Scouted Fall Getaways: A Weekend at Windy Hill
As chillier temperatures set in, we’ve found ourselves yearning to experience East Tennessee in all its natural beauty, whether it’s for a weekend of leisure, hunting, or a bit of both. And with luxe accommodations, inventive dining, and personalized hunts, Windy Hill Farm and Preserve fits the bill.
Located near the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Loudon, Windy Hill Farm and Preserve sits on 650 acres of rolling pasture bordered by two miles of Tennessee River shoreline. The boutique resort and hunting lodge marries a quiet pastoral beauty with modern luxury, all while celebrating its heritage as a family-owned, working farm with meticulous habitat management.
In short, Windy Hill Farm and Preserve offers all the essentials for a good hunt as well as the trimmings of a boutique stay, making it the ideal fall escape come bye-weekends or away games. And both avid sportsmen and leisure-seekers alike will leave planning their next stay. Here, we explore the highlights from (of course) excellent quail hunting, to enriching outdoor activities, wellness offerings, and culinary delights.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Windy Hill offers three accommodation styles – the Farmhouse, Water Towner suites, and The Lodge – to welcome guests in comfort and style. Can’t imagine a trip without your four-legged friend? Windy Hill provides dog-friendly cabins.
WATER TOWER CABINS
The all-inclusive experience begins at one of Windy Hill’s nine Water Tower Cabins. Set back along the Eagle’s Nest trail, these spacious and well-appointed rooms are perfect for a private getaway with a touch of leisure. Enjoy picture windows to take in the farm’s stunning landscapes, a generous bath + closet area, a built-in gun safe, and refreshments. The Water Tower Cabins are built for single and double occupancy, with select cabins featuring outdoor showers for summer use.
THE FARMHOUSE
For large groups or family gatherings, Windy Hill’s Farmhouse offers five bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, plenty of common space to chat by the fire, and an expansive back porch overlooking the Tennessee River.
THE LODGE
As of Fall 2022, guests can also enjoy The Lodge, a lovely new addition to Windy Hill with 8 individual guest rooms (with adjoining options) and gathering spots. Each room features gorgeous sunset views and a luxe private bath.
HUNTING
THE HUNT
Windy Hill offers three hunting packages for 2-4 guests per course: morning, afternoon, or full-day. All require a two-gun minimum and each includes meals, a guide, and dogs. Windy Hill also provides guns for rent during your hunt.
Morning sessions begin with a hearty breakfast to fuel your day and connect with others before heading into the field. A mid-day pause for lunch at Wilder offers a chance to recharge and regroup before heading back out for the afternoon chase. After a day in the field, you’ll head back just in time to enjoy a refreshing drink and light snacks to celebrate your hunt.
PROFESSIONAL GUIDES
As a boutique hunting preserve, Windy Hill tailors each hunt to the guest’s experience and expectations for a safe, successful quail hunt. Lead guide Jack Bailey (known to the team ‘Chicken Hawk’ – and you can ask him why) brings 25 years of guiding experience to the field and knows how to put hunters on great birds. Jack and his team also love introducing folks to the sport, and welcome those of any experience level.
TRAINED GUNDOGS
Windy Hill’s kennels are occupied by some of the best breeds and bloodlines in the country. From English Setters to English Cockers and German Shorthaired Pointers, Windy Hill gundogs train year-round for the chance to take to the field. In addition to world-class pointers and retrievers, Windy Hill also offers skilled flushing dogs for a truly authentic covey rise.
AMENITIES & EXPERIENCE
While upland quail hunting is undoubtedly a major draw, Windy Hill offers a bevy of enriching activities – whether you’re seeking adventure or the simple stillness of finding your own spot to listen as the wind blows through the trees. Learn more…
FARM TOURS
See the hogs and chickens. Learn the farming methods Windy Hill employs to return their soil and flora to its native roots. Discover the difference between a pointer and a flusher (hint: they’re both dogs, and they’ve got 20+ on property!). Find out how a cattle farm-turned-quail preserve thrives in the 21st century.
WINE HIKES
Windy Hill’s expert culinary and activities staff come together to create a unique opportunity to sample six wines while hiking along our River Bluffs trail. Snacks are prepared by Wilder staff and paired with wines at several of the tasting stations. Combined with the breathtaking views of the trail, this is a feast for the senses! Not one for hiking? Enjoy wine or whiskey tasting at Wilder.
MEDITATION & YOGA
Engage in Sunrise Yoga classes or book a private session with Windy Hill’s certified and experienced instructor. Offered in both indoor and outdoor settings, beginners and seasoned yogis alike are sure to find relaxation and challenge. Or, take a breath and recalibrate with group and private meditation sessions. Reflection and focus will help you further enjoy the natural comforts of your stay at Windy Hill.
DINING
WILDER
Under the direction of Executive Chef Ben Warwick, Windy Hill Farm and Preserve’s on-site dining features farm-to-table ingredients and inspired recipes. The menu pays homage to the farm’s founder, ‘Big George,’ utilizing the seasons bounty and serving sustainably harvested food, much of it sourced from the farm. Expect a collection of small plates, seasonal offerings, and nightly specials – all of which pair fabulously with the incredible views and delicious beverages. Three meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included with your stay, and Wilder offers a limited number of seatings for outside guests. Call 865-657-1700 for reservations.
Windy Hill is an absolute sanctuary away from the stress of daily activities. To book your stay and hunt, head to www.windyhillfarmtn.com – don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!
