Magnificent MCLEMORE RESORT
The Art of Exploration: Within, Around, and Beyond
Exploration is not limited to distant places or dramatic landscapes—it often begins much closer to home. There is profound value in exploring oneself—uncovering passions, rediscovering purpose, and carving space for growth in our everyday lives. Equally enriching is the experience of exploring one’s hometown with fresh eyes. And perhaps most importantly, this season invites us to explore new relationships—to open ourselves to deeper conversations, shared experiences, and the joy of building lasting connections. As we navigate the humidity and thick summer, these forms of exploration—of self, place, and people—remind us that some of the most transformative journeys require no passport, only an open heart and a curious spirit.
We begin with an exclusive first look at one of the most anticipated openings in the world of golf—The Keep at McLemore Resort. Perched on the edge of Lookout Mountain, this new stunning 18-hole championship course is set to open in August 2025 and has already earned praise as a future contender for one of the finest golf experiences in the country. Crafted by acclaimed designers Rees Jones and Bill Bergin, The Keep is visually breathtaking and thoughtfully designed, integrating dramatic cliffside vistas with strategic play. It’s more than a course—it’s a destination.
From elevated greens to elevated heart rates, we take you deep into the Chattahoochee National Forest to explore Mulberry Gap Adventure Basecamp in Ellijay. Tucked away among North Georgia’s rolling mountains, Mulberry Gap is a haven for mountain bikers, hikers, and solitude seekers. Known for its direct trail access, hearty meals, cozy cabins, and warm hospitality, it’s a place where luxury is measured not in marble and chandeliers but in fresh air, quiet moments, and shared adventure.
Yet true exploration isn’t always about distance—it’s about intention. Here in Canton, exploration takes many forms. Our growing wellness community, river trails, and boutique fitness studios offer countless opportunities to reconnect with yourself, others, and the beauty surrounding us. This issue celebrates geographic journeys and the inward journey toward health, balance, and inspiration.
In a world of Chat GPT, (shoutout to our #1 reader, Amanda), we hope the stories and real writing in this issue encourage you to step outside your routine—and perhaps even outside your comfort zone. After all, the best journeys always begin at home.
This is your City. This is your Lifestyle.
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Chicka Elloy | chicka.elloy@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Jennifer Elloy | jennifer.elloy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Eric Dogini | @EricOnPoint
Sean O’Keefe | @SOKEnterprises
Kevin Jonas-Davis | @Kdaviswhat
Chris Ess | @chris.ess.realtor
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amber Johnson | @amberwavess_
Naomi Hopkins | @naomihopkinsphoto
Greg Goad | @goadhomepartners
Lydia Christiana | @lydiachristianaphotography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
CHICKA ELLOY, PUBLISHER
inside the issue
Where Luxury Meets The Caribbean
city scene
@MYSTICALPARTIES
1: Mystical Parties provides entertainment for all events in Canton. Princesses, Superheroes, and Bluey! 2: 4th of July at Refo in Woodstock and Canton. 3: Exploring BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn, GA part of the international Hindu fellowship. 4: Madison Crews hosting the WPSL for Impact soccer 2025 5: Beautiful views and with many types of overnight facilities at Cloudland Canyon State Park. 6: Celebrating sunny skies @thechillhillatvickery with the Village Pediatrics team 7: It begins! Cherokee County is a fun and friendly place to play pickleball! @TRAVELIKERSOFFICIAL
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Explore La Grange
A two-hour drive from Canton, LaGrange, Georgia, is the perfect overnight or weekend getaway. Don’t miss LaGrange’s new Summer Street Party Series on Friday, July 18, from 5 – 9 p.m. South Main Street will be transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly zone with live music, food trucks, local breweries, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. Stay the night and explore Hills & Dales Estate, the historic Hillside neighborhood, local restaurants, breweries, and Nutwood Winery. VisitLaGrange.com
Explore Canton with Family & Friends
This dual-brand hotel in Canton is the perfect place to host visiting friends and family visiting Cherokee County. Guests can choose from spacious suites with full kitchens or modern, comfortable rooms. The inviting outdoor patio features grills, fire pits, and big-screen TVs—ideal for gathering and relaxing. With easy access to shopping, dining, parks, and local events, it’s Canton’s best for out-oftown guests. Visit: Fairfield Inn & Suites Canton Riverstone Parkway
Explore Mercier in Blue Ridge
Mercier Orchard's located in Blue Ridge, GA has more than 80 years of growing, so you might say they know a thing or two about farming! With strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, flowers, vegetables, and over 40 varieties of apples, we’re sure you’ll find something to pick that’ll suit your fancy. So head on down to the farm and join in on one of their famous U-Pick Events, they are open year-round afterall!
