Just Back From | Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee

Kim, our manager of audience marketing, just returned from a three-day, two-night vacation at Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee. This family-owned food and wine resort is located on a 4,200-acre country estate tucked away in the Great Smoky Mountains. Selected as the Andrew Harper Readers' Choice Winner six years in a row (2010–2016), Blackberry Farms is renowned for its signature—and award-winning—"Foothills Cuisine," impeccable grounds, breathtaking views and luxurious spa. Like our readers, Kim could not have been more impressed with the service and accommodations.

Delve deeper into her getaway to the great outdoors, below:

Insider's Tip: Bring your hiking boots for the trails on the grounds, and don't forget your fly-fishing equipment if you would like to take advantage of the Orvis guided fishing. Orvis, of course is a full-service outfitter and will meet all of your needs as well.

Favorite moment: Cassie provided a wonderful "Wellhouse Soothe" massage at the Wellhouse. The Orvis guided fly-fishing was amazing as well. Andy was our guide and he was simply awesome!

You can't stop thinking about: The steak at the Main House dining room was probably one of the best that we've ever had...anywhere.

Favorite meal or meals: Again, that steak!!

Favorite sightseeing trip: We took the Blackberry Farm Lexus RC F for a spin about 20 minutes to the east into The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A great little place to drive is called Cades Cove.

Where or what to drink: They had Eagle Rare bourbon — always a favorite.

Neighborhood to explore: The Great Smoky Mountains National Forest.

Daytrip suggestion: Orvis fly-fishing on Hess creek. We took a two-hour guided tour and caught five rainbow trout.

Surprising fact or tidbit: The Lagatto truffle-hunting puppies on the property have a two-and-a-half-year waiting list. Only $8,500.

Brought back/souvenir: Leather wrapped Blackberry Farm whiskey flask.

What to pack: L.L.Bean boots for winter and early spring travels.

Anything else? Our waitress Jessie was so nice and even gave us some chow chow to take home.

Stay up to date with all of our globetrotting travel advisors and staff. Check back for other trip reports in our Just Back From series on The Harper Way.