Bucket List Report: Stay in a Ritz-Carlton

I typically stay in average hotels and resorts. I don’t usually stay in cheap motels or hostels, but I also don’t look for 5 star properties. But I do love exploring new hotels and have definitely begun to appreciate things like nice amenities and grounds and especially exceptional service. I made it a goal to see what some of the luxury brands of hotels have to offer by putting “stay in a Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton” on my Bucket List.

Not long ago my parents invited us to join them at a resort they frequent, the Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation. This resort is set on Lake Oconee not far from Atlanta Georgia and they have stayed there often over the years and rave about it. I was excited for some relaxation but I really couldn’t wait to cross this stay off my bucket list and see what sets apart luxury brands like “the Ritz.”

The amazing service Ritz-Carltons are renowned for began right away as we pulled up to the resort and the valets opened the car doors and whisked our baggage away while we made our way to the front desk. I was even more pleasantly surprised to find they had upgraded us to a king two room suite with two patios overlooking the lake. My parents (3X repeat guests!) were a little jealous but I never did find out what prompted the upgrade. I do have elite status with Marriott rewards, and I did reach out to them on Twitter previously, but it was a pleasant surprise for sure.

One thing I noticed right away was how the resort fit in beautifully with the surroundings. The atmosphere was laid back, with a bit of a golf theme (there are several golf courses adjacent to the property) and an effortless casual elegance. The grounds were beautiful with native flora and beautiful flowering trees in the spring, accented by a babbling brook making its way to the lake.

The pool area was stunning, with an inviting infinity pool above the lake, as well as a hot tub under a shady trellis and a pool bar and restaurant with seating by the lake.

To me, the best part about the Reynold’s Plantation lodge was the spa. I love a good resort spa that has plenty for the guests to do besides get treatments. The spa here was a relaxing oasis; I enjoyed the well-equipped gym, the relaxing room and the hot and cold pools and loved lounging on the private balcony in the women’s area. The spa also featured a huge indoor swimming pool and of course tons of signature treatments available.

I definitely took advantage of the spa!

I loved visiting the Ritz-Carlton at Reynold’s Plantation. Now my only problem? I want to visit all the other gorgeous Ritz-Carlton properties around the world!