Page Updated: February 05, 2024
Callaway Gardens
Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center - Pine Mountain GA
The 2,500-acre Callaway Resort and Gardens located in the southern foothills of the Appalachians advertises something for every season. Spring azaleas, summer watersports, Pumpkins at Callaway, and Fantasy in Lights attract over 75k visitors annually. A dozen restaurants, shopping, and a relaxing spa surround a variety of accommodations making Callaway one of the most sought-after destinations in rural Georgia.
We visited Callaway for its 2021 Fantasy in Lights and decided to revisit the resort for the spring azaleas. We can’t seem to get our timing down at Callaway. With half blown displays, the Christmas lights had just been ok.
This spring, the azaleas were past peak and beyond the drop.
Only a handful of azaleas were still blooming, so the experience was nothing like we expected.
We started the day off at the resort’s Discovery Cafe. The outdoor deck and patio seating made for the perfect lunch date. And the cafe offers egg-less gluten free buns! I was very appreciative that I could get a real bite-into-a-burger experience. IYKYK!
Biking Callaway
There are approximately 10 miles of multiuse family-friendly trails snaking through Callaway Resort & Gardens. Cyclists can bring their own bikes or rent one near Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center at Mountain Creek Lake. The gently rolling paved path is a great way to explore much of property on two wheels.
We skipped bringing our own bikes in favor of checking out the quality of equipment the resort offers. Both our rentals had handle brakes, comfortable seats, and clamps for water bottles. But we’re used to shocks so it was a bit of a stiff ride.
We opted to explore Mountain Creek Lake Loop to escape busier areas of the property. Beautiful woodsy trail.
Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
More than 1,000 tropical butterflies flutter freely in the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center. Together with tropical plants, birds, and a water feature the conservatory nurtures its own tiny ecosystem where the butterflies can thrive.
The chrysalis nursery is a phenomenal addition to the center’s exhibits. Other exhibits include the life cycle of butterflies and various specimens on display for close inspection.
Overall, this turned into a pleasant afternoon. The Butterfly Center dedicates the month of September to the Blue Morpho Butterfly - it’s my favorite and would love to return if the timing is right. Maybe next year!
-b&b
Spoonauger Falls Trail via Chattooga River
Mountain Creek Lake Loop
