The Fontanel

Most people in Nashville have heard of The Fontanel by now, but the majority of people I know still haven’t experienced all it has to offer. My first time out to Whites Creek Pike was to a Needtobreathe concert at The Carl Black Chevy Woods Amphitheater—a perfect outdoor venue on a clear night to hear one of my favorite bands. (I’m hoping to make it there next year to the Kid Rock annual fish fry). But aside from special events, the grounds hold plenty of options to enjoy a full day without ever having to move your car. The Mansion at Fontanel is the world’s largest log home (33k sq feet), built by Barbara Mandrell’s husband (and where her family lived for several years). The tour guide shares many endearing and inspiring stories of the Mandrell family and of other country artists who have used the home in years since for retreats, writing sessions, etc. They encourage a homey feel and let you sit on the furniture, play the piano, and strum the same guitars played and donated by various famous musicians.

If you purchase your mansion tour through Groupon, a wine tasting is also included with the ticket purchase. Natchez Hills Winery (in Hampshire, Tennessee) has a beautiful tasting room on the grounds. And on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, they host a free concert series, Rhythm & Vine, featuring talented local performers. If weather permits, the concerts are held on the adjacent patio overlooking the beautiful tree-covered hills—truly a perfectly, peaceful way to spend a weekend afternoon! (There is also a distillery on the property where you can sample Tennessee whiskeys and rums). If you’re hungry, Café Fontanella is an Italian restaurant that feels like fine dining, yet in a relaxed, down home sort of way; the café also offers free concerts over weekend brunches and every night over dinner (I highly recommend the Bruschetta appetizer :).

And you’ll have to peek in the Stone House Shoppe—just as the name denotes, it’s an adorable little stone house filled with Tennessee gifts, memorabilia and décor—I haven’t yet managed to walk inside and walk out empty handed. 🙂 There are also wooded trails to hike and zip lines to enjoy if you’re looking for adventures in nature just a few miles outside the city limits. And if you’re ever in need of a retreat close to home, there is a small, but gorgeous 4 star Inn (part of the Southern Living Hotel Collection).

I recently spent an afternoon with my mom on the 100+ acres that make up The Fontanel. The day proved to be the perfect mix of activity and of carefree time to just relax and enjoy each other’s company in this happy place tucked away in a corner of Nashville away from the hustle and bustle.