Finding solace from the city at Highlands’ Half-Mile Farm

Wrapped in a cozy bath robe and nibbling on a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie by the fireplace of my suite, I could feel the stress of my work week melt away, bite by bite.

Welcome to my weekend at Half-Mile Farm in Highlands, N.C. Thanks to its proximity to Atlanta (it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Midtown), it’s hard for me to imagine a better spot for a quick weekend getaway. Read on to find out how to enjoy your own escape to this blissful, bucolic retreat.

Friday

Cabins offer a rustic-luxe rooming option.

Around 5 p.m., I turned off the main road onto Half Mile Farm Drive. The property, which is part of the Old Edwards Hospitality family and recently underwent renovations, is located just a few miles out of town and includes a white farmhouse surrounded by a picturesque lake, log cabins and lush woods. This off-the-beaten-path feel is why I liked staying here versus in town on this trip. (But, keep in mind that you will need to drive into Highlands to enjoy other Old Edwards amenities—more on that later.) After checking in—and grabbing one of those freshly baked cookies that are always available in the main house— I headed to my suite. As with all of Half-Mile Farm’s cabins and guest rooms, my digs offered cozy luxuries, including hardwood floors and rustic-chic furniture complemented by free WiFi, Jacuzzi tubs and Molton Brown bath products. One of the main draws of the weekend was that I was attending one of Old Edwards’ special dinner events that are held a few times each year. (Check oldedwardsinn.com for the latest news.) This evening was the Release the Rosé-themed multicourse meal that featured tastes of black truffle stuffed quail and pan-seared Steelhead salmon, each paired with a different rosé. After meeting a table full of delightful dinner companions and stuffing my belly, I was glad to return to my room, tuck myself into a king-size bed and drift off to sleep by the fire.

Saturday

Apple Lake lies just across from the main house.

A chef-made breakfast is included every morning at Half-Mile Farm. After enjoying a frittata, I meandered along one of the property’s hiking before making the five-minute drive to Old Edwards Inn for my afternoon at the spa. (You can also enjoy canoeing and fishing on Half-Mile Farm’s lake.) Wearing my sandals and robe spa uniform, I enjoyed a light lunch in the cafe before heading off to sip a glass of champagne and enjoy a pedicure. I had a few hours before dinner, so I headed back to my suite to soak in the tub for a bit and partake in the complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres served in the main farmhouse each evening. Next up, I headed back to the inn for a gin and tonic in the library-like Hummingbird Lounge, followed by dinner at Madison’s, where I opted for a filet and glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. The dessert soufflé, topped with acrème anglaise, was the perfect end to my relaxing mountain day.

Sunday

Hardwood floors and a fireplace are among the Captain Cabin’s cozy furnishings

I’m a sucker for the Sunday New York Times. So first thing, I made a quick trip to the inn to grab a copy and a cup of tea, and then return to the Farm to consume the news and another delightful breakfast of pancakes, bacon and other yummy treats. After one more walk around the woods, I knew it was time to return to reality. But I was glad to know that I can return to this charming little farm whenever I needed at little solace from our city.

HALF-MILE FARM

214 Half Mile Farm Drive
Highlands, N.C., 28741
855.271.7246
halfmilefarm.com

STORY: Amelia Pavlik