Photography by Visit LaGrange
Photography by Fairfield Inn & Suites
Photography by SquareFrame Media
Explore More
5 WAYS TO REDISCOVER THE WORLD AROUND YOU
In today’s always-on world, exploring isn’t just about travel—it’s about being present. Whether solo or with your family, adventure is closer than you think. Here are five fresh ways to explore more this season—right here in Georgia.
Article by Chris Ess
Plan a 48-Hour Road Escape: Skip the airport. Drive two hours or less to places like Helen, Lake Oconee, or Dahlonega. Book a boutique stay, hike scenic trails, or stroll through historic town squares.
Turn Errands into Micro-Adventures: Each week, try something new in your backyard—like brunch at LaCantina on Main in downtown Canton, or improv family Pickle Ball at Veterans Park. Ordinary days can offer surprising joy.
Make Weekends Intentional: Use Saturdays to seek new scenes—like antique hunting in Madison or exploring Georgia wineries. In Canton, plan a picnic at Heritage Park or catch a show at the historic Canton Theatre. Small plans spark big memories.
Take Tech-Free Timeouts: Unplug and head outdoors. Hike Georgia’s state parks or enjoy a screen-free day in Canton’s Boling Park. Presence is the absolute luxury.
Start a Family Photo Map: Print and pin photos from every place you visit. Watch your personal map—and your memories—grow with every Georgia adventure.
Your “Ess”ential Adventure Starts Here. Exploration doesn’t require a passport—just intention. Whether you’re mapping out mountain escapes or discovering new corners of Canton, start small and stay curious. A fulfilled life is built one outing at a time. Stuck? Text Canton’s Premier Realtor, Chris Ess, at 678.899.8909 or visit ChrisEssReg.com to stay in the know.
CHRIS ESS
ARTICLE BY KEVIN JONAS-DAVIS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MCLEMORE RESORT
MCLEMORE RESORT
Where Elevation Meets Aspiration. A Golf and Resort Experience
Just under two hours north of Atlanta lies a mountaintop escape where ambition, heritage, and hospitality converge into one unforgettable experience: McLemore Resort. Perched on the edge of Lookout Mountain, McLemore is not just a destination—it’s a revelation for those who crave the soul of the sport and the spirit of luxury. McLemore invites you to rise above the everyday and reconnect with what matters most, from championship-level golf to a serene spa, soaring views, and world-class service.
GOLF THAT MOVES YOU—LITERALLY AND SPIRITUALLY
Not just a course, but two of them: The Highlands and the soon-to-be-unveiled The Keep, each distinct and designed with intention. The Highlands course, renowned for its cliffside 18th hole— repeatedly named one of the top 20 finishing holes in the world—is a strategic marvel. Meanwhile, The Keep is in preview play, with its formal debut set for August 2025. It has already drawn national acclaim, fueling global intrigue.
Crafted by Rees Jones and Bill Bergin, The Keep represents a new chapter in course architecture: vast, windswept, and breathtaking. Utilizing the natural topography, it balances challenge and accessibility, featuring wide fairways, elevated tees, and a layout that rewards strategic play. “We call it an aspirational golf experience,” says EVP Charlie Rymer, a twotime All-American at Georgia Tech and former PGA Tour pro. “It’s designed to test the best and welcome newcomers with open arms.”
The course’s turf also reflects McLemore’s bold innovation. The Keep is the first full-course in the world to feature Stadium Zoysia—a luxury turf renowned for its exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal. “The ball sits up like it’s on a tee,” Rymer notes. “It’s beautiful to look at and a dream to play.”
Rymer, who has played and broadcast golf around the globe, helped shape The Keep’s strategic design. “You’re not on an Easter egg hunt for your ball,” he adds. “You’re constantly making decisions that are exciting and thoughtful.”
“That culture has attracted national attention, with features in Golf Digest, Golfweek, Sports Illustrated , and a visual series from Barstool Sports. “Before The Keep opened,” says Burton, “we were chasing media. Now they’re chasing us.”
A RESORT BUILT ON VISION—AND LOVE
The evolution of McLemore is as inspiring as its views. Scenic Land Company transformed the site with a vision that required investment and a passionate team to bring it to life.
Enter Mike Burton, President of McLemore. With experience leading luxury properties, Burton oversaw the 2024 openings of both Cloudland Hotel and The Keep. “We opened over $250 million of investment in a single year,” he says. “And it never felt stressful—it felt purposeful.”
