(NAPSI)—From destination weddings to family reunions and corporate outings, planning a group affair can be quite a large feat. Whether you’re gathering 50 or hundreds of your closest family and friends, you’ll need plenty of space and things to do. Big hotels or resorts are often quick-to-mind, but bringing everyone together in one spot to bond can be hard when you’re trying to reserve conference rooms or common areas.
To add a touch of homelike hospitality to group gatherings, many people are turning to luxury big cabins instead. From cabins with eight-plus bedrooms to renting out multiple cabins on one street for a private block party, it’s a unique option growing in popularity. One new community in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is taking the trend to heart.
Gather in the Mountains
Mountain vacations are often reserved in people’s minds for ski groups or avid hikers. But plenty of mountain destinations cater to everyone. Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains is a great option for groups because excursions such as white-water rafting and hiking are easily shareable. The area is also home to a theme park, aquarium, minor league baseball games and more, offering plenty of choices for outings. Gatlinburg itself, with restaurants, distilleries, a local craft scene and shopping, gives everyone the chance to head to one place, while spreading out and exploring the area based on their own interests. It’s also the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the country’s most visited national park with more than 11 million visitors annually.
Staying active and sharing new experiences can help groups bond and break the ice if it’s a corporate or church retreat where people might still be getting to know one another. Heading to the mountains can offer a nice break from the traditional beach retreat, and rest and relaxation are still an option. From a soak in the hot tub back at your rental cabin to visiting an area day spa, calm and peaceful mountains are a great backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
Stay Under One Roof
New communities such as Cherokee Orchard are meeting a growing demand for luxury big cabin options in mountain destinations such as the Smokies. The neighborhood recently opened with four cabin rentals ranging in size from eight to 16 bedrooms, along with a pool house. Four more cabins are under construction, varying in size from eight to 20 bedrooms. Once completed, the neighborhood will feature eight log cabins sprawling across more than 1.2 private acres, all within walking distance of downtown Gatlinburg.
In the community’s Majestic Pine Retreat, for example, 13 bedrooms include 10 king suites and three rooms with queen-sized bunks, making the cabin fit for 60 guests. A massive kitchen comes fully equipped, while log dining tables can seat everyone for a feast after an action-packed day. A home theater features a large screen, surround sound, stadium seating and plush leather chairs, while two hot tubs join outdoor seating and a grill for entertaining outside.
Depending on the size of your group, The Mighty Crabapple Manor offers eight bedrooms, while The Big Oak Lodge provides 16. Each cabin has an impressive great room where the group can relive the day’s memories or break into teams for some board games. Or, everyone can head to the neighborhood’s community pool house for a swim.
Whether a single cabin will fit your group or a large event has you renting out the neighborhood, this luxury big cabin trend is a great, unique way to get everyone together.
Learn More
For further facts and to view the accommodations, visit www.bigcabins.com.