Hiwassee Acres Offers Beautiful Vistas to Relax and Fun Farm Activities

Hiwassee Acres Offers Beautiful Vistas to Relax and Fun Farm Activities

21 May 2026


News

Visitors to McMinn County can enjoy a peaceful getaway that lets them step back from the bustle of everyday life. The Hiwassee Acres River Resort in Calhoun offers visitors a fun bed-and-breakfast experience with 10 units on a working farm.

“Time goes slower when you stay here,” says Kathi Jensen, owner of Hiwassee Acres with her husband, David. “You can relax, breathe, and enjoy life and the beauty of nature around you.”

Guests who stay at the resort can enjoy a vibrant sunrise, help groom and feed the animals, and then tuck into a delicious breakfast. They call the resort peaceful, magical, and whimsical.

Learn more about this beautiful farm experience and how to enjoy it during your visit. 

Hiwassee Acres is Perfect for Anyone Who Needs a Break

Hiwassee Acres accommodates a variety of guests throughout the year. The entire space can be rented out for family reunions or gatherings with friends. Couples also come to Hiwassee Acres to reconnect or celebrate milestone events, like anniversaries.

Jensen says her farm is designed for anyone who needs a breather and wants to step back physically, spiritually, and emotionally from the busy nature of their lives.  

“Taking time away really makes a difference in your outlook on life,” she says, “And that’s what we provide. Most of us don’t realize how much we need a place to rest and recharge.”

Recently, two ladies from the Netherlands checked into Hiwassee Acres to rest after a busy stay in Nashville. They were able to relax, read by the river, and enjoy their time in the Tennessee countryside. 

The Resort Also Offers Horseback Riding

Even if you don’t stay at Hiwassee Acres, you can still visit the farm for a horseback riding experience. Register online for a one-hour horseback ride on private land, on trails wandering through the hills and along the river. Visitors who stay two nights will receive one free horseback ride. 

“Adding the horses was a big plus,” says Jensen. “Not only do they provide a fun activity, but they’re really beautiful. Guests love waking up and watching the 18 horses outside in the fields.”

If you participate in horseback riding, you can also pick up a day pass for the resort and spend the rest of the afternoon fishing, playing pickleball, or growing your disc golf skills. 

There’s Never a Bad Season to Visit Hiwassee Acres

The Jensens have managed the 225 acres of mountain farmland that comprises Hiwassee Acres since 2020. They get to live where people vacation and enjoy how the changing seasons affect farm life.  

“Fall is gorgeous, and October is our busiest month,” says Jensen. “The leaves are turning, and people love to do horseback rides through the vibrant colors.”

However, she adds, winter provides a cozy atmosphere for curling up by the fire, and spring allows visitors to watch the wildflowers bloom across the farm. It’s her favorite part of the year.

Summer is also increasingly popular as visitors can swim or kayak in the river to cool off on hot Tennessee days.

“This is a place where you can experience farm life,” she says. “Whether you want to connect with the horses or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the river for a few hours.” 

Find Your Ideal Lodging Option in McMinn County  

Choose the lodging that best fits your lifestyle in McMinn County. The Hiwassee River Retreat, for example, is another getaway that is perfect for couples. You can also find hotel options in the various cities of McMinn County, as well as camping and RV parks.

Your ideal vacation awaits in McMinn County, whether you need a relaxing getaway or want to explore the natural beauty of Tennessee’s Overhill Region. We can’t wait to welcome you to our home.