Burton leads like a conductor, coordinating everything from agronomy and culinary to spa and homeowner services. “Our culture is simple,” he says. “Smile and have fun. People come here to feel good, and we surround them with a team that cares.”
THE GREAT REVEAL: MORE THAN JUST GOLF
At Cloudland Hotel, guests are greeted with “The Great Reveal”—a grand entry that opens to a sweeping vista of McLemore Cove, a national historic district bordered by Pigeon Mountain. It’s a moment that stops visitors in their tracks.
While golf may be the crown jewel, Cloudland is the soul of the mountain. Opened in 2024 as part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, Cloudland blends comfort, cuisine, and curated experiences. Guests are welcomed into a grand lobby framed by expansive views that seem to pause time.
The hotel has quickly garnered national praise and featured in Southern Living, HGTV, and USA Today, placing it among the Southeast’s most sought-after escapes. Its design is modern yet grounded in the surrounding landscape, inviting guests to rest and indulge.
At the hotel's heart is Auld Alliance, McLemore’s signature dining experience. A tribute to the historic bond between France and Scotland, this upscale restaurant offers a menu that combines
European culinary sophistication with Southern warmth. Whether it’s a milestone or a spontaneous weekend, Auld Alliance leaves a lasting impression.
Guests also enjoy The Creag, McLemore’s vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar, a tranquil spa, a heated cliff-edge infinity pool, and terraces that invite yoga at sunrise or drinks at sunset.
Cloudland is also becoming a premier destination for luxury weddings, private events, and executive retreats. With panoramic views, multiple venues, and a seasoned team, events here feel timeless. One recent wedding saw a bride walk down an aisle framed by wild mountain laurel, with the blue haze of Pigeon Mountain behind her. As vows echoed across the valley and guests toasted beneath the stars at The Creag, it became more than a celebration—it became a memory etched in the mountain.
“We see couples from Atlanta checking in on a Friday,” says Burton. “By Sunday, they feel like they’ve been gone a week. It’s that immersive.”
Even the name McLemore is steeped in heritage. The resort overlooks McLemore Cove, named after the Scottish McLemore family who settled the region in the 1700s and married into the Cherokee Nation.
Storyboards in the clubhouse share the life of John McLemore, a Cherokee Chief and war hero. “Our logo is a Celtic cross blended with the bloom of a Cherokee dogwood,” Rymer explains. “It symbolizes our past and the land’s sacred nature.”
The Keep’s name also carries meaning, evoking fortified castles, ancient Christian symbols, and the idea of protecting what matters most. “There’s soul here,” says Burton. “This isn’t just a course or a resort—it’s a place that grounds you.” McLemore’s 20-year plan is shaping a lasting legacy.
Whether driving up for a weekend tee time, booking a romantic escape, or gathering the family for a mountaintop reunion, McLemore offers something rare: space to breathe, beauty to absorb, and an experience to remember.
It’s time to elevate your hospitality experience. It’s time to discover McLemore.
Highlands 18th Hole
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Where Luxury Meets The Caribbean
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAND VELAS RIVIERA MAYA
THE GRAND VELAS RESORT RIVIERA MAYA IS THE EPITOME OF MEXICAN HOSPITALITY
Hidden behind the towering façade of Grand Velas Riviera Maya lies a world where the traditional all-inclusive model is not just elevated; it’s completely reimagined. Here, luxury isn’t a buzzword; it is the standard. Guests are invited to unwind in the serene, world-class spa, luxurious pools, awesome beachfront settings, and experience a bespoke culinary excellence that rivals the finest standalone restaurants. Every detail is thoughtfully curated to complement the natural beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula that embraces you as soon as you arrive on the property. Grand Velas blends sophistication with serenity, where indulgence flows effortlessly from the Caribbean Sea and nature’s embrace.
Set on over 200 acres, The Grand Velas Riviera Maya is divided into three distinct hotels: Grand Class, Zen Grand, and Ambassador, each unique experience catering to different preferences, all while maintaining the resort's signature excellence and hyper personalized service.
Grand Class is a romantic and elegant, adults only haven that features ocean facing suites with private plunge pools, expansive views, an exclusive infinity pool, and direct access to the beach.
The awesomely designed and welcoming Zen Grand provides a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by a mangrove forest that seemingly wraps the entire property in lush greenery, creating the perfect hidden oasis. This gorgeous hotel is ideal for families and nature enthusiasts alike, offering spacious suites with cenote and jungle inspired views. Last but not least, Ambassador blends contemporary Mexican style with elegant tropical charms, creating a thoughtfully crafted family retreat where the monumental pool fades into white sandy beaches.
