Just an hour away from the bustling business scene of Atlanta lays the serene Callaway Gardens resort and gardens, an oasis of calm and natural beauty that spreads over thirteen thousand acres and quiets even the most restless of souls.

Majestic pine trees and vibrant foliage set the stage for a relaxing getaway in one of the resort's luxurious villas while activities like championship golf and water-skiing are just minutes away. Whether you plan to unwind or play, there are ample opportunities for both at Callaway Gardens resort.

Originally the country retreat of the Callaways, a prosperous local family, the land that would become Callaway Gardens was located near Blue Springs, Ga., and was mostly barren and unproductive prior to 1935.

At that time, Cason J. Callaway, the eldest son, retired from his position as president of the family company and settled at Blue Springs, determined to prove that the land could be farmed profitably. After purchasing thousands of additional acres of land, Callaway began experimenting with new and unusual techniques to develop and support vegetation.

His wife, Virginia Hand Callaway, was an enthusiastic champion of Callaway's initiative and the two became an unstoppable team that turned the sterile soil of Blue Springs into spectacular vistas of beauty. The gardens were opened to the public in May 1952 and have been delighting generations of visitors since.

Gardens aren't the only thing to see at the resort, though. Championship golf waits at the nationally recognized Mountain View Golf Course, consistently rated as one of the top golf courses by Golf Digest and Golf magazine. The course boasts impressive scenery and a unique design that incorporates the distinctive Callaway flair.

Two additional courses, Sky View and Lake View, round out the offerings with something for golfers of all ages and abilities. The pro shop stocks top of the line equipment and apparel, and is staffed by trained golf professionals who can help correct your swing or recommend the perfect putter. Both novices and seasoned professionals will appreciate the personal attention and outstanding service.

If golf isn't your cup of tea, don't fret: other activities include tennis, fishing, the Gun Club, swimming at Robin Lake Beach, and much more. The resort also offers a variety of other attractions that are open year-round.

The Callaway Discovery Center acts as an orientation point for visitors with a staffed information desk that provides information about the resort and available activities. Also housed within the Discovery Center are a museum, exhibit halls, a theater, gift shop and caf.

Arranged within easy walking distance of the Discovery Center are other attractions including the spectacular Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, home to more than one thousand tropical butterflies. The warm, humid atmosphere of the glass-enclosed conservatory swarms with the fragile, brilliantly-tinted residents; sit still long enough and you may find one delicately resting on your shoulder.

The butterflies share their home with several exotic parrots including a Yellow-Headed Amazon and Scarlet Macaw among others. A visit to the Butterfly Center is not soon forgotten.

After a full day of fun, Callaway Gardens invites you to relax in one of the resort's well-appointed lodgings. The Mountain Creek Inn boasts more than three hundred exquisite guest rooms that overlook the rolling Great Lawn, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

The Roof Garden suites offer one or two bedrooms plus a cozy sitting area. Guests can use the Inn's Fitness Center; drop in for a drink or light meal at the Vineyard Green Lounge; or simply kick back in a comfy armchair in the lobby.

For a more personal experience, book one of the Mountain Creek Villas for a luxuriously private getaway in a lushly tailored one to four bedroom villa complete with living and dining rooms, private baths for each bedroom, and a delightful fireplace. The villas book up quickly, so it's important to call well in advance for a reservation.

From the rocky, barren soil of Blue Springs to the verdant rolling hills of modern Callaway Gardens, this land has undergone a revolution in less than eighty years. What was once a private country retreat is now a world-class resort welcoming hundreds of thousands of guests every year. Isn't it time you discovered the magic of Callaway Gardens for yourself?