Chateau Elan Resort versus Getaway Cabin
Vacations have essentially been a no-go this year since #rona, but I have found some other ways to have safe escapes. Since we were all bored in the house and in the house bored *even if you are in Atlanta :)))* I wanted to highlight two spots that you can go-to for a quick retreat. As always, if you have additional questions, please feel free to reach out! DISCLAIMER: These are all my own opinions formed from my experiences at both locations. Additionally, both of these trips were sponsored.
Chateau Elan Winery & Resort
Location(s): Braselton, Georgia
Average nightly cost: $215 (Inn) & $479 (Villas)
Pros:
Amenities go crazy & there’s something for everyone (golf, spa, pool)
You can ball on a budget (A bottle of wine at the winery can cost as little as $12)
Diversity of experiences
LUXE feel...the atmosphere effortlessly gives Ballin x Roddy Ricch vibes
Cons:
$$$$ baby. While you can still have fun on a budget -- most things will run up a check
What to pack:
All assumptions that apply to a hotel, apply here so anything that a typical hotel wouldn't have that you would need
Overall sentiment:
Chateau Elan is a vibe for sure. I have stayed at the Inn and gone for day trips/visits. I really enjoy being able to go and get good wine and a beautiful view. I would choose Chateau over getaway if I’m looking to tap into luxe and treat myself OR if I want to escape for a few hours and not necessarily a whole day.
Getaway House
Location(s): Atlanta, San Antonio + Austin, Boston, RDU, Dallas, Housto, LA, NYC, Pittsburgh + Cleveland, Portland and Washington
Average nightly cost: $150-$250
Pros:
Essentials included (shower, kitchen sink, toilet)
Staff on site
Secluded but not isolated (other cabins are in walking distance)
Cons (specific to the location I visited):
No restaurants for ~40 minutes
Very very (veryyyy) limited service (this could be a pro for some)
What to pack:
FOOD/Drinks
Non-essentials
Blanket
Games (they have cards)
Overall sentiment:
This trip is definitely more for the “getaway” trip. If you’re looking to disconnect and relax or focus -- this is your go to location. There is really not much to do other than the fire pit and cards. This allows for you to really spend time alone (or with whoever) without the distractions of our busy lives. I would say however, as a Black woman, there was an uncomfortable amount of confederate and Trump signs and support for about a 45 minute stretch leading to the post. I felt safer because I was with Akua, but I would have absolutely not driven in the dark or felt comfortable going on the trip alone. I would choose getaway over Chateau (or a chateau-like resort) if I wanted to totally disconnect AND if I had someone to go with.