The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens, a Marriott Autograph Collection Property

PINE MOUNTAIN, GA--(Marketwire - Jan 17, 2012) - Surrounded by majestic evergreens and beds of spring bulbs, summer annuals and fall chrysanthemums, the Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens offers guests a woodland retreat, blending the luxuries of an upscale resort with the simple touches of Mother Nature. Outdoor stone fireplaces, warm with the crackle of burning wood encircled by "lounge with me" chairs, promote over coffee conversation or after dinner drink discussions.

Designed in tandem with the Callaway Gardens mission of connecting man with nature, all guest rooms at The Lodge and Spa, including nine suites, feature inviting balconies overlooking a soothing free form pool or the sprinkle of gardens blossoming with the season's signature flora. Each of the 150 rooms is splashed in rustic style with deep hues of burgundy, hunter green and navy and feature original oil paintings by renowned nature artist Athos Menaboni. An alternative to plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles, the Lodge and Spa uses refillable dispensers in each room, saving nearly 200,000 plastic containers a year.

Greeted amicably by the season's scents, sights and sounds, guests enter the earth-toned lobby of Spa Prunifolia, accented with mahogany woods and stone fireplaces. Named after Callaway Gardens' signature flower, the plum leaf azalea, Spa Prunifolia offers 13 softly lit treatment rooms, including a VIP suite and couples room, full service salon, fully equipped weight and cardiovascular studio and private relaxation lounges. Complete with crackling fireplaces and the season's signature "sippers," from warm herbal tea to hydrating, lemon-kissed water, the relaxation lounges provide the perfect place to transition back into the "real world." Naturopathica^® massages and facials infused with herbs, fruits, flowers and plants inspired by the soil and soul of Callaway Gardens craft a "back to botanicals" journey, harmonizing nature's elements and a luxury spa experience.

A new initiative that The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens participates in is "Farm to Fork" dining. As part of The Lodge's dedication to eco-consciousness, the ingredients used in dishes are fresh and locally produced. It cuts back on their carbon footprint and supports the community. Piedmont Grille offers guests simple selections with sensational flare. Bringing the outdoors in, chairs mimicking branches and earth toned accents create the ultimate dine-with-nature experience with delectable menu items such as tender filet mignon with Béarnaise sauce or slow roasted prime rib with rosemary au jus. A stone patio enclosed by a blanket of ivy creates a feeling of seclusion with only the flicker of a candle lighting the starry night. After dinner conversation turns to playful banter in Ironwood Lounge with a "no holdsbarred" game of billiards and into-the-night cocktails.

For more information on The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens please contact Katelyn at koropeza@zimmerman.com or visit the Georgia luxury resort online at callawaylodgeandspa.com.