1. Introduction
Southall is now open in Franklin, Tennessee, just outside Nashville — and we got a first look inside.
2. Overview of Southall Resort
Just outside the charming small city of Franklin, in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, Southall has officially opened, and we got a first look at this new farm-focused luxury resort. Surrounded by old-growth forests and picturesque pastoral landscapes on 325 acres, the resort serves as a destination in itself. It provides guests with the opportunity to explore the region’s agricultural customs, local flavors, and natural beauty through farm-to-table dining, an extensive menu of activities, and a modern take on Southern hospitality.
3. Accommodation Options
At the heart of the property, The Inn offers 62 guest rooms and suites, plus there are more than a dozen cottages nestled in the rolling hills overlooking the estate. All rooms have oversized soaking tubs and local artwork, with some including their own fireplace. Arbor Cottages provide an upscale tree house feel with a large porch, perfect for sipping hot apple cider while enjoying the view, along with huge in-room copper tubs. One- and two-bedroom Hillside Cottages feature screened-in outdoor seating and ample space for spreading out. The Inn and cottages offer a sophisticated take on the farm aesthetic with a modern exterior designed by 906 Studio Architects, and interiors designed by IndiDesign include wood-burning fireplaces, exposed wood beams, and whimsical woodland-inspired touches.
4. The Farm Experience
If the Inn is the heart of the resort, the farm is its soul. Southall prides itself on curating an authentic seed-to-fork experience, with tours and classes revolving around the land. Even though the hotel has just opened to guests, the team has been working for years, cultivating crops and creating a sustainable farm that offers fresh produce, including unique heirloom varieties that might be scarce at your average farmers market, for the kitchen to use in seasonal dishes.
5. On-Site Facilities
On the property, there’s a 2,000-tree apple orchard, hydroponic and traditional greenhouses, terraced kitchen gardens, and large-format gardens. An apiary houses millions of bees that play a vital role in pollinating the farm while providing delicious, award-winning honey for the restaurants. The Jammery functions as a certified canning kitchen, where produce is pickled, dehydrated, and preserved to enhance local flavors incorporated into onsite meals. Furthermore, farm tours, cooking demonstrations, honey tastings, and gardening classes allow guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and bounty of Middle Tennessee.
6. Culinary Delights
After a day spent touring the farm and exploring the estate, guests can indulge in the culinary program created by executive chef Andrew Klamar and senior vice president of culinary and agriculture Tyler Brown. Sojourner is the resort’s all-day-dining restaurant, featuring fresh egg dishes, country ham, homemade pastries, apple pancakes, and more. Cocktails and dishes that reflect the farm’s harvest as well as Middle Tennessee culinary traditions are also available. Mary Amelia, the signature restaurant, will soon debut a multicourse menu honoring farm-grown ingredients.
7. Wellness and Activities
Nourishment extends beyond the farm-to-table food and beverage program to encompass wellness offerings that provide an educational and luxurious getaway. The 15,000-square-foot spa offers ingredient-driven treatments using products from brands like Seed to Skin and Naturopathica. Additionally, the spa features a heated mineral pool, lounges overlooking Lake Mishkin, a sauna, steam room, and relaxation rooms.
8. Activities and Local Adventures
Other on-site experiences vary from thrilling activities like falconry, mountain biking, and ropes courses to peaceful pursuits such as sound bath meditation and yoga. Apiary tours reveal insights about bees and their ecological impact, while two pools and activities like fishing and kayaking enhance the bespoke country retreat experience.
Although guests may find plenty of activities on property, the vibrant honky-tonk bars and boutique shopping of Nashville are just a short drive away, and the charming city of Franklin lies even closer, featuring a postcard-perfect main street lined with local shops and dining options.
For more information, visit southalltn.com.
