The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee  

On the shores of Lake Oconee near Greensboro and Eatonton, Georgia—close enough for Atlanta escapes but all lake vibes. A pet-friendly, family-friendly lakeside resort and golf retreat with private beach access and championship courses nearby.

Think lake-house charm with polished, modern rooms. Guest rooms offer private balconies, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, espresso makers and iPod docking; bathrooms feature separate tubs and showers and designer toiletries. The property blends relaxed, multi-generational comfort with a refined spa-and-golf sensibility.

Five championship golf courses, a world-class spa, a private beach and indoor/outdoor pools anchor the experience. Add a fitness center, yoga area, picnic and barbecue spots, concierge and tour desk, supervised childcare and playrooms. Wake up to lake-breeze mornings and wind down with lakeside evenings under the stars.

High-speed (wired) internet is available, plus a business center and meeting rooms. The resort offers roughly 18,000 sq ft of event and conference space and limo/town-car services for executive travel.

Five distinct on-site restaurants and bars serve everything from casual poolside bites to lakeside dinners under the sky. There’s a café and 24-hour room service, and rooms include espresso makers—expect local flavors and Southern-accented dishes on many menus.