The all-inclusive experience at Grand Velas centers on worldclass cuisine and impeccable service. Guests savor exquisite flavors at Restaurant Frida, where refined Mexican dishes pay homage to Frida Kahlo’s spirit, all while honoring traditional recipes. Piaf is an indulgent and sophisticated French restaurant that features classic French cuisine crafted with a modern flair, while Sen Lin offers vibrant, delightful pan Asian cuisine, served in an elegant setting. It is essential for everyone who visits The Grand Velas to experience their most memorable culinary destination, Michelin-starred Cocina de Autor, where innovative tasting
menus, rooted in authentic ingredients and inspiring artistic presentation, are crafted by renowned Chef Nahúm Valasco. Warm, sultry evenings come alive at the Terraza Sky Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails complement stunning ocean views.
The SE Spa at Zen Class, Grand Velas, offers a serene sanctuary where ancient traditions meet modern luxury. Central to the experience is the signature Water Ceremony, a soothing journey through scented saunas, herbal steam rooms, and revitalizing pools that cleanse and refresh the body and mind. The spa’s tranquil garden ambiance and expert therapists create an unforgettable escape, healing the mind and soul of every guest.
A stay at The Grand Velas Resort and Spa is an experience like no other. From indulgent and soothing spa treatments to exquisite dining that delights every palate, every moment here is crafted to perfection. Expansive pools, pristine beaches, and the many worldclass restaurants beckon guests to leave their troubles behind and unwind. The resort’s impeccable service and stunning surroundings create lasting memories, making The Grand Velas Riviera Maya an obvious choice for travelers looking for a gracious luxury destination.
about the author:
Sean O’Keefe is an Atlanta based international luxury travel journalist.
Sean is a firm believer in “voluntourism” – traveling with purpose – and strives to leave a positive footprint wherever he goes. “My work has given me a deeper perspective on how the world works, how life is, and how life ought to be. I believe travel holds both opportunity and richness — a chance to do good, travel well, and leave a kinder footprint on the places we visit.”
Ellijay’s
ARTICLE BY ERIC DOGINI PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MULBERRY GAP
Where the Road Narrows and the Soul Expands
Mulberry Gap
In the wild heart of North Georgia, far from any chain hotels or curated distractions, lies Mulberry Gap, a place where people arrive not to escape the world, but to return to themselves. It’s not flashy. It’s not polished. And that’s precisely what makes you fall in love with it.
Photo: David K
At the tucked-away outpost known as the Mulberry Gap Adventure Basecamp, comfort and authenticity coalesce with the whispering hush of the forest and the natural call of adventure. Mulberry Gap is not a resort; rather, it’s a manifestation of the relationship between the land and the people who come there seeking peace and clarity. For nearly two decades, the quiet magic of the area has drawn travelers from all walks of life to its cabins, trails, and community meals.
What started as a bold leap of faith between two mothers, bonded by their children’s high school romance, has become one of the Southeast’s most beloved outdoor retreats. In 2007, the vision was radical yet straightforward: to create a safe and welcoming space where people, especially women, could reconnect with nature on their terms.
The Pinhoti Trail, which stretches 360 miles from Alabama to North Georgia, became Mulberry Gap’s north star. Hikers and mountain bikers discovered it, then shared the news with their friends.
Today, co-owners Kate and Andrew Gates have taken the reins from their mothers, turning Mulberry Gap into a modestly spectacular basecamp for one’s transformation.
Asked about the property’s “luxury,” Kate says, "It’s glamping, but more than that. It’s the comfort of real connection, a robe by the hot tub, a hearty meal made with intention. It’s luxury that doesn’t ask you to perform for it.” The cabins are rustic but thoughtfully appointed—AC and heat, plush beds, linens, and yes, Wi-Fi. But TVs don’t exist in the rooms, intentionally. “We want people outside, not out of obligation, but because that’s where life gets quiet enough to hear yourself again,” Kate explains.
Guests gather at the Barn, a central dining and meeting space where strangers become friends over homemade dinners. It boasts colorful vegetables, generous portions, local wine, and sincere desserts, which come together to create a welcoming vibe. You don’t have to be a biker or hiker to belong at Mulberry Gap—you just need to want to remember what being grounded feels like.
Photo: Justin Rush
Photo: Whitney Stanley
“MULBERRY
GAP IS WHERE FRIENDSHIPS GROW AND HEARTS RECONNECT.” PEDRO F
A small brook runs through the property. Fire pits and hammocks invite rest. Mountain views, swimming holes, and waterfalls are minutes away. And there’s a culture built on stillness, movement, and meaning.
