From golf courses to cliffside infinity pools to mountain views, this North Georgia weekend getaway is for couples, families, or solos looking for some R&R.
On top of Lookout Mountain in Georgia’s far northwest corner, about 30 minutes from Chattanooga, I kept my head in the clouds at Cloudland at McLemore Resort, and it was just what I was looking for on a weekend getaway from Atlanta.
Of course, this mountain’s-edge resort with views for miles isn’t just for Atlantans—it’s just easier to reach from about 120 miles away. But trust me, it’s worth the drive from wherever you are in Georgia, Tennessee, and beyond.
You’ll adopt that “I’m on vacation now” feeling the moment you pull into the exclusive property and wind your way along the picturesque Highlands Course with its jaw-dropping cliffside 18th hole. After a few more curves in the road, you’ll arrive at the gorgeous Curio Collection by Hilton property, opened in 2024 and rich in heavy woods, stone, and floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize the stunning views.
What are the rooms like at Cloudland at McLemore Resort?
Let me start by saying that the reception is lovely—it moves efficiently and kindly and is your first glimpse into the warmth of everyone who takes care of you, from the waitstaff to hospitality to housekeeping.
The rooms themselves are ample and comfortable. Some have balconies, which I would recommend, especially if you prefer to be outdoors. My room had full, unobstructed windows with sweeping views of the infinity pool, greenscape, fire pits surrounded by Adirondack-style chairs, and the valley far below.
When clouds moved in on the second day, the resort earned its name. After sleeping peacefully under an indulgent feather duvet, I opened my drapes to see, well, not much of anything. And while you’d think I’d be upset to lose my view, the opposite was true. I found it soothing, relaxing, and mystically beautiful to be up in the clouds, nestled in my cozy room.
On a practical note, guest accommodations meet all your needs: plenty of outlets, good lighting, enough storage, a mini-fridge, an in-room Keurig with accoutrements, a roomy shower with quality products, a seating area, a desk, and a smart TV.
Rooms are cleaned once a day (no turndown service), which was adequate. Wi-Fi is included with your resort fee. (More on this later).
How is Cloudland at McLemore’s spa?
Cloudland’s Selah Spa is small but mighty, with plans to expand in coming years. With only five treatment rooms, it’s an intimate setting for massages, facials, and body treatments, and what it does, it does very, very well.
My husband and I booked a morning couple’s massage. As I mentioned, it was a stormy day, and that storm had knocked out the saunas in both the men’s and women’s locker rooms, so we weren’t able to experience much of the spa experience outside of our massages.
But here’s what you came here for—the skinny on the massage—and I’m here to tell you it was one of the best in my life. My therapist, Jason, knew exactly what he was doing and had no problem locating problem areas and going to work on them. Under his skilled hands, tightness and pain eased, and I left feeling pampered and relaxed.
The Relaxation Room was comfortable, with some light snacks and an assortment of teas. The gratitude journal where guests left notes of thanks for the blessings in their lives was a special touch.
What is there to do at Cloudland at McLemore Resort?
Guests come to Cloudland for a variety of reasons, the surrounding nature being chief among them. Let’s start there.
Outdoor fun at Cloudland
The year-round, heated infinity pool and sizable hot tub are huge draws here, and the Skyside pool bar and eatery beside it keep the party going well into the evening. All are perched on the cliff for epic views.
Walking paths wind around the property and stop at firepits, where s’mores are toasted by night. Your resort fee, which is currently about $50 per day, covers some unusually generous amenities, including e-bikes, two Happy Hour cocktails per person per day, and access to the practice facilities of the Highlands Course, including a putting green, a driving range, and a short course requiring only two clubs.
Just a few miles down the road, you’ll find Cloudland Canyon State Park, which offers 64 miles of hiking trails to waterfalls, canyons that drop 1,000 feet, and forested trails. It’s one of the best parks in the state, so make sure you save time to explore.
And of course, the property has tennis and pickleball courts and two golf courses, including The Keep, which opened in 2025 and is already winning awards.
Indoor fun at Cloudland
Spending time indoors was a pleasant surprise that left me with fond memories of my stay at Cloudland. That’s because the sense of family and camaraderie is strong here, fostered by community spaces that invite you to stay awhile.
Guests gathered for their Morning Joe at The Pocket, the counter-service café where little ones ran circles around grandparents and couples ordered up cappuccinos and lattes. Throughout the day, friend groups gathered around big-screen TVs to watch college football. At Happy Hour, loved ones cozied up for board games in the library, while staff served prosecco with your choice of juices.
And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the fitness center, complete with water rowing machines, Pelotons, and a nice selection of weights, all in excellent condition. My husband and I spent at least an hour there, and despite it getting a lot of use, there was plenty of equipment to go around.
Best places to eat and drink at Cloudland at McLemore
Between the resort itself and the neighboring golf club, you can easily find whatever you’re craving without getting into your car.
For me, the standout was Auld Alliance, Cloudland’s unusual and highly inventive Scottish-French fusion signature restaurant. Everything here is intentional. The bread plate makes all other bread plates look weak by comparison—its variety (treacle bread, anyone?), texture, and mouthwatering salmon dip mean you’ll eat every last bite. My filet mignon and my husband’s venison were excellent, and the Rumbledethumps, a creamy Scottish dish of potatoes, cabbage, and onions, all baked in a cast iron skillet, were out of this world.
If you enjoy wine, bourbon, or gin tasting, Auld Alliance features a tasting room that is worth checking out. We did a Scottish gin tasting and discovered brands we loved, plus it was just fun to learn about the regions and processes that create these botanicals in a bottle.
We also really enjoyed hopping in a golf cart, available at the valet station, and dining at The Creag in the Clubhouse. Its upscale rustic decor was perfect for sidling up to the bar and finding comfort in a plate of scallops over tagliatelle. The vibe here is post-golfing casual with lively conversation and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for a Saturday night.
How much does a staycation at Cloudland cost?
A room at Cloudland at McLemore, once you’ve added on the resort fee and taxes, can run close to $1,000 a night on popular weekends, though the base price hovers around $500/night. Also, because the resort regularly hosts wedding groups, you’ll want to make reservations as far in advance as possible. But just think—you too can have your head in the clouds in no time, making for a magical Georgia getaway.
Note: The author’s stay was hosted by Cloudland at McLemore Resort. The resort did not review or approve this story.
