Once you pick out the location, check out Hampton Inns in the area. Most in the south have an outdoor pool. The beds all have a duvet where the cover is washed/changed every time a guest checks out. They also offer a free breakfast from 6–10am every day, and if you are leaving earlier than that, they have breakfast on the go bags, as well as fresh coffee service 24 hours a day.

@Pied_Pfeffer I have never been to a Hampton Inn in TN that had an outdoor pool. And they typically are very small pools aren’t they? I like the idea of Hilton or Marriott properties because I have free nights, but probably more resortish?

Actually, I just looked and the Hampton Inn in Pigeon Forge does have an outdoor pool. I am surprised.

@Pied_Pfeffer Have you been to Hot Springs, Arkansas?

Yes, I have been to Hot Springs, but it was many years ago and only long enough to inspect a hotel.

Just an FYI, Hampton Inns are part of the Hilton Family, so your points are applicable to them. In fact, it takes less points to get a free stay than it does at a Hilton. If you are flexible to location, you might consider the Homewood Suites in Chattanooga, TN. Because it is an all-suite property, it is more spacious than a regular hotel room. They are also part of the Hilton Family, so again, your points/miles earned are applicable to a free stay. This one has an outdoor pool, but I’m not sure what their standard is on the bedding. The last time I was there, the owner and the manager were fantastic and were willing to accommodate guests’ requests.

I know they are Hilton, that is why I said I have a free night. But, then followed it with preferring a more resort style hotel in the Hilton or Marriot family of hotels. I kind of want something more upscale I think.

My apology…that wasn’t clear.

I wasn’t clear, you are correct.

A cabin might be kind of neat also, but all the places with cabins I found, they did not seem toh ave a pool. I am hoping someone comes on the thread who knows the area well. i have a friend who grew up in East TN I am going to ask her also.

I just shared this question with Fiddle, who lives in the area.

You should look into Cobbly Nob Rentals or Deer Ridge Mountain Resort.

Jon and I stayed at Deer Ridge for our honeymoon. It’s tucked away in the mountains, just outside Gatlinburg. Their pool is indoors, though they do have a nice sun deck. The place is lovely, and they have the best views from your own private deck. I believe Cobbly Nob is part of Deer Ridge. Cobbly Nob does have outdoor pools. White water rafting and horseback riding are all nearby.

@Pied_Pfeffer I bet you to the punch… I was already following this question. ;-0

I don’t know anything about hotels with nice bedding in the area, or horseback riding, but my darling ladyfriend who is currently on business in Texas is a white water rafter, so I texted her to see if she knows of any good places. I’ll let @JLeslie know if and when my friend gets back to me.

@Fiddle_Playing_Creole_Bastard Thanks. I am sort of a snob when it comes to accomodations. Not so much that it has to be fancy, but I am picky about the bed.

@JLeslie I can’t say I blame you. I’ve slept on some pretty gnarly hotel beds in my day. And I’ll fill ya in whenever Shell texts me back, though it may take a while if she even gets it. She’s super busy down in Texas and our communication is spotty.