Kate reflects on the visitors who find their way here: “We’ve had people come to celebrate birthdays, reunions, new beginnings. Others arrive looking for quiet or adventure. Then there are those navigating something harder: a failed relationship, a job loss, or a grief they can’t name. They come to breathe, reset, and ask questions. Something begins to lift somewhere between the trailhead and the dinner table.”
Some guests come solo. Others arrive in groups: yoga retreats, women’s circles, family reunions, and riders carving out annual getaways. Regardless of one’s company, Mulberry Gap is crafted with care, from shuttle service to trailheads, to their Trailside Trading Post filled with s’mores kits and locally brewed cider. “We’re not trying to be everything to everyone,” Kate says, “but we are trying to be real and good at what we do.”
That intention echoes in every detail, from homecooked meals to greeting guests like old friends, whether it’s their first or fifteenth visit. For some, like Eric, it’s a gentle introduction to adventure for a loved one. For Garrett, it’s a year-round touchstone for solo trips, group rides, and family holidays. For Sky, it’s been a source of comfort during life’s hardest seasons.
These narratives are just a few examples of the deeply personal and organic stories that this place holds. And there’s even more magic that’s happened there: once, a couple met at Mulberry Gap,
got engaged, and then married each other on-site. The genuine connections that exist between the people, the land, and the experience are what keep guests returning.
Kate and Andrew steward the vision their families began, working with a tight-knit team to create an experience that feels less like a transaction and more like a meaningful adventure. While you’re there, even the land seems to be part of the staff, offering you healing through mountain air and time without clocks.
Nearly twenty years after its founding, Mulberry Gap continues to evolve without selling out. Rebranded in 2020 as an “Adventure Basecamp,” it now welcomes hikers, runners, bikers, and adventure motorcyclists.
In a world speeding up, the chance to slow down and truly focus on yourself isn’t just a luxury. It’s a rare and remarkable gift; one that lives here, in the serene expanse of MulberryGap.com
THIS IS OUR CITY. THIS IS OUR LIFESTYLE.
t h i s s u m m e r a t
T H E M I L L O N E T O W A H
MONDAYS
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WEDNESDAYS
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FRIDAYS
SCREEN ON THE GREEN
J u l y 2
JULY 1ST
Float Season at The Mill of Etowah
events
225 Reformation Pkwy Canton, GA 30114 | 9:00 AM
Float down the Etowah River with friends and family with our new tubing company located at the Mill on Etowah. Make your reservations on the on-line site listed below for an hour or three hour float session. All information and weather updates are located on the Chattahoochee Tubing company's web-site. RiverTubing.com
JULY 4TH
City of Canton 4th of July Celebration
130 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 | 6:00 PM
Come celebrate our nation in the hometown city of Canton, Georgia on Friday the July 4th, 2025. We will begin with our annual parade through the historic downtown starting at 6pm. Fireworks will follow off Riverstone Parkway at dark approximately at 9pm. Bring your chairs and beverages to set-up early. CantonGA.gov
JULY 11TH
Downtown First Friday Canton with Bumpin the Mango
130 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 | 6:00 PM
Great music, good food, and family fun take center stage at First Friday in Downtown Canton. Enjoy late night shopping, world-class restaurants, Kid Zone, food and beverage vendors along main street. Bumpin the Mango is one of Atlanta's top funk & soul bands, so don't forget your chair and dancin' shoes. This is event is FREE and open to all ages. CantonGA.gov
JULY 12TH
Summer Plant Festival
225 Reformation Parkway, Canton, Ga 30114 | 11:00 AM
Hot plants and Cool Vibes. Join us for our Summer Plant Festival as a sun-soaked sequel to our hit Spring event at the Mill on Etowah. Expect a vibrant mix of your of favorite things: local curated vendors, handmade goods, music, food, and cold-drinks. Bring the whole family out for some fun on the green from 11am-4pm.
JULY 19TH
River Rock Concert Series Featuring Shyanne
Etowah River Park, 500 Brown Industrial Pkwy, GA 30114 | 6:00 PM
River Rock Concert Series takes place over four epic weekends this summer with an incredible line-up you must come in person to experience live. The event includes local food trucks, beverage vendors, a children's area and much more. River Rock is a free event, so bring your family, friends and lawn to rock the summer night away. CantonGa.gov
JULY 19TH
Riverwalk Run Series in McCaysville, GA
100 Blue Ridge Drive McCaysville, GA 30555 | 6:30 PM
America's ONLY 2 state 5K series. The Riverwalk Run Series will take you through two historic stateline downtowns: McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN. A 3.1 mile course includes two charming southern towns and a beautiful pathway along the Toccoa River. Parking is free. RiverWalkRunSeries.com
Better Primary Care
