What to expect: Opened in 2002, The Lodge attracts families and couples for vacations featuring golf, fishing, and swimming. The setting offers tall, slender pines gracing an expansive lawn that slopes down to Lake Oconee. A lobby showcases a vaulted ceiling, huge timbers, a vast stone fireplace, and Oriental rugs; leather, brocade, and plush-fabric seating creates a country-lodge ambience.

Amenity highlights: The year-round lodge has an outdoor pool complex and beach. The complex comprises a 90-by-40-foot pool with an infinity edge facing Lake Oconee, a 15-foot-diameter children's pool with its own sundeck, and a 10-person spa tub partly shaded by a wood arbor. Inside a two-story pavilion with a vaulted bleached-wood ceiling and wood-burning fireplace, a 60-by-20-foot indoor lap pool provides year-round swimming and a spa tub accommodates four.

Insider tip: The nearby towns of Greensboro (15 miles) and Madison (20 miles) are noted for their antique shops.

Featuring true Southern Hospitality, Legendary Service, white colonial design, Deluxe Breakfast, clean comfortable rooms, fitness center & sparkling pool. Close to area attractions, you will enjoy the convenience of a contemporary hotel with the charm of a country inn! Pet friendly rooms are available for a nightly fee.