Cloudland Resort: A Luxury Mountain Escape for Golfers, Families & Anyone Who Needs a View

Looking for your next mountain vacation that works just as well for active toddlers as it does for golf lovers and spa enthusiasts? We recently spent a long weekend at Cloudland Resort in Rising Fawn, Georgia.

Whether you’re into golf, guided hikes, sunrise yoga, or simply roasting a s’more while staring off a cliff (hi, it’s me), Cloudland offers something for everyone — all perched on the edge of Lookout Mountain with some of the most jaw-dropping views in the Southeast.

A Little Resort History

Cloudland is one of Georgia’s newest luxury resorts, nestled in Rising Fawn — a tiny mountain town just south of Chattanooga and about 2 hours from Atlanta (3.5 from Auburn!). Built with both high-end travelers and families in mind, the resort blends stunning design with relaxed, approachable hospitality.

Even though it’s known in the golf world for its championship courses (more on that below), Cloudland was clearly built for more than just golfers. Every detail from the firepits to the board games to the telescope for stargazing is about slowing down and soaking up the moment (and the views, obviously).

Activities + Amenities: More Than Just a Pretty View

Cloudland’s activity list reads like a “choose your own adventure” for vacationers of all kinds. Some highlights:

Nightly happy hour + s’mores service (Addy’s favorite — mine too)
Guided hikes, floral arranging classes, and wildlife education
A telescope for stargazing
Firepits on the lawn with that million-dollar view
A beautiful library filled with books and board games to borrow
An infinity pool so scenic you might forget to swim
Group yoga classes on the lawn (yes, the view continues here too)
A fitness center with SIX Peloton bikes (aka: the place I waved at and did not enter)

There’s truly something for every member of the family. Addy loved wandering around the great room (which features a cozy fireplace that’ll be perfect in the fall), playing Connect 4, and “putting” on the lawn.

Oh — and you can walk straight from the resort onto hiking trails. No car seat buckling required.

For the Golfers: Championship Courses + Scenic Swings

Even if you’re not a golfer (yet), it’s hard not to be impressed by the resort’s two championship courses — The Highlands and The Keep — both designed by Bill Bergin and Rees Jones. During the 2021 U.S. Open, Jones even commented that The Keep “could host a major.”

Translation: if you love golf, you’re in for something special.

That said, we played the 6-hole short course, which is ideal for beginners, kids, or just a fun family outing. Addy’s catchphrase of the weekend was: “I GO GET IT!!” after every shot. George is really hoping that we’ve got a future pro on our hands.

Dining: not your average “Resort Food”

I’ll be honest — I’m never sure what to expect of resort food (it can be hit or miss), but I was impressed by every single meal.

There are four on-site restaurants & a cafe to choose from, each with its own vibe:

The Croft: Casual, seated dining with a beautiful setting. I ordered the Pork Belly and YUM.
The Pocket Café: Coffee, breakfast, and grab-and-go options — perfect for enjoying on the lawn or in the library
Skyside: Feels like you’re eating on the mountain (because you are). Also serves pool guests
Auld Alliance: Their fine dining option, recently featured in Forbes. We ordered the crab appetizer, the chicken entrée, and what may go down in history as the world’s best French fries.
The Creag at the golf clubhouse, another great spot with sweeping views and a relaxed, elevated menu.

The Spa at Selah: relax

I treated myself to a body treatment at Selah, the on-site spa, and it was heavenly. The facilities include a sauna, cold plunge shower, and relaxation room, and the robes were extra fluffy.

Whether you’re an experienced spa-goer or just in need of a little reset (hi, parents), Selah is 100% worth carving out time for.

The Verdict: Cloudland Is a Mountain Gem

Cloudland Resort checks all the boxes: it’s luxurious without being stiff, adventurous without being exhausting, and family-friendly without sacrificing style. You can golf, hike, soak, eat, read, nap, star gaze — all in one place. And thanks to their thoughtful programming and design, it truly works for all ages and interests.