In 2007, the Beall family, in partnership with several long-term friends, purchased 5,200 acres nestled within the Great Smoky Mountains that would eventually become Blackberry Mountain, which opened to guests in 2019.
As longtime stewards of the land, the Beall family and their partners were committed to safeguarding the area’s natural beauty. In turn, they devoted more than half of the 5,200 acres to conservation through two conservation easements, preserving its breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems for generations to come. This land encompasses one of the region's largest privately forested areas, safeguarding nearly nine miles of pristine ridgetop.
Conservation has always been an important part of the Bealls’ vision for Blackberry and the surrounding area. As Blackberry Farm expanded, so did their commitment to preserving the land. This dedication ensured that the breathtaking views from both Blackberry Farm and the Foothills Parkway would remain unspoiled by development.
When it came to developing the land and the guest experience at Blackberry Mountain, the same practice of honoring, protecting and preserving the land was thoughtfully executed. The resort was created utilizing locally sourced materials and minimizing ecological impact to ensure that every aspect of Blackberry Mountain's construction upheld the Bealls’ commitment to sustainability.
Blackberry Mountain opened under the leadership of longtime team members committed to continuing Blackberry’s legacy in an exciting new environment, including Blackberry President Matt Alexander and Jim Domanic, Blackberry Mountain’s general manager and vice president of hospitality, who has over a decade of committed service to the Blackberry team. Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage Andy Chabot oversees the culinary program which features two restaurants, Three Sisters and the Firetower, helmed by three executive chefs. The cuisine combines a love and respect for regional ingredients and flavors with techniques from around the world for an unexpected and fulfilling dining experience.
Thoughtful and distinct wellness programming is a core element to the experience, ensuring that connection to the land and nourishment of the self is evident in every aspect of a stay. The wellness philosophy of the resort honors the wellbeing of body, mind and spirit with nature and art serving as the conduits of connection.
Shepherded by Mary Celeste Beall, along with her father-in-law Sandy Beall and the dedicated Blackberry team, the legacy of Blackberry Mountain continues to thrive. The Mountain has garnered acclaim from prestigious organizations worldwide, solidifying its status as a world-renowned destination. In 2018, it became a part of the Relais & Châteaux network, honored as the first member to be selected prior to opening.
Since purchasing the land in 2007, Blackberry Mountain has transformed from a vision into a world-renowned destination. Built upon a deep reverence for the land and a continued commitment to excellence, Blackberry Mountain invites guests to a refuge where luxury intertwines with sustainability, providing an unmatched experience deeply connected to the natural world.