The Art of the Escape

Sure, there’s something to be said about the joy of anticipating a planned vacation. But it can’t quite compare to the giddy delight of a surprise getaway, both for the one surprised and the one doing the surprising. Secrets are powerful, and a secret destination even more so. It holds all the promise of untold joys and utter freedom. If you’ve never tried it, I recommend packing a few small bags and whisking your loved one away for a weekend. Keep your lips sealed until you arrive—we’ll be here to welcome you when you do. – Mary Celeste Beall, Proprietor’s Wife

With our busy daily lives as parents of 5 kids ages 1 to nearly 16, its hard for Sam and me to really connect like we would like to. Sneaking off for a quick 2-3 night getaway is the perfect solution. I love Blackberry Farm in the winter, maybe it's the lazy part of me, but snuggling up with a book by a warm fire is too tempting!

First, a wood burning fireplace in my cottage would be a must. So, I would reserve either a Holly Glade Cottage, a Singing Brook Cottage or a Hill Cottage.

Day 1

I would plan to arrive in casual clothes so we could check into our room and go for a quick hike. I love getting my blood flowing after traveling and before what I know will be a delicious dinner. After getting out in the brisk weather, a long bath and fire will be perfect! A bottle of champagne in the room is a lovely way to kick off the night. And, why take a golf cart to dinner when you can enjoy a carriage ride to The Barn?

Day 2

I love a good slow morning, so breakfast in bed it will be!! Our big activity for the day will depend slightly on the weather. One of my all time favorite activities at Blackberry Farm is what we call the "bike and hike". So if the skies are clear and its above 50, we will depart Blackberry on bikes and ride about 20 miles into the national park. When finished biking, we'll hike back to Blackberry on foot.

Our big adventure will end at the Farmhouse Spa, where a box lunch with salad and hot tea will be waiting before our pampering afternoon. I have always wanted to try a Galvlati. If that wasn't available, then I would have a 60 minute massage followed by a facial. For Sam, 90 minute massage.

Then, we would relax in the room with a bottle of wine and charcuterie and cheese from the farmstead. Having eaten a light lunch, for tonight’s dinner we will indulge in the tasting menu with wine pairings. It's always a treat to have Andy, Jason, or Keith bring their expertise to the meal with wines from across the world.

Day 3

One can't come to Blackberry Farm and not go to the dining room once for breakfast, so we will head to the Main House for a light breakfast in the dining room. After breakfast, Sam can run and I’ll walk to a private yoga class.
After a quick shower, we will enjoy lunch at the Main House. Having a nice lunch with a couple glasses of wine is always a great treat.

Post wine, shopping works really well, so we will need to pop in the gallery to see what's new. I love to enjoy a treasure from a trip with Sam, whether it's a piece of art or jewelry or china.

Sam and I both enjoy shooting, so for the afternoon we will head to the Clay Course. He's much better than I am, but it's something we can still enjoy together.

If my shooting hasn't gone well, I may need to challenge Sam to a round of pool in the Hickory Club Room, although he's better at that too, but you never know!

Since it’s our last night, I may dress up a bit and save time for a cocktail in The Barn before dinner.

Day 4

On our departure day, I will be sure to go have a big breakfast! As we depart, I will turn my cell phone back on and prepare to return to reality more relaxed and more connected to my husband.