Following is an interview with Patrick and Sue, the owners of the Berry Springs Lodge, a luxury bed and breakfast located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

TheGreatSmokies.net: Where is the Berry Springs Lodge located at?
Berry Springs Lodge: Berry Springs Lodge is located about 2 miles behind Dollywood and 15 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains  National Park.

TGS: Can you give everyone a brief background about yourselves and the Berry Springs Lodge?
BSL: After living in both upstate New York and Florida, we decided to settle down in the moderate climes of East Tennessee. Susan and I always used to vacation here and eventually decided this is where we wanted to live. We looked at purchasing an existing bed and breakfast, but we couldn’t find anything to accommodate our family.

Berry Springs Lodge is located on 33 acres that feature wooded areas, a stream and hiking trails. From the balconies and porches of the massive pine and stone structure, guests are treated to nearly 360-degree views of Smoky Mountains majesty. In the foreground are Shields Mountain and green meadows that are sharply folded into geologically unique terrain; English Mountain and Bluff Mountain are also contrasted against the skies.

TGS: What makes the BSL unique among other Inns and lodging establishments near the Smoky Mountains?
BSL: Whereas the traditional bed and breakfast was run out of an existing home, we’re part of the new generation of B & Bs that were actually built for that use. The advantage: a structure that conveys rustic charms without subjecting guests to the frailties and shortcomings of an older building.

For example, hot tubs and private balconies are featured in most of the main lodge’s nine rooms. Plus, Berry Springs was constructed with a central heat and air system that allows for individual climate control in each room. That’s an advantage we have over most bed and breakfasts—or hotels, for that matter. In most places, room temperatures depend on the whim of the innkeeper. Or, you have individual wall units that make a lot of noise and
provide inconsistent temperature.

Guests can FISH IN BASS and catfish ponds; ride bikes on the mountain or loop trails, canoe, hike, PLAY horseshoes and VOLLEYBALL. table tennis, AND BILLIARDS are found in the NEW FULLY equiped pavillion. or, JUST sit back and enjoy THE BEAUTY of the smoky mountains sitting in a rocking chair on the main deck of the lodge watching the spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

TGS:  What’s been the most rewarding thing about owning the BSL?
BSL: I would have to say the ability to work and be able to spend more time with my wife and 3 sons. It is kind of like being home every day. I could be there for questions and help the boys as need at any given time. Plus my wife I get along very well and working together has been great.

TGS: What are some your favorite places to visit and things to do in the Smoky Mountains?
BSL: Exploring Cades Cove and hiking at Greenbrier are the best places to go in the park. Zip lining and white water rafting also rank right up there.

TGS: Any favorite “lesser-known” restaurants or businesses, etc. near the Smokies that people may not be too familiar with, but in your opinion should be?
BSL: We get many guests that want something local with the flair of the area. Clint’s BBQ fits that bill. Great food with a bonus of entertainment on weekends they play country, gospel, bluegrass and mountain music on Friday and Saturday from 6 to 8pm. If you are looking for more of a cozy romantic place the Bistro 109 is just the place. They have a piano player on many evenings to set the mood.

TGS: Do you all have any upcoming specials in 2013 that you’d like to tell everyone about?
BSL: 2013 Food Can Drive Special. Bring 2 non perishable can food items per person and receive $50.00 off a night. Food will be donated to Smoky Mountain Food Ministries.

Now to December 31th, 2013 Save $50 per night

With Special discount get:
Sunset Queen Rooms $135
Sunset King Fireplace Rooms $155
Sunrise King Hot Tub Rooms $175
Mountian View Suites $195

October $20 more per night

(Two night minimum stay and not valid with any other special)

TGS:  What would you like to say to potential guests who have never stayed at the BSL and why they should consider staying with you when visiting the Smoky Mountains?
BSL: At Berry Springs Lodge you can expect relaxing luxury and first class service. Our secluded scenic Smoky Mountain Resort hideaway offers a relaxing tranquil romantic retreat. This is a place for rest, rejuvenation, discovery, and new beginnings. Sit back and take delight in the breath-taking view on a porch above a mist covered valley. Walk down the trail and enjoy the tranquil rippling water as a bass or a catfish swims by to see who is visiting. Before your relaxing adventure is complete, make sure you warm your toes by the camp fire and listen for the soothing sounds of nature.