Lake Meets Luxury: Welcome to the Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Lake Meets Luxury: Welcome to the Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Words and Photos by Miranda Shaffer
 The Ritz Carlton on Lake Oconee is the definition of luxury lake life. Imagine everything you loved from childhood lake days–roasting marshmallows by the campfire, kayaking, tubing, boating, and simply soaking in the sun while you went for a swim–now, elevated. At The Ritz Carlton Reynolds Lake Oconee Resort, guests can enjoy all of these classic lake activities, as well as many upscale additions that only this unique destination can offer.

When it comes to activities, this resort has everything you could want, from paddle boards to kayaks, canoes to jet-skis, boat rentals to floating slides, and water mats to lake tours. There is even a new lake experience adults can take advantage of–the opportunity to rent your own tiki boat with bar aboard. It’s a great choice for the 21+ crowd who want to go out with friends to listen to music, drink, and have a no-stress good time. 

If you’d rather relax on the shore instead of in the water, you can find a man-made beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas. The Sand Bar, a small seasonally open bar with drinks and snacks, is also located on the beach. Closer to the property lies the Wake Zone, a great area for families. Your kids will never be bored with Wake Zone activities like corn hole, putt putt, and basketball. The shoreline also features individual fireside seats for two that are available for dinner reservations nightly. Equipped with a chiminea, tiki torch, and dessert accompaniments including truffles, chocolate strawberries, and chilled champagne, this spot makes for the perfect intimate dinner by sunset. 

Feeling tired after a long day out on the lake? Make your way to the resort’s spa! It offers a variety of treatments, from full body massages to facials. Continue to relax after your session in your choice of steam room, sauna, hot tub, indoor pool with fireplace, or cold plunge pool. Women can enjoy the ladies lounge before and after their session–an exclusive area that boasts a serene atmosphere along with a selection of free snacks and hot beverages. You could spend hours in this oasis of relaxation, and since every spa amenity included for those who book an appointment, the hardest part will be leaving. 

Lake Oconee showcases the beauty of the natural Georgia landscape, but guests can take in the views even if they’re not up for a full lake day. Try laying out by the property’s breathtaking infinity pool, then enjoying lunch and a cocktail from the poolside restaurant, Gaby’s. It’s offerings include mouth-watering specialties like lobster grilled cheese, mango gazpacho, and boiled peanut hummus.

Freshen up after a full day at the pool or lake in your newly renovated guest room that elevates lake house nostalgia with a luxury twist. All guest room renovations will be finished by April of 2020, with twenty new fireside rooms where guests can enjoy a fire pit furnished balcony with a picturesque view. On your way to dinner, drop by The Barrel Room for a hand crafted cocktail. Make sure to try a drink with the “rosé” tequila, a one-of-a-kind tequila turned pink by the barrel it was processed in. If you aren’t a tequila person, have a taste of one of their exclusive bourbons or whiskeys instead.

Enjoy dinner at Georgia’s, the property’s southern inspired culinary destination with upscale comfort food. You’ll delight in dishes like rosemary and cheddar biscuits, crab deviled eggs, and shrimp and grits. For an upscale, exquisite dinner experience, make your way to Linger Longer Steakhouse. The name says it all– you will want to linger as long as possible in this steak and seafood lover’s dream. Indulge in perfectly seared filet mignon and buttery lobster tails. To top it off, every dinner ends with a giant spire of cotton candy, brought to your table to end the night on a sweet note. 

Although you will find no problem filling your time with the many activities and culinary experiences on site, you shouldn’t forget to explore the other options this beautiful resort has to offer, including the renowned golf course and training facility. The Reynolds Kingdom of Golf is a golf experience like no other, with five professional courses created by expert architects utilizing the natural terrain to create 99 holes for both professional and amateur golfers. In partnership with TaylorMade, The Kingdom offers private lessons by experts in the sport, personal club fittings, and state of the art technology that will track your swing, stance, and personal progress. Even those who have never touched a golf club before will feel at home here with top of the line equipment and instructors that make golf easy to learn and fun. 

Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the gorgeous sporting grounds of Sandy Creek. Only a boat ride and short drive from the resort, Sandy Creek offers a little bit of everything to satisfy the adventurer in us all. Whether you want to try out their authentic clay shooting experience, a rifle range, archery, or an all terrain driving course, there is sure to be something for everyone.

The Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee Resort will satisfy your nostalgia for summers gone by and help you to create new memories and traditions. The resort combines all the best parts of vacation–from luxury living and fine dining to relaxed days playing by the water, there’s something for every child and child-at-heart. Next time you feel the need to get away, jump into your dream stay at The Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee Resort.