Huge windows are all that stand between a living room and a sunrise over Lake Oconee. It’s the beginning of a new day with new memories to be made. How appropriate to be looking forward to it all from the comfort of a home away from home at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. In its 20th year, the only Ritz-Carlton that sits directly on a lakefront is entering another chapter in an ongoing transformation. Of the 41 Ritz-Carlton hotels in the United States, none are anything like this one—perhaps the rarest diamond among diamonds. Now, after the first two years of this transformation, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee has become a clearer window into the dream life that has also transformed visitors into Reynolds Members. These are a few of the highlights…so far.
This is the Meaning of Lake Luxe
/Written by Reynolds Lake Oconee
1. The Lake House
This reimagined 5,200 square-foot home exemplifies the Reynolds lifestyle, where roomy indoor spaces lead to infinite outdoor spaces. Balconies all around The Lake House offer commanding views of two beautiful bodies of water: Lake Oconee and a private pool. Reminders of what’s beyond the walls are actually on the walls: More than 140 pieces of art focus on local nature. Ride bikes in the woods or use the Peloton in one of the four master suites. Swim in the pool or shoot a game of pool in the game room (with darts, table shuffleboard, and a bar). Order filets at Linger Longer Steakhouse or have a private chef create meals in the professionally-designed kitchen. Here, the simple process of waking up produces a charge of energy before the coffee ever starts to brew.
2. Lakeside Cottages
Inside: The six lakeview cottages ensconce guests in the coveted lakeside life. Each cottage has its own design and is named after a Georgia flower, so Azalea or Magnolia becomes that personal getaway home. The only common threads are the big views and the comforts that are synonymous with the main resort. Outside: Guests can play five different golf courses, go boating, and take long nature walks. The best part about being active during the day is indulging at the end of it.
3. Family Pool
In the pool: The new family-specific pool has enough elevation and sightlines to keep guests in touch with a sense of place. A zero-entry design leads youngsters to bubblers, waterfalls, splash pads, and a cool bridge. An adults-only pool is mostly out of sight and out of hearing distance. Outside the pool: The deck is big enough for more than 100 lounge chairs, with dozens more down on the beach, adding to the resort’s status as the most luxurious family escape in the Southeast.
4. Infinity Pool Cabanas
Inside: The brand new cabanas are an answer to the fantasy of enjoying a posh living room at the edge of a swimming pool. Peak behind a cabana curtain and…oh, wow, this is the best of everything. There’s a TV, mini-fridge, wraparound couch, lounge chairs, and overhead fans to keep it cool. Outside: Open the curtain just wide enough to catch visual reminders of the unique waterfront setting—the infinity pool, the tall Georgia pines, and the prettiest lake in the state.
5. Ritz Kids Clubhouse
Inside: The clubhouse is right next to the family pool. Downstairs, an arcade lights up with Golden Tee, NBA Jam, air hockey, and an old-school Pacman. The space upstairs is naturally lit with a modern summer-camp vibe. Kids can try crafts, science experiments, and daily adventure games. Outside: Guides take kids on hikes, (safe) animal encounters, and scavenger hunts. For the kids, no two days are alike. For mom and dad, it’s a nice break to explore on their own.
Ralph Vick, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, had been conceptualizing this lake-luxe transformation for years. “Being on the lake, away from the city, gives us unique value as a luxury resort. The natural environment is an attraction for families. Now we’re giving them dedicated spaces to enjoy the freedom, while also experiencing the service and luxuries of The Ritz-Carlton.”
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