaits with activities such as golfing, tennis, water sports, and horseback riding. Set upon 400 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds with two miles of private beachfront, Half Moon stands as one of the Caribbean's most iconic destinations. Enjoy specially curated amenities, including the largest spa oasis in the Caribbean, an 18-hole championship golf course, and award-winning dining options such as Sugar Mill. Choose from a selection of dining plans tailored to enhance your culinary journey, with options ranging from breakfast to premium plans. 

Half Moon, Jamaica in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Cap Maison Resort & Spa- St. Lucia

Perched on a cliff overlooking the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea, Cap Maison Resort & Spa offers chic and breezy rooms adorned with Mediterranean-inspired decor. Suites boast fully equipped kitchens and spacious living/dining areas, with upgraded options featuring private pools or hot tubs. Indulge in culinary delights at the elegant open-air restaurant or the beachfront eatery, complemented by two bars offering refreshing libations. The resort also features a private beach, an outdoor pool, a gym, and regular live entertainment, alongside opportunities for water sports, spa treatments, and private seaside dining. Set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Smugglers Cove on the north end of St. Lucia, Cap Maison will captivate you with its stunning waterfront views. Food enthusiasts will delight in the resort's culinary offerings, with two of the island's best restaurants, The Cliff at Cap and Naked Fisherman, showcasing the talents of award-winning head chef Craig Jones, known for his classical French training and dedication to using the freshest local ingredients. The Cap it All Inclusive Premium package elevates the dining experience, offering a choice of continental or full breakfast at The Cliff at Cap, lunch and dinner from a la carte menus, daily specials featuring the morning's local catch, in-room dining options, luxury spirit brands, select house wines, and a variety of soft drinks and cocktails, ensuring a truly indulgent stay.

Cap Maison Infinity Pool at Cap Maison Resort & Spa

We hope that this deep dive into unexpected all-inclusives has inspired you. From woodland adventures to beachside getaways, they truly come in all shapes and sizes. However, no matter what you’re looking for, you won’t have to go far. To learn more or book your stay, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Us

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